Fresh Direction - Regional listings 2011

FRESH DIRECTION Cambridge

Norwich

WHAT’S ON EAST

WHAT’S ON REGIONAL LISTINGS

CONTENTS >> THE EAST

II

SOUTH COAST

V

SOUTH WEST

VII

WALES & WEST

IX

MIDLANDS

XI

NORTH WEST

XVIII

YORKSHIRE

XXI

NORTH EAST

XXV

SCOTLAND

XXIX

NORTHERN IRELAND

XXXII

FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Cambridge

WORdS: Alex Cooper; Chris Cope

THE EAST CAMBRIDGE The Regal: 38-39 St. Andrews Street, CB2 3AR. Tel. 01223 366459. The Regal is a pub popular with female pub-goers but does bring the boys in as well. Has cheap drinks, cheap food, a good atmosphere, and a huge main room as, until recently, it was a cinema first built in 1937.

The Portland Arms: 129 Chesterton Road, CB4 3BA. Tel. 01223 357268. If you fancy grabbing a pint with a little bit of rock attitude then look no further than The Portland Arms, a quaint pub just outside the city centre that plays host to some great music acts.

The Bird in Hand: 73 Newmarket Road, CB5 8EG. Tel. 01223 464845. A gay pub with a great partying reputation – it has recently been refurbished and is a the perfect place for people to come together and dance like crazy the whole night long.

NIGHTLIFE

THE FITZWILLIAM MUSEUM

RESTAURANTS

BARS

Fitzwilliam Museum: Trumpington Street, CB2 1RB. Tel. 01223 332900. fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk.

The Fitzwilliam is a fantastic museum, full of great artists from classical to modern and is currently the headquarters of CAM (Cambridge Arts Movement).

Michaelhouse: St. Michael’s Church,

Fez Club: 15 Market Passage, CB2

CB2 1SU. Tel. 01223 309147. michaelhouse.org.uk.

Michaelhouse is definitely for those who are keen on coffee.

Situated in a church built before even Trinity College was formed, it offers quiet reflective surroundings for those who enjoy a quality, fresh-brewed cup of java.

Cambridge Blue Sandwiches: 24 Regent Street, CB2 1DB. Tel. 01223 369222. Cambridge Blue Sandwiches is a nice place to grab a quick, cheap bite if you just fancy something on the go or you have only 30 minutes to spare.

Fast and reliable.

De Luca Cicina & Bar: 83 Regent Street, CB2 1AW. Tel. 01223 356666. delucacucina.co.uk. A fine Italian restaurant, situated right in the town centre. Perfrect for those who want to grab something nice, but also quick, after a hard day’s shopping around town. Does a fine selection of pasta and Italian meat and fish dishes.

Kingston Arms: 33 Kingston Street, CB1 2NU Tel. 01223 319414. The Kingston Arms is one of the first real ale pubs in Cambridge.

Situated down a residential street, a little bit away from the city centre, it’s the pub with the cheery blue paint exterior and does nice quick grub with a pleasant atmosphere.

Ocean Dragon: 88 Campkin Road, CB4 2NF. Tel. 01223 423288. ocean-dragon.co.uk. This Chinese takeaway also does European dishes such as fish and chips and has always been a favourite with those studying in the city. Closes at midnight but still good for a late-night feed.

3HX. Tel. 01223 519224. Perennial student favourite and a great place for university goers to come together for cheap drinks and good times. Name gives it cult status among uni goers.

The Free Press: 7 Prospect Row, CB1 1DU. Tel. 01223 368337. freepresspub.com. The Free Press one of the most unique pubs in Cambridge. Founded by journalists over 120 years ago, the walls are adorned with newspaper front pages to commemorate its history.

Situated just shy of the city centre but is tremendously friendly to students and attracts a good mix of customers.

Sir Isaac Newton Pub: 84 Castle Street, CB3 0AJ. Tel. 01223 305555 One of the best Sports Bars in Cambridge, it provides punters with pub snacks, flat screen TVs and caters for all your sporting needs. Plus it’s just a stones throw away from the river so great summer drinking.

Cambridge County & Folk Museum:

2-3 Castle Street, CB3 0AQ. Tel. 01223 355159. folkmuseum. org.uk. This is a friendly little museum where you can learn about Cambridgeshire life and see some neat, perfectly preserved artefacts. Set in the 17th century, it is a fantastic place with themed rooms.

Cambridge Contemporary Art: 6 Trinity Street, CB2 1SU. Tel. 01223 324222. cambridgegallery.co.uk.

This museum brings together a rich mix of new artists, designers and artworks and is hidden away, just off the beaten track of the city centre.

Cambridge University Library:

West Road, CB3 9DR. Tel. 01223 333000. lib.cam.ac.uk The University itself is a great place to walk around and have a tour - unless, of course, you’re studying there. But if you’re not in the library to work, and have time to spare, then touring the classical surroundings in this hall of learning is an enlightening experience.

Kesley Kerridge Sports Centre:

Queen Anne Terrace, CB1 1NA.Tel. 01223 462226. kelseykerridge. co.uk. One of the best places in Cambridge to do the full round of cardiovascular, as well as heavy weights - a must for anyone looking to keep fit or to buff up their abs by pumping a serious amount of iron.

II

www.student365.co.uk

MANIC STREET PREACHERS AT THE CAMBRIDGE CORN EXCHANGE

Cambridge Corn Exchange: 3 Parson’s Court, CB2 3QE. Tel. 01223 357851. cornex.co.uk.

