iQ in the city: Salford

Salford is just north west of Manchester, one of the UK’s liveliest cities. It has many things to see and do, from taking a walk down the stunning waterfront, to discovering the fascinating heritage of many historic places. Our Student Quarter is ideally located just a 9-minute walk from the University of Salford, providing a convenient alternative to our four Manchester sites. Here's our guide to what you can find around the area.

Entertainment

The Village – 25 minute walk

Located in Canal Street, Manchester’s gay village is widely recognised for having a great nightlife. Its popular bars and clubs are welcoming to all and offer one of the best nights out in the city. Tribeca is one of the most popular and cheapest bars, particularly on Friday nights with their ‘Funky Fridays’ event, which tends to get packed with students from all the nearby universities and colleges.

Deansgate Locks – 20 minute train

The Locks has a great selection of bars and clubs, so it’s the perfect place to start your night out in Manchester. There are six bars and a comedy club in these converted railway arches, which is probably why it’s been considered one of the best nights out in Manchester.

Manchester Arena – 20 minute train

The largest concert venue in Manchester is located centrally, and hosts regular events including live music, comedy and sports. Hosting performances by huge artists like Lady Gaga, Imagine Dragons and Paramore, attending a concert in Manchester Arena is a must for those living in the area.

Northern Quarter – 28 minute bus

This quirky area located in the city centre is known for its independent businesses, ranging from barbers to nightclubs. It’s a great part of the city to start a night out, or to explore during the day and find hidden gems.

Salford Quays – 28 minute bus

The quays have something for everyone, from The Imperial War Museum North to The Helly Hanson Watersports Centre. You will find all sorts of shopping at student-friendly prices in The Lowry Shopping Outlet. The similarly named theatre, along with a wide range of bars and restaurants, contributes to a lively atmosphere.

Food and Drink

Bengal Balti – 5 minute walk

Bengal Balti is a popular Indian restaurant just down the road from iQ Student Quarter. They offer both eat-in and takeaway options, making it the perfect choice when you can’t be bothered to cook. They also allow customers to bring their own alcohol when dining, so you can save a little extra.

Peri Peri Chicken Shaq – 7 minute walk

This fried chicken takeaway is hugely popular amongst students, especially those at iQ Student Quarter. Its location close to the building, as well as their flexible hours, make it the perfect choice for a snack after a night out, or even for those lazy nights in.

The Printworks – 21 minute bus

The Printworks is a venue located opposite the Arndale shopping centre in Manchester. It has a great selection of places to eat and drink including Nando’s, Hard Rock Café and Waxy O’Connors. There is also a cinema which shows the latest movies, so don’t forget to get your flatmates together and take advantage of their group and student discounts.

Shopping

Salford Shopping Centre – 19 minute walk

Located right in the heart of the city and with a wide variety of shops, from Argos to Boots and Sainsbury’s, Salford Shopping Centre has all your shopping needs covered. It’s surrounded by lots of pubs, bars and restaurants too, in case you need a bit of a rest during your shopping spree!

Arndale Centre – 21 minute bus

Situated in the centre of Manchester, this is the largest shopping centre in the city, hosting over 200 stores, so there’s something for everyone. The centre has a vast range of high street chains combined with a stall market, which makes it a popular leisure choice for visitors and residents.

Trafford Centre – 47 minute bus

Trafford Centre is a shopping complex which is perfect for both shoppers and foodies. The centre has three major department stores (John Lewis, Debenhams and Selfridges) alongside numerous high street brands, while the food court has over 40 restaurants and cafés to choose from. Additionally, there’s a cinema, aquarium and a number of other great leisure activities – perfect for a day out with your flatmates.

Travel

Getting around from iQ in Salford is easy, whether you're staying in the city or heading into Manchester.

Salford Crescent Train Station - 10 minute walk

University of Salford – 9 minute walk

Futureworks – 32 minute walk

University of Manchester – 38 minute bus

Manchester Metropolitan University – 27 minute train

MediaCityUK - 28 minute bus

Manchester city centre - 22 minute bus

Trafford Centre - 47 minute bus

Your iQ team will be happy to help you get to know Salford better, so please ask at Reception if you need any help. And if you find somewhere in town that you think everyone else should know about, let us know on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using hashtag #MyiQLife