Newcastle is home to two top universities, Newcastle University and Northumbria University. With leading academic facilities, a vibrant night life and friendly locals, it's not a surprise that the city is home to over 55,000 students.
Moving to university is a massive step, and can be overwhelming at times, so we have pulled together your go to guide of top things to do as a student in NewcastleGateshead. You'll feel at home in no time!
1. Have a pint (or two!)
While both Newcastle and Northumbria both organise fresher's week activities which point you in the direction of some of the cities best nightlife hotspots, it is handy to be aware of some pubs not to miss out on whilst studying in Newcastle that may pass you by in Fresher's Week. Have a read and impress your new flatmates with this insider knowledge.
Close to both Newcastle and Northumbria campuses is crowd favourite, The Hancock. A laid back pub with a large heated outdoor area and pool tables, this spot has become a firm favourite with students in recent years. Whether you are watching the footy, listening to live music or having a pint with your new course mates, it's the perfect place to relax after lectures. If you are planning to visit on a Monday, take advantage of the unmissable LIQUID 8 event, with pints for £2 and soft drinks for £1.50, it would be rude not to!
If you want to explore further afield, head to Ouseburn where you will find an array of local boozers. The Tyne Bar is the perfect spot to enjoy a pint and sample their budget friendly food menu. Visit on a Tuesday and get free food with every fiver you spend at the bar, a no brainer for those wanting to make their student loans last as long as possible!
2. Get those deals!
Becoming a student gives you access to the golden ticket...a student card! Students can benefit from a range of deals from bars, restaurants, shops, gym memberships and travel subsidies
Each year, local shopping centre Eldon Square hosts a student night, offering students with a valid ID up to 50% off their favourite brands, live entertainment, free gifts and much more – all exclusively for students. To take part in the night, simply register here. If you sign up for Student Shopping Night by midnight on Tuesday 3 October will be automatically entered into a competition for a chance to WIN a £500 Eldon Square Gift Card to spend! T&Cs apply.
A student card can unlock many possibilities to explore the surrounding areas of Newcastle and Gateshead with travel discounts available on local bus services and Metro season tickets. Be sure to check out all options here.
3. Live events
Newcastle has multiple venues that host unmissable live music, events, comedy and DJs all year round. From techno to rock, to bingo and up and coming comedians there is something for everyone to discover.
If you are on the hunt for live music, look no further. Newcastle is home to many great venues and to many up and coming artists. O2 City Hall has hosted the likes of Florence and the Machine, Kasabian and Nile Rodgers and is a great city centre venue to see larger artists. To catch smaller artists, head to The Cluny, Little Buildings and Bobik's and discover some exciting emerging artists in the city.
Head down to The Boilershop and take part in what has become a firm favourite for students, Bongo's Bingo. A game like no other, take part in this unique night of bingo. Expect dancing on tables, great music and some unexpected prizes... it's one to not miss!
If you are wanting to catch some comedy at a bargain price, The Stand hosts a £5 entry night to watch budding comedians practice their sets every Wednesday. Grab your flatmates and head down to this bargain night of non stop laughs.
4. Head to the coast
Want to explore beyond the city? Head to the coast and breath in the se air, the perfect cure to any sore head after a night on the town! Explore Tynemouth and King Edwards Bay and take in the stunning views. If its seafood you are after, there are no end to fish and chip shops in the area, or treat yourself to Riley's Fish Shack, located on the seafront. If you are visiting on a weekend, be sure to have a stroll through the market. Every Saturday and Sunday, the platforms at Tynemouth Metro Station bustle with bargain hunters, foodies and visitors browsing over 150 stalls at the vibrant Tynemouth Market, the perfect place to pick up some gems to decorate your halls with!
North Shields Fish Quay is an increasingly vibrant and bustling place to wander on a sunny weekend in the North East. A popular place to eat out at the coast, North Shields Fish Quay is filled with stylish bars and eateries. Head down to The Salt Market Social which takes place once a month and brings together the North East's best street food, craft beers, spirits, and great music.
5. Explore the local food scene
Needing a bite to eat in between lectures? Newcastle City Centre is home to lots of top notch food spots.
Close to both campuses, you will find the Grainger Market. Home to hundreds of local traders and small businesses, Grainger Market boasts everything from cobblers, florists, and jewellers to haberdasheries, artisan bakeries, high-quality butchers and greengrocers. In recent years, the market has become a foodie hotspot and is home to favourites, Fed's, King Baby Bagels, SnackWallah and Pizza Slice.
If you are wanting some great food on a budget, head to Shijo, a Japanese street food café which has proved a hit with students thanks to their cheap meal deals and ideal location within Haymarket Metro station.
Want to find out more about NewcastleGateshead?
Just moved to the area and wanting to find out more about NewcastleGateshead? Whether you're wanting to find the best bottomless brunches, the most unusual nights out or the best thing to do on a weekend in the city, keep an eye on our website and socials to keep you up to date on all things toon and beyond!
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