If you fancy seeing some of the world’s biggest music acts then there is no better place than Cambridge Corn Exchange, which has hosted everyone from the The Killers to Coldplay.

Tickets can be reasonable though pints are about £3 inside.

Junction: Clifton Way, CB1 7GX. Tel. 01223511511. junction.co.uk.

The main rival to the Corn Exchange, the Junction pulls in the crowds too and is one of the most culturally diverse venues in the country, presenting an eclectic mix of everything from modern day indie to Peruvian flute bands!

Ballare: Heidelburg Gardens,Lion Yard,CB2 3NA. Tel. 01223 364222. ballare.co.uk/cambridge.

Always a student favourite despite it’s odd location on top of the Lion Yard shopping centre.

Cheap drinks abound, with £2.50 for a vodka and mixer and about £2.80 per pint, all available in a laidback atmosphere.

Vue Cinema : Grafton Centre, CB1

1PS. Tel. 0871 224 0240. One of Cambridge’s major multiplexes, located in the Grafton Centre this cinema is perfect for catching a film after a hard day’s shopping.

Arts Picturehouse: 38-39 St Andrew’s Street, CB2 3AR. Tel. 0871 902 5720. picturehouses. co.uk. Smaller, independent cinema offers a proper movie experience to more discerning film buffs. Perfect place to see some of the latest festival circuit releases.

Also does student discounts.

THEATRE The ADC Theatre: Park Street,

CB5 8AS. Tel. 01223 300085. adctheatre.com. One of the larger theatres in Cambridge, the ADC puts on everything from major UK shows to panto. Great for those who enjoy the theatre but tickets can be pricey.

Cambridge Arts Theatre: 6 St Edwards Passage, CB2 3PL. Tel. 01223 503333. cambridgeartstheatre.com. 666seat theatre on Peas Hill in the centre of town, it attracts some of the highest quality touring productions in the country.

USEFUL INFO Stagecoach: 100 Cowley Road, CB4 0DN. Tel. 01223 433250. stagecoachbus.com. Provide an bus services around town and outlying areas.

Cambridge Rail Station: Station Road, CB1 2JW. Tel. 0845 600 7245. nationalrail.co.uk Regular direct services to London and the rest of the country.

Victory Limousines: 22 Victory Way, Cottenham. Tel. 01954 252967. victorylimousines.co.uk. Victory Limousines will ride you around in style – that is, if you can afford it!

South Cambs Taxis: 82A High Street, CB22 3HJ. Tel. 01223 834858. southcambstaxis.co.uk.

Quick cabs around town that don’t cost a fortune..

WORDS: Lewis Nolan

ATTRACTIONS

CINEMA

fresh directions cambridge 210x297mm FRONT 1

23/08/2011 12:14

FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Norwich

THE EAST NORWICH Castle Mall car park ticket for validation at the cinema.

Cinema City: St Andrews Street, Norwich, NR2 4AD. Tel. 0871 704 2053. Three luxury screens, showing both blockbusters and classics, and a bar and restaurant to boot.

THEATRE Norwich Playhouse: 42-58 St George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. Tel. 01603 598598. norwichplayhouse.co.uk The best venue in town for comedy, drama, music and dance. Forthcoming stand-up from the likes of Greg Davies (from the Inbetweeners), Andy Parsons and much more.

Norwich Theatre Royal:

ATTRACTIONS Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts:

University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. Tel. 01603 593199. scva. org.uk. A chance to see fabulous art from the likes of Picasso for free in a world-class Norman Foster building. And outside, you can take an autumnal stroll round the lake and beautiful parkland.

Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery: Shire Hall, Market Avenue,

NR1 3JQ. Tel. 01603 493625. museums.norfolk.gov.uk. Once a Royal Palace and then a prison, the county’s principal museum boasts an array of fine arts, archaeology and treasures.

Sportspark: University of East Anglia. Tel. 01603 625166. sportspark.co.uk. Everything a sporty-type needs includes Norfolk’s tallest indoor climbing wall, two 25m swimming pools, the Soccerpark, athletics track and two impressive indoor arenas.

Planet Ice: Drayton High Road, Norwich, NR6 5DU. Tel. 01603 416600. planet-ice.co.uk/arena/ Norwich. Billed as Europe’s best, the skating rink offers beginners and experts alike a chance to show off their skills. A different type of first date?

Norwich Market: Slap bang in the middle of the quirky mix of independent shops and the dreaded chain stores sits the country’s largest Monday to Saturday market. While oozing history, the market has retained a sense of vibrancy with 190 stalls and bargains to be had at every turn.

RESTAURANTS

Hog in Armour: 16 Charing Cross,

Street, Cromer, NR27 9HN. Tel. 01263 511208. A slight trek out of the city but this place serves the best fish and chips in the whole of Norfolk and is a bit of a local institution.

The Bizness: 78-80 Prince of Wales Road. NR1 1NJ. Tel. 01603 667398. Great little deli, perfect for a light lunch. The home made sandwiches are a particular favourite.

Shiki Japanese: 6 Tombland, NR3 1HE. Tel. 01603 619262. shikirestaurant.co.uk. Handy choice for authentic Japanese food. Cool and uncluttered, it’s tucked away in cobbled Tombland and is a good place to enjoy some people watching..

Norwich, NR2 4AL. Tel. 01603 660355. Great name, great pub. Monday is student night, meaning free pool and you are in charge of the tunes - so bring your own iPod, guitar or decks.

