SOUTH WALES WHAT’S ON
GUIDE 2014/15
FREE!
STUDENT GUIDE 2014/15 EATING | DRINKING | SHOPPING | LIFESTYLE | TIPS
Winter at the Hall An Audience with Steven Berkoff 2 December – £5 Student Offer
Russian Ballet Festival 20 December – 3 January
Brit Floyd 8 December
Omid Djalili 21 February
The Music of John Barry 12 December
Paul Carrack 22 January
CONTENTS
buzz
publisher EMMA CLARK editor HEATHER ARNOLD advertising EMMA JARRETT administration TERESA CLARK design GILLIAN HERBERT www.scissorspaperstonedesign.co.uk BUZZ MAGAZINE 220C Cowbridge Road East, Canton Cardiff CF5 1GY www.buzzmag.co.uk published EAC PUBLISHING telephone 029 2022 6767 general enquiries info@buzzmag.co.uk editorial editorial@buzzmag.co.uk advertising marketing@buzzmag.co.uk accounts accounts@buzzmag.co.uk contents image: SETH ANDERSON contributors JOSIE COPSON (FEATURES WRITER), EMILY MARRITT, GEMMA PERRY
04 INTRODUCTION 06 STUDENT ESSENTIALS 08 DRINKING 15 B UCKET LIST 16 CLUBBING 22 CHEAP NIGHTS IN 24 LIVE 30 EATS 42 LIFESTYLE 45 BOULDERS 46 SHOPPING 51 PERFECT HOUSEMATE 53 SECRET SOUTH WALES 54 CULTURE 62 COMPETITIONS
SHW MAE AND WELCOME TO WALES
Welcome to Wales and the Buzz student guide – which is bursting with savvy tips to make sure you squeeze every last drop of Welsh goodness out of your time at university. For those of you that have crossed the border, and paid £6.40 for the honour of driving over the Severn Bridge, get ready to discover a new country and all its incredible quirks. If you’re local or from other parts of Wales do not rest on your laurels, go out and explore the undiscovered with the help of our handy guide. This issue tells you the best places to go in South Wales to do pretty much everything, as well as offering advice on how to be the perfect housemate, where to get your student essentials and we have even featured a bucket list to get stuck into.
pic: PETE BIRKINSHAW
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NEWPORT Despite being Wales’ youngest city Newport is filled with plenty of tradition, history and culture. There’s the Castle, the infamous Celtic Manor (who recently played host to Mr Obama himself and the rest of his NATO pals), the Newport Food Festival and The Riverfront Theatre And Arts Centre. If drinking away the afternoon is more your thing don’t dismay - you will feel very comfortable in the many rejuvenated bars, restaurants and clubs on offer. When city life gets all too much then, luckily for you Newport students, the city is surrounded by copious amounts of countryside for plenty of weekend escapes.
CARDIFF Cardiff perfectly combines the advantages of being in a capital city with cheap living costs, and when it is all tied together with a big welsh bow it’s easy to understand why it is regularly voted the best place to live in the UK. There is an incredible array of things on offer for students, and the best thing is everything is within walking distance, from the Queen’s Street Shopping, Cardiff Bay’s bars and restaurants, the parks, the stadiums and the bustling student area of Cathays.
SWANSEA When people think of Swansea, the two things that usually spring to mind are the literary extraordinaire Dylan Thomas and the infamous Wind Street. This row of bars and clubs in one long strip is legendary and you will most certainly be leaving university with a drunken tale or two that occurred there. The friendly city doesn’t just come alive at night, it has many things to offer after sunrise including award-winning Rhossili Bay, which was voted third best beach in Europe by TripAdvisor.
ABERYSTWYTH Aberystwyth is so much more than the grisly setting of the crime drama Hinterland/Y Gwyll. The university town not only has some stunning views, but plenty going on as well. Aberystwyth Arts Centre is one of the largest and busiest arts centres in Wales and has a constant stream of interesting events on its roster. This November it will stage its ninth annual horror film festival, Abertoir, and Geordie comedian Ross Noble. You can also explore the castle, the National Library Of Wales or get the Cliff Railway to the top of Constitution Hill and have a round of frisbee golf. To keep up to date with the best of what’s on in South Wales make sure you pick up a free copy of Buzz magazine every month, or check out our website and our Buzz TV YouTube channel. www.buzzmag.co.uk / www.youtube.com/buzzmagtv Twitter: @Buzz_Magazine Facebook: Buzz Magazine (South Wales)
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USEFUL NUMBERS Emergency
Emergency services 999 Non-emergency services 101 South Wales Police 01656 655555
Travel
National Express: 08717 818181 National Rail: 08457 484950 Cardiff Taxis Capital Cabs: 029 2077 7777 Dragon Taxis: 029 2033 333 Swansea Taxis Station Cabs: 01792 477477 Yellow Cabs: 01792 644446 / 01792 700400 Newport Taxis ABC Taxi: 01633 271971 Dragon Taxis: 01633 216216 Aberystwyth Taxis M & C Abercabs: 01970 880865 Eddie’s Cabs: 01554 777222
University Contacts
Cardiff University Students Union: 029 2078 1400 Cardiff Met Students Union: 029 2041 6190 Swansea University Students Union: 01792 295466 Aberystwyth University Students Union: 01970 621725
Councils
Cardiff City Council: 029 2087 2087 Newport City Council: 01633 656656 Swansea City Council: 01792 636000 Ceredigion County Council: 01545 570881 Rhondda Cynon Taf Council 01443 425005
General
Citizens Advice Bureau: 03444 772020 Go Wales Careers Services: 08452 256050 Cardiff Nightline: 02920 870555 Cardiff City Hall: 029 2087 1736
Health
NHS Direct: 0845 4647 University Of Wales Hospital, Cardiff: 029 2074 7747 Morriston Hospital, Swnasea: 01792 702222 Royal Gwent Hospital, Newport: 01633 234234 Bronglais General Hospital, Aberystwyth: 01970 623131
Household
National Gas Emergency: 0800 111999 Welsh Water Emergency Services: 08000 520130 Able Locks 24-Hour Locksmith: 08000 462102
STUDENT ESSENTIALS By now you’ve probably settled into university life. You can get to (most) of your lectures on time without getting lost, you’ve gotten used to sharing your living space with a notoriously messy subsection of society and you know where all the cheapest pubs are. You might think you know all there is to know about being a student, but could your life be made easier by kitting up with some student essentials? Here’s our guide to must have items you should consider spending your loan money on. They can get you active, make you look like the most popular kid in town and help keep that hangover at bay.
SELFIE SIDEKICK
UFCIT Handheld Monopod Selfie Stick, £5, www.amazon.co.uk Be the celebrity of pre-drinks when you whip out this fancy selfie stick, everyone is going to want to be involved in your pictures and you look extra popular on Facebook to your home friends; there are no losers!
HANGOVER CURE
Berocca, £4.79, Boots Want that perfect work/play balance but not quite sure how it can be possible, we have the answer. Pop one of these bad boys before bed after a night of drinking and wake up hangover free... thank me later!
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THE FASHION STATEMENT
FOR THE LOLz
Llol Is Welsh For Lol T-Shirt, £12.95, www.zazzle.co.uk People love outdated, internet abbreviation jokes almost as much as they like jokes about the Welsh language. Why not combine the two in a bold fashion statement with this t-shirt. It’s worth a few lolz...
WIN LLOLz T-SHIRTS FROM zAzzLE.CO.UK Everyone loves a pun. We at Buzz particularly like a Welsh based ones. That’s why we want to see you running around like ‘Trefforest Gump’ in one these hot-off-the-catwalk tees. Strut down the pavements and show off that culturally relevant and extra witty side to you; become the envy of all your non-welsh friends but ‘don’t look back in Bangor’ Simply win one for yourself by answering the following question. Q: It’s often joked that Welsh people enjoy romantic encounters with their four legged woolly friends but can you tell us what we love about Dolly the sheep? Please email your answer, name, address, Twitter username (if you have one) and contact number to competitions@buzzmag.co.uk by Mon 1 Dec
FEEL AT HOME
Växbo Collage Frame For 8 Photos, £6.50, Ikea Living in the dirty dish and empty bottle-filled haven of student housing can sometimes make you feel homesick, so why not get a big photo frame and fill it full of pictures of your friends and family from home. or drunken selfies from freshers – whichever you prefer.
THE FOODIE’S PURCHASE
FEED THE HUNGER
Hunger Breaks Mixed Grill In A Can, £1.80, from most supermarkets If you’re the kind of person who often wakes up suffering the morning after a night out, only to look in your wallet to discover that you haven’t saved that £4 you needed to buy yourself a fry-up at your local greasy spoon, then you might want to stock up on this.
THE EXAM LIFESAVER
EARLY MORING EXERCISE
Dumbell Alarm Clock, £13.30 , www.amazon.co.uk Always clicking the snooze button and missing those important lectures? With this clever device you are required to work out before any sort of alarm muting can be completed – so not only will you get to your lectures on time, and expand your mind, but you will also expand your muscles with some early morning exercise. Buzz 07
drinking
Whether you’re planning a sophisticated lets-pretend-to-beadults night out, or you and your flatmates have put money on a chunder dragon challenge, there are plenty of student-friendly watering holes where you can get your drink on. Ten Mill Lane Buzz 08
DRINKING
STAPLES FLAGSTONES 22-23 Park Street, Treforest 01443 404482 Atmosphere reigns supreme here, as the chatty owners will almost always remember you. Quite the local for Glamorgan University students, this often has live bands but is always a great place to retreat for a catch-up or some night-time drinking. A delicious tapas menu and perfect breakfasts are also amongst Flagstones’ perks.
KOKO GORILLAz 7-9 Miskin Street, Cardiff 029 2034 1767 www.kokogorilaz.co.uk Kokos has developed a great reputation for the variety of events held at both the rooftop garden and surprisingly grand first floor events room. Having hosted political debates, student bands, charity nights, renowned DJs and much, much more, Kokos has a lot more to offer than may first meet the eye.
THE FLORA 136 Cathays Terrace, Cardiff 029 2040 5038 An essential hole on any round of pub golf, The Flora is a student-friendly pub and a great place to kick off your night. Enjoy the regular quiz night, socialise with friends or watch the footy.
THE MACKINTOSH Mundy Place, Cardiff 029 2064 9061 Often labelled as the old man pub of Cathays, the Mackintosh sees locals and students enjoy cheap drinks and pub grub side-by-side. The décor may be a little outdated, but this pub makes up for it with its friendly atmosphere and spacious dining area.
GASSY jACKS 39-41 Salisbury Road, Cardiff 029 2023 2608 At the centre of studentville and only a stone’s throw from Cardiff Students Union, Gassy Jacks has everything a student could ever want from a bar. With cheap drink deals, more fancy dress than you can shake a stick at, and one of the biggest TV screens you’ll find in Cathays, Gassys is perfect for socials and the Six Nations.
RAFFLES 67 Park Street, Treforest 01443 486339 A firm staple if you are a student at Glamorgan, Raffles can be packed at the weekends and is bound to be full of people you know. Second only to the Union in popularity, the roof garden is unlike any within a 100-mile radius.
THE DISCOVERY Celyn Avenue, Cardiff 029 2075 5015 www.knifeandforkfood.co.uk Just a stone’s throw from the leafy grounds of Roath Park is traditional style pub The Discovery, which has undergone a major revamp. There’s plenty of room to lounge around in and their blackboard menu offers up not just classic pub dishes but Europeaninspired meals with a delicious Welsh spin as well. THE TAF Cardiff University Students Union, Park Place, Cardiff 029 2078 1400 The Taf is Cardiff University’s main student bar. Ideally situated next door to Y Plas, there’ll be numerous occasions when you stumble from the Taf to the dancefloor after consuming your bodyweight in cheap booze. With pool tables, food, big TV screens and wi-fi, it’s also a great place to watch sport and meet friends during the day. THE WOODVILLE 1-5 Woodville Road, Cardiff 029 2039 7859 Fondly known by students as the Woody, the Woodville pub is well-known for its ‘Quids In’ nights, cheap food and bustling student atmosphere. The Woodville pub is easily one of the busiest student pubs in Cardiff, and if you don’t know it yet, you soon will.
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DRINKING DUKE OF WELLINGTON 48 High Street, Cowbridge 029 2078 2079 www.dukeofwellingtoncowbridge.co.uk The Duke of Wellington is one of the newer Brains gastropubs to appear. On the most part it’s pretty much what we’ve come to expect from these kinds of establishments, with its traditional pub exterior and comfy, living roomesque interior. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing though, the Duke promises good food at reasonable prices and a thoroughly pleasant atmosphere.
TRENDY BREWDOG 31 Westgate Street, Cardiff 029 2023 1684 www.brewdog.com Award-winning Scottish craft brewery, Brewdog, is setting up bars across the world and Cardiff is one of its chosen destinations. With some of their own creations described as ‘intergalactic fantastic oak aged stout’ and ‘heather honey infused scotch ale’ you’re sure to get something different. Brewdog has joined a number of beer and ale-loving establishments on Westgate Street, including Urban Tap House, Zero Degrees and City Arms – pub crawl, anyone? BUFFALO 11 Windsor Place, Cardiff 029 2031 0312 www.buffalocardiff.com Brimful of scenesters and always with an eye on the best new music, Buffalo has one leg in Windsor Place and the other firmly in Shoreditch. It consistently hosts established and up-and-coming musicians, it has a beer garden and it’s also one of the best places to go postclub because it’s open until 4am. BUNK HOUSE 93-94 St Mary Street, Cardiff 029 2022 8587 www.bunkhousecardiff.co.uk Bucking the trend of typical hostel accommodation, Bunk House is not only a cheap place to stay, but a great Buzz 010
bar in which you can enjoy a drink from their keenly curated beer and spirits selection. With beds in the bar and a cool and contemporary interior design, Bunk House is a unique pub-cum-hostel. CHAPTER ARTS CENTRE Market Road, Canton, Cardiff, 029 2030 4400 www.chapter.org Chapter’s bar is a huge social space, with an extensive selection of locally sourced and obscure beers – as well as some cracking cakes, lunches and evening meals. Buzzing with atmosphere, Chapter is a great place to pop in after work ofrbefore a performance or film at the centre. With two beer festivals a year, Chapter has become a favourite of the Cardiff drinking scene. GRAVITY STATION Barrack Lane, Cardiff 029 2034 0252 www.thegravitystation.com The celebrated Waen Brewery in Llanidloes (creators of Hellish Good Beer, if they do say so themselves) is the originator of the Gravity Station bottle shop and bar. Not only can you wander in a buy a bottle or two from their election of ales from Britain and abroad, but you can sit down, have a drink and often enjoy a bit of live music as well.
GWDIHW 6 Guildford Crescent, Cardiff 029 2039 7933 www.gwdihw.co.uk Gwdihw is one of the most intimate and popular independent bars in Cardiff. Café by day, bar and venue by night, Gwdihw is arty, warm and inviting. With a packed programme of live music, soulful vibes, diverse DJs and a well stocked bar, Gwdihw is a unique offering in Cardiff. MOCKA LOUNGE 1-2 Mill Lane, Cardiff 029 2022 1292 www.mockalounge.com A lavish bar that serves champagne and upmarket wines, this is one of the most incandescent, indulgent bars in Cardiff, and it’s perfect for a chilled start to your big night out or Friday night drinks with work colleagues. THE NORTH STAR 131 North Road, Cardiff 029 2062 1736 www.thenorthstarcardiff.com Situated in a perfect location right next to Talybont on North Road, the North Star offers top-notch food at reasonable prices. They also run a gut-busting Man v Food challenge which (from personal experience) tastes great for the first half but becomes a war of attrition halfway
“WITH LIVE COMEDY, A MOVIE THEATRE AND ‘BANDEOKE’ EVERY WEEK”
Brewdog
drinking Ten Mill Lane
“from functional match day watering hole to beer connoisseur’s heaven” through. I bet you a pint you can’t finish the 45oz burger. PORTERS Harlech Court, Bute Terrace, Cardiff 029 2125 0666 www.porterscardiff.com With live comedy, a movie theatre, ‘bandeoke’ and plenty of other one-off events, you won’t be short of things to do at Porters. This well sized bar on the edge of the city centre has a busy schedule with something happening every night. It’s a great place for a sit down or a knees-up. SODABAR 7- 10 Mill Lane, Cardiff 029 2039 8380 www.thesodabar.com Still a favourite for its comfy, swanky lounge area and mixture of great DJs and popular club nights, Sodabar has built up a reputation for attracting the young, rich and well-dressed of Cardiff. URBAN TAP HOUSE 25 Westgate Street, Cardiff 02920 399557 www.urbantaphouse.co.uk Beer and burgers are on the menu at Urban Tap House in this ‘industrial chic’ bar. Owned by the Tiny Rebel Brewery this bar, and its knowledgeable staff, know about beer. But with spirits, wine and 30 different ciders to choose from there is a drink for everybody here.
