Manchester is a well-connected city with a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and travel preferences. The University of Manchester is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport, with direct connections from major UK cities and Manchester Airport. This page provides practical information to help you plan your visit, including guidance on travelling to the city, getting around locally, and finding suitable accommodation close to the conference venue.
Accommodation
Manchester offers a wide range of accommodation options that can be booked directly with hotels or via platforms such as Booking.com and Airbnb. The University of Manchester is centrally located, with excellent public transport links, so most city-centre hotels are either within walking distance or a short bus or tram journey away.
To help with planning, we have highlighted several hotels that are close to the conference venue or well connected by public transport.
Here is a map of all the recommended locations:
Recommended Hotels
- Travelodge Manchester Upper Brook Street
- Located close to the University of Manchester and within walking distance of the main campus. This is a budget-friendly option, popular with visitors attending events at the University.
- Premier Inn Manchester City Centre(various locations)
- Several Premier Inn hotels are located across the city centre, including Manchester Central, Deansgate Locks, and Piccadilly. These offer mid-range accommodation with easy access to the University by bus, tram, or on foot.
- The Alan Hotel
- Situated in Manchester city centre near Piccadilly Gardens, this hotel offers a more stylish stay. It is well connected to the University via local bus routes and is within walking distance of shops, cafés, and restaurants.
- Hyatt Regency Manchester
- Located adjacent to the University of Manchester campus, this hotel is one of the most convenient options for conference attendees. It offers modern accommodation at the higher end of the budget range and is within a short walk of conference facilities.
- Crowne Plaza Manchester Oxford Road
- Positioned on Oxford Road and close to the University, this hotel is easily accessible by bus and within walking distance of campus buildings. A comfortable, higher-end option for attendees.
Note for visitors travelling from outside the UK
Even if you do not require a visa to enter the UK, you may still need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling. Please check your eligibility and apply in advance of your trip.
Recommended Restaurants
Manchester has a vibrant food scene, with many options close to the University and in the city centre. Some recommended restaurants include:
These venues are either within walking distance of the University or easily accessible via public transport.
Transport
Information about travelling to Manchester is available on the University of Manchester website. Manchester is one of the UK’s best-connected cities, with excellent rail, tram, bus, and air links. Once in the city, public transport makes it easy to travel between the city centre and the University campus.
Useful information about local transport, including bus and tram routes, is available via Transport for Greater Manchester.
If you have any questions about travel or accessibility, please contact the conference team.
Arriving by train
Manchester is served by several major train stations, all with frequent national and regional connections:
- Manchester Piccadilly The main station for long-distance services. From Piccadilly, the University of Manchester is approximately a 20 minute walk, or a short bus or taxi journey.
- Manchester Oxford Road Located very close to the University campus and often the most convenient station for conference attendees.
- Manchester Victoria Mainly serves northern routes and Metrolink connections. Travel onwards by tram or bus.
Arriving by air
Manchester Airport is located approximately 25 minutes from the city centre by train. Direct trains run frequently from the airport to Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Oxford Road stations.
Getting around the city
The University of Manchester is located on Oxford Road, a major transport corridor served by frequent buses from the city centre and surrounding areas. Many attendees choose to walk between the city centre and campus.
- Buses Multiple bus services run along Oxford Road, connecting the University with Piccadilly Gardens, the main rail stations, and other parts of the city.
- Trams The Metrolink tram network connects key areas of Manchester. The closest tram stops to campus are St Peter’s Square and Piccadilly, both a short walk or bus ride from the University.
- Taxis Black cabs and ride-hailing services are widely available throughout the city.
Arriving by car
If you are travelling by car, please note that parking on and around the University campus is limited and is not free during weekdays.
Public pay-and-display car parks are available in the surrounding area, and further details can be found on the University’s parking and travel pages. We strongly recommend using public transport where possible.
Below is an overview of facilities and transport points near the University campus:
- University buildings and conference venues
- Pay-and-display car parks near Oxford Road
- Major bus stops serving Oxford Road and the city centre
- Nearby cafés, shops, and food outlets