Featured image: Adomas Lukas Petrauskas

Manchester thrives on its diverse communities – cultures, clubs and networks that bring people together. Whether you’re new to the city, looking to find your place at university or simply hoping to make some new friends, there’s a group for you. From walking clubs to creative workshops, we’ve rounded up the best ways to connect and grow.

1. FEEL GOOD CLUB
@wearefeelgoodclub

Run by two queer women on a mission to “make you feel good,” Feel Good Club creates a safe, inclusive environment where you can be your best self. Serving up feel-good vibes at their flagship location in the Northern Quarter, they offer brunch and coffee by day and host events and a bar by night. With a calendar jam-packed with events designed to spread positivity and queer joy, including cabaret, book swaps and crochet workshops, there is something for everyone.

2. GIRL GANG MANCHESTER
@girlgangmcr

A socially and politically engaged collective, Girl Gang Manchester inspires women to take up space and embrace their creativity. They host collaborative and inclusive experiences, such as immersive screenings, experimental exhibitions, creative club nights, workshops, book clubs, support groups and more. If you’re looking to meet new people and explore activism through art and discussion, this place of friendship, solidarity and support is for you.

3. MANDEM MEETUP
@mandemmeetup_mcr

Breaking stigma and building brotherhoods, Mandem Meetup is a grassroots charity dedicated to promoting and improving the conversation around men’s mental health. The group offers regular community-driven events, including football, a talking circle, a chess club, mindful walks and a variety of workshops in a judgement-free, inclusive space. All events are free to attend, rooted in their ethos: “Come as you are, you’re welcome here.”

4. HOME
@homemcr

HOME is Manchester’s independent cinema, theatre and art gallery for ‘the curious from all communities,’ screening a huge variety of thought-provoking classic and contemporary cinema. Founded in 2015, the space strives to push the boundaries of form and technology, engage communities, support new artists and offer a platform for art and culture. It’s an ideal place to find inspiration and connect with others with a shared passion for the arts.

5. DYKES WHO HIKE
@dykeswhohikemcr__

Promising lots of laughs, fresh air and good vibes, Dykes Who Hike is an LGBT+ walking group creating a wholesome, inclusive space for Manchester’s queer community. Originally founded to fill a gap in queer-friendly spaces for women to connect in London, the group has expanded to the North, completing scenic walks around Greater Manchester and its surrounding areas. Join for a great way to stay active and meet new people.

6. QUEER ROOTS COLLECTIVE
@queerrootscollective

For those who feel most at home in quiet, outdoor spaces, Queer Roots Collective offers a refreshing alternative to city life. The Manchester-based regenerative grassroots group is designed to facilitate queer spaces and celebrate the queer community, while offering versatile ways to get involved. Their events range from a queer gardening club to open mic nights, with a range of creative workshops, as well as staging their annual Alt Pride Festival.

7. ALTOGETHER OTHERWISE
@altogetherotherwise

Dubbed NOMA’s local “Hobby House,” Altogether Otherwise is a creative community space where you can relax, recharge and pursue creativity, escaping the fast-paced culture and pressures of everyday life. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a busy day, with free-to-attend workshops and events ranging from an evening gardening club and a yarn club to wheel-thrown pottery workshops, a fantasy/sci-fi book club and cookbook club.

8. BEE PEDAL READY
@beepedalready

Cycling is one of the best ways to get around as a student and Bee Pedal Ready is on a mission to make cycling fun, safe and accessible for all. Founded by Manchester’s first bicycle mayor, the initiative empowers and educates women and girls to ride and repair bikes, breaking down barriers to cycling. Keep an eye out for their Dr Bike Sessions on campus, where you can bring your bike in for checks and minor adjustments for free.

9. YOGA SOCIAL CLUB
@_yogasocialclub

Balancing university life with staying active can be tough, but Yoga Social Club makes it easier by re-imagining the traditional yoga experience. Immersive, interactive classes designed to provide you with all of the physical and holistic benefits of yoga have created a relaxing space to stretch, breathe and smile. With a range of regular classes, from mellow morning yoga and upbeat weeknight sessions (followed by a post-yoga hangout) to baby yoga, Yoga Social Club is an inclusive judgment-free zone for people of all abilities.

10. THE COOL GIRLS BOOK CLUB
@thecoolgirlsbookclub_

A recent addition to Manchester’s literary scene, The Cool Girls Book Club is a female-led community where booklovers can connect with like-minded women, engage in discussions about their favourite reads and discover new literature. Meetings take place on the last Sunday of each month and are a great way to expand your perspectives and connect with fellow book-lovers.