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THE VULCAN LOUNGE 2 Wyverne Road, Cardiff 029 2023 6363 www.vulcanlounge.com The Vulcan is a warm, comfortable and stylish pub which caters for students, young professionals and local residents alike. Great for a relaxed drink or a spot of food, the décor is sophisticated and live bands play regularly. 10 FEET TALL 11a-12 Church Street, Cardiff 029 2022 8883 www.tenfeettallcardiff.com As well as a popular, competitively priced food menu and two-for-a-tenner cocktail deals, check out 10 Feet for some of the best local DJs playing a great variety of music and live music events in its below ground Undertone venue. TEN MILL LANE 10 Mill Lane, Cardiff 01291 151015 www.tenmilllane.com The clue is in the name with the latest edition to Cardiff’s bar seen, as Ten Mill Lane bar can be found at number 10 Mill Lane. The chic-looking establishment has a whole selection of tasty-looking cocktails named along the lines of ‘nectar of the gods’ and ‘five dollar shake’. You can even get a ‘flower bed’ or ‘Jamaican coconut punch’ served in a twee-looking watering can, or opt for the garden or southern punch that come to you in an intriguing-sounding ‘cocktail tower’.
traditional THE BRUNSWICK 3 Duke Street, Swansea 01729 465676 www.brunswickswansea.com With bands playing regularly, this is the perfect local. With traditional pub aspects such as quiz night and real ale straight from the cask, you could spend a very happy night here. They even display local art to show you that they’re a little different from your average local. THE BRYN-Y-MOR Bryn-y-Mor Road, Swansea 01792 465676 This pub is perfect for sports fans; screening many games, even two at the same time, the alcohol is cheaply priced. With four pool tables, a darts board AND a jukebox, it’s pretty much everything you’d want from a traditional pub. BUSH INN St. Hilary, Cowbridge 01446 776888 www.bushinn-sthilary.com Specialising in generous and tasty homecooked food, including their famous pies, Wellingtons and an impressive gluten-free menu, this characterful 16th century former coaching inn is a fantastic place to dine and drink with friends and family. THE CITY ARMS 10-12 Quay St, Cardiff 029 2064 1913 www.thecityarmscardiff.com Several licks of paint have seen The City Arms converted from functional match day watering hole to beer connoisseur’s heaven. Although still popular on match days – it sits just a stone’s throw from the Millennium Stadium – the renovated City Arms now boasts a bar packed with real ales, ciders and lagers from across the UK and abroad. A popular haunt for beer lovers and the local CAMRA crew, there’s also the chance to become a member of the City Arms Beer Club for cheap deals.
THE CRICKETERS 66 Cathedral Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff 029 2034 5102 www.cricketerscardiff.co.uk Serving up traditional Welsh ales and delicious locally sourced food just two minutes walk from the SWALEC stadium, it’s no wonder The Cricketers has quickly become a popular venue. With high ceilings and plenty of space, The Cricketers maintains a friendly atmosphere and buzzing vibe at the weekends. DEMPSEYS 15 Castle Street, Cardiff 020 2023 9253 Dempseys is a sanctuary for indie kids and rugby lovers alike. The relaxed atmosphere ensures that both factions always co-exist in gregarious (if occasionally raucous) harmony and upstairs also hosts regular indie night, Twisted By Design. Check www. twistedbydesign.co.uk for details as to when the next dates are. THE PEN AND WIG 1 Park Grove, Cardiff 029 2037 1217 Fantastically popular with second and third years, this is a diverse pub with a friendly atmosphere, a great range
of ales and a corking beer garden. It’s one of the most sociable places you can drink at any time of the day, and its only downside is it tends to get heaving at peak times. POET’S CORNER 56 City Road, Cardiff 029 2045 8714 A regular haunt for many locals as well as students, it’s easy to see why they enjoy it so much. With three floors – including a games room – there’s plenty to keep you occupied throughout the evening. Their menu is cheap, but doesn’t taste it. YE OLDE BULL INN 14-15 High Street, Newport 01633 420 583 As one of the oldest pubs in the village, this pub combines traditional pub characteristics with plasma screen TVs and an extensively stocked jukebox. Keeping to its original surroundings, this vintage establishment also offers classic pub food and a great range of beers, making it a guaranteed good night out. YE OLDE MURENGER HOUSE 52-53 High Street, Newport 01633 263 977 If you’re after a proper old-fashioned pub then you can’t get much better than this Sam Smith’s establishment. With
“PUB CRAWL ANYONE?”
The Pelican
the best lager around, and some great home-cooked food, you will always find a warm welcome here. THE WESTBOURNE 1 Bryn-y-Mor Road, Swansea 01792 476637 www.westbourneswansea.com With a Central American aspect to their delightful menu, this pub is like no other in its area. With a good showing of live sport and great cask ales, this will be the best place for those beach lovers as it’s the closest to Swansea Bay. PLOUGH AND HARROW Monknash, nr Cowbridge 01656 890209 www.ploughandharrow.org As traditional as they come, the Plough And Harrow has a rich history and a great warm feel. Taste their great selection of ales and cider alongside some traditional Welsh pub grub. THE PELICAN Ogmore-by-Sea, Bridgend 01656 880049 www.pelicanpub.co.uk The Pelican is idyllically situated not far from the sea, set amongst the quiet and peace of the Welsh countryside. Expect all the traditional ales, ciders and food you could possibly want. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day at Ogmore Beach.
LOUNGING BAR CWTCH Jolyons Hotel, Bute Crescent, Cardiff 029 2048 8775 www.jolyons.co.uk Twee and cute, this bar is often overlooked. It has an array of alcohol that makes an evening on the sofas great for anyone, and it’s attached to a rather top notch hotel too. jUNO LOUNGE 14 Wellfield Road, Roath, Cardiff 029 2019 8990 www.thelounges.co.uk Quiet, candlelit and cosy, this little known bar is an excellent place for a Buzz 013
DRINKING post-date drink or a delicious breakfast with the Sunday newspapers. MILGI LOUNGE 213 City Road, Cardiff 029 2047 3150 www.milgilounge.com A cool vegetarian café/bar/restaurant, Milgi is great for dates, friends and pre-drinks. With a yurt in the garden and regular events, you can expect art installations, original cocktails and regular quirks like micro-festivals, storytelling and performance art. THE OTLEY ARMS Forest Road, Treforest 01443 402033 Catering to the thriving local student community, this atmospheric pub boasts cheap food, a pool table and a jukebox. Owned by the Otley Brewing Company, the 8% ale is easily everybody’s favourite. Much like Raffles, this is a big hit with the students of Glamorgan Uni. PRETENCE 83 Whitchurch Road, Cardiff 029 2061 3658 Definitely not your run-of-the-mill bar, Pretence offers BBQs, film screenings and Wii competitions. They also serve an array of traditional and not so traditional tapas, jelly beans being a particular favourite. THE PUB ON THE POND Singleton Park, Swansea 01792 298023 As this is the closest pub to Swansea University, it’s bound to be heaving with students. With a broad menu filled with great food, and great deals, the Pub on the Pond is the best place to go if you’re feeling in need of a light lunch or a great evening out. THE RHYDDINGS Brynmill Avenue, Swansea 01792 648885 The best stocked jukebox in Swansea. With regular quiz nights, this place is close to the campus which keeps all the students happy. Buzz 014
“THE BEST STOCKED jUKEBOX IN SWANSEA” THE SHIP INN New Road, Newport 01633 420087 Previously owned by Anthony Hopkins’ parents, this place is a great hangout for students with a vast beer garden and cheerful decor. If you’re after a cool place to hang out with friends, this is the pub for you. TAFARN @ NOSDA 55-59 Despenser Street, Cardiff 029 2037 8866 As this is the only licensed company on the river bank, this will be your first choice for watching the world go by while drinking the night away. This pub is good for any occasion, whether for post-match drinks or for the lively open mic night. It also serves as a hostel so if you’re on a particularly savage bender you can always check in for the night. UPLANDS TAVERN 42 Uplands Crescent, Swansea 01792 458242 With the loudest and most varied music, this place is seen as the best music venue in Swansea. The cheap drinks are great especially while watching the local talent who are on show every night of the week. Loads of places to sit and enjoy the show.
Henry’s Café Bar
PRE-CLUB HENRY’S CAFÉ BAR 8-16 Park Chambers, Cardiff 029 2022 4672 www.henryscafebars.co.uk Providing the perfect launch-pad to the drunken debauchery of Greyfriars Road, Henry’s offers a range of delicious cocktails. Just don’t get carried away and peak too early. LUCKY VOICE Tiger Tiger, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff 029 2039 1944 What better way to kick-start your night than a spot of karaoke. Tiger Tiger’s Lucky Voice is the perfect place for an hour of non-stop karaoke pre-club action. It can be a pretty brutal affair if you can’t sing, but once you’ve had a few drinks, you won’t even care that you’re singing Justin Bieber. OFFICE 2 Castle Gardens, Swansea 01792 645063 With an extensive circular bar in the middle of this pub, you can always be part of the action. They are regularly adorned with bands on their large stage, and if they’re not then you can sit up there with a drink and look over onto the castle gardens.
SOUTH WALES BUCKET LIST It is easy to get sucked into the student routine of clubbing, napping and occasionally attending that mythical 9am lecture, but if you need to motivate yourself to do something different theN why not step out of that cell sized room and try out some of the STUFF on our South Wales Student Bucket List of things to do before you graduate. EMBRACE WELSH RUGBY There are plenty of stadiums to choose from – the Millennium, the Liberty, Cardiff City – but those tickets can set you back. If you have parents dying to come see their little baby at university at the weekend, you may be able to blag a free ticket out of them. For those of you less loved get a shift there selling radios or stewarding and get paid for the honour. Although be warned, if you get put on hot -og making duty the most action you’ll see is ketchup mishaps. HAVE A BEACH DAY Head over to the coast for a day of sun, sea and sand or if you’re lucky pebbles, rain and fish‘n’chips. To indulge in an extra special seaside visit go to Barry Island, the birthplace of Gavin And Stacey – pick a character and take on their persona for the day. I always go for Nessa, “what’s occurin’?”, and for the price of a fridge magnet you can sit in her arcade booth.
WORK HARD PLAY HARD Spend a night partying with all your friends, and the one thing you must avoid is sleep, and then still make your day of lectures and seminars. Better yet go to another subject’s lectures, what better way to heal a hangover than with An Introduction To Japanese. DINE WITH A DIFFERENCE You’ve had plenty of meals in the traditional home/pub/restaurant settings, now is the time to do something a little unconventional. Head to The Clink, the prison-run restaurant in Cardiff, for a meal cooked and served for you by the local inmates or scoot over to Aberystwyth’s Whiff Whaff bar and devour your meal over a game of ping pong.
JOIN THE CIRCUS Wales’ home-grown circus No Fit State welcomes newcomers and run regular circus skills classes in Cardiff. Learn the trapeze, high ropes or how to juggle. Just think of the new skills you can whip out at the family Christmas parties. GET FESTIVAL FEVER Festivals are always a fun way to get out of your usual student digs. But the question doesn’t have to be ‘Reading or Leeds festival?’ as South Wales has its own catalogue of festivals to choose from. There’s the bright and beautiful Colour Festival in Cardiff, the Abergavenny’s Food Festival (known as the Glastonbury of food festivals), the brain feeding Hay Festival Of Literature And Arts, the award-winning Green Man Festival and the annual Porthcawl Elvis Festival (which is the biggest gathering of Elvis fans in Europe).
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CLUBBING Those new moves you’ve been working on might look good in your bedroom mirror, but they need to be tested out on the dancefloor. Whatever type of music gets you moving, there are plenty of places in South Wales where you can get your groove on. Pryzm Buzz 016
CLUBBING MAINSTREAM DC (DESTINATION CARDIFF) 71-74 St. Mary Street, Cardiff 029 2039 9399 www.dccardiff.com Cardiff’s newest superclub boosts three floors, and Cardiff’s largest main room. Snoop Dogg recently took to the stage at DC, which is Cardiff’s only purpose-built club – meaning it features the best lights and sounds that a club can offer). ESCAPE Northampton Lane, Swansea 01792 654039 www.escdj.com Probably Wales’ most enduring superclubs, Escape is currently only open for one-off nights, but pulls in big name DJs such as Judge Jules plus house and trance favourites from across the globe. In-house DJs are impressive, and trance fans won’t ever want to leave. FLARES 96 St Mary Street, Cardiff 029 2023 5825 & 84 The Kingsway, Swansea 01792 630 981 www.flarescardiff.co.uk Perfect for when you feel in a Bee Gees/Top Gun/Baywatch/ABBA mood (which is often I would imagine). Still surprisingly popular with students on the hunt for an ironic retro night out; you could easily find yourself on the Rubik’s Cube-style dancefloor when you least expect it. Embrace it and let your inner dancing queen out. GLAM 2 Greyfriars Road, Cardiff 029 2022 9311 www.glamnightclub.co.uk Perfect for fans of mainstream r’n’b and urban music, Glam has cemented its reputation as Wales’ best club for locals and students alike. They also have a cocktail and tapas bar next door (Glam Boutique) where you can have affordable pre-drinks outside of the confines of student housing.
KUKU Greyfriars Road, Cardiff 029 2011 1177 www.kukuclub.co.uk For a chic and slightly more up-market night on the tiles, Kuku Club is the perfect option. Hidden under the Park Plaza hotel, and with its Moroccanthemed interior, Kuku Club plays host to many different evenings as well as normal club night. There are burlesque nights, spoken word events and our very own live music night Buzz Presents… At Kuku on the last Thursday of every month. LADYBIRD 41 St Mary Street, Cardiff 029 2066 5500 www.ladybirdcardiff.com Wedge between the many clubbing options on Mill Lane is Ladybird – this purple-fronted clubbing option has regular themed nights including hip-hop and r’n’b at C.R.E.A.M on Mondays, tech and bass from Cardiff staple C-YN-T on Fridays, and free entries each week to the Sunday Project. THE LOCKER The Kingsway, Swansea 01792 472500 www.lockernightclub.co.uk With a growing reputation across Wales, The Locker hosts an impressive range of weekly student club nights plus big name DJs and special events. House, dance and dubstep can all be expected alongside popular club hits. PRYzM Greyfriars Rd, Cardiff 029 2023 3854 www.pryzm.co.uk The famous Oceana has closed down and Pryzm has popped up in its place. There are three club arenas, a VIP suite and hair straighteners in the ladies’ loos – what more could you need on a night out?
RETRO 7 Mill Lane, Cardiff 029 2034 4688 www.retrocardiff.co.uk Do you fancy walking on sunshine? Just want to dance when the going gets tough? Or do you really, really, really wanna zig-a-zig-ah? As you might have guessed, Retro is Cardiff’s very own 90s themed bar. With drinks from 99p on Wednesdays, Karaoke on Thursday and open until 4am on the weekend, this is an old school student-friendly club. TIGER TIGER The Friary, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff 029 2039 1944 www.tigertiger-cardiff.co.uk Mondays at Tiger Tiger have for a long time been one of the biggest student nights. With plenty of themed nights and a plethora of dancefloors and private rooms for club socials or birthdays, Tiger is one of the most popular clubs in Cardiff, although beware overcrowding on its busiest nights. VODKA REVOLUTION 9- 11 Castle Street, Cardiff 029 2023 6689 24 Wind St, Swansea 01792 475189 www.revolution-bars.co.uk Sync At Revs on a Tuesday is a classic student night out, thanks to its buzzing atmosphere and student-friendly prices. Shotgun Rules on a Wednesday cuts its fair share of the coveted sports crowd and there’s also a fantastically varied range of flavoured vodka on offer. Be warned, however: you will regret that chilli shot in the morning.
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“YOU WILL REGRET THAT CHILI SHOT IN THE MORNING” WALKABOUT 65 St. Mary Street, Cardiff 029 2072 7930 www.walkaboutbars.co.uk Infamous amongst freshers for their TNT (Thursday Night Takeover) student night; the double vodkas are cheap and the music is easy. Ignore the sweat dripping from the ceiling and you’ve got yourself a classic first year night out, especially with its recent £1m facelift. Y PLAS Cardiff University Students Union Park Place, Cardiff 029 2078 1400 www.cardiffstudents.com Over the summer of 2014, Cardiff University Students Union was renovated and given a sparkly new image, ready for the new intake of freshers to christen it with Jagerbombs and fist pumping. Y Plas is as it has always been: vast, cheap, safe, and designed for students. It’s the only place to go on a Saturday if you’re a student in Cardiff, and offers a range of events and entertainment throughout the week. What’s more, Buzz 018
Asbo Disco & Eva Lazurus money spent here goes straight back into improving the student experience.
ALTERNATIVE BUFFALO Windsor Place, Cardiff 029 2031 0312 www.buffalocardiff.com Tucked away off Queen Street, Buffalo has played host to an array of local DJs and established producers. Having also hosted many Swn Festival acts in recent years, this is a venue for music fans to get excited about. CLWB IFOR BACH 11 Womanby Street, Cardiff 029 2023 2199 www.clwb.net This iconic venue has carved itself a place at the heart of the Welsh music scene over the past 30 years. Maad City is its brand-new-for-late-2014 midweek night, on each Thursday and promising a “hip-hop house party vibe”. Arguably the best indie club in the city, rotating dance nights offer a fine spread of genres and Friday and Saturday nights are invariably packed.
GWDIHW 6 Guildford Crescent, Cardiff 029 2039 7933 www.gwdihw.co.uk With a packed programme of live music, underground comedy, diverse DJs and a well-stocked bar, Gwdihw is a truly unique offering in Cardiff. On one night you can expect to be dancing to Latin beats, while on another you may be listening to reggae, soul or indie. With craft sales, cinema and more, Gwdihw is a very versatile venue with something for everyone.
jACOBS MARKET ROOFTOP TERRACE Canal Wharf, Cardiff 029 2039 0939 www.facebook.com/Jacobs.Market. Cardiff During the summer months, clubbing experts Babylon put on a daytime party on the top of an antiques shop overlooking the train station. A very atmospheric and cool venue, these events are always sell-outs, so be sure to get your tickets fast.
