What it’s really like to live in Manchester as a film student

Manchester’s often the backdrop for iconic British dramas or world-class productions; it’s a city that has played a leading role in UK cinema and television for decades. Granada Studios – once home to Coronation Street – cemented Manchester’s place on the TV map. Its streets have stood in for everything from 19th-century London to modern-day New York in countless film shoots.

Today, the city’s film scene thrives through hubs like Space Studios and the Sharp Project, supporting everything from independent shorts to big-budget productions. Meanwhile, HOME Manchester serves as a beating heart for cinephiles, showcasing everything from arthouse gems to international festival hits.

With a year-round line-up of film festivals, screenings, and industry events, Manchester’s place in the UK’s cinematic landscape is undeniable – this is a city that lives and breathes film.

Manchester’s culture

Manchester is a vibrant, creative city with a diverse cultural scene and an exciting nightlife. From theatres, galleries, and live music venues to independent cinemas and late-night clubs, there’s always something happening. 

The Northern Quarter is a must-visit, packed with independent shops, record stores, street art, and quirky cafés. Be sure to check out cultural gems like Manchester Museum, The Whitworth, the Science and Industry Museum, and Castlefield Gallery – and when the sun goes down, explore the city’s legendary music venues, cocktail bars, and buzzing clubs.

Cinema in Manchester

In Manchester, you can go to ODEON for a blockbuster, discover an indie masterpiece at HOME, or enjoy the charm of the Grade II–listed Savoy Cinema in Heaton Moor. The city’s suburbs hide their own gems too, from the cosy Chapeltown Picture House to intimate community-run screens.

The Everyman Cinema is a must-visit for all film fans if you want to catch a blockbuster with the added luxury of a comfy sofa and a cold beer. Backyard Cinema also offers themed experiences on the roof of Depot Mayfield. 

Explore Manchester’s rich film-going tradition through events like the Manchester Film Festival and ¡Viva! Spanish & Latin American Festival, which celebrates the city’s place as a hub of cinematic creativity and cultural exchange.

Eating out

Be sure to visit ‘The Curry Mile’ in Rusholme (located past the universities on Oxford Road) for affordable, high-quality Indian food. China Town (just off Portland Street) has many Asian cuisines to suit any budget, including the legendary spot Pho Cue. If it’s breakfast you’re after, you mustn’t miss Gooey, serving delightful breakfasts for all tastes. Suki Suki is also a must-visit.

In the Northern Quarter, check out Sugar Junction for a quaint vintage tearoom. Almost Famous has deliciously dirty burgers, or if you’re on a budget, Wolf at the Door does amazing £1 bao buns and tacos – which are not to be missed! Loaf Mcr is a must-visit if you’re after a sweet treat.

Shopping

The Arndale is the main shopping centre in central Manchester, hosting all the big-name shops in the middle of town. For top-end brands, try King Street; for more vintage tastes, try the Northern Quarter. The Trafford Centre, a short bus ride to Old Trafford, opens at 10 am and has many shops and restaurants. Chapter One Books offers a lovely selection of fiction and a decent flat white (the perfect combo, in our book!).

The great outdoors

Manchester has plenty of open spaces and green areas to grab a break and enjoy the fresh air.

Just a short walk from our Bank Chambers building, you’ll find Piccadilly Gardens – a nice spot to hang out in the sunshine between lectures. A bit further south, just off Canal Street, you’ll discover Sackville Park, home to the Alan Turing memorial statue.

Look a little further afield, and you’ll find Manchester and its surrounding areas teeming with numerous wide-open spaces like Heaton Park, Alexandra Park, Platt Fields and more.

Ready to join us?

Whether you’re starting your creative journey or switching paths, Clearing is open now – and there’s still time to apply for one of our undergraduate or postgraduate courses starting this September.

Explore our Manchester campus at an upcoming Open Day

Contact our Admissions Team on 01273 096406 – or email us at admissions@metfilm.ac.uk – for any questions and to discuss your options. We can’t wait to welcome the next generation of Manchester filmmakers!