Sticking around Manchester this summer?
Published on 24 August 12
Discover the hidden gems on campus, from world class telescopes to four thousand year old tomes; exciting events and activities over the next few months
There is so much more on offer from the University than Oxford Road – and probably a lot on Oxford Road that you haven’t yet discovered. Whether this is your first year at Manchester or tenth, make this summer the one where you explore and discover so much more.
Joddrell Bank. The University’s observatory and astrophysics centre is home to the amazing Lovell Telescope – which considering it is so famous it has it’s own stamp, makes a visit worthwhile all on its own. But perhaps the most exciting time to visit would be to enjoy space, stars and music all at once, as part of Jodrell Bank Live.
This exclusive series of shows take place on an outdoor stage right in the shadow of the towering Lovell telescope; the diverse array of shows spans all genres of music with some of the best international and nationally renowned artists – Elbow and Paul Weller gigs are coming up over the few weeks.
Throughout the day there are also experiments and workshops along with free access to the new visitor centre. Jodrell Bank is easily accessible by train from Manchester,visit the website for information on show dates and planning what’s on.
The John Rylands Library, Deansgate, considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, you don’t have to be a lover of literature to enjoy a visit to this hidden neo gothic treasure tucked amongst the shiny new architecture of the city centre. The library offers a broad programme of events all year round – expect the unexpected! Keep an eye on their website for unique night time entertainment, including free gigs in the beautiful Main Hall, or click here to read the summer programme.
If none of the events tickle your fancy, then why not take advantage of your free entry as a Manchester student, simply to touch a four thousand year old text in the library’s exclusive reading room.
The Whitworth Art Gallery. Strolled past it a thousand times and never gone inside? Why? Entry is free, the art is changing all the time so it is impossible to not stumble across something you love – or even hate so much that you could talk about it all day. And the sandwiches in the cafe are nice too. www.whitworth.manchester.ac.uk
Christies Bistro. The campus has evolved over hundreds of years, and if you feel like soaking up some old style grandeur, then this ‘eatery’ (it’s so much more than a cafe) in the beautiful Christie Building is certainly the right place to go.Enjoy fine food, a coffee or a glass of bubbly surrounded by original artwork and antique books, whilst you take a moment to think back on the prestigious alumni who have graced it’s halls before you – or equally fun, just enjoy the fact that it feels a bit like you are at Hogwarts. www.chancellorshotel.co.uk/christies