The Cultural Welcome returns from 5–11 October 2026, offering students the chance to discover the rich arts, culture and heritage of the Oxford Road Corridor.

Whether you’re arriving as a first-year student or returning for another year, The Cultural Welcome is your invitation to explore Manchester’s Knowledge Quarter beyond campus.

Over a week, we’re opening the doors to some of Manchester’s most inspiring cultural spaces, from galleries and museums to theatres, music venues and performance spaces. It’s your chance to discover somewhere new, meet new people and get to know the places that make the city’s cultural scene tick.

With a packed programme of events, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re into art, literature, music, theatre or performance. Come along, try something different and see what’s on your doorstep.