BARS Pub Crawl: norwichtonight.com/

norwich-pu-crawls.php. Not sure where you want a drink? Why choose just one place when you can go on any one of five pub crawls courtesy of Norwich Tonight. Just check out the website and you can peruse a variety of crawl routes. And it even has printable pub crawl maps as well. Nice.

The Murderers: 2/8 Timber Hill, NR1 3LB. Tel: 01603 621447. themurderers.co.uk. Officially the best sports bar in the eastern region, the perfect place to watch football, rugby, Formula 1. whatever your bag is, a great atmosphere is guaranteed.

Blueberry: 20 Cowgate, Norwich, NR3 1SY. Tel. 01603 475001.

One of the best live music pubs in the city with bands every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Not forgetting a jazz jam on Monday nights and open jam on Wednesdays.

Fat Cat: 49 West End Street, Norwich, NR2 4NA. Tel. 01603 624364. Great place for real ale enthusiasts, serving over 30 varieties. Celebrates 20th anniversary in December.

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NIGHTLIFE Project Nightclub: Riverside Complex, Norwich, NR1 1WX. Tel. 01603 766524. Nightlife in Norwich has a new name with state of the art sound and lighting. A great live venue.

Mojos: 60-62 Prince of Wales Road, Norwich, NR1 1LT. Tel. 01603 622533. A sound alternative to the more mainstream rivals, two floors, street level and club basement, offer both a relaxing drink and a wild night on the dancefloor.

Thursday is student night so expect £1 drinks and cheap Jaegerbomb promotions.

Mustard Lounge: All Saints Green, Norwich, NR1 3NA. Tel. 01603 619561.

Set in the heart of the city centre, the Mustard Lounge boasts a great rep for underground and alternative music. Two floors, each complete with a large cocktail bar.

Chicago Rock Café: 24-26 Prince of Wales Road, Norwich, NR1 1LF. Some are proud to love the cheese, others keeping their shameful favourites a secret.

Either way Chicago Rock Café is the place to go.

CINEMA Hollywood Cinema: Anglia Square, NR3 1DZ. Tel. 01603 621903. hollywoodcinemas. net. An ideal cheap night for students thanks to a healthy £2 off the normal ticket price.

Vue Cinema: 18 Golden Ball Street, NR1 3DF. Tel. 0871 224 0240. myvue.com. As well as discounts for students, Vue offers four hours free parking by presenting your

Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. Tel. 01638 630000. theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk. Want music, dance, opera, musicals, stand-up? The Theatre Royal has the lot. Comedian Reginald D Hunter, classic musical Grease and panto Sleeping Beauty are among the upcoming shows.

Norwich Train Station: Station

Approach, NR1 1EF. Tel. 0845 600 7245. Norwich’s main rail station offers routes to major UK cities regularly. Get in touch for more information on times and timetables.

National Rail: Tel. 0845 484950. nationalrail.co.uk. Timetable and assorted ticket information for UK train services.

National Express: Tel 0871 7818 181. nationalexpress.com.

Coach services to major cities throughout the UK, including London.

GREG DAVIES

THE FORUM Wouldn’t it be great to have Europe’s largest permanent digital gallery, BBC studios and a world-famous comedy night in one place?

Well then, welcome to The Forum (2 Millenium Plain, Bethel Street, Xxxxxxxx NR2 1TF) which has all this and a whole heap more, including restaurants, cafes and a whole slew of education, advice and community programmes.

Moving outside, you will find The Forum Amphitheatre - a venue hosting a year-round programme of community activities and popular events, which gives the place a distinctly European flavour.

In the months before Christmas, you will find album launches, photography exhibitions and indulgence days, to name a few.

And back by popular demand in November and December is the Comedy Store for three special, adult-only shows featuring seriously funny people from the UK and beyond. Check out theforumnorwich. co.uk or call 01603 727950 for more information.

WORDS: Dave Gooderham

Bar Tapas: 16-20 Exchange Street.

NR2 1AT. Tel. 01603 764077. Cute café restaurant in the Norwich lanes offering cheap and tasty food.

Unthank Kitchen: 117 Unthank Road, NR2 2PE. Tel. 01603 624010. A perennial student fave with great breakfasts to cure any hangover.

Mary Jane’s Fish Bar: 27-29 Garden

USEFUL INFO

WORDS: Nicky Falkof

NORWICH CASTLE MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY

Norwich Puppet Theatre: St James, Whitefriars, Norwich, NR3 1TN. Tel. 01603 629921. puppettheatre.co.uk. Something a little different, but no less entertaining. A full programme of shows and also a chance to try your hand at puppet theatre as well. Great for those who fancy themselves to be the next Jim Henson.

WHAT’S ON FRESHDIRECTION

Brighton

SOUTH COAST BRIGHTON ATTRACTIONS

upcoming stars and quirky, offbeat local productions.

Brighton Pavilion: 4-5 Pavilion

USEFUL INFO

Buildings, BN1 1EE. Tel. 0300 029 0900. brighton-hove-rpml.org. uk. OTT Oriental-style palace and the city’s most famous landmark.

Brighton residents get free entry a few times a year.

Yellowave: 299 Madeira Drive, BN2 1EN. Tel. 01273 672222. yellowave. co.uk. The UK’s only permanent beach venue, with café, volleyball courts and a climbing wall. Then all you need is the sunshine.

Fly Sussex: Tollgate, near Lewes, BN8 6JZ. Tel. 01273 858170. sussexhgpg.co.uk. Handgliding and paragliding on the beautiful South Downs. Great for thrillseekers.

