The University experience encompasses all aspects of student life. One of these aspects includes socialising and making memories with friends. 

Most University campuses have their own student pub/bar that offers cheap prices on food and drink, saving you money on a taxi into the city centre. Although, a night out in Manchester is also a great way to get to know the city you’ll be living in for the next 3 years.

Manchester is well-known for its large nightlife scene, one that entices students all year round. From pubs to clubs, the city caters to many different palettes, making it a great destination for a student night out.

Manchester PC’s nightlife guide will show you some of the best places to go for a fun night out on a student-friendly budget.

ARK Manchester

ARK is located in Deansgate and offers a vast array of drinks deals that would suit a student pocket. 

During the day, it’s a great place to relax and indulge in a few cocktails with friends, and at night, the atmosphere livens up with a DJ set to create a fun, club atmosphere. The stylish decor also offers great Instagram-worthy photos to capture the moment.

YES Manchester

On the subject of Instagram, YES’s pink room is an unmissable photo opportunity to share with your friends online. 

The Oxford Road venue offers great student-friendly deals on drinks and hosts many events like hip-hop sets, DJ sets and art exhibitions – something for everyone.

Albert’s Schloss

Albert’s Schloss is known in Manchester as one of the quirkiest bars in Deansgate. 

The bohemian bar offers a vast drink selection including unique cocktails and international beers as well as a variety of different entertainment nights. It’s not the cheapest night out but is certainly an unmissable venue to create long-lasting memories.

42’s

42’s is a popular student destination for a night on the town. Located in Deansgate, the indie nightclub offers cheap drinks and funky wall art – perfect for a group photo. 

The venue also plays great music from 60’s rock n roll to 80’s pop. The club always hosts great deals on admission and drinks so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for them.

Band On The Wall

Band On The Wall is Manchester’s original music venue, hosting a number of bands that play anything from reggae to indie rock. 

Located in the Northern Quarter, the party bar offers drinks like speciality draught and has great deals on some of the best homemade curries in the city – the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some live music.

FAC251

The Factory is a popular club in central Manchester. Students arrive in droves due to the incredibly cheap drinks deals and admission fees. 

It’s known by many students to be the “last-minute plans” venue as you’re guaranteed to have a cheap and fun night out there. It’s distributed through 3 floors, each floor hosting a different style of music, hosting something for everyone.

If you’re stuck on plans for the weekend, The Factory is a great choice for guaranteed fun.

The Venue

Located in Deansgate, The Venue is a hotspot for Manchester students. With cheap shots and cheap pints, the nightclub offers a wide selection of music from indie rock to club classics. 

The Venue is also home to a number of themed nights such as Jam Wednesdays and DISORDER Thursdays, making it a great destination for spontaneous weekday nights out with friends.

Revolution Deansgate Locks

Revolution is a branch of the popular Vodka Revs chain and is known amongst Manchester locals as one of the best cheap clubs. 

The venue hosts 3 different bars with plenty of seating areas to enjoy their extensive drinks menu, featuring many unique shot flavours. They also offer cocktail masterclasses for larger group bookings if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind event.

The club also hosts many great DJ sets, offering an unforgettable party club experience. If you’re looking to have a fun night out and experience new drinks, Revolution could be the choice for you.

Lola Lo Manchester

Lola Lo offers a unique experience for students. This tiki tropical-themed cocktail bar in Deansgate offers great offers on drinks and is home to a heavy-party dancefloor. 

You can find Lola Lo near Deansgate Locks and is spread across 3 floors, creating a multiple-tiered tiki paradise. 

It hosts multiple DJ and live music nights and can be accompanied by beach-themed cocktails and shots, making it a great destination for those living in the city who want to try something a little different.

Be At One

Be At One is one of the few chains on this list, however, it’s notable in Manchester for its happy hour deal. The bar offers 2-4-1 cocktails as well as a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for students who prefer a quieter, more budget-friendly night of drinks.

Be At One is also the perfect Instagrammable location. Located near St Ann’s Square, the bar’s decor features iconic neon signs and feature walls, perfect for grabbing a quick picture with friends.

Whether you’re wanting a quiet evening of cocktails or a lively night out in Deansgate, Manchester offers something for everyone. There are plenty of venues that cater to a student budget so you can make unforgettable memories without worrying about finances.

It’s also important to drink responsibly and be vigilant around the city at night, ensuring you stick in groups and don’t wander around at night on your own.


For further student guidance and advice, check out Manchester PC’s Complete Student Guide.