GDN Network Regional Meeting – Manchester, UK
Skills Without Limits: Developing the Future Skills Ecosystem
2–3 June 2026 | Manchester Metropolitan University | Manchester, UK
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Getting to Manchester
Manchester is one of the UK’s most accessible cities, with excellent national and international transport links.
Visa information
Depending on your nationality, you may require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) or Standard Visitor Visa. Before travelling to the United Kingdom please check the visa requirements and apply in advance: https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration
If you require an invitation letter for your visa application, please use this form to request an invitation letter from the GDN.
By Air
Manchester Airport (MAN) offers direct connections to major UK, European, and international destinations. The airport is approximately 20–30 minutes from the city centre by train or taxi.
By Train
Manchester Piccadilly Station provides frequent rail services from London, Birmingham, Leeds, and other major cities. The MMU campus is a short walk or tram journey from the station.
By Public Transport
Manchester’s tram (Metrolink) and bus networks provide easy access to the university and surrounding areas. There is also a free city centre bus, offering a convenient way to get around the heart of the city.
HOTELS
Participants are responsible for booking their own accommodation. The following is a list of nearby hotels and recommended areas to help with your planning.
Hyatt Regency Manchester
The Hyatt Regency Manchester is a new and good-quality hotel in the heart of the university district, just a short walk away from Manchester Met University.
Kimpton Clocktower Hotel
The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel is set in an old Victorian building and is perfectly located for the city centre as well as the university sector.
The Midland Hotel
The Midland Hotel is the most iconic hotel in Manchester and is famously where Rolls met Royce! It is situated close to the city centre and a ten-minute walk from the university campuses.
INNSiDE Manchester by Melia
A modern hotel close to Oxford Rd and the universities. It is situated within its own area of bars and restaurants yet still close to the city centre.
The Oxford Road and St Peter’s Square areas also offer a great selection of mid-range hotels, including the following well-known chains: