If you’re about to submit your dissertation or final project, congratulations! Whether you’re staying in Manchester a little longer or leaving Manchester, here are some ideas to help you take a break, celebrate what you’ve achieved and enjoy the city before your next chapter begins.
Explore Manchester
Human Natures – Manchester Museum
Until 1 November 2026 – Free
Explore how our relationship with nature has shaped the world around us, from overconsumption and fashion to waste and biodiversity.
Ai Weiwei: Button Up! Factory International
Until 6 September 2026 – Student discounts available
Explore Ai Weiwei’s major new exhibition, which looks at Manchester’s industrial past, globalisation, trade and power through large-scale installations and works made from porcelain, cotton, glass and bronze.
The Whitworth
Free
Explore free exhibitions on art, identity, community and wellbeing tight here on Campus with the added bonus of a great cafe and lovely green space next door in Whitworth Park.
Science and Industry Museum
Free
See Manchester’s industrial past brought to life in the recently reopened Power Hall, where you can get up close to historic machinery and engineering innovations.
Inhale Me, Exhale You – Home
Until 28 September 2026 – Free
Explore this exhibition, part of the wider Desire Me series, which looks at unspoken feelings, connection and moments of intimacy between people.
Manchester Psych Fest
5 September 2026
Catch bands and artists across multiple venues around Manchester at this city-wide music festival. A good option if you want a big music experience without spending the night in a club.
Manchester Village Pride
28–31 August 2026
Four days of celebration, music, entertainment and community across Manchester’s Gay Village, including the Pride parade on Saturday.
Catch a sporting spectacle
British BMX Championships
29–30 August 2026 – Platt Fields Park
Head to Platt Fields Park to watch some of Britain’s best BMX riders compete for the title of British champion.
England Red Roses v Australia
12 September 2026 – CorpAcq Stadium, Salford
Watch England take on Australia in an international women’s rugby match. Get some friends together for a big sporting occasion just outside the city centre.
England v Sri Lanka
19 September 2026 – Emirates Old Trafford
See England take on Sri Lanka in a men’s T20 international at one of Manchester’s most famous sporting venues.
Manchester derby
13 September 2026 – Old Trafford
If football is your thing, the first Manchester derby of the 2026/27 Premier League season takes place at Old Trafford. Whether you’re watching at the stadium or following along with friends, it’s a very Manchester way to mark the end of summer.
Make Manchester memories
Take a final campus photo walk
Wander past the places that have been part of your Manchester story, from the Library and the Students’ Union to your favourite coffee spot, study space or green corner. It’s a simple, free way to capture a few memories before things change.
See Manchester from above
Take in the city from a different perspective and reflect on how much has changed during your time here. Try one of Manchester’s rooftop spots, such as 20 Stories or Climat, or find a free viewpoint for a final city photo.
Have one last meal on the Curry Mile
Make time for one last trip down Wilmslow Road with your friends. Whether you already have a favourite or want to try somewhere new, it’s a good excuse to revisit one of Manchester’s best-known food destinations.
Have a farewell picnic
Pick up your favourite snacks and head to Whitworth Park, Platt Fields or Fletcher Moss. Find a spot, watch the sunset and take some time to swap stories about your time in Manchester.
Spend a sunny afternoon in Castlefield
Take a walk along the canals, watch the boats go by and stop for food or a drink if you fancy it. Castlefield is a great place to appreciate the contrast between Manchester’s industrial past and its modern city life.
Staying in Manchester? Keep an eye on Student News for our What’s On guides each month!