These are the 10 best bars and nightclubs for students in the UK... Has your favourite made the cut?
Concert Square, Liverpool
A group of bars and clubs that has something for everyone, including Modo cocktail bar and club; the Crafty Chandelier, a popular real ale pub; and Irish sports bar McCooley’s. Many places are free or very cheap to enter, so you can move from venue-to-venue if you get tired of one place. With so many people, there’s a great atmosphere but it always feels relaxed and friendly.
Source: Concert Square Liverpool
Limelight, Belfast
One of the coolest places on this list, this legendary music venue has played host to some of the greatest bands in the past 30 years. It also doubles up as a nightclub and includes a pub and rooftop terrace, fit for any purpose. Student events are cheap and always a great night out.
Ocean, Nottingham
Prepare for a bonkers night out at this notorious student-only club. If you can get over the “retro” décor and a carpet so manky that you’ll be peeling it off your shoes for weeks afterwards, you’ll soon be swept up in the crazy atmosphere. I think it’s the asbestos that causes it.
Old Firehouse, Exeter
A quality pub by day and thriving bar by night, Old Firehouse is famous for its selection of real ales and addictive giant pizzas. It’s a small place that gets busy very quickly, so booking is recommended.
Stone Roses, York
A Britpop-themed bar, decorated with colourful murals of all your favourite indie bands. Stone Roses offers live music and cheap drinks most nights, with a friendly and safe atmosphere. But watch out for the notoriously awful toilets...
Rock City, Nottingham
One of the best live music venues in the country (I’m biased), all of the great bands have played at Rock City. It has six bars and also puts on club nights, including the hugely popular student night Tuned Thursdays. Drinks are cheap, but it can get very busy at the bar.
Antwerp Mansion, Manchester
One of the most unusual and beautiful venues in the country, Antwerp Mansion was set up in an abandoned old house where DJs were free to come and play curated sets each week. The club is currently closed due to issues with planning permission, but its owners are fighting the decision and plan to restart the club, possibly in a new building.
Warehouse, Preston
An “alternative” venue that’s been going since 1972, the Warehouse has three floors that play metal, rock, indie and pop. It’s loved by UCLAN students for its great atmosphere, friendly staff… and for being the only exciting thing in Preston. BWA-HA-HA!
42nd Street, Manchester
Known as “42’s” to the locals, 42nd Street is a small venue specialising in Indie music from across the 20th century. Popular for its cheap drinks and excellent themed nights, 42’s is perfect for those who want a casual night out compared to some of the glossier clubs in Manchester.
Bar One, Sheffield
Sheffield University’s Student Union bar and restaurant serves great food and drink for low prices, perfect for meeting up with friends before going out. It holds regular quiz nights and has a friendly, safe atmosphere.
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