Why is Salford Such a Nice Place to Live for Students?
Salford is a cool city that’s great to live in as a student. It offers vibrant student city living with a more chilled vibe than many other places. It’s a city that’s as equally proud of its industrial heritage as its thriving creative scene, and there’s an exciting mix of old and new with plenty of cultural attractions, green spaces, bars and restaurants too.
Great transport links
Getting around is a doddle here thanks to Salford’s excellent and affordable transport network. Salford Crescent station is right next to the Peel Park and Frederick Road campuses, offering direct services to Manchester, as well as Blackpool, Bolton, Preston and Lancaster, among others.
If you’re studying at the MediaCity campus, regular trams will take you directly to campus or within a five-minute walk.
The number 50 bus, which runs between campuses, is also free for students on weekdays, and other buses and trams offer discounted travel.
Close to nature
Escaping the urban jungle is easy in Salford as over half of the city is made up of green spaces. The University borders the River Irwell and Peel Park, providing the perfect setting for a lunchtime walk, coffee with friends or a study break in the sunshine. A bit further out is Clifton Country Park, with its open woodland and meadows, and Kersal Wetlands, where you can wander along the river, spot birds and be rewarded with cool views of the Manchester skyline.
Culture on every corner
Salford is a culturally rich city with plenty to see. If you’re a fan of the Manchester music scene, then you can’t miss the Salford Lads & Girls Club, which featured on The Smiths’ album artwork and has a room dedicated to the band. If you want to delve even deeper into the city’s music scene, take a trip with Manchester Music Tours, which was started by Craig Gill of Inspiral Carpets.
Lowry at Salford Quays is the place to catch music, dance and theatre performances, as well as art exhibitions; the free immersive LS Lowry experience is not to be missed. The Quays are also home to the Imperial War Museum North, where you can see the poignant Poppies installation on permanent display. Islington Mill is home to over 100 resident artists and collectives and hosts regular exhibitions and workshops throughout the year - a great one to visit.
A great mix of chains and independents
Shopping and eating out can often put a bit of a strain on your student finances, but with Salford and Manchester’s extensive mix of retailers and eateries, you’ll find plenty of choice to suit your student budget.
The iconic Afflecks Palace in Manchester’s Northern Quarter is the place to find vintage clothes, graphic tees and every type of beanie hat. For discounted brands, Quayside MediaCity in Salford has a range of outlet shops, including AX Paris and Beauty Outlet.
When it comes to food, you’re spoilt for choice. Manchester’s Curry Mile and Chinatown are the places to go for authentic, affordable food or head to Kargo MKT Food Hall in Salford Quays for a great selection of independent food stalls, DJs and live music.
Close to Salford Quays and MediaCity
This waterfront development in the heart of Salford is home to some stunning architecture and a great place for you to work, live and unwind. You can start your day with coffee and a pastry at Mattina and finish it with cocktails overlooking the stunning cityscape. Or why not try something completely different and go open water swimming at Salford Watersports Centre.
Two cities for the price of one
One of the biggest perks of living in Salford is that it’s so close to Manchester – double the fun! The cafés, bars and restaurants of Salford Quays are just a short walk from true student Manchester Salford accommodation, alongside beautiful green spaces and impressive waterfront views.
For live music, a day of shopping or a big night out, Manchester is only 10 minutes away by train or a scenic walk along the canal. Having two exciting cities on your doorstep means you’ll never be short of things to do.
Offering the perfect balance of entertainment, culture and green living, it’s easy to see why so many students have chosen to call Salford home. If you’re planning to study here, finding the right accommodation is the next step.
Why not take a look at our student accommodation options and find your ideal space to make the most of your time in Salford: true student Manchester Salford