Manchester: Make Graduation an Excuse for a Holiday!

Manchester is not only a thriving centre of modern business, retail, sport and culture. It’s also a higher education powerhouse. The University of Manchester is the city’s most famous institution of higher education. But it shares the greater metropolitan area with Manchester Metropolitan University, the Universities of Salford and Bolton and the Royal Northern College of Music. All are excellent seats of learning for students undertaking a wide variety of courses. From Aerospace Engineering via Fashion and Music to Zoology, Manchester has it covered.

So, with graduation season fast approaching, many families are planning a trip to the city. The highlight, of course, will be seeing Our Johnny, Jenny or Jaspreet collect their degree in a mortarboard hat. And perhaps a celebratory meal in one of Manchester’s countless excellent eateries. But why limit your visit to one night when you could take your time to explore the city? Manchester has a great deal to offer beyond the universities.

 

So many reasons to stay

 

 

That’s why the city has become such a popular destination for weekend city breaks. Manchester’s huge range of stores and boutiques has long attracted shoppers. The famous Trafford Centre alone boasts more than 200,000 square feet of retail, leisure and dining attractions. That’s practically a city in its own right! Shopping enthusiasts can easily spend a whole day there.

Of course, Manchester also has a world-famous sporting and cultural heritage. Two top-tier football clubs and plenty of lower league scrappers. And in addition to the flagship Manchester Museum and Manchester Art Gallery, there are many specialist options. The National Football Museum (of course), the People’s History Museum, the Whitworth (more art). And the Science and Industry Museum, the Museum of Transport and the Jewish Museum. That’s a lot of museums!

 

Rest and recreation

 

With an excellent local transport system – complete with trams! – it’s easy to get around. And it’s a pleasure simply to wander the city soaking up the atmosphere. Of course, there are also many, many options when it comes to food and drink. To mention just two cuisines, Manchester is home to the second largest Chinatown in the UK, and also has its own Curry Mile. You can find just about any kind of food you like somewhere in the city. Manchester is also famous for its night life. Take in a gig at the Manchester Arena or one of the many smaller, niche venues. Or simply wander between bars and clubs.

Manchester is one of Britain’s most buzzing cities, so there’s something for everyone. And if you’re bringing the whole family, you’ll want a real home-from-home to stay in. Residential Estates have fantastic apartments available at Halo House, just minutes from Manchester Victoria Station and the Manchester Arena. And another suite of apartments is in the historic Old Trafford area. So don’t just come for the graduation ceremony. Have a proper break and discover what the city has to offer.