CLUBBING “PROMISES STIMULATION, EXHILARATION AND LIBERATION” LGBT
pic: JOSHUA ROWLANDS PHOTOGRAPHY
METROS 10 Bakers Row, Cardiff 029 2039 9942 A slovenly, grimy little rock club, this is enduringly popular with students for its dirt-cheap drinks and habitually sweaty atmosphere. Cheapskates every Wednesday remains the biggie: doubles for £1.50 and lots of filthy rock music. Just don’t look at the carpet. MONKEY BAR 10-14 Castle Street, Swansea 01792 480822 www.monkeycafe.co.uk The club for those who want something just that little bit different. If you like a bit of reggae or hip-hop, you’ll want to spend your whole night here. Everybody can find something to make their night that little bit closer to perfect. SPLOTT WAREHOUSE Titan Road, Cardiff www.facebook.com/ SplottWarehouseCDF New to the scene Splott Warehouse has only recently turfed out the weekly market and turned itself into a live music venue. They started off strong with a day-time rave courtesy of Chase And Status and hosting Cardiff’s Color Festival and have hinted at plenty more to come. Buzz 020
Splott Warehouse THE VAULTS 113-116 Bute Street, Cardiff The Vaults is a unique clubbing experience in Cardiff Bay. The venue is a real bank vault underneath a large former bank, now utilised by club promoters Catapult (drum’n’bass) and Cellar Door (house). The latter even features a cinema room which shows cartoons all night if you need a break from all the partying. UNDERTONE 11a-12 Church Street, Cardiff 029 2022 8883 www.undertonecardiff.com Underneath 10 Feet Tall is this little gem. They have regular drinks offers, as well as great artists and a 7k sound system. If you’re serious about music then you’ll find what you’re looking for here. From DJs to producers and live bands, the musical selection is wide and varied.
HUSH 233 High Street, Swansea 01792 361962 One of Swansea’s best gay clubs, there’s karaoke to be sung and funky house to be danced to – not to mention low prices on drinks – making Hush well worth a visit. PULSE 3 Churchill Way, Cardiff 0843 289 333 www.pulsecardiff.co.uk With a slogan boasting to be at the “heart of the gay scene”, you know you‘re due a good night. With great entertainment and great music, it’s no wonder it was voted third best gay club in the UK by the Gay Times. WOW 4a Churchill Way, Cardiff 029 2066 6247 www.wowbarcardiff.com An exciting addition to Cardiff’s gay scene, there’s nothing particularly subtle about Wow, which promises stimulation, exhilaration and liberation. Situated opposite Pulse, this is a popular hangout for Cardiff’s trendy gay community and it’s attracting a lot of students too with its very decent lunch menu.
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KEEP CHEAP AND STAY IN If your student loan is dwindling, your hangovers are becoming more painful and you can no longer stand the thought of another promoter screaming at you to get into their club then a cheap night in is just what you need. DRINKING GAMES Getting drunk at home can be just as fun as getting drunk in a club and, with the help of a few drinking games, it’s the perfect recipe for a hilarious night. Classics like truth or date will make the night pass in a slur of laughter and juicy confessions. Movies are also a great tool to turn a night in front of the telly into a drunken haze. Try the Bridget Jones drinking game where you must take a sip of your drink every time Bridget consumes alcohol, smokes, swears, gets frisky, mentions her weight or visibly writes in her diary. Prepare to get very merry!
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BARGAIN BUCKET BAD MOVIE Head down to your local supermarket, locate their staple bargain bucket bin and buy the cheapest/ worst movie you can find. This film should have barely made it out of the filming studio and any film that made it to the cinema is strictly prohibited. Grab some popcorn and bask in its sheer shoddiness.
GET CRAFTY Tie dye is all in. If you want an Urban Outfitters design it will set you back the best part of £30, but when it’s so easy and fun to do why waste your money? All you need is an old white t-shirt, some elastic bands, and the dye which you can pick up for cheap on Ebay.
GAMBLE Grab a pack of cards, a bunch of your mates, the contents of your piggy bank and gamble student style with no more than a £1 stake on each game. If you lose your money it’s nothing but Tesco everyday value products for the week, if you win treat yourself to an M&S ready meal. WORK IT OUT If your student loan doesn’t quite cover the cost of a pricey gym membership then get online and find a YouTube fitness video, clear the living room and workout in a fun environment. For extra laughs try and find one created by a dodgy looking personal trainer, or an over enthusiastic self-named fitness instructor.
TAKEAWAY There’s nothing better than binge eating after a long week of university, and when you order in a big group you can afford to get many different dishes. Indulge but remember you are still a student so look out for discounts and offers. GREAT STUDENT BAKE OFF The GBBO phenomenon has captured the nation; its quaint style has made it a hit with everyone including us students. Host your own version of the show, everyone must bake their most delicious cake and then invite a (very lucky) independent adjudicator to judge who’s is best. The winner gets to eat the most cake, and forever know they are the Star Baker.
BOARD GAMES Board games are not just for Christmas day after a mulled wine or two and they are certainly not limited to your standard Snakes and Ladders. If you fancy trying something different then the people at Cardiff’s independent tabletop game shop, Rules Of Play, will have plenty to choose from. The shop, located in Castle Arcade, is full of different choices for some organised fun. There is something to offer the complete novice, the gaming geek and everyone in between. Some of our recommendations include fighting it out with other monsters in the ultimate battle to become the King Of New York. Or put your selling skills to the test and try to sell everything from Robot Toasters to Jelly Knives in Snake Oil, and the chance to become a gangster for an hour or two with Cash N’ Guns.
WIN SNAKE OIL BOARD GAME FROM RULES OF PLAY
‘Dear Lord Sugar, I am here to offer you some incredible Sock Giggles.’ For all those aspiring Apprentice candidates out there, if you can champion this board game the board room will be a breeze. You have thirty seconds to sell your friends innovative new products that are created by the combination of random words drawn from the cards of the deck. Raucous fun for all and full of bare faced improv. Get your hands on it by answering this question: Q: Where does the term ‘snake oil’ come from and what does it really mean? Please email your answer, name, address, Twitter username (if you have one) and contact number to competitions@buzzmag.co.uk by Mon 1 Dec Buzz 023
LIVE Whether it’s small and intimate acoustic sets or big name stadium gigs, there’s nothing quite like the buzz of live music. With such a great variety of venues hosting all sorts of musicians there’s no excuse not to go and enjoy some live tunes.
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SMALL VENUES CAFÉ jAzz 21 St Mary Street, Cardiff 029 2038 7026 www.cafejazzcardiff.com With regular jam sessions and live jazz bands throughout the week, you’ll soon forget that you are actually on St Mary Street as you become engrossed in the jazzy tunes and infectious atmosphere. This is the place for any music lover. DEMPSEYS 15 Castle Street, Cardiff 029 2023 9253 It’s not what you’d call a typical venue for music, but this Celtic pub offers a little more than a first glance might suggest. With monthly indie discos by the notorious Twisted By Design team, regular jazz nights and annual Swn Festival activities, you know that this place is worth that second look. THE FULL MOON Womanby Street, Cardiff 029 2037 3022 www.thefullmooncardiff.com With a host of live music nights championing local and national talent, a comprehensive drinks list offering drinks from around the world, and regular DJs to keep you dancing until the early hours, Full Moon is an invigorating venue for music lovers in Cardiff.
GWDIHW 6 Guildford Crescent, Cardiff 029 2039 7933 www.gwdihw.co.uk Word-of-mouth has established Gwdihw as one of the most intriguing live venues in Cardiff. With a regularly packed programme, you can expect live bands, soulful vibes, diverse DJs and regular mini music festivals. Weekends host the best funk, soul, world, latin and hip-hop grooves from around the UK and abroad and during the week there’s always a healthy lineup of excellent indie bands to please your ears. LE PUB 1 Caxton Place, Newport 01633 221477 www.lepub.co.uk The crowd here know their stuff, but don’t worry, a few nights at Le Pub and you’ll fit right in. Their jukebox is unlike any other with a vast alternative mix, and their live bands are always a highlight. LIVE LOUNGE The Friary, Cardiff 029 2032 8159 www.thelivelounge.com Live Lounge hosts live music every night of the week, and it’s the perfect place to catch a broad range of local bands and acoustic acts along with a spot of food before the masses descend for drunken debauchery late into the early hours.
UNDERTONE 11a-12 Church Street, Cardiff 029 2022 8883 www.10feettallcardiff.com Hidden in the basement of hip hangout 10 Feet Tall, Undertone is one of the most popular places to catch top-rated DJs and occasional live music events. With cheap drinks and door prices, this underground venue always has something good to offer. THE CHATTERY 59 Uplands Crescent, Uplands, Swansea, 01792 473276 It looks like a homely restaurant from the outside, largely because it is, but about once a week on average this longrunning Swansea venue puts on live music. Folk, roots and country define their booking policy, but bookings come from all over the globe, and many of them have made The Chattery a staple of their tour. HOBOS 10 Queen Street, Bridgend 01656 769 576 www.hobosmusicvenue.co.uk It won recognition from the NME for best small venue in Wales in 2012, and why not? Hobo’s, Bridgend’s only dedicated live venue at present, has turned itself into a fine two-room operation in the last two years. It regularly brings in touring bands.
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Clwb Ifor Bach
MID-SIzE CARDIFF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS UNION Park Place, Cardiff 029 2078 1400 www.cardiffstudents.com A great variety of touring bands and DJs come to play Cardiff’s Students Union throughout the year. The drinks are cheap and it’s definitely worth keeping up with their listings, as this is one of Cardiff‘s best mid-sized venues with both the Great Hall and Y Plas nightclub laying on regular gigs. CLWB IFOR BACH 11 Womanby Street, Cardiff 029 2023 2199 www.clwb.net Known to all English speakers simply as Welsh Club, this place is certainly the HQ of Cardiff’s live music scene. Having gained somewhat legendary status in South Wales, Clwb is the place for all you new music hounds. A classic live music venue which has seen the great and the good play within its walls, Clwb is a must visit for anyone with their finger on the pulse. Buzz 026
SIN CITY 14-16 Dillwyn Street, Swansea 01792 468892 www.sincityclub.co.uk Probably Swansea’s current prime stopoff for mid-sized touring bands, Sin City also specialises in full bills of local punk and metal acts for the price of a pint. They booked Ed Sheeran and Ben Howard while both were still ‘on the up’, and have regular club nights including Face/Off (indie/rock) and Sink (dubstep etc). THE GATE 38 Keppoch Street, Cardiff 029 2048 3344 www.thegate.org.uk As one of Cardiff’s most unique live experiences, The Gate is second only to the memory of The Point’s stainedglass windows. The venue’s Grand Theatre provides an elaborate setting with archaic wooden pews surrounding a central stage. You can expect a great variety of music, comedy, theatre, dance and more at this fantastic multi-purpose live venue.
THE GLOBE Albany Road, Cardiff 075904711888 www.globecardiffmusic.com In the heart of Roath, The Globe has plenty to offer in the way of live music. Having hosted many a famous name over the years, The Globe can be relied upon for an intriguing selection of touring and local talent. Previous acts have included the likes of King Creosote, La Roux and Jamie T. Their listings are always worth keeping an eye on. ROYAL WELSH COLLEGE OF MUSIC AND DRAMA North Road, Cardiff 029 2034 2854 www.rwcmd.ac.uk The stunning multimillion-pound Royal Welsh College redevelopment has breathed new life into an already fantastic centre for music, drama, opera and theatre. The events programme at the Royal Welsh is packed with fantastic classical concerts, masterclasses and lunchtime performances. The striking Dora Stoutzker Hall sits at the heart of the college with some phenomenal acoustics that need to be heard to be believed.
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Liberty Stadium
pic: LES DAVIES
ARENAS AND STADIUMS MOTORPOINT ARENA Mary Ann Street, Cardiff 029 2023 4500 www.livenation.co.uk The place to catch the biggest names in Cardiff. This huge arena provides the opportunity to see the most popular touring artists, shows and comedians. However, being such a vast venue, you may need to arrive early or have very sharp elbows if you’re hoping to see your favourite artists up close and personal. MILLENNIUM STADIUM Westgate Street, Cardiff 08442 777888 www.millenniumstadium.com A truly epic venue for live music: if a band plays here, you’re bound to know about it. Like on match days, it does conjure up a wonderful atmosphere even if you’re not going. And inside? It’s simply cavernous. Buzz 028
NEWPORT CENTRE 1 Kingsway, Newport 01633 213344 www.newport.gov.uk On first entering, you wouldn’t be laughed at for thinking that you’re in the wrong place. Average leisure centre by day, band central by night, the Newport Centre is the place to catch the biggest touring acts in Newport. With a long list of bands having played the venue, you’re bound to find someone you want to see in the future. Just avoid the swimming pool. STEREOBOARD www.stereoboard.com Your one-stop-shop for live music news, tickets and more, Stereoboard has a great selection of gig tickets (ranging into the thousands) that can be bought through a trusted fan-to-fan ticket exchange service as well as via primary sellers. Log on to Stereoboard and you’ll never have to miss the gigs you really want to go to.
LIBERTY STADIUM Landore, Swansea 0871 2223224 Known to most as Swansea City FC’s home ground, the Liberty has mass potential for music gigs. It’s recently been the stage for big bands like Kings of Leon. A tidy size with awesome acoustics.
With so many great live music venues in South Wales, you’re sure to find something to tickle your ears. Whether it’s indie, electronic of funk music you’re into, there’s always a wealth of great touring and local talent to check out. For all you gig-hungry music fans, Buzz Magazine regularly offers up the opportunity to win some tasty gig tickets courtesy of the legendary Clwb Ifor Bach and Buffalo Bar. For your chance to win tickets to a gig of your choice, pick up a copy of Buzz Magazine or visit our website: www.buzzmag.co.uk.
EATS
Ever walked into your student kitchen and despaired at it? Forget trying to cook and indulge in some of South Wales’ best cafes, restaurants and takeaways.
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EATS CAFFEINE FIX AMERICANO jAzz CAFE Waterside Dock, Kings Road, Swansea 01792 468230 www.thecaffeamericano.com Cafe by day, jazz club by night, Americano is small, intimate and strikingly decorated with a grand piano hanging from one corner. Pop in for a serving of local jazz in the evenings or a slice of cake and an excellent cup of coffee during the day. ATLANTIC COFFEE 13 High Street Arcade, Cardiff 029 2023 2202 Whether you fancy a spot of people watching or a break from a hectic shopping session, Atlantic Coffee’s location – on the corner of High Street Arcade by St Mary Street – makes it the perfect pit stop break. Reasonably priced, it provides a refreshing and welcome change from the chained mainstays of the city centre. They also serve some terrific iced beverages. CHAIHOLICS The Globe Centre, Wellfield Road, Cardiff 029 2049 5975 www.chaiholics.com An authentic chai tea house in the centre of Roath, Chaiholics is well known for its lovely décor, signature spiced selection of chai and organic teas, and its unique range of gluten-free foods. Immerse yourself in this little taste of India and you’re guaranteed to become a ‘Chaiholic’.
COFFEE BARKER + BARKER TEA HOUSE 1-13 Castle Arcade, High Street, + High Street Arcade, Cardiff 02920 224575 Exposed brickwork and high ceilings make this a seamless contemporary addition to the popular Barker clothes shop. With a delectable cake selection and tempting paninis, Coffee Barker is a great place to enjoy a relaxing lunch in one of the cafe’s many comfortable leather seats. The cafe can get pretty busy but Barker has spread the love by opening its own Barker Tea House in the next arcade along. CAFÉ MINUET 42 Castle Arcade, Cardiff 029 2034 1794 This is a unique and endearing little cafe that has earned a reputation for serving some of the best Italian food in town. Charmingly quaint surroundings make this one for a cultured bite to eat in the city as you watch the world slip by. COFFEE A GOGO 8 St. Andrews Place, Cardiff 029 2023 2723 www.coffeeagogo.co.uk It’s fair to say that the baristas at Coffee a GoGo love their coffee. With a focus on quality, a double shot as standard, and staff trained at the London School Of Coffee, what they don’t know about Arabica beans isn’t worth knowing. COFFEE CESSO 87 Bryn-y-Mor Road, Swansea 01792 456100 A trendy and upmarket little cafe, there’s great food, great coffee, and it’s licensed too. The ice cream is delicious and the cosy surroundings make it a definite place to stop in.