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery:

Royal Pavilion Gardens, BN1 1EE. Tel: 0300 029 0900. Free entry to a changing rota of art and history exhibits which often focus on local issues.

Lewes Castle: 169 High Street, Lewes, BN7 1YE. Tel. 01273 486290, sussexpast.co.uk.

Stunning thousand-year-old castle perched on a hill above a charming town. Just a 15-minute train ride from Brighton and well worth it.

RESTAURANTS Bombay Aloo: 39 Ship St, BN1 1AB.

Tel. 01273 776038. bombay-aloo. co.uk. Long-established all-youcan-eat veggie Indian buffet with over 25 dishes for £4.95 and a cheaper weekday happy hour in the afternoon.

Market Diner: 19-21 Circus Street, BN2 9QF. Tel. 01273 608273, marketdinerbrighton.co.uk.

Brighton’s only all-night caff, home of the infamous (and enormous) Mega Buster. Great for late night scoffing.

Yo Sushi: 6-7 Jubilee St, BN1 1GE. Tel. 01273 258711. yosushi.com/ restaurants/brighton. Fun sushi

BRIGHTON PAVILION

chain with locations all over the UK. Check the website for yearround student discounts.

Grubb’s Burgers: 89 St James’s Street, BN2 1TP. Tel. 01273 688111; 13 York Place, BN1 4GU. Tel: 01273 691869; 62 Western Rd, Hove, BN3 1JD. Tel. 01273 736526.

Local burger chain, with three different locations in the Brighton area. Offers a menu with masses of meat and veggie options. Open until 3am on weekends, so good for a post-bar grub run.

The Dorset: 28 North Road, BN1 1YB,. Tel. 01273 605423, thedorset. co.uk. Great location in the famous North Laine serving local seafood.

Good for people-watching over breakfast in the sunshine.

BARS The Druids’ Arms: 79-81 Ditchling Road, BN1 4SD. Tel. 01273 680596. Friendly pub with late weekend opening, DJs, NUS special offers and properly cheap happy hour deals. Always a student favourite and often packed with punters.

NIGHTLIFE:

basement club room. Features some of Brighton’s longestrunning club nights and also has a seafront terrace bar for al fresco drinking.

The Hope: 11 Queens Road, BN1 3WA. Tel. 01273 325793. One of the best places in town to catch upcoming bands, The Hope tends to be populated by pretty indie kids and features a dedicated performance room upstairs for indie disco moves.

Revenge: 32-34 Old Steine, BN1 1EL. Tel. 01273 606064. revenge.co.uk. The South Coast’s legendary gay club, often featuring international DJs, special guests and pop stars.

Volks: 3 Madeira Drive, BN2 1PS. Tel. 01273 682828. volksclub. co.uk. Seafront club specialising in psytrance, dubstep, breaks and pretty much all kinds of dance music. Keep an eye out for the weekend all dayers.

Audio: 10 Marine Parade, BN2 1TL.

CINEMA

Charles Street: 8 Marine Parade.

BN2 1TA. Tel. 01273 624091. charles-street.com. Funky, seafront gay bar and restaurant with outside terrace and club attached.

Mash Tun: 1 Church Street, BN1 1UE. Tel. 01273 684951. Situated on a pedestrianised strip near the Pavilion and theatres, a great place to see and be seen. Perfect for catching the evening rays in summer.

Fortune of War: 156-157 Kings Road Arches, BN1 1NB. Tel. 01273 205065. A proper pub set in the arches on the seafront. Best place to buy a pint and sit on the beach.

Look out for decent band and DJ listings.

Prince Albert: 48 Trafalgar Street, BN1 4ED. Tel. 01273 730499.

Cheap eats and great live music.

Check out for the Banksy and John Peel murals on the outside.

Tel. 01273 606906. audiobrighton. com. Hosts live music and excellent DJs in its sweaty

Duke of York’s: Preston Circus, BN1 4NA. Tel. 0871 902 5728. picturehouses.co.uk/cinema/ Duke_Of_Yorks. Excellent independent cinema showing a variety of art house and mainstream films.

Odeon: West Street Kingswest, BN1 2RE. Tel. 0871 224 4007. odeon.co.uk. Multiscreen cinema showing blockbuster fare, with weekday student discounts.

WORDS: Dave Gooderham

WORDS: Nicky Falkof

THEATRE

ANNA CALVI AT KOMEDIA

Theatre Royal: New Road, BN1 1SD. Tel. 0844 871 7615. atgtickets. com/Theatre-Royal-Brighton.

Brighton’s premier theatre, a magnificent listed Regency building showing quality productions all year round.

Komedia: 44 – 47 Gardner Street, BN1 1UN. komedia.co.uk/brighton.

Performance, theatre, comedy and music venue, featuring

Brighton & Hove Bus Company: 43 Conway Street, Hove, BN3 3LT. Tel. 01273 886200. buses.co.uk.

Local bus company running services around Brighton, Hove and East Sussex.

The Big Lemon: Portran House, Boundary Road, BN2 5TJ. Tel. 01276 81681. thebiglemon. com. Local bus company whose vehicles run entirely on recycled waste oil, so ideal for the environmentally conscious.

Routes include university sites at Falmer amongst others.

The Martlet’s Warehouse: Unit 5, Sussex House Business Park, 270 Old Shoreham Road, Hove, BN3 7DX. Tel. 01273 721188. Massive second hand furniture store benefitting a local hospice, stuffed with cheap tat and hidden gems.

