Which uni has the best beach?

Sophia Lamberton 18 July 2022
Brighton beach, one of the best beaches in a student city

Sun is shining, time to hit the beaches. But which student city has the best sunbathing spots?

University's out, and summer has finally arrived. After all those exams and assignments, you deserve a well-earned break, so we've brought you the UK universities with the best beaches for some travel inspiration.

University of Brighton & University of Sussex

Our first stop is Brighton, one of the best places for student nightlife and a fantastic beach, and home to the Universities of Brighton and Sussex. Brighton Palace Pier has loads of events happening throughout the summer, so keep your eye on their website. There are also plenty of food outlets on the pier, selling pizza, tasty churros, and burgers.

Brighton has so many different nightclubs, you're bound to find something no matter your music taste. Best thing is, there are so many crazy deals at different places throughout the week, you won't break the bank.

If old-school pop and indie is your vibe, then check out Chalk, formerly known as The Haunt. Head down on a Monday night for Fat Poppadaddy, an alternative student night where you can grab a pint for £1.50. 

Brighton is also famous for its Pride Festival, held every August. Be sure to mark the date in your diary because this event is not to be missed.

University of Bournemouth

With a ten-mile-long pebbly beach, you'll definitely need to spend more than a day down at the beach. Bournemouth is only fifty minutes away from the capital, so a great spot for any of you Londoners seeking a sea breeze. The university's main campus is in Poole but Bournemouth beach isn't far away.

Bournemouth Pier is a must-see. It has an arcade, small cafes, and gift shops, but the highlight has to be the indoor activities centre which features a zipwire and climbing walls. Check out the adrenaline junkie's attraction, where you'll wear a full bodysuit and hold on tight to the handlebars as you are suspended 25 feet at the top of a vertical slide. The challenge is to hold on for as long as possible.

Bournemouth also has to be one of the best spots for music events. So many live music festivals take place in and around Bournemouth throughout the summer, as well as on the beach.

University of Cardiff

There are so many things to do on the coast in and around Cardiff, so you'll be spoilt for choice on day trips to places like Penarth and Cardiff Bay. Check out as many of the beaches and bays as possible because each has its own particular beauty.

WIf you're a student at the University of Cardiff, then be sure to check out their beach parties and BBQs, which usually happen during Freshers Week.

Nine miles South West of Cardiff, Pebble Beach, or Cold Knap Beach as it's known to the locals, is perfect for a summer getaway. There are lots of hilly walks along the coast, a beautiful lake to visit, and many little independent cafes.

University of St Andrews

St Andrews has not one but three beautiful beaches to choose from! 

East Sands makes the perfect spot for a beach party, and there are several bonfires and BBQs throughout the year. If you enjoy exploring, then take a walk down the Fife Coastal Path for some breathtaking views.

West Sands is a two-mile-long beach just a 15-minute walk from the town centre. This stunning, sandy beach makes the perfect spot for sunsets and is a hotspot for Instagrammers. But don’t just look at Instagram when you can see these fabulous views for yourself.

A great way to explore the beach is to do a walking trail, so you don't miss any hidden spots. Head down to Castle Sands if you love swimming. If you're a history buff, check out St Andrews Castle, which overlooks the beach.

So make the most of your summer holiday and head down to one of these fantastic beaches- you won't be disappointed! And make sure you're staying hydrated!

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Sophia Lamberton 18 July 2022