COFFEE #1 Branches across South Wales This is proper guilt-free drinking as most of their coffees are 100% fair trade. The atmosphere is always lively, as is the art that dons the walls. Just sink into the sofas and enjoy. EMBASSY @ CATHAYS COMMUNITY CENTRE 36-38 Cathays Terrace, Cardiff 029 2037 3144 There is no better value cafe in Cathays than Embassy, a humble little place on Cathays Terrance that makes all its own food and serves good coffee and delicious cakes. Most ingredients are locally sourced and organic, so you can fill up on lots of healthy grub mid-exams. GARLANDS 4 Duke Street Arcade, Cardiff 029 2066 6914 A truly excellent little cafe in Duke Street Arcade that will offer pretty much all you’d want from a small, cosy cafe. Championed by the Observer, this establishment offers some excellent food that makes for a damn fine lunch at a reasonable price. HOFFI COFFI 2 Column Road, Cardiff 029 2022 0328 www.twitter.com/hofficoffitaste Though it seems like it’s just a fun-to-say cafe name, Hoffi Coffi actually means ‘like coffee’ in Welsh. The place offers a spacious and welcoming coffee stop with comfy sofas and a wide range of cakes and sandwiches.
pic: DAVID SCHIERSNER
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EATS KAPPUCINO’S 1 Cathays Terrace, Cardiff 029 2039 6700 A busy haunt that serves up some excellent muffins – straight from the oven if you’re lucky – and some tasty savoury options, Kappucino’s is a perfect stop before uni, shopping, or even just for the sake of it. MRS P’S TEAROOM 68 Albany Road, Cardiff 07544 863544 If you fancy popping back to the 1950s, you will clearly enjoy the distinctive gold-plated crockery and the antique decor. It’s a place of home-baked pastries and hand-decorated cakes, complete with a convivial atmosphere and most importantly amiable staff. There are lots of events planned, and it even turns into an African restaurant at night. PETTIGREW TEA ROOMS West Lodge, Bute Park, Cardiff 029 2023 5486 www.pettigrewtearooms.com Pettigrew Tea Rooms is the result of one man and his dream. A passion for baking and a love of tea inspired a break from the rat race and the birth of Pettigrew. Inside the intimate cafe at the entrance to Cardiff’s Bute Park, you can expect the complete tearoom experience with 13 varieties of tea and a tempting array of homemade cakes and light meals.
trade. The coffee is great during the day, and comes with with just about every flavour of syrup you could imagine. With a great musical selection at night, this cafe is ideal for any time of day. TEA & CAKE 36 Wellfield Rd, Roath, Cardiff 029 2021 8815 Making you feel like a child in a sweet shop as soon as you enter, Tea & Cake is one of the more magical cafes in Roath. Offering more than Wonka’s chocolate factory, you’ll forget that they also sell a wonderful selection of tea and sandwiches.
HANGOVER CURE Aj’S COFFEE HOUSE 20 City Road, Cardiff 029 2045 1588 www.ajscoffeehouse.com This little café is perfect for those who need a substantial breakfast and a large cup of coffee to cure their hangover. Covered in pop-art and very studentfriendly, AJ’s is a staple for your road to recovery. CAFÉ 37 37 Salisbury Road, Cardiff 029 2064 1137
SECRET GARDEN CAFÉ 25 Charles Street, Newport 01633 223559 With a small foliage-rich garden and a fully licensed bar, it’s no wonder that this is Goldie Lookin Chain’s favourite haunt. This is a traditional café with a modern twist, and every dish is made on the premises. A hideaway garden at the rear provides a tranquil outdoor seating area. SHOT IN THE DARK 12 City Road, Cardiff 029 2047 2300 All carnivores, omnivores and herbivores are welcome here, especially those who like their food a bit more organic and fair Buzz 032
pic: KATHERINE LIM
Located in the heart of Cathays, this is one of Cardiff’s favorite post-night out eateries. The American-themed diner has an extensive menu with a little bit of everything, from the traditional fry-up to the Keith Lemon burger – and even salads for those health-conscious students amongst us. If you try one thing here, though, make it one of their infamous milkshakes. CF10 Cardiff University Students’ Union, Park Place, Cardiff 029 2078 1400 Experiencing a slow death-by-hangover before your first lecture? CF10 is brimful of others feeling your pain. Both ridiculously cheap and ridiculously close to uni, it provides a quick and foolproof antidote to the excesses of Y Plas. CAFÉ PURE Lloyd George Avenue, Cardiff Bay 029 2049 3348 www.cafepure.co.uk In the beautiful Cardiff Bay, Café Pure comes with a tasty focus on health and nutrition. You can bulk up with the ‘Muscle Builder Salad’, slim down with the ‘Carb Cutter Salad’ or just get fit and healthy with the ‘Anti-Oxidant Salad’. A great hangover cure without the greasy bacon.
EATS DELI ROUGE 73 Pen-Y-Wain Rd, Cardiff 029 2048 3871 www.delirouge.co.uk A little pricier than some cafés, but the quality of the food makes extra pennies well worth it. Deli Rouge has everything from cheese on toast (with a choice of 15 different cheeses) to a ‘Mega Breakfast’ that includes Italian sausage, egg, bacon and black pudding. This is the perfect choice for anyone wanting a delicious fry-up. DAIQUIRIS 49 Salisbury Road, Cardiff 029 2034 4807 daiquirisrestaurant.co.uk A Mexican restaurant is not where you might expect to find a great hangover cure, but there is an incredible breakfast menu available that will satisfy your needs. There’s also more food than you could shake a sombrero at for your sensible friends who didn’t drink quite as much. DA VINCI 10 High Street, Newport 01633 548171 Offering a mix of all-day breakfast food and a load of stuff for the healthconscious, this is a great all-rounder offering up a multitude of ways to kick those hangover blues. METROS BREAKFAST BAR AND LOUNGE 97-99 Wyverne Road, Cardiff www.facebook.com/ metrosbreakfastbarandlounge Offering a menu of affordable breakfasts, burgers and sandwiches, the Metros Breakfast Bar And Lounge is the perfect hangover cure after a heavy night out at Metros nightclub in Cardiff. Conveniently the breakfast bar opens up at the same early hour as the club closes. THE NOSH BOX 143 Commercial Street, Risca, Newport 01633 619419 This place really does offer the biggest pile of nosh you could want: finding more food Buzz 034
for such a small price would be difficult. There are plenty of veggie options to satisfy as well, and the excellent quality means that even if you are a meat eater, they are still worth trying. THÉ POT 138 Crwys Road, Cardiff 029 2025 1246 www.thepotcafe.co.uk Bored of your usual fry-up? Well this place offers a slightly more unusual (yet equally delicious) one. As well as homemade cakes, delicious hot drinks and design-your-own smoothies, Thé Pot stays open into the evening, proving the perfect place for a relaxed drink or early evening meal. This is a great cafe to relax and read the paper with a tasty breakfast. RAMONS 64 Salisbury Road, Cardiff 029 2023 0533 The epitome of the classic greasy spoon, after a visit you’re sure to be filled to the brim with nutritious, tasty grease. It’s amazing how much food you’ll cram down for such little fiscal damage. For the less fragile, try the incredible beer garden. UPLANDS DINER 69 Uplands Crescent, Swansea 01792 644409 www.uplandsdiner.co.uk Noted for their jumbo breakfast at student-friendly prices, you may be surprised to find out that the food is actually great quality. A great local for the students of Swansea, and with plenty of other choices, this place is an important part of the town. THE SMOKE HAUS Mary Ann Street, Cardiff, 029 2022 0777 41 Wind St, Swansea 01792 642045 Not for the faint of heart, The Smoke Haus offers a mighty meaty platter. In true American-style fashion, the portions are verging on the size of a house. Perfect if you have the type of hangover where you want to eat the world. If that doesn’t sell you, you have the option to partake in the ‘Man vs Food’ challenges they have there. Be
warned: the Chicken wings are so spicy you may get third degree burns.
lunch CAFÉ TWOCANN Unit 2, J Shed, Kings Road, Swansea 01792 458000 www.cafetwocann.com Owned by Mr and Mrs Cann (the Two Canns), this café’s focus is on fresh food and friendly service in a modern and light restaurant. This cute little restaurant will prove to be worth visiting time and time again. CAFE MINUET 42 Castle Arcade, Cardiff 029 2034 1794 ‘Cute’ is probably the first word which springs to mind when describing Cafe Minuet. Filling their tiny space with tables and chairs, the hustle and bustle of the place just adds to the Italian vibe. Cafe Minuet is a brilliant place for a long lunch and some quality Italian cuisine at a reasonable price. The takeaway kiosk is pretty nifty too. CRUMBS SALAD BAR 33 David Morgan Arcade, Cardiff 029 2039 5007 Delicious vegetarian and vegan food that will satisfy even the most carnivorous of people. Crumbs is one of the healthiest places to eat in Cardiff and full to the brim with excellent produce. DOUGH 20 Salisbury Road, Cathays, Cardiff 029 2022 2888 www.doughcardiff.co.uk Dough offers up a wide variety of delicious sandwiches that will no doubt tempt you into making many a return visit. Don’t be put off by its relatively small size, as this place is punching above its weight and succeeding. Lunchtimes are hectically busy, so time your trip well.
sandwiches and cakes. If you’re a tea and coffee nut, there are few places better. With an extensive list of fair trade world teas and coffees, you’ll be spoilt for choice. You’ll certainly have to be on your toes if you’re to get a table. PIEMINISTER 35 St. Mary Street, Cardiff 029 2000 4155 www.pieminister.co.uk Located in the centre of Cardiff with a cool but unpretentious decor, Pieminister is an affordable restaurant that does justice to one of the best traditionally British meals. With its scrumptiously yummy side dishes and tasty pies, it’s sure to hit that hunger spot and fill it beautifully.
Got Beef FRESH 32 Royal Arcade, Cardiff 029 2022 3158 If you don’t mind paying a bit more for freshness and variety, then this is the place for you. Vegetarians will love it as they have Quorn fillings and friendly staff, fronted by a husband and wife duo. Best baguettes in Cardiff by our money. THE GRAzING SHED Barrack Lane, Cardiff www.thegrazingshed.com Brought to you by the owners of Gwdihw, The Grazing Shed keeps thing scrumptious and simple by keeping their focus on one thing: burgers. With morals in their heart (in the form of a green policy and friendly outlook) and innovation up their sleeves, this burger bar is bound to become a Cardiff favourite. MAGIC WRAP Cardiff Students’ Union + Barrack Lane, Cardiff www.magic-wrap.co.uk A massive hit with the student population, Magic Wrap offers a healthy but extremely hearty lunch. With a huge range of delicious fillings available, you won’t forget your first magic wrap.
NEW YORK DELI 20 High Street Arcade, Cardiff 029 2038 8838 Perfect for a quick and filling lunch, New York Deli offers bagels, hoagies and peanut butter cups, tucked away in the quiet High Street Arcade. THE PANCAKE HOUSE 18 Caroline Street, Cardiff 029 2064 4954 A bit of a secret, tucked away in The Brewery Quarter. Beautiful pancakes, both sweet and savoury, and good drinks to accompany you as you watch the world go by. PEAR TREE The Globe Centre, Wellfield Road, Cardiff 029 2025 2042 www.sabrain.com/peartree The Pear Tree is a bar, bistro and café that provides a relaxed dining experience. With a friendly pub atmosphere, locals mingle with justvisiting diners in convivial fashion. THE PLAN 28 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff 029 2039 8764 A fantastic café that regularly features in the Independent’s top 50 café guide. The Plan offers fresh and delicious soups alongside an array of baguettes,
STARVIN jACKS 5 Portland Street & Park Street, Swansea 01792 790190 / 07976 920893 www.starvinjacks.co.uk A satisfyingly full salad bar is one of the best features of this cafe, as are the delicious jacket potatoes. All the food is great-tasting with low prices, and with happy hour on Friday and Saturdays, 5-10pm, there is no reason not to visit. TUCKER 23 Salisbury Road, Cardiff 029 2019 8712 www.tuckerfood.co.uk This cosy cafe was opened in Cathays by Lewis and Laura Tucker. Offering coffee, cake and free wi-fi, Tucker attracts both local students and business folk from across the local area. Prices are very reasonable and the cakes are either homemade or bought from local bakeries. THE COLLEGE HOUSE 56 North Road, Cardiff www.thecollegehouse.co.uk This little coffee house buzzes with an Italian vibe, fresh roasted coffee with a multitude of flavours and a pizza night on Thursday which is mouthwateringly tempting. Situated five minutes down the road from Talybont North, The College House can be a snack shack on the way to lectures or a secluded study area that’s more chilled than the library. Buzz 035
EATS international BANGKOK CAFÉ 207 Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff 029 2034 0455 Bangkok Café’s bright, contemporary and fresh interior is matched by an extensive and flavour-filled menu. With beautifully cooked dishes and a fantastic variety, you can be assured an authentic taste of Thai and Asian-inspired cuisine. Viva Brazil
THE BOMBAY CAFE West Bute Street, Cardiff 029 2048 1148 The original Bombay Cafe on Bute Street was one of the first Indians in Cardiff in the 1950s. The present-day incarnation offers a taste of Indian cuisine and culture with an array of reasonably priced dishes, suitable for couples or larger groups. The café isn’t far from Cardiff Bay train station, and they run a ‘tiffin club’ where you get your metal lunchbox refilled on the cheap.
DAIQUIRIS 49 Salisbury Road, Cathays, Cardiff 029 2034 4807 www.daiquiriscardiff.co.uk Popular with students, Daiquiris – found in the heart of Cathays – offers a great selection of Mexican dishes, flamegrilled burgers, chargrilled steaks and their very own Mexican take on pizza.
BOSPHORUS Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay 029 2048 7477 www.bosphorus.co.uk Occupying one of the most desirable locations in Mermaid Quay, Turkish restaurant Bosphorus hangs out over the water. With glass walls it’s beautifully lit at night, and it’s a fairly informal place to enjoy hot and cold meze, grilled meat and Turkish coffee.
DUTCHY’S JAMAICAN JERK SHACK 15 North Street, Newport 01633 215048 www.dutchys.co.uk Offering a little flavour of Jamaica in Newport, Dutchy’s Jamaican Jerk Shack provide real food for real people. Dutchy’s offers authentic Jamaican food and cocktails in a warm and relaxed atmosphere that reflects the Jamaican vibe and relaxed way of life perfectly.
.CN 228 City Road, Cardiff 029 2048 6688 www.eatcn.co.uk If it’s authentic, MSG-free Chinese food you’re after, .CN is an absolute nobrainer. With a refreshingly diverse menu that offers anything from duck tongue to tofu soup, .CN is the perfect place for anyone craving a real taste of China. This is truly a gem of a restaurant that offers something different.
ICHIBAN 167 Albany Road, Cardiff 029 2046 3333 201 Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff 029 2066 8833 www.ichibancardiff.co.uk Delicious sushi and Japanese food at reasonable prices, Ichiban is a good choice for those looking to get their sashimi fix in Cardiff, which has a real dearth of good Japanese restaurants.
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GIOVANNI’S The Hayes, Cardiff 029 2022 0077 8 Park Place, Cardiff 029 2022 6299 www.giovanniscardiff.co.uk Probably Cardiff’s most famous Italian restaurant, Giovanni’s provides big portions, reasonable and friendly staff. It also gives you plenty of dinner conversation as you squint at the photos on the wall of celebrity patrons and try and figure out where you know that person from. Now in business for three decades, Giovanni’s opened a second establishment on Park Place this year. JUBORAJ LAKESIDE Lake Road, Roath, Cardiff 029 2045 5123 www.juborajgroup.com/lakeside Juboraj is one of five in a chain serving up delicious Indian and Bangladeshi fare, and best of all, you can walk off that food baby with a saunter round the lake. Also does takeaway. KATIWOK 53 Crwys Rd, Cardiff 029 2037 6222 www.katiwok.co.uk With an infusion of tastes from across
Asia, in particular with Nepalese flavours taking centre stage, Katiwok regenerates the meaning of fast food. Katiwok’s vibrant interior and decor reflects the passion and flavour that pan-Asian street food is renowned for. LAS IqUANAS Unit 27, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff 029 2045 9165 8 Mill Lane, Cardiff 029 2022 6373 www.iguanas.co.uk Las Iguanas’ brand new Cardiff Bay restaurant expands on their already successful fusion of Latin American, Spanish, Portuguese, Mexican and African inspired food with a colourful and contemporary décor and swift service. Packed with flavour and variety, their tantalising menu includes dishes such as Brazilian xinxim, Puerto Rican paella and Chilean pasteles. MEzzA HOUSE City Road, Cardiff 07792 380775 A real gem in the crown of middle eastern food that is City Road, Mezza House is a cheap, cheerful and tasty Lebanese restaurant. The food is fantastic and the owners are incredibly friendly and helpful. A great choice if you want to eat a lot on a little budget. MINA 43 Crwys Road, Cardiff 029 2023 5212 minarestaurant.co.uk An unassuming restaurant in the middle of Crwys Road, Mina is Cardiff’s only Lebanese restaurant. Serving some gorgeous meze and authentic baklava, Mina’s warm glow will draw you in on a chilly winter evening, but the food and great atmosphere will keep you there for hours. ORIENTAL BUFFET 2-3 Broadway, Pontypridd 01443 408833 For about £10 you can eat the whole buffet. Well, you can try. Just make sure you enjoy the food while you’re trying to eat it all. With the great range of dishes available, this is a real bargain.
