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Royal Northern College of Music

Manchester

  • Location: City

Student life

Manchester

Over 100,000 students call Manchester their home, and it’s not hard to see why.

Our vibrant city has it all: a rich and varied music scene, a proud heritage of science and industry, nightlife, culture and politics, an incredible sporting legacy, and a thriving LGBTQ+ community.

A pioneering place of firsts, Manchester is known the world over for talent and innovation. Music of all genres runs in its veins, and we’re proud to be part of that legacy. At venues ranging from the impressive Co-op Live to the stunning Bridgewater Hall and intimate Hallé St Peter’s, the city provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy classical and contemporary performers, from home grown to international artists, every day of the week. And from our base on Oxford Road, the RNCM is perfectly placed to enjoy it all. Excellent transport links for overseas and UK travel make coming in and out of the city easy and the centre of town is just a 20-minute walk away.

What's it like to live in North West?
Check out our region guide

The North West is made up of Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, and Merseyside. Its two biggest cities, Liverpool and Manchester, are global landmarks in music and football history.

The region was the heart of the industrial revolution – at one time, Lancashire produced half the world’s cotton. Many architectural reminders of this era remain, like Liverpool’s Royal Albert Docks and Chester's Victorian centre.

The stunning Lake District – home to England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike – needs no filters, while Blackpool is a seaside adventure.

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What's it like to live in Manchester?
Check out our city guide

Discover what it’s really like to live in Manchester as a student, with insights into its rich culture, thriving student life, and iconic landmarks.

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Campus and facilities

Living Here

Whether you’re joining us from around the corner or from thousands of miles away, our strong support network will make each step of the journey as easy as possible.

Our Academic Services and Student Recruitment teams can guide on everything from finance to accommodation, and we have a brilliant Students’ Union offering help, advice, and a friendly face whenever you need it.

Students can choose to live in Sir Charles Groves Hall of Residence, right next door to the RNCM. The majority of the rooms occupied by our students are ensuite and grouped in four, with a shared kitchen/lounge. Residents can practise in their room from 9am to 9pm, and pianists can request a loan piano. There are a team of staff on hand to help you settle in and provide support if needed. For students who prefer to rent a flat or share a house privately, Manchester has an abundance of accommodation within easy distance of the RNCM: in its many vibrant neighbourhoods, in the city centre, and in its suburbs.

Course locations

Main Site

Manchester, M13 9RD