sunflower during sunset

Staying in Manchester over summer? We’ve got plenty going on to keep you busy!

If you’re staying in Manchester over the summer, there’s a whole host of opportunities for you to get involved with – from societies to volunteering – we’ve got plenty of ways for you to try something new, build new skills meet new people or just keep busy!

Explore our city

We love Manchester all year round, but its extra special sun is shining!Take a look at What’s on in June to help you make the most of your time here – from festivals, to exhibitions, sports activities and so much more! Want to spend more time outdoors, check out student Jessica’s top park recommendations.

Try something new and volunteer

Volunteering is a brilliant way to try something new and meet like-minded people, all whilst supporting our Manchester community.

And this summer, we’re still running Volunteer Days! These opportunities are perfect if you have a busy timetable or want to try volunteering for the first time, check out the latest activities you can get involved in Volunteer Hub.

Gain valuable work experience

If you’re looking for full or part-time work, our Career Service might be able to help. Alongside posting job opportunities, they also offer top tips for your job search and helpful advice to support you to apply, including guidance on your CV. Find out more about how you can secure yourself work experience this summer.

Get active

With the better weather, and longer days, summer is a great time to get active. UoM Sport can help you find an activity you enjoy – from spin classes to football, netball to cycling – there’s something for everyone to get involved in.

Gilbert’s Big Guide to Summer

Gillbert here, whether it’s your first summer in Manchester or the last you’ll spend here as a student, I’ve put together a big list of places, events and activities to help you make the most of your time! From my top pub picks to budget friendly activities, there’s something for absolutely everyone in Gillbert’s Guide to Summer in Manchester 2025.

Other Free events

The Decolonise! trail is an important new resource designed to help visitors reflect on how museums have been shaped by colonial histories and to encourage thoughtful conversations about power, representation and accountability. Featuring eight stops across the Museum, the trail foregrounds overlooked stories, explores the legacy of Empire and highlights the decolonial work taking place within our galleries today.

This year the John Rylands Library celebrates 125 years with a special programme of events and exhibitions. Visit the Rylands125 collections for an eclectic display ranging from Shakespeare’s First Folio; a clay cylinder from Nebuchadnezzar’s temple; a Qur’an manuscript; a parchment roll signed by Elizabeth I; Alan Turing’s notes on the MARK I computer; and Rob Gretton’s Joy Division notebook.

Jodrell Bank is famous for its big dish. Find out all about the Lovell, how it came to be and what it’s been doing for the past 80 years. Plus see live science demonstrations bound to make you say wow, included in the price of admission.

And remember, our doors are still open. Whether you need to access support or services, we’re here for you. Take a look at how to access University services over the summer.

However you chose to spend your summer, we hope you have a brilliant one!