Are all the halls mainly for freshers? Yes, although there are some flats set aside for second years / returners. Where do the second/third years go? Do they all move into shared flats? Invariably speaking, yes. Normally people live in the Rusholme / Fallowfield / Withington / Didsbury areas. You'll probably be able to find a house-share where someone else is going abroad for the other semester - I know of the odd person who is looking for someone like that. Probably the best way to find such houses is by looking at the accommodation classified section on TSR, or looking at Manchester Student Homes. I've had a look around at the private shared flats in the area, and theyre much cheaper than uni halls. Ostensibly, yes, but don't forget that you may find yourself paying rent over the summer, and you have to factor in the cost of bills on top of that rent, whereas bills are included in the rent in halls.
In terms of halls though, I like the sound of lambert or fairfield with the ensuite coz its quieter than fallowfield, but I hope its not too quiet there. I'd like to meet the locals and go out once/twice a week.
I've also read that ensuite isnt all that worth it either so if thats the case, what would be a good equivalent hall with a basin? TBH I've got a basin, and it's not really worth it either - all it means is that I can avoid walking an extra 3m to brush my teeth.
My second question is about internet at uni? So i know there is hornet provided for all halls of residence, which is included in the costs, but what about uni internet? is the internet service provided at uni generally any good? is it limited/ fast? There's wired internet in halls, and wireless internet in halls, including in almost all lecture theatres. It's a good speed - I've always found it to be adequate for my needs.
Also about moving in times for halls, i've read we move in at the beginning of freshers week? Yes or sometime near then. However, I was wondering if there was accom for those who arrive earlier like.. beginning of september-ish. Speak to the accommodation office. They normally rent out halls over the summer as hotel-style / conference accommodation, and so they should be able to fit you in somewhere.