G-Wizz: 6A Brunswick St, BN3 1AU. Tel. 01273 749049. g-whizzcycles.co.uk. Second hand bike sales and repairs, specialising in student bikes, including buy-back. Only open Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Big Yellow: 2 Coombe Road, BN2 4EA. Tel. 01273 626202. bigyellow.co.uk. Most central selfstorage facility in town.

Clarke’s Stationers: 11 Bond Street, BN1 1TX. Tel. 01273728811. Stationary, art materials and computer supplies and all easily accessible from North Laine.

BRIGHTON FESTIVAL Brighton Festival is one of the UK’s biggest arts events, with its Fringe second only to Edinburgh’s in size. Each May the city is taken over by actors, musicians, artists and all sorts - from the high culture glories of world class theatre on the main festival to the ever-popular Ladyboys of Bangkok in their own dedicated tent in the gardens on Old Steine. Watch for unexpected performance venues popping up across Brighton – such as theatre pieces in your local or in the beach huts on Hove Lawns. The main festival sells out fast, and the Fringe can be intimidating in its size, so get programmes early and be sure to take advantage of a whole month of having the best of UK and international arts on your doorstep. Check out the websites for more info. brightonfestival.org brightonfestivalfringe.org.uk

FRESH DIRECTION/ WHAT’S ON AUTUMN 2011 V

FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Southampton

Porstmouth

SOUTH COAST SOUTHAMPTON / PORSTMOUTH City Art Gallery: Civic Centre,

Commercial Road, SO14 7LP. Tel. 02380 832277. southampton. gov.uk. Internationally renowned for its impressive art collection, spanning six centuries of European art history.

The Quays Leisure Centre: 27 Harbour Parade, SO15 1BA. Tel. 02380 720900. Fancy a swim?

Or even a work out at the gym or fitness class? Then visit the Quays and take your pick of sporting and leisure activities.

Blue Reef Aquarium: Clarence Esplanade, Southsea, Hampshire, PO5 3PB. Tel. 02392 875222. bluereefaquarium.co.uk. Opening hours: Mon - Sun,10am - 6pm.

(As of November 1, Mon - Sun, 10am - 5pm). Discover what lies beneath as the aquarium offers a fascinating window into the hidden world below the waves.

HMS Warrior: Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, PO6 3TJ. Tel. 02392 778600. hmswarrior.org. When launched in 1860, HMS Warrior was the largest war ship in the world and is, to this day, the only remaining, fully preserved example of its kind. A must see of history students.

RESTURANTS TGI Fridays: West Quay Retail Park, West Quay Road, Esplanade.

SO15 1BA. Tel. 0844 692 0265. tgifridays.co.uk. Opening hours: Mon - Sat, 11.30am -11pm; Sun: 11.30am - 10.30pm. Classic all American dining at its finest! Great atmosphere and lively bar too.

Their famous steaks and ribs are sure to leave you satisfied.

Turtle Bay: 1 Guildhall Square, SO14 7FP. Tel. 02380 639568. turtlebay.co.uk. Opening hours: Mon - Thurs, 12pm - 12am; Fri & Sat, 12pm - 1am; Sun: 12pm 12am. Opened in June, this new Caribbean sensation in the heart of town offers an authentic Wes Indies feast, great offers on food & drink, and has proved very popular from the very beginning.

Hong Kong Tea Bar: 20-22 Lake

Road, PO1 4HA. Tel. 02392 814055. A nice, relaxed spot for a tasty Chinese lunch or dinner and with student-friendly prices, meals are from as little as £3.50 Tiger Tiger: Gunwharf Quays, PO1 3TP. Tel. 02392 882244. tigertigerports.co.uk. Tiger Tiger is a stylish restaurant & bar, overlooking the marina and is the perfect place to dine on good food on reasonable prices. Cheap lunchtime offers for only £5 between 12pm - 5pm, and a ‘happy hour’ from 5pm until 8pm - that’s when things liven up and students come here in droves!

Rice n Spice: 96 Lodge Road, SO14 6RG. Tel. 02380 228244. rice-andspice.co.uk. If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, then definitely try this takeaway. The food is flavoursome, portions are generous and the prices aren’t bad either. They also offer a 10 per cent student discount on orders over £10. Win!

BARS Orange Rooms: 1-2 Vernon Walk, SO15 2EJ. Tel. 02380 232333. orangerooms.co.uk. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, this retro inspired bar and cocktail lounge gets full marks as a great place to start the night.

With several different themed rooms, funky music, great food and atmosphere, you might stay longer than planned.

Flares: 130-132 Above Bar Street, SO14 7DU. Tel. 0871 9511 000. flaresbars.co.uk. For a bit of a hippy 70’s vibe, visit Flares for a night you won’t forget! Special drinks and cocktails all night, a comical décor from disco balls to odd pictures on the walls and groovy old school tunes.

Bar 38: Boulevard Building, Gunwharf Quays, PO1 3TW. Tel. 02392 851070. bar38.co.uk. A contemporary café bar split over two floors. It’s the perfect place to relax and eat or make use of the free wi-fi during the day and ideal to party with friends at night. Famous for their cocktails and resident DJ playing the best

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in funky house on Friday and Saturdays nights. Always heavily populated by students.

Drift Bar: 78 Palmerston Road, Southsea. Tel. 02392 779839. driftbar.com. Whether you need somewhere to chill out after a hard day at university, or that super smooth vibe to unwind for the weekend, Drift is certainly the place to head for. Check out the ‘High Tide Lounge’ while there.

