Is central Manchester a good place to raise a family?

Whether you already have children and are considering a move to Manchester or are thinking of starting a family in the city, one of the key considerations is whether it’s a good place to raise a family. There are plenty of factors you need to consider when choosing a place to settle down. 

Great schools

From nurseries to world-class universities, central Manchester has a lot to offer children in education. 

Primary and Secondary Schools

There is a strong mix of both state and private schools in central Manchester and, like anywhere, they have varying levels of performance. Generally, the schools within the city centre and nearby areas are diverse and cater to families with different educational preferences. Many have excellent-rated schools by Ofsted, particularly in the suburbs.

State Primary Schools

Here are some examples of excellent schools in the area:

• St. Philip’s Church of England Primary School, Loxford Street, Hulme. A voluntary-aided school with a Christian ethos.
• Co-op Academy New Islington, Hugh Oldham Way, Ancoats. A newly constructed free school.

State Secondary Schools

Here are some examples of secondary schools with a good reputation:

• William Hulme’s Grammar School, Spring Bridge Road, M16. An ex-selective independent school.
• Co-op Academy Belle Vue, Hyde Road, M12. A mixed secondary rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.
• Trinity Church of England High School, Higher Cambridge Street, M15. A Christian school with an excellent reputation.

Independent Schools

• Manchester High School for Girls, Grangethorpe Road, M14. An Independent school for girls aged 4-18.
• Afifah School, Old Trafford. An all-through Islamic school.

Universities and Further Education

The University of Manchester is ranked among the best in the UK. It was founded in 1824 and is part of the prestigious Russell Group of universities. It is the largest single-site university in the UK with around 44,000 students enrolled. The university is ranked sixth in the UK and 52^nd in the Academic Ranking of World Universities.

Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) is also popular. It’s well-known for offering vocational and creative courses in subjects like art, design, business and engineering. The university has excellent facilities and connections too, so it is popular among students with interests in practical and applied fields of study.

Green spaces

Manchester is awash with green areas from parks and gardens to rivers and canals. The oldest planned park is Peel Park, which was established in the 19^th century. Many others date from this century and green, leafy areas for communities to enjoy has been a key focus for Manchester in recent years. 

Here are some of the most enjoyable green spaces to explore as a family:

• Cotton Field Park: The park was established in 2002 as part of the Millennium Village project in New Islington. There’s a pine garden island and lots of Canada Geese in addition to a marina and a variety of indie eateries.
• Mayfield Park: A 6.5 acre park showcasing Manchester’s industrial heritage, steel girders have been repurposed and this park breathes the history of Manchester. 
• Sackville Gardens & Kampus: This was originally called Whitworth Gardens after the philanthropist and engineer Joseph Whitworth. The gardens are within the Gay Village and are a focus for many of August’s Pride events.
• Bridgewater Hall Canalside: Located close to Bridgewater Hall this charming area has reed islands with waterfowl and a fountain.
• Peel Park: First opened in 1846, this park behind the Salford Museum was famously painted by LS Lowry. 

Travel options

Being in central Manchester gives you access to a fantastic public transport network. The Metrolink tram is an efficient way to travel around Manchester with key areas such as the city centre, MediaCityUK, Old Trafford and Manchester Airport accessible. They’re frequent, affordable and great for young people venturing out with friends.

Manchester’s bus network is also extensive, with a free bus within the city centre that stops at major locations including shopping centres and train stations. Manchester also boasts several main railway stations including: Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria and Manchester Oxford Road. Trains run regularly to areas on the outer suburbs and to other nearby places such as Stockport and Bolton, in addition to always being a key stop for connections to other major UK cities including Birmingham and London. 

Museums, art and culture

As a family, you’ll find plenty to do in central Manchester. Some of the UK’s best museums and cultural places are located here, including:

• Manchester Museum
• The Science and Industry Museum
• The People’s History Museum
• The Manchester Art Gallery
• The Museum of Transport
• The Lowry
• HOME Manchester
• The Hallé and Manchester International Festival

Ultimately, Manchester is a cultural powerhouse. It offers families access to a wide range of educational experiences with its museums, galleries and performance venues. It’s a city that celebrates the value of culture, which makes it ideal for families raising their children here.

Safe homes

Select Residential’s developments are designed with safety in mind, offering homes that combine modern living with thoughtful, family-friendly features and secure surroundings. Many of the Select Residential developments are part of regeneration projects aimed at enhancing the local environment. Select’s homes provide a safe and welcoming space for families to grow and feel at ease.

Family living in Manchester

With urban gardens, leafy walkways and a range of education options, Manchester is well equipped to raise a family. If you’re looking for pet friendly city centre living, take a look at Affinity Living. A collection of pet friendly, vibrant, apartments along the River Irwell in the ever popular Spinningfields. With regular resident events, this apartment collection is ideal for a community base and offers a real family feel. 

Select Residential is designed to make renting simple. We can find you the perfect place that feels like home, your own sanctuary to unwind, entertain friends and create lasting memories. With apartments available to rent in top cities such as Manchester, we can find you the ideal home, suited to all your preferences and your lifestyle.