The Ultimate Salford Uni Bucket List

As a student, your time at uni will fly by so it’s important to take advantage of every second. Whether you’re a first-year student or in your final year, it’s never too late to start making memories. We’ve built the ultimate bucket list with help from your fellow students to help you get the most out of university, as well as the cities on your doorstep. Keep reading for the ultimate day trips, food recommendations, and more. Try to make it through as many of these as you can before you get to graduation!

Three students are talking outside the Salford sign.

Make the most of uni life

Uni can be a great opportunity to find new passions and develop your skills – and you don’t need to go far. Try these bucket list items right here on campus to enhance your student experience:

Join a society or a sports club with your Students’ Union. This is a great way to meet new people and pursue your interests in everything from Motorsports to K-pop.

Get to know your course tutors and Student Progression Advisors (SPAs) so you can get academic support should you need it.

Find a part-time job to make extra money and develop your CV. Keep an eye out for Student Ambassador positions that work around your schedule and let you get really involved with the university.

Take time now to manage your money by budgeting and finding ways to save – your future self will thank you for it.

We have three campuses, so why not explore each one? You might just find the perfect study space in time for assignment season.

Don’t forget to snap a picture in front of our iconic Salford sign outside Maxwell!

Food and drink

Salford and Manchester are bursting with delicious food and drink options. One great way to try a wide range of new cuisines is to go to a market hall. These venues have multiple restaurants all in one spot:

Enjoy lovely views of the water at Kargo MKT just across the road from our MediaCity campus in Salford Quays while enjoying delicious food from across the world, from Mexico to Ethiopia. They even host events, too!

Mackie Mayor in Manchester’s iconic Northern Quarter has great food, drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Right in the heart of Manchester, Society is a hidden gem for street food and craft beer from independent traders.

Just a tram ride from the city centre, Altrincham Market Hall is perfect for a wholesome day filled with food, drinks, and shopping.

Salford Quays with the river and Lowry. — Take in the view of the Quays from Kargo MKT

Cultural institutions

Every city has cultural locations that should not be missed, and Salford and Manchester are no exception. From cinemas to museums and music, be sure to check these places off your bucket list:

HOME is the place for new releases, as well as foreign and indie films, too. Not only a cinema, HOME is also Manchester’s premier arts centre with two theatres and an art gallery.

A wonderfully weird place, Afflecks Palace is a truly Mancunian experience with iconic shops and much more.

The Northern Quarter is the place to be for creatives, full of pubs, food, and one-of-a-kind shops.

Home to music venues, Manchester Museum, and plenty of food and drink options, Oxford Road is perfect for a day of exploring.

Chapel Street is close to home, but shouldn’t be overlooked for pubs, cafes, and exploring Salford’s rich history.

Salford Precinct needs to be experienced at least once! With charity shops and cafes, it’s the perfect way to kill time in between lectures at our Peel Park campus.

Visit Band on the Wall for a taste of the local music scene, but don’t stop there! Manchester is famous for its music, so stay in the loop on Visit Manchester to make sure you don’t miss out on big names and up-and-coming artists.

Shopping

If you’re looking for ways to make your uni room feel more like home or need a wardrobe refresh, there are so many shopping options to choose from:

The Trafford Centre is home to 200 shops and is just a 20-minute bus ride from our Peel Park Campus.

The Arndale and Market Street are right at the heart of Manchester for all your favourite shops.

Check out the Makers Markets for unique gifts and to support independent artists. These markets travel around Greater Manchester and are the perfect excuse to explore somewhere new.

You’ll find charity shops and vintage stores just about everywhere in Salford and Manchester, but don’t miss the Northern Quarter and Salford Precinct.

Inside the Trafford Centre — The Trafford Centre has all the top brands and high street favourites

Day trips

Exploring new places and spending time in nature are great ways to de-stress and recharge. All these places are accessible by public transport and aren’t more than two hours away:

Chester is a historic city filled with character and lots to do, including a fantastic zoo and a walk around the city walls if you’re looking to get your steps in.

Liverpool is a vibrant city with plenty of shopping, food, and history to explore – plus it’s only 40 minutes away by train.

Blackpool is the place for some coastal fun and charm year-round, but you won’t want to miss the world-famous illuminations in autumn and winter.

RHS Bridgewater is a great space to explore modern gardens in a historic setting. Salford residents can visit for free on Tuesdays or get a student membership for just £10.

Featuring artworks by locally, nationally and internationally renowned artists, the Irwell Sculpture Trail is 33 miles long, but don’t worry, it can be broken down into smaller walks, too!

The Peak District has plenty of walks starting from train stations that take you over rolling hills and farmland for stunning views.

The Lake District is picturesque and the perfect day trip destination or weekend getaway any time of the year.

We hope this blog inspires you to live in the moment and take full advantage of your time at uni! Don’t forget to invite your course mates and friends as you make your way through this ultimate bucket list and make memories that will last a lifetime.