10 Things To Do Around Cardiff University When You’re Broke AF
As important as studying is when going to University in such an appreciable city as Cardiff it’s vital for you to take advantage of every part of what this city has to offer, and as the saying goes, “The best things in life are free”, well in Cardiff anyway.
1) Cardiff University (Main Building).
Despite what the open day prospectus sells you, odds are your lectures won’t be in the main building and the only time you will get to treasure the inside of this iconic architecture is when you graduate. As it’s only across the street from the CUSU there’s no excuse to pop in and marvel at its allurement.
2) Bute Park.
Right in the centre of the city, Bute Park is the urban gem of Cardiff city. Â A perfect spot to chill with friends, stroll by yourself or visit when family comes to visit. The park is maintained fittingly throughout the year so you can appreciate its excellence even in winter. The acres of greenery will give you the illusion you’re on a mini break from the chaos of city life.
3) Live Lounge.
The ultimate live music venue near Cardiff University, ideal for students who hate house music and treasure, “jeans and a cute top” as their go to outfit.
So let me set this night out for you:
8:00 PM: start downing your supermarket branded essentials vodka with orange juice, whilst trying to see if you own anything “indie” enough to wear to live lounge.
10:00 PM: arrive at live lounge an hour before entry fee just in case there is a line!
10:30 PM: Okay now you’re in. Drinks are £1 for half an hour, Scout to see if you can find anyone willing to buy you a drink.
11:00Â PM: The only person willing to buy a drink is the 50-year-old man who’s also hit on all your friends, (see example below)
12:30 PM: JEALOUSSSSY TURNING TO SAINTS INTO A SEA, SWIMMING THROUGH SICK LULLABIES
12:45 PM:Â Teenage Dirtbag just got way too emotional for you so you end up calling it a night. But hey, you haven’t spent any money so you can hit Mc Donalds to reward yourself.
4) National History Museum.
Cardiff’s National History Museum is in close proximity to Cardiff University, which makes it an excellent resource for rainy days, (which you will get your fair share of). The entry is free and has a catching Art exhibit located on at the top, which is perfect if you fancy a day out that you can have a high opinion of.
5) Indoor Market.
Although considered an old-fashioned way of shopping, the Cardiff indoor market is a vibrancy of fresh fruit and veg, there any many cuisines of food, including Mediterranean and Jamaican. The energy of these historical markets can make a really fun day of window shopping, so make sure during your time at Cardiff University you check this place out!
6) Explore the Arcades.
Hidden back streets of Cardiff are famous for their Victorian arcades, there is an abundance of quirky boutiques and vintage stores that can advance your wardrobe in a million ways that high street stores just can’t. For your innovative side make sure to explore Morgan Arcade, you can come across some extraordinary art galleries that are worth a look.
7) City Hall.
High rise ceilings, marble halls and a lavish selection of statues. This picturesque building is a tribute to Cardiff and its citizens. A situated civic centre only, minutes away from Cardiff University, it’s well worth a visit and of course, will cost you nothing. If you’re lucky you might even catch a wedding.
8) Alexandria Gardens.
Stunning surrounding of scenery, photographic views and a must visit for historical buildings.
9) YOLO Wednesdays.
Wednesday nights is a holy grail night for all Cardiff University students. Whether you are dressing up as bin bag for a social or letting off some steam before your 9 am the next morning. YOLO Wednesdays are the place to be. Get there before 11 and it’s free!
10) Explore Cathays.
Welcome to your home for the next 3 years. It’s well worth familiarising yourself with. Is your House near Lidl or Sainbury’s? It is easier to walk on a night out than take a taxi? These are critical things to consider.
Hopefully, this article has provided you with some inspiration for those days, where money is tight and you’re looking for a distraction from your work pile that doesn’t break the bank when you are at Cardiff University.
Featured Image Source: weheartit.com