PEARL OF THE ORIENT First Floor, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay 029 2049 8080 www.thepearloftheorient.com Pearl Of The Orient is a nice and bright Oriental restaurant with a packed menu and a great range of set meals. Try the whole Malaysian baked fish in a banana leaf or shredded duck soup. PEPE’S EL PASO 120 City Road, Cardiff 029 2046 2054 Possibly one of the only Mexican takeaways around, Pepe’s El Paso doesn’t offer up the greasy grub you might expect. Instead it offers an inexpensive array of the tried and tested fajitas, chimichangas and nachos, along with some unexpected seafood surprises in the form of lobster tails and swordfish. If it’s your birthday, you’ll also get a free shot of tequila and a sombrero. RED HOT WORLD FOOD BUFFET Hills Street, Cardiff 029 2034 2499 www.redhot-worldbuffet.com If you’re looking to eat your way around the worlds’ cuisines, Red Hot World Food Buffet is a pretty good place to start. Serving up hundreds of dishes from 14 countries, for a cheap buffet lunch, the large Red Hot Buffet is a great place to fill your boots whilst saving yourself some money on your weekly food shopping. TENKAICHI 236 City Road, Cardiff 029 2048 1888 www.tenkaichi.co.uk This excellent restaurant combines authentic Japanese cuisine with a uniquely British touch. The sushi is excellent and it’s always busy inside, offering a brisk, authentically Asian feel THE FAT COCK AND THE SWAN St James Street, Monmouth 01600 715439 www.monmouthtapas.co.uk Feast on some fresh Mediterranean food whilst seeing how many jokes you can make about the name of this brand new tapas restaurant. With an evening main
“A GREAT PLACE TO TAKE A DATE” course that changes every week you’ll always be faced with something new here. Good for many occasions, The Fat Cock And The Swan also offer a range of top quality coffee and wines from around the world. VIVA BRAzIL St. Mary Street, Cardiff 029 2022 0255 www.vivabrazilrestaurants.com The Brazilian dining experience begins at Viva Brazil as soon as you walk through the door. With a troop of Passadors (meat carvers) offering over fifteen select cuts of meat, all slowly roasted over a charcoal barbeque, they’ll keep serving you meat until you tell them to stop! WAGAMAMA Unit 12, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff 029 2048 5195 14 Mill Lane, Cardiff 029 2064 1564 www.wagamama.com The authentic feel of Japan is right here in this restaurant. You can eat, drink and relax to your heart’s content. The food is always pleasing to tastebuds and starving stomachs, as service is normally pretty swift. zI’S CAFÉ 94 Woodville Road, Cathays, Cardiff 029 2021 6294 www.facebook.com/ziscafe A quaintly small Chinese restaurant and takeaway that houses a small number of tables, Zi’s Café does not however disappoint on the menu. To make the most of this hidden gem, order a variety of dishes from the menu and indulge in authentic Chinese food at its best.
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BROWNS The Friary, Cardiff 029 2066 7096 www.browns-restaurants.co.uk Bringing a little sophistication to the high street, Browns’ French-inspired bar and restaurant is a welcome addition to Cardiff’s city centre. Whatever you’re looking for, the cool and stylish atmosphere makes this a great venue for all occasions. CAFÉ MAMBO 46 The Kingsway, Swansea 01792 456620 A great South American restaurant with hints of Mediterranean flavour, take your date here if they love originality. The cocktails are delectable and with such a huge choice of spirits, the dates are bound to go well. CANTEEN ON CLIFTON STREET 40 Clifton Street, Cardiff 029 2045 4999 www.canteenoncliftonstreet.com Even though you would confuse the name with that of your leisure centre, the food you will not. It’s perfect for those with dietary requirements, vegetarians and vegans, or even for those who feel like a change. They have a meat option, but that’s not why they were voted the third best veggie restaurant in the UK. CICCETTI 8 Station Road, Radyr 029 2084 8773 Ciccetti is a family run restaurant that offers authentic Italian meals – delicious, and with excellent presentation. Do not miss the desserts that won’t fail to please anyone with a sweet tooth! THE CORNER HOUSE Caroline Street, Cardiff 029 2022 8628 www.cornerhousecardiff.co.uk A classy reinvention on the corner of Caroline Street, The Corner House is perfectly suited to an evening meal or drink with friends. Forgo Chippy Lane’s Buzz 038
takeaway offerings and enjoy a range of modern grills, pizzas, salads and platters. CÔTE BRASSERIE 25 Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay 029 2045 3780 www.cote-restaurants.co.uk A French-style brasserie for the discerning diner, Côte’s elegant interior is perfectly matched with a tantalising menu, excellent service and great atmosphere. With beautiful French flavours and fantastic value set meal deals, you’ll no doubt find yourself returning on numerous occasions. GREENWOOD AND BROWN Quay Street, Cardiff 029 2022 7972 www.greenwoodandbrowncardiff. co.uk Priding themselves on great quality grills, seafood and wine, Greenwood And Brown is a sophisticated bar and restaurant with a smart design and friendly service. You can be assured a perfect steak or quality seafood dish that complements the stylish environment and crisp selection of wines and spirits. GOT BEEF 83 Whitchurch Road, Heath, Cardiff 029 2061 7534 www.gotbeef.co.uk A rustic interior with a minimalist and modern twist, Got Beef offers chunky tables and chilled background music whilst you dine. Set up to offer something different than your average burger, Got Beef’s burgers are made from award-winning juicy Black Beef and loaded with original toppings and homemade sauces. JAMIE’S ITALIAN The Hayes, St David’s Centre, Cardiff 029 2002 7792 www.jamieoliver.com/italian Jamie’s Italian has been a hit since opening on the Hayes. Often packed with eager diners, the authentic Italian menu is reflected by the restaurant’s aesthetically pleasing rustic design. The downside? You’ll be spoilt for choice by the eclectic wine selection. A romantic first date that’ll prove you’re not tight.
LA LOCANDA 66 Wind St, Swansea 01792 644611 If the charming Italian waiters aren’t enough to pull in the ladies, then the food certainly will be. Heck, it’ll even pull in the men. Italian never fails. LE BISTROT PIERRE The Old Brewery Quarter, Caroline Street, Cardiff 029 2034 5990 www.lebistrotpierre.co.uk Enjoy relaxed and affordable French dining at its best in Le Bistrot Pierre. With personal and attentive service and high quality provincial French food, there is nothing more to say than bon appétit! MEATING PLACE 40 St Mary Street www.themeatingplace.co.uk 029 2022 4757 A contemporary grill house packed with flavour, The Meating Place offers a hell of a lot more than simple steak and chips. Choose from the extensive grill options or marinated hanging skewers – complete with couscous, roasted veg and flatbread – and you can be assured a flavoursome dish. Beyond the grill, the main dishes are varied and there’s plenty to excite and enthuse diners looking for something new. THE NORTH STAR 131 North Road, Cardiff 029 2062 1736 www.thenorthstarcardiff.com Cool and comfortable, The North Star is an ideal place to take a date for anyone living in Talybont. You can move seamlessly from your table to the chic bar area, before sliding (of course) back to your flat. NO SIGN WINE BAR 56 Wind Street, Swansea 01792 456110 www.nosignwinebar.co.uk Even with its latest modern extension, it has still managed to keep the old charm. The tapas menu is excellent and they boast (you can judge) the best chips in Wales. The wine selection is expansive and if you’re not a wine drinker, their ales might impress you more.
entertained, Juno Lounge is great all year round for meeting friends and delicious food. A great breakfast and tapas menu along with other favourites, this place has great character and you won’t want to leave your comfy seat. MILGI 213 City Road, Cardiff 029 2047 3150 www.milgilounge.com Now 100% veggie, Milgi serves gorgeous Sunday veggie roasts, as well as hosting monthly social feasts where the cafe is transformed into a banqueting hall for its customers. Bill’s
VIVALDI’S 29 Singleton Street, Swansea 01792 456780 www.vivaldiswansea.co.uk One of Swansea’s best Italian restaurants, this place will not disappoint you with its great range of food, or its fantastic desserts that have to be tried (and not shared) at all costs. Perfect for the full Italian experience. ASK ITALIAN 24/32 Wyndham Arcade, Mill Lane, Cardiff 02920 344 665 6 Wind St, Swansea 01792 477070 This trendy, light and spacious restaurant is perfect for enjoying a light meal before heading out for the night. It can also be enjoyed guilt-free as there is a ‘light menu’ which offers meals under 500 calories for those who are watching their weight and their bank balance.
LOUNGING CHEz GIOVANNI 52-54 Clarence Place, Newport 01633 259003 www.chezgiovanni.co.uk Newport’s finest, award-winning Italian restaurant, their food is delectable, and
PARENTS IN TOWN even the non-traditional Italian meals are incredibly good. A firm favourite of many local stars, Chez Giovanni has a great atmosphere perfect for students. GOVINDA’S 8 Cradock Street, Swansea 01792 468469 www.govindasswansea.co.uk Govinda’s is a vegetarian cuisine masterpiece that offers the very best of all things veggie and vegan at great prices. With a very useful takeaway service, try and try as much food as possible. It’s definitely worth popping in to see their yoga. jOE’S ICE CREAM 85 St Helens Road, Swansea 01792 653880 69 Wellfield Road, Cardiff 029 2048 3551 www.joes-icecream.co.uk Definitely the place in Swansea or Cardiff (where a second branch opened in 2013) to buy ice cream. The atmosphere is perfect to just sit down and have one (or more) of the delicious ice creams on offer. jUNO LOUNGE 14 Wellfield Road, Cardiff 029 2019 8990 www.thelounges.co.uk With plenty of newspapers, books and board games to keep yourself
BACARO Lakeside Drive, Coedkernew, Newport 01633 815815 www.bacaro.co.uk Cool and contemporary, Bacaro takes its inspiration from the Bacaro bars of Venice. Striving for an authentic Italian atmosphere, the restaurant delivers classic Italian dishes to an excellent standard with a warm and friendly welcome. BILL’S 27-39 Wyndham Arcade, Mill Lane, Cardiff 029 2023 1524 www.bills-website.co.uk Boasting a rustic country feel with a modern and stylish twist, Bill’s offers an intimate atmosphere with its little booths, nooks and crannies to enjoy hearty and traditional British meals. The ambience gives a vintage feel and suggests a fine dining experience that is a good all-rounder. BUNCH OF GRAPES 40 Ynysangharad Road, Pontypridd 01443 402934 www.bunchofgrapes.org.uk A local traditional pub, with traditional food and ale. Perfect for parents who don’t want to go anywhere too young or fussy, but simply want a good meal and a good drink. Prices aren’t too bad, either. Buzz 039
EATS THE CLINK Knox Road, Cardiff 02920 923 130. www.theclinkcharity.com If you’re interested in social issues, as well as sandwiches, then The Clink is worth a look. Attached to Cardiff’s prisons and run by inmates, the restaurant’s focus is on providing inmates with a practical education and reducing re-offending rates. THE CONWAY 58 Conway Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff 029 2022 4373 www.knifeandforkfood.co.uk A modern and stylish gastropub, the Conway delivers incredibly tasty dishes that are freshly prepared and designed each day according to what produce is locally available. The restaurant has a great atmosphere perfect for taking your parents to. You will undoubtedly want to return for the great service and delicious food. FARMERS DAUGHTER RESTAURANT Croes-carn-einon Farm, Rhiwderin, Newport 01633 892800 www.thefarmersdaughter.co.uk If you want to impress your parents with a cultured taste in food, then the rattlesnake or bison on the menu should do the trick. If you couldn’t think of anything worse, the other food’s good too. MIMOSA BAR AND KITCHEN Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay 029 2049 1900 www.mimosakitchen.co.uk Mimosa is a contemporary restaurant with a fresh and delicious menu that takes influence from around the world. Enjoy a meal here in the modern surroundings of Cardiff Bay. MILLER AND CARTER STEAK HOUSE Hemingway Road, Cardiff 029 2045 1315 A unique steak house restaurant that only uses the best of British beef (of course!) This restaurant, located in the Red Dragon Centre caters to meat lovers everywhere. Enjoy the night with a smart-casual dress code whilst eating Buzz 040
Miller and Carter Steak House
the best steak that can all be traced back to British farms. MINT AND MUSTARD 134 Whitchurch Road, Cardiff 029 2062 0333 www.mintandmustard.com Mint And Mustard’s contemporary menu is original and light – a million miles away from the bellybusting and sometimes greasy average Indian takeaway. A perfect choice when Dad’s paying. OSCARS 65 High Street, Cowbridge 01446 771984 6-10 Romilly Crescent, Cardiff 029 2034 1264 www.oscarsofcowbridge.com Sharp and sleek, Oscars of Cardiff builds on the reputation of its sister restaurant in Cowbridge with a broad and extensive food menu, locally sourced and freshly prepared. With a conclusive wine menu to boot, Oscars is a tantalising prospect for any food or wine lover. THE PAVILION CAFE Penarth Pier Pavillion, The Esplanade, Penarth 029 2071 2100 www.penarthpavilion.co.uk/cafe Overlooking (and sometimes literally over if the tide is in!) the sea, the new Pavilion Cafe offers a range of speciality teas, coffees and homemade cakes as well as beautifully made breakfasts and
main meals. Daily specials are freshly cooked to order, and staff are helpful and friendly. This buzzing little addition to The Esplanade will go down a treat! THE POTTED PIG High Street, Cardiff 029 2022 4817 www.thepottedpig.com Housed in an old bank vault below Zizzi’s restaurant, this uniquely vaulted restaurant champions beautifully presented modern British dishes. With something extra for the more adventurous diner, patrons can enjoy duck’s heart and bone marrow alongside a slice of medieval food theatre with a whole suckling pig for eight people. PURPLE POPPADOM 185a Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff 029 2022 0026 www.purplepoppadom.com With an exciting new approach to nouvelle cuisine, Purple Poppadom challenges convention with its unique range of palate-tingling Indian dishes. Combining the best Indian flavours with an ambitious range of ingredients, Purple Poppadom boasts an original fine dining experience. THAI HOUSE 3-5 Guildford Crescent, Cardiff. 029 2038 7404 www.thaihouse.biz The only choice for true Thai fans
in Cardiff, the Thai House offers an excellent menu which will have your tastebuds swimming in authentic Thai flavours, and friendly and efficient service. Its heavyweight reputation ensures that Thai House is rarely quiet, so be sure to book if you don’t want to miss out. WATERLOO GARDENS TEAHOUSE 5 Waterloo Gardens, Cardiff 029 2045 6073 www.waterlootea.com Partial to a spot of afternoon tea with mother? There’s no better place than here. Particularly good for when grandma’s popping up for graduation, this excellent teahouse serves a mindboggling variety of teas and its décor is light and unpretentious. THE PLOUGH 1 Merthyr Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff 029 2062 3017 Located just 10 minutes outside Cardiff in Whitchurch village, The Plough offers something different to the usual pub fare, with a regularly changing menu using local Welsh produce. And if the sun ever decides to come out, there’s a large outside seating area which you can make the most of over a few beers. TY MAWR Graig Road, Lisvane, Cardiff 029 2075 4456 www.tymawrcardiff.com With views back over Cardiff, Ty Mawr’s outdoor dining area is perfectly placed for a summer lunch or evening meal. The quality of food is excellent with some refined dishes at reasonable prices. Enjoy the spacious and informative dining areas and expansive grounds. THE COSY CLUB Hills Street, St David’s, Cardiff 029 2022 5998 You can enjoy a breakfast, lunch and dinner in this comfortable and indeed ‘cosy’ restaurant. It’s located in the heart of the city in St David’s Centre and overlooks the bustling scenes of the streets of Cardiff. With varying foods such as paninis, burgers, pasta, salad and traditional meals this a great place
to enjoy fine food and company.
TAKEAWAYS MISSION BURRITO The Friary, Cardiff www.missionburrito.co.uk Fill the Mexican-food-shaped hole in your life with Mission Burrito. The chain arrived in Cardiff in 2013 and with a small, but perfectly-formed menu, fresh ingredients, and an online ordering service, it seems like Mission Burrito have a good thing going. Great food for late-evening walks home. NOODLEBOX 62 Salisbury Road, Cardiff 029 2025 1007 Noodlebox offers eat-in or takeaway Oriental food at simple prices. With quick service it’s always rammed with students looking for a wholesome and delicious bit to eat. TOP GUN FISH BAR Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay 029 2045 5550 33 Merthyr Road, Whitchurch 029 2061 8693) Unit 5 Pentwyn Retail Park, Pentwyn 029 2073 2244) www.topguncardiff.co.uk Whilst enjoying the beautiful sights and relaxed vibe of the Mermaid Quay in
Cardiff Bay, why not stop off at multiaward winning Top Gun Fish Bar for a quintessentially British taste of the sea. The restaurant features an imaginative interior with retro seaside buckets used to house cutlery and refurbished beach huts for table booths, Top Gun Fish Bar is sure to give you a traditional British seaside experience to accompany your fish supper. And it’s not just Cardiff Bay! Find top chips in Whitchurch and Pentwyn as well. THE ROLLIN’ HOT DOG CO. Cardiff Fashion Quarter, Cardiff 07462 815880 www.facebook.com/rollinhotdogco Based in the bustling and vibrant Fashion Quarter of Cardiff, the fully mobile Rollin’ Hot Dog Co. offers a variety of classic and alternative hot dogs with juicy toppings to suit your hunger needs whilst you trawl the vintage shops and quirky boutiques. UNI TAKEAWAY 102 Wood Road, Pontypridd 01443 405599 www.unitakeaway.com Perfect if you’re not feeling the journey outside – they’ll deliver right to your lazy self. They have an extensive menu which will provide you with everything you need and are open ‘til 4am, and the prices are reasonable too.
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LIFESTYLE
Student life doesn’t have to always be about deadlines and late nights. There’s a whole selection of different experiences you can take advantage of in South Wales. So why not ignore that essay for one more day and get active instead.
