Transport
Public Transport
There are many varieties of public transport in Manchester, extending to Greater Manchester from buses, to trains to trams. You might ask how are these free? The answer is that apart from the odd free bus in central Manchester they are not UNLESS you are prepared to take the risk of sneaking onto buses, hopping trains and riding trams without a ticket. Obviously, it is up to you to decide your feelings on the risks and ethics around not paying for your trip. This is often an accessible alternative to private transport however if it’s not possible (or you do not consider it ethical) to use the public transport for free then there are other options:
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking in the UK is not popular and is sometimes feared as dangerous. Hitchhiking, however, is usually a safe and fun way to travel in Europe. Some countries, like France and Germany are very easy places to get lifts. There is usually a good chance with Lorry drivers as they are traveling long distance and enjoy the company. http://www.bugeurope.com/transport/hitch.html
Car Share
Not free but reduced car cost at http://www.gumtree.com/london/rideshare_544_1.html and http://www.carshare.com/
Walk
For free transport and exercise as well as an opportunity to take some time to think and escape the congestion of motor transport there is no more natural or sustainable way to travel than to walk.
Bicycle
Manchester is a perfect biking city, with few hills and a strong biking community there is every reason to take to your wheels and see the city without glass between you and your surroundings. Faster than walking but still a healthy mode of travel the bicycle or a pair of rollerblades are only a freecycle or bicycle library away. For help finding a spare bike and a chance to meet other cyclists come to Critical Mass on the last Friday of every month. This is a mass bike ride around the city which starts at 6pm outside Manchester Central Library. Visit their wesbite at: http://www.ibikemcr.org.uk/criticalmass.htm