Babylon: 1 King Henry Street, PO1 2PT. Tel. 02392 830150. babylonbars.co.uk. A chilled out and stylish bar bringing the best in Britpop, classic tunes and nineties hits. It’s a great place for student parties and offers really good value for money, whether for a couple of drinks or an all-nighter.

NIGHTLIFE Oceana: Leisure World, West Quay Road, SO15 1RE. Tel. 02380 235780. oceanaclubs. com/southampton. Open 9pm - 3am most nights. Welcome to the biggest Oceana in the UK! Southampton’s Oceana boasts six rooms, each styled to reflect different countries, as well as luxury booths and suites. It also boasts music to suit any student looking to have a good time.

There are regular themed events throughout the week, unlimited drink offers all night and online discounts for members too.

Club Rosso: Harbour House, Town Quay, SO14 2AQ. Tel. 02380 710083. club-rosso.me. Recently opened last year, Club Rosso is located near the waterfront and offers students great music and special nights all week, including Boujis on Saturdays and Sunday Switch, when the place is regularly packed out. They also offer a

free taxi service to the club from outside Buddah lounge until 2am.

Club 8: 10 Guildhall Walk, PO1 2DD. Tel. 02392 752000. Decorated in mostly black, this cosy club has an underground feel. With various seating areas, trendy R’n’B sounds and a decent bar, Club 8 is a highly recommended place to start the night, with entry just £2 on Friday and Saturday nights.

Liquid & Envy: Connaught Drill Hall, Stanhope Road, PO1 1DU. Tel. 02392 862312. liquidclubs.com/ portsmouth. Open 9pm - 3am most nights. With two beautiful rooms, one surrounded in vibrant lights and 360 degree screens, and the other with a more intimate feel, this club is a sure hit. Various offers all week and student night on Mondays. Book event tickets online and save 25 per cent off.

CINEMA & THEATRE Odeon, Leisure World: Leisure World, West Quay Road, SO15 1RE. Tel. 0871 224 4007. odeon. co.uk. Located inside the Leisure World complex, the Southampton branch of the UK wide chain is always packed with film goers and has all the latest blockbusters and Hollywood offerings.

Mayflower Theatre: 26 Commericial Road, SO15 1GE. Tel. 02380 711811. mayflower.org.uk. Southampton’s well-loved theatre has been operating since the 1920’s and it’s productions just get better and better. Join their ‘Theatre Club’ - it’s a great way to save money and get priority bookings on those really popular productions.

The New Theatre Royal: 20-24 Guildhall Walk, PO1 2DD. Tel. 02392 649000. newtheatreroyal. com. Showing performances in

dance, spoken word, drama and comedy to name but a few.

VUE Cinema: Gunwharf Quays, PO1 3TA. Tel. 0871 224 0240. myvue.com. With 14 screens, and surrounded by bars/ resturants, you won’t be short of entertainment here with this multiplex showing all the biggest and best releases.

USEFUL INFO Southwest Trains: Tel. 0845 600 0650. southwesttrains. co.uk. The South West Trains network includes routes through Hampshire, Surrey, Dorset, Wiltshire, Berkshire, Devon, Somerset, and Greater London.

West Quay Cars: Tel. 02380 666666. westquaycars.com Popular taxi service used by most students. Offers a quick and efficient service.

Ryman: 57 London Road, SO15 2WW. Tel. 02380 632054.

Situated on busy London Road, it’s the one stop shop for all stationary and has a post office inside too. Also offers a great money saving 10 per cent off student discount.

First Bus Group: Tel. 0871 200 2233, firstgroup.com. Local bus company for both Southampton and Portsmouth, running routes all over both towns as well as areas inbetween.

24 Hour Locksmith: 19 Plover Road, Totton, SO40 8TF. Tel. 0771 725 5654, 24hrlocksmithservice. co.uk. Lose your keys or lock yourself out of the house? Don’t panic - these guys do call out’s to Southampton, Portsmouth and all areas round about, so give them a call to save you spending a night sleeping rough after you lose your keys.

WORDS: Sherelle Lancaster

TURTLE BAY, SOUTHAMPTON

ORANGE ROOMS, SOUTHAMPTON

WORDS: Chris Watson

ATTRACTIONS

WHAT’S ON FRESHDIRECTION

Plymouth

SOUTH WEST PLYMOUTH ATTRACTIONS Slapton Sands Beach: This beach provides a long stretch of mellow yellow, and drinks and munchies are available close by. Music A-listers such as Damon Albarn have homes in these parts so keep your eyes peeled for notable celebs.

Dartmoor Hills: Great for a ramble up Hay Tor followed by an ice cream or a Ben Fogle-style trek along the hills. Remember to wear the right gear for these colder months.

Discovery Surf School: 4 Belle Vue Rise, Hooe, PL9 9QD. Tel. 0781 363 9622. discoverysurf. com. Rack up some surf dude credibility by taking lessons.

The friendly team will have you braving the waves in no time but remember to hire or bring your wetsuit.

Mount Batten Centre: 70 Lawrence Road, Mount Batten, Plymstock, PL9 9SJ. Tel. 01752 404567. mount-batten-centre.com. Ahoy sailor! Make like Cap’n Jack Sparrow and learn how to sail along the historic Plymouth coastline with these maritime experts. They also organise caving, abseiling and many other adventurous activities if you’re feeling brave.

RESTAURANTS Cap’n Jaspers: Whitehouse Pier,

Barbican, PL1 2LS. Tel. 01752 262444. capn-jaspers.co.uk.

