Getting around Manchester

On Foot

Definitely the cheapest way to get around - not to mention the most environmentally friendly - you’ll often find that walking is also the easiest way to get around.

If you live in Rusholme, Hulme, Victoria Park or the City Centre, you’re usually no more than 20 minutes from the majority of our campus.

Walking is also good for your health - both physical and mental - but it’s probably a good idea to pack an umbrella; This is Manchester after all.

By Bicycle

Manchester by bike is cheap and (because of the lack of hills in the city) quick. It’s also in the city’s heritage - the GB Olympic team is based here.

While the direct routes from Fallowfield to Oxford Road or Sackville Street campuses can be a bit overcrowded with buses, take the back streets through Victoria Park and Whitworth Park and arrive at campus invigorated for a day of lectures, socialising, and whatever else. British Cycling has a wealth of information about cycling in Manchester, including some great maps (pdf).

If you're not sure and want a bit of help getting to grips with cycling in a city, why not try one of the free Cycle Skills classes offered by Transport for Greater Manchester.

If you do decide to cycle to campus, make sure you’ve got a proper lock. Bicycle theft is the most common crime committed on campus, and having a solid D-lock is the best way to make sure you’re isn’t taken. Our Security Service have a great deal on top-quality locks, available if you use the free bike marking scheme.

By Bus

By far the most popular way for most students to get around the city, buses are frequent, relatively cheap, and dry on those wet days.

For hopping between Oxford Road and Sackville Street campuses you can use the 147 service for free - just show your student card to the driver.

For other buses, the most popular choice is a Unirider, which lets you use any Stagecoach or Magic Bus anywhere in Greater Manchester. You’ll still need to pay if you want to use a First or Arriva bus, or get on a tram.

By Tram

Manchester’s trams have recently undergone a multi-million pound upgrade, with new lines and destinations being added all the time.

If you’re travelling to the other side of the city - to Bury, Oldham, Rochdale or Eccles - the tram can sometimes work out cheaper than the bus, and end up quicker.

All those upgrades mean engineering work though, and the tram network is currently experiencing major redevelopment in the city centre. Check the Metrolink site for the latest travel news.

By Car

If you really must drive, you’ll find plenty of parking in both the city centre and elsewhere. Beware though: parking is expensive.

By Train

Manchester is well connected both locally and nationally by rail. Both Oxford Road and Piccadilly stations are very close to campus, and Victoria (for local services across the North-West) is on the tram network.

If you’re under 25, and using the train regularly, make sure you get a Young Person’s Railcard to save a third on all journeys.