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LIFESTYLE RAINY DAYS BOULDERS INDOOR CLIMBING St. Catherine’s Park, Pengam Road, Cardiff 0845 5211850 www.bouldersuk.com Looking for a way to have fun, keep fit and get the adrenalin pumping? Boulders Indoor Climbing Centre (the biggest in Wales) is the perfect solution whether you’re a beginner or a pro. The centre is fully equipped with expert instructors on hand, and student deals now extend from Mon-Fri (£5 before 5pm). CARDIFF INTERNATIONAL WHITE WATER Watkiss Way, Cardiff 029 2082 9970 www.ciww.com Enjoy a wet, wild and exhilarating two-hour white water rafting or canoe session at Cardiff’s fantastic man-made white water course. It’s loads of fun and provides many with their first ever experience of the joys of white water. Got your own gear? CIWW has some great deals worth checking out. CARDIFF SEA SAFARI Lower Boardwalk, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay 029 2048 7663 www.boattripscardiff.co.uk Forget about trudging round after a tour guide brandishing an umbrella, explore the South Wales coast from a unique perspective. Take a sea safari tour from Cardiff Bay and enjoy a thrilling, windin-the-hair tour unlike anything you’ve had before. DELTA FORCE PAINTBALLING Tyla-Morris Farm, Pentyrch, Cardiff 08444 775050 www.paintballgames.co.uk Pull on your body armour and get ready to navigate the Hollywood movie-style game zones of Delta Force, all whilst
brandishing one of their state-of-the art paintball machine guns. You can count on lots of laughs, lots of mess and perhaps a touch of barbarism. So choose your teams if you will, draw your battle lines and let the paint-induced pain commence. MERMAID qUAY Cardiff Bay 029 2048 0077 www.mermaidquay.co.uk A good place to go if you’re feeling flash, or you’re looking for a way to take advantage of your visiting folks. The Quay is packed with fine dining establishments and swanky bars offering a break from a tightly budgeted diet of beans on toast. There are also some pretty great views over the waterfront to be enjoyed. PLANET ICE Empire Way, Cardiff Bay 029 2038 2001 www.planet-ice.co.uk Whether you fancy yourself as a bit of a demon on the ice or you’re just willing to bear the bruises, Planet Ice is the place to head. Lessons are also available for those who want to spend more time on their feet and less on the ice-floor. THE RED DRAGON CENTRE Hemmingway Road, Cardiff Bay 029 2025 6261 www.thereddragoncentre.co.uk If you don’t much feel much like exerting yourself (or you’re feeling the effects of the night before), but still looking for some laughs, The Red Dragon Centre is a safe bet with literally everything under one roof. There’s a bowling alley, cinema and casino, as well as bars and restaurants if you fancy a quick drink and a bite to eat.
ROATH PARK Lake Road West, Cardiff 029 2068 4000 Ok, so we know this is under the Rainy Days heading, but if you fancy a bit of old-school whimsy, come rain or shine, head to Roath Park and take a turn on the lake. If you’re after a less taxing (and more modern) option, then there’s always pedal boats to hire. Don’t feel like taking to the water? Sprawl out in the park’s expansive grounds or take a look around the gorgeous rose garden and tropical greenhouse. SUPAKART 10-11 Leeway Ind. Estate, Newport 01633 280808 www.supakart.co.uk Priced from £15 per 15 minutes, gokarting provides some cheap and easy thrills. With the largest track in Wales, SupaKart is the perfect place to burn some rubber and leave your mates spitting your dust. With (all but one) inside tracks, it’s handy for a rainy day as well. TENPIN The Strand, Swansea 08712 223675 www.tenpin.co.uk/swansea Get competitive on one of Tenpin’s 26 lanes and get the chance to go all space-age with a bit of glow-in-the-dark cosmic bowling. Continue the evening at the diner, amusements and bar – first round on the loser of course.
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LIFESTYLE KEEPING FIT BRITISH MILITARY FITNESS Unit 5, Canal Industrial Estate, Butetown, Cardiff 0207 7519742 www.britmilfit.com Wanting to get/keep fit but not much of a gym bunny? This is the perfect solution. With classes taking place in Pontcanna Fields and Heath Park, and with more varied training methods than you’d find at the local gym, keeping fit need not be tedious. If it’s motivation you’re lacking, the classes – run by ex and current members of the military – should be just the kick up the arse you need. CARDIFF INTERNATIONAL POOL Olympian Drive, Cardiff 029 2072 9090 Whether you want to get serious with a whole body workout in the 50m pool or the 110-station gym, or you’d rather just splash around in the leisure pool and whizz down the flumes, the CIP is a great way to spend a few hours (or the day). You could also mix it up with one of the many aqua aerobics classes, run on a daily basis or just take the chance to unwind in the health suite. THE LC Oystermouth Road, Swansea 01792 466500 www.thelcswansea.com The LC boasts everything you’d expect from your standard leisure facility but with some added extras thrown into the bargain. Its water park with Boardrider wave machine and rollercoaster-style ride, masterblaster, along with climbing wall and spa, means you’re sure to find something to suit. NEWPORT CENTRE 1 Kingsway, Newport 01633 656656 www.newport.gov.uk As one of nine leisure facilities in the city, the Newport Centre houses a leisure pool alongside a multi-purpose sports hall with facilities for squash, badminton, netball, tennis, basketball and volleyball. There’s also a health and Buzz 044
fitness suite on hand running aerobic classes, pilates, circuit training and a whole lot more – all with discounts for concessions and regular users. NO FIT STATE John Street, Cardiff 029 2022 1330 Cardiff’s home-grown circus has opened its doors to the public and now offers exercise with a difference for everyone. Why not skip the traditional treadmill and instead burn the calories through aerial yoga or partake in a flying trapeze taster? PURE GYM Millennium Plaza, Wood Street, Cardiff 0845 130 2972 www.puregym.com Do you often wake up at two or three in the morning thinking, ‘ooh, I really need to work on my lats’? For those who do, or indeed those who work late or prefer burning the midnight oil, the 24-hour Pure Gym in the centre of Cardiff is perfect. With acres of space and top quality facilities throughout, you can pump iron until your heart’s content at any hour of the day or night. It’s not too expensive either.
LOOKING GOOD ANDREW PRICE Maisie Place, 19 The Kingsway, Swansea 01792 641333 www.andrewpricegroup.com Handily situated in the city centre, this salon is dedicated to providing a top-notch service at competitive rates. Maintaining their place at the forefront of artistic and technological advancement through regular staff training, they also offer a free consultation service to all clients and a 10% off discount card for students.
GUY CHRISTIAN 111-113 City Rd, Cardiff + 2A Bute Place, Cardiff Bay 029 2047 3073 / 029 2047 0900 www.guychristian.com Located in the heart of Cardiff studentville (and now also in Cardiff Bay), this chic and chilled salon offers an extensive array of hair treatments. With its expert staff dedicated to providing the best solutions to your hair care needs, you can be sure that you’re in very safe hands. OCEAN 53 Wellfield Road, Cardiff 029 2046 5551 www.oceanhair.co.uk Pettigrew TeaatRooms If you’ve been burning the candle both ends, this award-winning salon should be just the ticket. With its friendly, expert staff dedicated to providing an all-round relaxing experience, you can expect to be indulged with an eye mask and head massage whilst having your hair washed. The stylists will also give you specially tailored hair advice to keep your hair looking fine once you leave the salon. VISAGE 11 Picton Arcade, Swansea 01792 643245 Not an obvious find, being tucked away in the Picton Arcade, Visage is however a very professional salon. As soon as you walk through the door you know your hair’s in good hands. Reasonably priced and offering a 10% student discount, if you want to look fresh once your student loan comes in, hit that place up. YUME Park Grove, Cathays Park, Cardiff 029 2023 3271 www.yumecardiff.co.uk With its warm, soothing atmosphere, Yume is the perfect medication to revive flagging spirits. In an easily accessible central location, Yume offers a range of hair rescue treatments and creative styling and cuts alongside facials, manicures and massage treatments. And if you’re in need of further respite from the stresses of student life, take succour from the many holistic therapies on offer.
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BEING BOLD AT BOULDERS
Course deadlines and exam revision can sometimes make you feel like your climbing the walls, but you can actually climb some walls at Boulders Climbing Centre in Cardiff. Heather Arnold GIVES IT A GO.
I have been planning to try out Boulders ever since I first moved to Cardiff, several years ago now, but it just became on of those things that I never got round to – like learning to drive, visiting Rhosilli Bay and doing all the allocated reading for my uni course. Finally I made it through the doors of Boulders Indoor Climbing Centre and, if I am being honest, I was gobsmacked as soon as I walked in. The place is big, no doubt about that, but it also very very tall. I immediately regretted agreeing to hoist myself up these towering climbing walls and that very familiar ‘what the hell have I gotten myself into’ feeling filled me. Boulders Climbing Centre in Cardiff is tucked away just off of Newport Road, the impressive centre has been going strong since its launch in 2008
and was buzzing with activity when I arrived. There are plenty of options for cash strapped students wanting to give climbing a go with student classes and courses running for just £5. If you need to refuel after all the strain of hauling yourself up a wall they also host Climb And Dine nights every Wednesday with £5 entry and a discount on food. We were treated to a taster session and got to try out each of the challenges Boulders have created: I climbed over over a few tricky edges, jumped off heights and even shimmied up a row of tires. The whole experience was a pretty hefty workout and was a lot more fun than running on a treadmill or lifting some weights at the gym. The first climb was daunting. Standing directly beneath them the walls don’t
seem too high but when you’re climbing and about half way up, your perception changes completely. You know in cartoons when characters are up high and they tell themselves not to look down, but they break their own rule and become full of fear? Well life imitated art in this instance and continuing to the top, after looking down at the floor that was so very very far below, was bloody terrifying. The staff were fantastic though – friendly, supportive and safe. I felt in very good hands. I eventually got to the top and it felt pretty good as a horrifically unfit person! I got to glide back down with a sense of pride (and got high fives at the bottom). I took to the wall again and this time rushed up completely fearlessly and with the skills of Spiderwoman. Info: www.bouldersuk.com
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SHOPPING
What are you really going to spend that student loan on – textbooks? That’s what libraries are for! Pay your rent, stock up on Pot Noodles and energy drink then spend the rest in the shops.
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SHOPPING SHOES BUzz & CO 3-5 High Street Arcade, Cardiff 029 2066 8788 If you’re one for standing out in a crowd when it comes to style then Buzz & Co will be right up your street. Well stocked with alternative styles and soughtafter brands including Dr Martens and Blowfish, this shoe shop is a great choice for students who are after great shoes, often at reduced prices. ECCENTRIX 28-34 High Street Arcade, Cardiff 029 2022 3037 www.eccentrix.co.uk Ever wanted to know where you could purchase erotic footwear? Well Eccentrix sounds like the place for you! Featuring a range of unconventional styles for the more adventurous shoe shopper, Eccentrix may break the mould, but not the bank. SCHUH 113 Queen Street, Cardiff 029 2038 9219 St Mary’s Arcade, Swansea 01792 655102 www.schuh.co.uk Perhaps the most mainstream outlet on our list, but it’s on here for good reason. With shoe types to suit everyone, quality brands and free store pick-up when ordered online, Schuh is an old favourite that never goes out of style. SHOE zONE Branches across South Wales Yes, you read correctly, SHOE ZONE. But before you faint in disbelief, hear us out. Yes, we admit these shoes won’t be walking down a Milan catwalk anytime soon, but the styles are modern and functional, not to mention affordable. You’re a student now, remember!
ALTERNATIVE ANIMAL 25 Queens Arcade, Cardiff 029 2022 7091 www.animal.co.uk The archetypal surf/snowboard clothes shop located in the Cardiff Capitol shopping centre. With everything you need to create the authentic surfer-cumsnowboarder look, onlookers will think you’ve either just strolled back from the Alps or Boomerang beach (suntans sold separately). ATTICA 52A Plymouth Street, Swansea 01792 413414 This is the thinking girls’ first choice for original attire. Attica sells beautifully quirky one-off dresses and accessories in amongst the usual gift shop knickknacks. The prices are well within your average student budget, which explains why myriad Swansea uni-goers play hooky and flock to the store to get their hands on the next bargain. CITY SURF SKATE & SNOW 29 Castle Arcade, Cardiff 029 2034 2068 4 Picton Arcade, Swansea 01792 654169 www.citysurfshops.co.uk Whether you’re looking for all your skating, surfing or snowboarding essentials, or simply want to look the part in a wide variety of clothing, accessories and bags, City Surf, Skate & Snow provides the best of all worlds with wetsuits, boards and all the stylish surfing clobber you could ever want. EXIST 214 Oxford Street, Swansea 01792 460813 Exist started off as a shop trying to influence the youth of today into thinking for themselves, but has since
progressed to become more of a Swansea lifestyle brand. With indie-label girls and guys clothing, you can have peace of mind that you’re buying from the coolest shop in town. FREESTYLE SKATE STORE Newport Arcade, Newport 01633 213129 www.freestyleskatestore.com Known in Newport as the best value skate store in the city, Freestyle Skate Store is run by helpful and highly knowledgeable staff members (who enjoy the odd bit of skating themselves). Not only does it come recommended by us but the Dirty Sanchez lads too. HEAD THREADS 32 Albany Road, Cardiff 029 2049 6583 After many years of success online independent headwear and clothing, Head Threads, have recently joined shopping scene of Cardiff with the opening of its shop on Albany Road. With a focus on urban brands Head Thread have pretty much any type of hat you could want (snapback, flat caps, baseball caps, beanies, snow hats, bobble hats – you get the picture) as well as plenty of clothes, shoes and accessories for both men and women. You can expect an range of top quality brands as well, as they stock big names such as Famous Skull Candy, Stars & Straps and Yupoong. PRO-LINE SKATES 15-17 Wyndham Arcade, Cardiff 029 2037 3247 Whether it’s aggressive, recreational, or roller you’re after, skate the streets in style at Pro-Line Skates, Cardiff. Not only providing for leisurely skaters but ice and roller hockey too, Pro-Line offers custom design skates and big brand name products to boot.
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SHOPPING ROUTE ONE 27 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff 029 2023 3621 www.routeone.co.uk This is a brilliant independent store supplying everything from badges to BMXs. Their clothing range includes a wide variety of brands including Vans and Fenchurch. They’re not just for skaters mind, their extensive shoe range is really worth a browse. SCREW LOOSE 38 Princess Way, Swansea 01792 641406 Great things come in small packages. Whoever said this must have had Screw Loose in mind. This small but surprisingly well stocked shop is very reasonably priced and enjoys frequent sales on swimwear, clothes and shoes.
RECORD STORES CATAPULT 3-7 Duke Street Arcade, Cardiff 029 2016 0633 www.catapult.co.uk Providing music since 1993, Catapult is the perfect place for all music lovers to start (or further) their love affair with drum’n’bass, techno, house and everything in between. Catapult boasts a wide range of dance music as well as DJ equipment, making this a top priority pic: KRYSTIAN OLSZANSKI
destination for aspiring DJs and music enthusiasts. DERRICKS 221 Oxford Street, Swansea 01792 654226 www.derricksmusic.co.uk A record store that really knows its stuff. With over 40 years of experience, Derricks provides a great selection of CDs and music DVDs. However, if you really wanted to get closer to your favourite artists, Derricks also sell tickets to gigs across South Wales. D’ VINYL 4 Mackintosh Place, Cardiff 029 2049 4998 D’Vinyl is a fantastic stowaway for all your favourite second-hand and forgotten musical gems at great student-friendly prices. It is, however, highly recommended that you set some time aside for your visit as you’ll find yourself rifling through the many racks of vinyl in the shop’s vast and jauntily stocked collection. ROCKAWAY 4 The Provision Market, Newport 01633 257244 It may only be a small stall found in Newport’s Provisions market but overlook it at your peril. Relive your parents’ heydays with its selection of punk and heavy rock anthems, reminding yourself that they were in
fact, once, not so straight laced. SPILLERS 31 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff 029 2022 4905 www.spillersrecords.co.uk Engrained in the rich tapestry of the South Wales music scene, Spillers is renowned as the oldest record store in the world. If you’re after the best of local, national and international indie, rock, punk and folk, pay Spillers a visit and you won’t be disappointed. The friendly staff know their stuff too. DIVERSE 10 Charles Street, Newport 01633 259661 www.diversevinyl.com Being diverse is the name of the game, and these guys manage it every time. With help on hand from very friendly staff, it should be easy to find the music you love within their vast vinyl collection. KELLY’S RECORDS The Balcony, Central Market, Cardiff 029 2037 7355 www.kellysrecords.com Kelly’s Records, on the balcony of Cardiff’s Central Market, is a music connoisseur’s paradise. From the rare to the collectable, you’ll find a huge range of DVDs, vinyl and CDs. THE RECORD SHOP 4 Inverness Place, Cardiff 029 2045 3093 The Record Shop is a crate-digger’s heaven that many students are oblivious to. This small and friendly shop looks like a large blue shed from the outside. It’s run parttime and is open only in the afternoons on certain days of the week. Once inside you’ll find a treasure trove of second-hand vinyl at extremely cheap prices. There’s always a gem buried in there. RETRO VIBE MUSIC 44 Holton Road, Barry 01446 734483 www.retro-vibemusic.com This independent record shop is a haven for new and pre-owned vinyl and CDs. They have everything from Lily Allen to
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SHOPPING The Who, and all in between. The shop also sells gig tickets for The Globe in Cardiff and The West End Club in Barry.