A sea-front institution that’s been stuffing the gills of locals and tourists for years. The chilli dog is the ultimate post-booze hangover buster. There are also

WORDS: Sherelle Lancaster

WORDS: Chris Watson

COMEDY WEEK The Pavilions is running a veritable comedy feast from November 3-9, featuring four of the top comedians of the day.

The series kicks off with Office co-creator Stephen Merchant on his first ever stand up tour ‘Hello Ladies’ on November 3 and 4, then ‘Have I Got News for You’ and ‘QI’ stalwart Reginald D Hunter will set off fireworks with his ‘Sometimes Even The Devil Tells The Truth’ show on November 5. Wacky music and random thoughts are the order of the day when TV regular and cult comic Bill Bailey brings his ‘Dandelion Mind’ tour on November 6 and 7. And finally Irish stand-up Ed Byrne finishes off with his ‘Crowd Pleaser’ on November 9. This promises to be the most laughter the South West has had since Jethro’s last tour!

HANG TEN IN THE DEVON SURF

burgers and bacon butties with relishes of your choice.

The Watering Hole: Quay Road, Barbican, PL1 2JZ. Tel. 01752 667604. Its position on Sutton Harbour makes for an ideal place to tuck into mussels and chips amidst the relaxed vibe of the Barbican. The heated terrace also has some comfy chairs to relax into.

Arribas: 58 Notte Street, The Barbican, Plymouth, PL1 2AG. Tel. 01752 603303. arribasmexican. co.uk. This authentic Mexican restaurant is located in the Barbican. It offers well-priced, expertly-flavoured food and better still you can wash it all down with affordable margaritas and daiquiris.

Carpe Diem: 50 North Hill, PL4 8EU. Tel. 01752 252942. carpediemnh.co.uk. Try this cocktail bar for added class - the drinks are gorgeous and with a 2 for 1 happy hour, they are surprisingly affordable and student-friendly. Their tapas and pizzas are hard to beat.

BARS Ride Café Bar: 45 Tavistock Place, North Hill, PL4 8AX. Tel. 01752 222305. A popular student bar as it’s just off campus. Shoot the breeze outside in the covered beer garden and then head back inside when it gets too chilly. Relaxed and friendly with great drink offers. Also has a sister pub up the road in Mutley called Bar R/Ride.

Hawkins Meeting Place: Buckwell Street, PL1 2DA. Tel. 01752 223341, hawkinsmp.co.uk. Launched in 2008, this gay friendly-venue has a busy events diary including live performances, drag acts and disco nights that will put a smile on anyone’s face.

Bar Cuba/ Firefly: 1-2 Sherwell Arcade, North Hill, PL4 8LH. Tel. 01752 672116/659518. Bar Cuba is a slightly cheesy party venue (think Magaluf) located right next to the student campus. Good

drink selection including cocktails with plenty of seats indoors. Right next door is Bar Firefly which has a more urban, cool atmosphere.

‘Wonkylegs’ dubstep night on Mondays is the best way to start the week off.

Skiving Scholar: 1 Tavistock Place, PL4 8AU. Tel, 01752 603473.

Right opposite the university and the first stop for most students.

Does good offers on pints around the week and occasionally there’s a live DJ downstairs.

NIGHTLIFE White Rabbit: Unit 14, Bretonside Bus Station, PL4 0BG. Tel. 07916 127298. myspace.com/ theviaduct. The place to go if you want real underground action. This place prides itself on being the ‘the South West’s second best sweaty little punk venue’, specializing in alternative, diverse and underground music.

C103: Union Street, PL1 3NB. Tel. 01752 662586. c103.co.uk.

Hosts the main student union night on Wednesdays for just £3 entry and with loads of drink offers to encourage the fun. There’s indie and punk in The Warehouse on Thursdays and the South West’s longest running rock night on Fridays.

The Hippo: 9 Bath Street, PL1 3LT. myspace.com/ theplymouthhub. Renowned independent music venue.

The place to see loads of up and coming bands and also boasts four (count em!) plasma screens showing the live performances.

Karma Nightclub: Mayflower Street, PL1 1SD. Tel: 01752 228752 thekarmanightclub.co.uk. £2 entry and open until 6am. Three rooms catering for all music tastes.

Student night is every Thursday with a drum and bass every Friday.

Recent guest appearances have included Chase and Status and Professor Green.

CINEMA Peninsula Arts Centre: 38 Looe

Street, PL4 0EB. Tel: 01752 206114. plymouthartscentre.org. A visual arts centre with a reputation for its independent cinema programme as well as local and international contemporary art exhibitions. Also features a thriving café bar so you can easily catch a bite and a film at once.

Reel Cinema: 25 Derry’s Cross, PL1 2SW. Tel. 01752 225553. plymouth. reelcinemas.co.uk. City-centre location makes this ideal for a post-shopping bit of recreation and relaxation. Kick back with some of the latest and best film releases.

THEATRE Theatre Royal/ Drum Theatre:

Royal Parade, PL1 2TR. Tel. 01752 267222. theatreroyal.com. Two theatres for the price of one.

See the biggest West End and Broadway shows at the Theatre Royal - the largest and best attended regional producing theatre in the UK, for £5 on Friday

nights for under 26s. The Drum Theatre, meanwhile, offers a more intimate space Barbican Theatre: Castle Street, PL1 2NJ. Tel. 01752 267131. barbicantheatre.co.uk. The Barbican Theatre is a creative arts organisation situated in the historic Barbican area of Plymouth. It produces new theatre and contemporary dance with young people as leaders. It has a 140 fixed seat auditorium, a studio space and a cafe/bar with a second stage.

