There are some things you just have to see while studying here, and with so many of Manchester's quirks and delights right on campus, try one out in between lectures. You could even take friends and family from home and show them how cultural and knowledgable you have become (even if it's just about hot chocolate!).
Perched on the top of the Sackville Street building, the Godlee Observatory has seen many major moments across the last 100 years. Owned and run by Manchester Astronomical Society, the structure is one of only two papier mache observatories in the UK. Open on Thursday evenings, it is well worth a visit.
Take a break in Christie's Bistro
One of the most beautiful cafes on campus – this old library wouldn't be out of place in Harry Potter.
It’s free, and it's only 5k. You can do it. Parkrun happens every Saturday morning at 9am in Platt Fields Park, and will be a great way to blast that exam anxiety and keep fit!
Big Hands is the perfect post-Academy watering hole, and a favourite among Manchester bands. Don't be surprised if you bump into a member of Elbow or I Am Kloot after they've played a gig.
The recently renovated art gallery helped make Manchester one of the New York Times' places to visit in 2015. The incredible space - coupled with the breathtaking opening exhibition by Cornelia Parker - is reason enough to walk an extra five minutes down Oxford Road. The Whitworth was also voted Museum of the Year 2015, take a visit and see why!
Jump on the 147 and head to North Campus. Just beyond Sackville Street is the lovely Sackville Gardens, and right in the middle you’ll find a bench space next to a life-size sculpture of Alan Turning. Read about his life and time at Manchester (maybe pick a sunny day to do this).
The spinning statue in Manchester Museum
This made the news a lot a couple of years ago, and although the mystery is now solved the statue (and the entire Egyptology department) is well worth dropping in. Manchester Museum is actually home to one of the largest and most important collections of ancient Egyptian artefacts in the country, and it's right on your doorstep.
Pick up a UoM hoody
You know you want one, or take a look in The Store in the Students' Union where they stock memorabilia that can only be found there.
Have a pint of the Academy's own ale at the SU bar
The Academy launched their very own ale this year, and it’s served on draft at the SU bar.
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