BOOKS AND COMICS CAPITAL BOOKSHOP 27 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff 029 2038 8423 For people who not only enjoy a great read but also the history of a book, Capital sells a fantastic selection of beautiful vintage editions and classic reads. It need not be too expensive either as they buy or sell books, so once you’re done with one, trade it in for another. THE COMIX SHOPPE 13 Shoppers Walk, Swansea 01792 642097 www.comixshoppe.co.uk This is not just any old comic book shop. According to the Comix Shoppe’s website it’s a comic book shop with ‘added mark factor’. Now we’re not entirely sure what that means but it sounds very promising. FORBIDDEN PLANET 5 Duke Street, Cardiff 029 2022 8885 www.forbiddenplanet.co.uk Buried beneath the latest child-friendly sci-fi action figures – Doctor Who, Torchwood, that other one with the kids – lies a neat collection of new comic book editions as well as classic graphic and science fiction novels. MERLINS BOOK SHOP 176 Upper Dock Street, Newport 01633 263649 Maybe it’s the magical connotations its name holds, but this quirky book store holds many similarities to Flourish & Blotts in design. That is, until you reach upstairs where you’re greeted with a selection of material widely inappropriate for Harry Potter’s readership.
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Claire Grove Buttons TROUTMARK BOOKS 41- 43 Castle Arcade, Cardiff 029 2038 2814 www.troutmark-books.co.uk Spaced out over three floors, this second-hand book store caters for all types of readers and provides dedicated levels for fact, fiction and comics. What’s more, it’s dirt cheap and great for those otherwise expensive books on your startof-term reading lists.
GIFTS CLAIRE GROVE BUTTONS 45 Castle Arcade, Cardiff 029 2038 2516 www.clairegrove.co.uk This place is a real treat for those of you who enjoy custom-made jewellery or are a dab hand at making it themselves. Selling beautiful buckles, beads and buttons for the creative types and distinctive pieces for everyone else, this hidden jewel won’t be for long. GRINGO 14 Prydwen, Swansea 01792 561173 www.gringo.uk.com Fairly priced and fairly traded, this selfsufficient boutique designs the majority of its products itself, allowing you to go home with something unique at a great price. They also have a fun range of
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knick-knacks and quirky gifts for a more personal present. HOME BY KIRSTY 16 Castle Arcade, Cardiff 029 2037 3429 www.facebook.com/homebykirsty The quirky furnishings of Home by Kirsty would look more in place at a trendy studio apartment than in your usual student digs, but they can be a great way to add some creative flair to your flat. Not only do they have designer furniture and lights, with a clean and contemporary feel, but they also sell gift friendly art, cards and jewellery. RULES OF PLAY 28 Castle Arcade, Cardiff 029 2022 1695 There’s nothing quite like a night in with a board game and a group of mates. Forget about the games console, check out Rules Of Play’s extensive collection of board games for all tastes. The staff are not only friendly but extremely knowledgeable about their wares, they can pick out exactly what you need or introduce you to a brand new line of games: whether its penguin warrior role-playing, romantic card games or post-apocalyptic board games. They have regular games nights too if you just want to give a game a go.
HOW TO BE THE PERFECT HOUSEMATE Do you have the tendency to leave a slice of toast on the sofa, avoid taking the bin out by creating a precarious tower of rubbish and keep your housemates up with your all night Guitar Hero marathons? Here’s how to avoid being the housemate from hell. During your three years at university you are going to have to conquer many new challenging skills. Doing your own laundry, pulling together fancy dress outfits on a budget and mastering the art of downing a dirty pint while your fellow students chant an aggressive countdown are all very important life lessons. One of the biggest feats of all, however, is learning to live with relative strangers. Here’s our sacred Holy Grail on how not to be the housemate that everyone can’t wait to see wheeling their suitcase out the door. DON’T BE A SHOW OFF. No one has much interest in the fact that you were the prefect college student, or that you got your 5000m metre swimming badge and, sadly, no-one really cares much that you spent your gap year discovering yourself in Thailand. Try to spend a little less time talking about how great you life is, and more time following social etiquette. Learn a little more about your new friends – you might be surprised by what you find out.
DON’T BE STINGY. Use the life lessons you learnt at nursery and practise the mantra ‘Sharing is Caring’. It’s the same at university except the sand pit and crayons have been replaced with milk, condiments, cooking oil and the occasional shot of tequila. Tread carefully though as taking your housemate’s chicken to prepare yourself a gourmet meal, because you thought it was ‘nearing the expiry date’ and you were only trying to help reduce the amount of waste food as you’re actually an avid supporter of the Green party, is never acceptable. DON’T BE NOISY. Yes, you’re at university and of course going out, getting drunk and stumbling back into your accommodation at 3am is a part of it, but after freshers you are all going to have different night time routines. Save the after parties, one night stands and the drunken banging on everyone’s door for the weekends when they don’t have 9am lectures.
DON’T BE DIRTY. The kitchen and bathrooms are the communal areas of student living that needs to be respected. Simple rules should be followed when carrying out your daily tasks in these areas, don’t leave a mess that can later be used against you when you start asking people to clean up their stuff. DON’T BE A NAG. People have moved away from home, they are excited for a life of freedom not controlled by their parents’ demands. Don’t be the black cloud that takes on the role of the moaner. If someone leaves their dirty bowl out try to hold back the anger. Your motherly/ fatherly nature may be cute and ironic at first but it will soon begin to grate on everyone.
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SHOPPING THE LEGO STORE 38 Grand Arcade, St David’s shopping centre, Cardiff 029 2034 2177 www.stores.lego.com/cardiff It seems that Lego will continue to live through the ages as a quintessential children’s toy. Cardiff’s Lego Store is packed from floor to ceiling with some of the world’s most loved fictional characters in Lego form, as well as classic sets and quirky gifts. You’re never too old for Lego, and Cardiff’s Lego Store will have any visitor grinning with youthful joy.
DESIGNER, BOUTIqUES AND VINTAGE HOBO’S 26 High Street Arcade, Cardiff 029 2034 1188 214 Oxford Street, Swansea 01792 654586 Warning: This shop contains more retro than a box full of northern soul vinyl. Hobo’s is a treasure-trove of flowery prints, winter knits, t-shirts and vintage accessories. This is the shop for anyone seeking something different. Plus, the guy in the Cardiff store has an uncanny resemblance to Noel Fielding, which on its own is worth a look. I, CLAUDIUS 8 Castle Arcade, Cardiff 029 2022 2215 If small boutiques packed to the ceiling with all the jeans and vintage gear you could dream of sounds like your thing, waste no time in heading over to I, Claudius. Retro, fancy dress and alternative are the buzzwords here, and you’re sure to pick up a killer bargain in one of Cardiff’s worst-kept secrets.
LUNACY BOUTIqUE 43 Commercial Road, Port Talbot 01639 895735 www.lunacyboutique.co.uk Although it’s a little out of the city, Lunacy Boutique is well worth travelling for. Lunacy stocks a great range of up-and-coming designers as well as a selection of vintage accessories and more handmade accessories and clothes than you could shake a stick at. The staff always bend over backwards to help you find your perfect outfit, and trust me, in a shop like Lunacy, it’s not difficult. URBAN OUTFITTERS 14A The Hayes, Cardiff 029 2036 7770 www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk Even though the prices can be fairly eye-watering at times, Urban Outfitters is the shop for the hipsters of Cardiff who are prepared to pay a little more for some thoughtful styles and quality products. Splash out once in a while and indulge in Urban Outfitters’ finger-on-the-pulse style. HALCYON DAzE 55 Wellfield Road, Cardiff 029 2045 4432 Fed up of identikit clothing stores? Like your clothing, jewellery and home furnishings to be fair trade and locally made? Then independent boutique Halcyon Daze in Roath is well worth a visit. And if the smell of incense and friendly staff doesn’t relax you, take advantage of their therapy room upstairs. HAPPY DAYS Church Street, Cowbridge 07960 633016 www.happydayshomestore.co.uk Located in the beautiful market town of Cowbridge, Happy Days is the perfect place to pick up some preloved and reasonably-priced clothing to update your wardrobe, and recycled home ware to complete your student accommodation. Plus it all comes without the hefty price tag that can often be slapped on to anything classed as vintage. pic: LUNACY BOUTIQUE
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MUSIC/HOBBIES CARDIFF GUITARS West Bute Street, Cardiff Bay 029 2046 1234 www.cardiffguitars.co.uk Cardiff Guitars Ltd is Wales’ only specialist guitar store. Based in the beautiful surrounds of Cardiff Bay, Cardiff Guitars is Wales’ only specialist guitar store. They offer a one-stop solution for players of all ages and experience, and their fine range of stock is to be admired. NOBLES MUSIC 2 Old Church Road, Whitchurch 029 2061 3867 noblesmusic.co.uk Alongside its tantalizing array of instruments, Nobles Music is also a specialist amplifier repair shop, making it an essential location for all local musicians. With the option to sell or exchange your old gear, it is invaluable to those operating on a tight student budget. GM MUSIC 2 Wharton Street, Cardiff 029 2023 1606 gmmusic.co.uk Stocking a huge variety of instruments from guitars through to Piccolo’s, GM Music is an essential place to go for any musical need. Their range of accessories and equipment is worth checking out to give your music that little bit extra. ROWLANDS MUSIC 31 St Helens Road, Swansea 01792 522020 rowlandsmusic.com Boasting a selection of devices and equipment suitable for anyone from beginners or grizzled veterans, Rowlands Music will become a second home for any musical enthusiast lusting after a newer, shinier instrument. Check out their website for some great deals.
SECRET SOUTH WALES IT CAN BE EASY TO GET STUCK IN THE STUDENT TRIANGLE OF HOME, UNI AND THE CLUBS. IF YOU NEED TO BREAK THE MONOTONY AND GO SOMEWHERE NEW THEN SOUTH WALES HAS PLENTY OF SECRET PLACES TO EXPLORE.
THE RIVER WYE The River Wye flows 215 kilometres from source to sea and meanders its way through plenty of Welsh beauty along the way. The winding river serves as a border between England and Wales for much of its journey and takes in some great locations such as Tintern Abbey, Wye Valley and Chepstow Castle. Pick your riverside village or town and enjoy a day exploring a new place. GLAMORGAN HERITAGE COAST The beautiful and mysterious Glamorgan Heritage Coastal walk separates Swansea and Cardiff and stretches from Merthyr Mawr to Southerndown. Grab your walking boots and head down to the trail. The rugged cliffs, untouched sand dunes and white beaches are waiting for you.
SUGAR LOAF MOUNTAIN Located just a short train ride away from Cardiff and Newport lives the rural Welsh town of Abergavenny. It serves as the ideal Sunday escape and is the perfect way to let the country air dissolve those city blues. Take a walk up the Sugar Loaf Mountain where you will succumb to some beautiful views of South Wales, and then finish the day with a meal at Michelin-starred restaurant The Walnut Tree Inn (or bring a sandwich from home if it’s too steep for you). THE VAULTS While a lot of clubs can be found in the form of a leaflet on your doormat, The Vaults in Cardiff Bay seems to be South Wales’ best kept night time secret. Tucked away down an alleyway next to the infamous The Valleys house lays a
little door which leads you down a set of dingy stairs and into one of the coolest venues in Wales. The underground club is an old bank that has been transformed into a club reminiscent of 90s clubbing. It has three rooms; two for hardcore partying to the finest local DJs and the third is a large cinema room where you can indulge in some retro cartoons. THREE CLIFFS BAY The Three Cliffs Bay is a beautiful Welsh costal getaway throughout the year. The crystal clear waters, golden beaches, and rugged mountains invite you to explore them in any season. After a long walk across the cliffs, tourists and locals flock alike to discover exactly why Rhosilli Bay was voted third best beach in Europe – defeating competition from Greece, Italy and Spain. Anyone who visits can see exactly why. Buzz 053
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If you get bored of stalking the halls of your student union, why not take advantage of all the fantastic theatre, cinema and art on offer.
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ART CENTRES ABERYSTWYTH ARTS CENTRE Penglais Campus, Aberystwyth 01970 623232 www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk Wales’ largest arts centre offers a broad program of events across all artforms in impressive surroundings. Here you can find a varied program including dance, drama, music, film and applied arts. If all that creativity makes you peckish, there are some delectable cafes and bars onsite. A fantastic, multi-faceted arts centre. BUTETOWN HISTORY AND ARTS CENTRE 5 Dock Chambers, Bute Street, Cardiff Bay 029 2025 6757 www.bhac.org The corporate rebranding of Cardiff docklands into the Bay was resented by many local residents because it symbolized the loss of the area’s distinct multi-ethnic history and culture. Established in 1987, the BHAC has strived to keep the memory of that community alive through regular exhibitions and a strong research and education programme. CHAPTER ARTS CENTRE Market Road, Canton, Cardiff 029 2030 4400 www.chapter.org A mecca for Cardiff’s cultural classes, Chapter is widely regarded as the flagship for contemporary arts in Wales. After refurbishment, Chapter has become even bigger and better. Housing a gallery, several theatres, studios, a café bar and one of the best indie cinemas in South Wales, Chapter is a melting pot of creativity.
CYNON VALLEY MUSEUM AND GALLERY Depot Road, Aberdare 01685 886729 www.cynonvalley.co.uk Housed in an old ironworks on the outskirts of Aberdare, this museum tells the fascinating story of the people of the Cynon Valley from the Victorian boom years through the slump of the 1920s and 30s and on to the long postwar industrial decline. Also houses a gallery showing exhibitions of contemporary Welsh art. DYLAN THOMAS CENTRE Somerset Place, Swansea 01792 463980 www.swansea.gov.uk/dtc Dylan Thomas’s shadow looms large over Swansea. Built in honour of the troubled poet, the centre features a permanent exhibition of Thomas’s life, as well as a gallery, bookshop and café selling Welsh cakes and tea – although ironically no beer. Literary events are held here throughout the year, including the annual Dylan Thomas Festival. THE GATE Keppoch Street, Cardiff 029 2048 3344 www.thegate.org.uk Committed to helping local people develop and discover creative skills, The Gate is a community arts centre that provides a broad programme of dance, music, theatre, singing, visual art and writing. Housed in a former Presbyterian church, the centre has a Christian ethos, although welcomes people of all faiths and none.
MODEL HOUSE Bull Ring, Llantrisant, Pontyclun 01443 237758 www.llantrisantgallery.com This community arts centre features many exciting contemporary craft exhibitions, along with 15 arts and craft studios that house professional artists and also offer frequent workshops for the public. NATIONAL MUSEUM & GALLERY Cathays Park, Cardiff 029 2057 3000 www.museumwales.ac.uk Every proud nation needs its own national museum – and this is Wales’. Famous for its superb collection of Impressionists featuring masterpieces by Monet, Cezanne and Van Gogh, the museum also houses galleries devoted to classical art in Britain, Italy and Holland. Having recently expanded, the national museum is now home to the National Museum Of Art which documents the history of art in Wales through to the modern day. NEWPORT MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY John Frost Square, Newport 01633 656656 www.newport.gov.uk/museum Although Newport may have a certain stigma attached to it, it does possess a decent museum – albeit housed in one of the ugliest civic buildings in the country. Alongside a strong exhibition programme, the gallery features an interesting collection of local art which illustrates the changing face of South Wales.
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CULTURE www.rwcmd.ac.uk The stunning multimillion pound redevelopment of the Royal Welsh College has breathed new life into an already fantastic centre for music, drama, opera and theatre. The events programme at the Royal Welsh is packed with fantastic classical concerts, masterclasses and lunchtime performances, and the striking Dora Stoutzker Hall sits at the heart of the college, possessing phenomenal acoustics that need to be heard to be believed. Riverfront
NORWEIGAN CHURCH Harbour Drive, Cardiff Bay 029 2087 7959 www.norweiganchurchcardiff.com During the coal boom years of the 19th and early 20th century, thousands of Norwegians came to Cardiff to trade timber for use in the pits of South Wales. This handsome church provided them with religious and social care. Having recently undergone renovation, it is now a thriving museum and arts centre which hosts a range of art exhibitions and performances throughout the year. PENARTH PIER PAVILION The Esplanade, Penarth 029 2071 2100 www.penarthpavilion.co.uk After more than 20 years without open access to the general public, the art deco Penarth Pier Pavilion reopened last year after a £4.2 million renovation to restore its former glory. The pier (which has been voted as Wales’ most treasured landmark by National Trust Wales) contains a gallery, cinema, café and restaurant. PIERHEAD BUILDING Cardiff Bay, Cardiff 08450 105500 www.pierhead.org Having loomed over Cardiff for 113 years, the Pierhead building has recently undergone a revamp. It now offers a Buzz 056
glimpse into Cardiff Bay’s past through its interactive gallery, and hosts a range of stimulating and engaging debates and talks. PONTARDAWE ARTS CENTRE Herbert St, Pontardawe 01792 863722 www.pontardaweartscentre.com Boasting a theatre, dance studio, cinema, snooker hall, meeting room and art gallery, the Pontardawe Arts Centre has gained a reputation as one of the finest cultural venues in South Wales. Its theatre hosts professional work of the highest calibre, whilst its cinema shows everything from arthouse films to the latest blockbusters. RIVERFRONT Kingsway, Newport 01633 656757 www.newport.gov.uk/theriverfront The Riverfront is a state-of-the-art venue which encompasses a gallery, studio, café bar and 493-seat theatre. Particularly impressive, though, are its workshop spaces which host classes in everything from youth theatre to circus skills, breakdancing and DJing. ROYAL WELSH COLLEGE OF MUSIC AND DRAMA North Road, Cardiff 029 2034 2854
ST DAVID’S HALL The Hayes, Cardiff 029 2087 8444 www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk Situated in the heart of Cardiff, St David’s Hall is home to the Welsh Proms, the Orchestral Concert Series and the Cardiff Singer Of The World competition – plus plenty of comedy and musical performances. The venue provides outstanding live entertainment as well as free exhibitions of Welsh art. ST DONATS ARTS CENTRE Llantwit Major, Vale Of Glamorgan 01446 799100 www.stdonats.com Situated in the picturesque grounds of Atlantic College, St Donats plays an important role in the cultural life of the Vale Of Glamorgan. Alongside adult education classes and workshops, the centre hosts various theatrical performances, including the Wales International Storytelling Festival. Art exhibitions are also held in its intimate gallery. ST FAGANS St Fagans, Cardiff 029 2057 3500 www.museumwales.ac.uk/stfagans Delve into the history of Wales at the brilliant and eye-opening St Fagans National History Museum. Step back into the past and immerse yourself in Welsh culture and tradition. With plenty to see, this is the perfect place to while away a few hours.
