Here are 5 fun things you can do in Salford to help you fall in love with the city. Let’s splash, explore and slide our way into it.

1. Paddleboarding

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When the sun’s out, what better way to cool off than a fresh dip in Salford Quays? Salford Watersports Centre is just a 10 minute walk from our MediaCity campus. This is the place to go if you fancy doing some kayaking, stand up paddleboarding (also known as SUP) or katakanuing. This is a great day out with your friends and possibly a good ice-breaking exercise for you and your new flatmates. My top tip: see who can stay standing up on the SUP’s the longest… I think I spent more time in the water than on the board! For those of you that are worried about the cold water, wetsuits are available to hire. Find out more information here.

2. Snowboarding

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Ok so there might not be real snow, but you can still practice your snowboarding skills. That’s not the only thing you can do at Greystones Action Park. You can also skateboard, scoot, trampoline, BMX, boulder, freestyle ski and more. All these activities are available for first timers to Olympians. HOW COOL! Visit their website to find out what else you can try. They also have an on site restaurant and bar so you can grab a well deserved cocktail or hot chocolate after you master all your moves.

3. Aerial

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If I could have one super power, it would be the ability to fly and doing aerials is the closest thing to flying. Aerial silks is a type of performance where you perform aerial acrobatics while hanging from fabric. You use the fabric to wrap, suspend, drop, swing, and spiral your body in and out of various positions. One place you can try all of this is Siren Asylum – a body positive fitness studio near MediaCity. Walk 10 minutes from our MediaCity campus then fly for an hour during your class. Aerial silks is more than just a fun activity with poses that look beautiful on camera, there are many benefits too. Health benefits include improved flexibility, muscle strengthening, improved focus and a good stress reliever. They also play music to help you embrace your inner Aladdin on your magic silks.

4. Explore 154 acres of green space at RHS Bridgewater

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Explore 154 acres of greenery, flowers, water and nature. Let your imagination and inspiration run free through their blend of Chinese and British horticulture, the wellbeing garden and the bee and butterfly garden. Just because you have moved to the city, doesn’t mean you lose out on green space. Did I mention Salford residents can go free on Tuesdays? Just remember to bring your proof of address. I recommend bringing a picnic and spending the day reading by the paradise garden. Find out more about the RHS Bridgewater Garden here.

5. Eat authentic Eritrean & Ethiopian food

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My tummy is rumbling thinking of the delicious vegan curries and the alternative takes on traditional pub classics. The Eagle Inn, a must-visit for any Salford student, hosts House of Habesha. House of Habesha serves up authentic Eritrean and Ethiopian cuisine. If you’ve never tried it, you need to! The menu is mainly vegan, but they have non-vegan options also. The comforting food is the perfect opportunity to try something new. Grab a drink, a Habesha Cheesesteak and listen to local musicians for a fun night out!

There are lots of fun things to do in Salford. Let me know in the comments what you get up to or what you think I’ve missed out!