Summer as a student doesn’t have to mean spending lots of money to have a good time, especially when you’re in a big city like Manchester. Whether you’re staying for work, study, or just soaking up the vibe, there are loads of ways to enjoy your summer on a student budget. Here’s your ultimate guide to an affordable fun student summer in Manchester and Salford…

silhouette photo of group of people raising their hand

1. Make the most out of budget friendly acitivites

There are so many cheap but super fun activities in Manchester and Salford, perfect for summer when you want to go out with your friends without breaking the bank! 

  • Roller Skating at Archie’s, Trafford Centre – £8.50pp
  • Junkyard Golf, Deansgate – £6pp with your student discount!
  • MediaCity River Boat Tour, Salford – starting from £12pp
  • Manchester Tennis Club – £7.50pp
  • Crazy Pool, Roxy Ballroom – £8pp

Manchester Art Gallery is free to the public and contains over 5,000 paintings.

2. Free things to do

Sometimes the best things in life really are free! Here are the top locations and activities to enjoy in Manchester and Salford without spending a penny.

  • Have a picnic in Peel Park – A student favourite for a relaxing summer afternoon in the sun.
  • Walk along Salford Quays – a super scenic walk along the docks you’re bound to enjoy.
  • Manchester Art Gallery – the perfect free activity for those colder summer days. 
  • Castlefield Viaduct – a sky park above the city filled with plants and incredible views.
  • Heaton Park Animal Centre – take a trip out of city centre to see some cute animals and wildlife! 
  • Salford Museum & Art Gallery – based right here on campus

Image of students socialising with drinks at the table

3. Eat and drink outside in the sun at student favourite spots

There are so many outdoor seating food and drink options around Manchester and Salford, ideal for a hot summers day – here are a few student favourites.

  • Society – choose from a mix of street food vendors and sit in their outdoor space. 
  • Dukes 92 – an absolute classic that sits right by the canal, great for drinks and known for their delicious sharing platters. 
  • Diecast – a huge venue with plenty of outdoor seating which also has the occasional event on! 
  • Freight Island – this place has the ultimate summer vibe with their upbeat music, events and array of food vendors to pick from. 
  • Kargo MKT – located in Salford Quays, choose from their range of global street food and sit on the outdoor terrace.
  • Crazy Pedros – Budget friendly pizza slices, cheap drinks and a lovely outdoor seating area.

So whether you’re enjoying the vibes at Diecast, skating at Archie’s, or catching a river breeze on a boat in MediaCity, Manchester and Salford have more than enough going on to keep you busy in the summer with your friends on a student budget!