TALIESIN ARTS CENTRE Singleton Park, Swansea 01792 602060 www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk Gallery, theatre, cinema, bookshop, café bar, craft shop, Egyptian museum (I kid you not) and local branch of Lloyds TSB – is there nothing the Taliesin doesn’t do? Situated on Swansea University’s campus, this compact multi-purpose venue hosts plays, concerts and films, as well as regular exhibitions by local artists. WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE Cardiff Bay Waterfront 029 2063 6464 www.wmc.org.uk Wales’ most impressive cultural landmark of recent times, the WMC boasts a premiere programme of West End musicals, opera, ballet, contemporary dance, standup comedy and art exhibitions. Home to the internationally renowned Welsh National Opera company, this iconic building also hosts popular free lunchtime performances.
ART GALLERIES ATTIC GALLERY 37 Pocketts Wharf, Swansea 01792 653387 www.atticgallery.co.uk This venue has become Swansea’s most successful commercial art gallery, housed in a loft apartment slap-bang in the centre of the town’s fashionable maritime quarter. With regular exhibitions from local artists providing visitors with a good insight into Swansea’s vibrant and rapidly growing art scene, the Attic is scaling lofty heights. BAY ART 54 b/c Bute St, Cardiff Bay 029 2065 0016 www.bayart.org.uk Cardiff Bay has been home to a thriving art scene since the 1970s, back when it was viewed as a derelict, crime-ridden
dockyard. With Lottery support, these artists have turned a former squat into a trendy gallery with onsite studios for 16 artists. The new gallery aims to nurture emerging talent, as well as showcase national and international art. CRAFT IN THE BAY The Flourish, Cardiff 029 2048 4611 www.makersguildinwales.org.uk Housed in a beautifully refurbished Victorian warehouse in the heart of Cardiff Bay, Craft In The Bay is home to the Makers Guild In Wales. Showcasing and selling fine contemporary craft, the gallery includes an exhibition space, workshop, café, conference room and shop. It also holds regular exhibitions of quality Welsh craft, and is the perfect place to find quirky little gifts for friends and family. CYNON VALLEY MUSEUM AND GALLERY Depot Road, Aberdare 01685 886729 www.cynonvalley.co.uk Cynon Valley houses a gallery which exhibits numerous contemporary Welsh art exhibitions throughout the year, providing an interesting contrast to the museum aspect of the centre.
ELYSIUM 2 Mansel Street, Swansea 07980 925449 www.elysiumgallery.com This small Swansea gallery was established in 2007 and is an artist-run organization. The gallery promotes the work of emerging artists and encourages participation in local visual and performing arts. Elysium continues to contribute to the growing arts scene in Swansea. FFOTOGALLERY Turner House Gallery, Penarth 029 2034 1667 www.ffotogallery.org Established in 1978 as one of Britain’s first galleries to specialise in photographic art, Ffotogallery has gained a strong reputation for showcasing the best in contemporary photography from Wales and around the world. Alongside its exhibition programme, the gallery runs seminars and workshops on everything from photographic history to improving your holiday snaps. GLYNN VIVIAN ART GALLERY Alexandra Road, Swansea 01792 516900 www.glynnvivian.com The jewel in the crown of Swansea’s art scene is currently undergoing a huge renovation project; however, the gallery is hardly resting on its laurels. The
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CULTURE fine art prints. ORIEL Y BONT, TY CRAWSHAY University Of Glamorgan, Pontypridd 01443 482077 Pop your head in to see the University Of Glamorgan’s very own art gallery between lectures and you won’t be disappointed. Innovative and contemporary, it’s right on the doorstep for many students, so why not give it a try and see what you think?
Sho Gallery
gallery has arranged a fantastic offsite programme of exhibitions, activities and community art projects, so check out their website for more info. G39 Oxford Street, Roath, Cardiff 029 2047 3633 www.g39.org Located off City Road in Roath, g39 hosts monthly exhibitions that showcase the work of some of Britain’s most established contemporary artists. The gallery’s programme often focuses on video and installation work and is well worth a visit for fans of contemporary art. MARTIN TINNEY GALLERY 18 St Andrew’s Crescent, Cardiff 029 2064 1411 www.artwales.com This city centre gallery is housed in a wonderfully light and spacious town house. It features regular exhibitions by Welsh artists, particularly by the sort of landscape painters popular amongst the ‘Cracach’ – the Welsh-speaking elite who dominate politics, media and the arts in Wales. MILKWOOD 41 Lochaber Street, Roath, Cardiff 029 2047 3373 www.milkwoodgallery.com Buzz 058
Milkwood showcase work from emerging Welsh artists, as well as artists from further afield. With the help of new organization Cardiff M.A.D.E, Milkwood recently refurbished and re-opened with a new café, venue and gallery space. This venue rightly takes it place at the heart of the arts community in Roath. MISSION GALLERY Maritime Quarter, Swansea 01792 652016 www.missiongallery.co.uk Housed in a former seamen’s mission, the Mission Gallery looks from the outside like a craft shop for the people who are stuck for buying a wedding gift. But go in and you’ll be awestruck by an impressive exhibition space showcasing cutting-edge work from some of Wales’s best young talent. ORIEL CANFAS 44a Glamorgan Street, Canton, Cardiff 029 2066 6455 www.orielcanfas.co.uk Based in the Canton area of Cardiff, Canfas provides a broad and diverse platform for contemporary visual art in Wales. Owned and run by an artists’ co-operative, its mission is to provide communication between the art world and the community. It also sells paintings, sculptures, photographs and
SHO GALLERY 1A Inverness Place, Roath, Cardiff 029 2048 5334 www.thesho.co.uk Sho is an independent gallery, shop and artistic space for illustrators and designers in South Wales. A unique space with illustration and print techniques at its heart, the Sho is an intriguing and potentially inspiring artistic space.
CINEMAS CHAPTER ARTS CENTRE Market Road, Canton, Cardiff 029 2030 4400 www.chapter.org Chapter not only offers a fantastic programme of exciting and innovative films, there are also seminars, film workshops and screenings from local film-makers. Chapter remains at the forefront of independent cinema in Wales. CINEWORLD Mary Anne Street, Cardiff / Newport Retail Park 08712 002000 www.cineworld.co.uk Cineworld offer chart-topping new films, cinematic blasts from the past and 3D films without having to wear gawky multicoloured-lens glasses. Student rates, special offers and sickly sweet snacks are of course a given.
ODEON Red Dragon Centre, Cardiff Bay 08712 244007 www.odeon.co.uk/cardiff If you’re looking to make a night of it, this multi-screen, student friendly Odeon is perfect. Sat inside a centre that is home to a number of bars and restaurants, as well as a bowling alley and a Doctor Who exhibition, there’s plenty to do before and after watching the latest blockbuster.
VUE Millennium Plaza, Cardiff York Street, Swansea 08712 240240 www.myvue.com With 12 screens and over 1700 seats, there’s plenty of room and plenty of choice at this chain cinema in the hearts of both Swansea and Cardiff. Showing the latest blockbusters, it has the usual ‘popcorn and cola’ snacking facilities.
THEATRES
DOLMAN THEATRE Kingsway Shopping Centre, Newport 01633 263670 www.dolmantheatre.co.uk As well as offering the expected mix of theatre and entertainment, the Dolman Theatre also invites playgoers to feel a part of the theatre’s rich community history. Owned by the Newport Playgoers Society, the theatre was purpose-built for them in 1967 and has ever since put on a variety of plays and performances.
SHOWCASE CINEMAS Nantgarw, Treforest Industrial Estate 08712 201000 A left turn off the A470 near Pontypridd takes you to this multiplex which is situated among a couple of out-oftown eateries and business units. Although not set in the most beautiful of surroundings, it does boast bargain matinee tickets, cheap Tuesday screenings and free parking.
BLACKWOOD MINERS INSTITUTE High Street, Blackwood, Gwent 01495 227206 www.caerphilly.gov.uk/bmi Touring plays, musical theatre, opera, live music and comedians regularly frequent the Blackwood Miners’ Institute, which continues to support work from both established groups and the local community.
DONALD GORDON THEATRE Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay 029 2063 6667 Head for the grand-looking armadilloshaped building down the bay and not only will you see a variety of fantastic acts pass through its doors over the next few months but, for the geeky, you’ll also be next door to Torchwood’s headquarters.
TALIESIN Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea 01792 602060 www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk Taliesin hosts a broad range of events throughout the year including cinema screenings (including arty French ones), exhibitions and live performances; from dance and drama to jazz and world music.
CHAPTER ARTS CENTRE Market Road, Canton, Cardiff 029 2030 4400 www.chapter.org Chapter is the arty hub of Cardiff that’s looking mighty swish. Here you’ll find experimental theatre alongside classic texts, comedy, film and dance thrown in for good measure. It’s also got imported beers, good food, and a decently priced cup of tea. Student friendly or what?
GWYN HALL Orchard Street, Neath 0300 3656677 www.nptartsandents.co.uk The beautifully renovated Gwyn Hall has now expanded its capability of presenting first-class music, theatre, cinema, workshops and more within its new foyer and theatre space. The vaulted ceilings of this converted church makes for a fantastically atmospheric venue. RIVERFRONT Bristol Packet Wharf, Newport 01633 656757 www.newport.gov.uk/riverfront Ok, so the view out the window of The Riverfront isn’t exactly Cardiff Bay, but turn your attentions inwards and you’ll be impressed. There’s a real mix of experimental drama to check out, along with classes and workshops for those looking to learn more about the arts.
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CULTURE NEW THEATRE Park Place, Cardiff 029 2087 8889 www.newtheatre.co.uk Renowned for being the oldest and most celebrated theatre in Wales, the New Theatre is the locale for musicals, dramatic art, opera and panto. Also, the New Theatre is frequented by the UK’s most respected theatre groups, including The Royal Shakespeare Company. PONTARDAWE ARTS CENTRE Herbert Street, Swansea 01792 863722 www.pontardaweartscentre.com The lineup at Pontardawe always throws up some curious, left-of-centre theatrical gems every now and then, so you’ll never know what you’ll discover with each visit. SHERMAN CYMRU Senghennydd Road, Cardiff 029 2064 6900 www.shermancymru.co.uk Perfectly located next to Cardiff University’s Students Union, Sherman Cymru has come to life since its renovation. Its eye-catching exterior is matched by an equally dazzling and exciting programme of theatre, music and comedy. With its central location, it’s so easy to pop in and enjoy everything that Sherman has to offer. ST DAVID’S HALL The Hayes, Cardiff 029 2064 6900 www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk Opened in 1982 as a sister theatre for The New Theatre, St David’s Hall is now known as the National Concert Hall. But, while predominantly acting as a host for music of all genres, St David’s is also an outlet for comedy and other stage shows. SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE Singleton Street, Swansea 01792 475715 www.swanseagrand.com A venue which normally specialises in drama, musicals and comedy, the Swansea Grand is home to both large Buzz 060
“CLAP YOUR HANDS, STOMP YOUR FEET, WHOOP LIKE AMERICANS” scale touring shows and intimate one-offs, the theatre also houses art exhibitions and remains a fantastic cultural hub for Swansea folk. THEATR BRYCHEINIOG Canal Wharf, Brecon 01874 611622 www.brycheiniog.co.uk Situated in the old county town of Brecknockshire, Theatr Brycheiniog is a modern theatre promoting drama, arts and music, and also offers communitybased events such as ballroom and Latin dance classes.
COMEDY
GLEE CLUB Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay 08714 720400 www.glee.co.uk Clap your hands, stomp your feet, whoop like Americans and welcome to Cardiff’s premier comedy club. Good for live music and top notch, big name comedians, the Glee offers great student deals too.
ST DAVID’S HALL The Hayes, Cardiff 029 2087 8500 www.stdavidshall.co.uk Along with all the live music and theatre, St David’s Hall also packs in big comedy names on a regular basis. Expect the likes of Frankie Boyle, Stewart Lee and Mark Watson to grace the stage. COMEDY AT THE COLLEGE Welsh College Of Music And Drama, Cardiff 029 2034 2854 www.rwcmd.ac.uk This monthly comedy night is a constant sell out as the Royal Welsh College Of Music And Drama joins forces with The Comedy Network – which has been booking comedians for student venues since 1991. The network has previously worked with comedians like Bill Bailey, Al Murray and Sean Lock. It’s unlikely that any of them will be rocking the college’s comedy night but they still host plenty of talent. Their next show, on Wed 26 Nov, has Carl Donnelly, Hayley Ellis and Katie Mulgrew. BUFFALO COMEDY Buffalo Bar, Cardiff 029 2031 0312 www.buffalocardiff.com The first Sunday of every month brings plenty of giggles to the Buffalo Bar. Often hosting a lineup of many standups, Buffalo Comedy’s previous acts have included Mock The Week’s Nathan Caton, BBC Radio 4 Newsjack host Romesh Ranganathan and Welsh Unsigned Stand Up Award winner Jordan Brookes. DRONES COMEDY CLUB Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff 029 2030 4400 www.chapter.org Drones is a reliable night for quality comedy, and at just £3.50, it’s a bargain price. The long-standing club sees regular standup from local comedians trying out their best new routines. For a student-friendly evening of humour, Drones is definitely the way forward.
COMPETITIONS WIN A BOULDERS CLIMBING EXPERIENCE FOR YOU AND FIVE FRIENDS
Prepared to be boulder-ed over with this amazing give away! Release your inner Spiderman as you scramble to dizzying heights during a free 90 minute introductory climbing lesson for you and five of your favourite people. After one of these private sessions, you’ll soon be giving the likes of Tarzan a run for his money and clambering up Snowdon in your spare time. Why do we love Boulders? It’s all has all the thrills of scaling cliff faces without the immediate threat of death, or the inevitable welsh rain. It’s a win-win and yours for the taking if you can answer this simple-ish question: Q: The World’s highest ever tweet was sent from the summit of Everest in 2011 but by who?
ST DAVID’S HALL TICKETS + FOOD PLATTER
What better way is there to get away from the hustle and bustle of a busy day than escaping to a relaxing Lunchtime Concert at St David’s Hall? presents a series of soothing lunchtime shows: this month alone they will host the Sinfonia Cymru orchestra, pianist Clare Hammond will play the music of Arvo Pärt and Cardiff Metropolitan Cathedral Choir. You can win a pair of tickets to any lunchtime concert before Wed 31 Dec and a food platter each at café Celf’ Q: What is the name of the orchestra that will play the first Lunchtime Concert in November?
RED HOT BUFFET
Around the world in 80 courses; Red Hot World Buffet plays host to the world as gastronomic giants of gargantuan proportions. Experience the culinary delights of every continent as you walk around the world and then back to your table. The perfect pig out is on the house; sit down to a free meal for two and feast on fajitas, curry, Chinese and sushi ALL AT ONCE. Just don’t forget to leave room for pudding! Q: Fictional characters Phileas Fogg and buddy, Passepartout, bet that they could circumnavigate the world in 80 days. But which was the longest leg of their journey and between where and where?
GIG TICKETS OF YOUR CHOICE
We have something new this month as the lovely people at Clwb Ifor Bach are not only offering the chance to win a pair of tickets to any upcoming gig but also a pair of tickets to The Blackout on Tues 11 and a couple ot tickets to Lit on Tues 13 Nov. Just email competitions@buzzmag.co.uk, with ‘WELSH CLUB’ in the subject header, your name, number and what show you want to see at least a week beofre the show.
CHAPTER ARTS CINEMA TICKETS
If you fancy checking out some cinema but don’t feel like forking out the ticket price then you can always answer the question below before Mon 17 Nov to win a free pair of tickets to a film of your choice at Chapter Arts Centre in Cardiff. In November alone Chapter will be screening big name Hollywood blockbusters, old school sci-fi classics and 20th century horror films.Q: This month Chapter will be screening the 1927 film Prelude – inspired by Rachmaninov’s famous Prelude In C Sharp Minor, but how many ‘Preludes’ did Rachmaninov compose?
Please email your answers, name, address, Twitter username (if you have one) and contact number to competitions@buzzmag.co.uk by Mon 1 Dec unless otherwise stated. T&Cs: WE DO NOT GIVE PERMISSION FOR THESE COMPETITIONS TO BE REPLICATED OR SHARED ANYWHERE ONLINE. Buzz 062
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