Plymouth Pavilions: Milbay Road, PL1 3LF. Tel. 01752 222200. plymouthpavilions.com. Although primarily a venue now for the big music acts of the day (upcoming shows include Jessie J, Katy B and Chase and Status) it also plays host to the occasional theatre show such as Birmingham Stage Company’s production of Jungle Book from Oct 12-15.

USEFUL INFO Plymouth Citybus: Bretonside

Bus Station, PL4 0BG. Tel. 01752 662271, plymouthcitybus.co.uk.

Your main port-of-call for getting around town. Check online for citywide timetables and concessions.

National Express: Bretonside Bus Station, PL4 0BG. nationalexpress. com. Runs servives to and from Plymouth from all over the country including London.

Need-a-Cab?: 35 Union Street, PL1 3LU. Tel. 01752 666222.

Reasonably priced cab company, situated right in the town centre so handy after a night out.

Morgans Gym: Compton House,1114 Gibbon Lane, PL4 8BR. Tel. 01752 266117, morganswellbeing. co.uk. With membership starting from £8.99 a month, there’s no excuse to get up and work off some of that beer and noodle diet. Also does great student discounts.

BILL BAILEY

FRESH DIRECTION/ WHAT’S ON AUTUMN 2011 VII

FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Exeter

SOUTH WEST EXETER RESTAURANTS

Haldon Forest Park: Kennford, EX6 7XR. Tel. 01392 832262. aldonforestpark.org.uk. Head away from the heat and into the cool glades of this nearby forest just off the A380. Trails cater for anyone from the cycling mentalist to the casual walker.

Beaches: Hop on a train at St David’s Station and within 20 minutes you’ll be taking in the old-school seaside delights of Exmouth, Dawlish or Teignmouth. Pebbly Sidmouth is also a short bus ride away.

Spacex: 45 Preston Street, EX11DF. Tel. 01392 431786. spacex.org.uk. A contemporary art space with commissioned projects, exhibitions, events and activities. Autumn exhibitions include an installation by Italian artist Salvatore Arancio ‘An arrangement of the material ejected’.

Harry’s Grill Bar: 6 Northernhay Place, Baily Street, EX4 3QJ. Tel. 01392 438545. harrys-exeter. co.uk. Still relatively new on the foodie scene, Harry’s has fast gained a reputation for excellent steaks, and a selection of cocktails and spirits that will take you on a round-the-world tour. Well worth saving for.

Also try its big brother Harry’s Restaurant in Longbrook Street, where Will Young once worked.

Herbies: 15 North Street, EX4 3QS. Tel. 01392 258473. Much loved and very popular veggie restaurant - for good reason.

Wholesome, filling food with a selection of organic wines and beers. The veggie and nut burgers are an excellent beer liner for just under £4.

Boston Tea Party: 84 Queen Street, EX43RP. Tel. 01392 201181. bostonteaparty.co.uk.

Award winning café chain serving outstanding coffee and tea as well as creating delicious, affordable feel-good food sourced from local and ethical suppliers whenever possible.

Ganges Restaurant: 156 Fore Street, EX43AT, Tel. 01392 272630. thegangesrestaurant. com. Despite an unpretentious facade this place is a little gem – inside it’s a thriving tardis with great atmosphere and superb Indian food. This is Exeter’s longest established Indian so book ahead as it’s very popular.

Dinosaur café: 5 New North Road, EX4 4HH. Tel. 01392 490951.Definitely one of the city’s best kept culinary secrets.

The Dinosaur serves the very best of Turkish food but also all day English breakfasts. The

Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery: Queen Street,

EX4 3RX. Tel. 01392 665858. rammuseum.org.uk. Described by architecture heritage TV presenter Dan Cruickshank as an exquisite jewel box of a building, the museum is set to reopen in December 2011 following a multimillion pound development.

Exeter Chiefs: Sandy Park Stadium, Sandy Park Way, EX27NN. Tel. 01392 890890. exeterchiefs.co.uk. In their second season now in the top flight, the Chiefs are the westcountry’s premier rugby union club. Watch them take on the best teams in the country - a student discount is offered with match day tickets from £13-£19.

Dinosaur’s regular mixed salad consists of 9 different salads for less than £7.

BARS The Angel: 32 Queen Street, EX4 3SR. Tel. 01392 432611. The friendly vibes of this Europeanstyle bar and eclectic music puts it in a class of its own. There’s an emphasis on cool, laid back grooves and it stays open nice and late.

Double Locks: Canal Banks, EX26LT. Tel. 01392 256947.

A hidden gem, a mile walk from the main quayside along the tranquil canal. A mecca for students looking for all day drinking, with a huge beer garden and grounds for camping. Plenty of real ales, hearty pub grub and live music.

The Imperial: New North Road, EX4 4AH. Tel. 01392 434050. When the sun shines, students head like lemmings to its expansive beer garden, overlooked by rollin’ Devon hills. Just down the hill from the campus and cheap as chips, it also features the odd beer festival as an added bonus.

Queen Victoria: 32 Queen Tudor Street, EX4 3BR. Tel. 01392 413633. A proper boozer that’s well frequented by the local student population. The dark, woody interior, hearty grub and popular quiz night make this place a home from home.

The Vaults: 8 Gandy Street, Exeter, EX43LS. Tel: 01392 203939. vaultsexeter.co.uk. The only official gay bar in town, open seven nights a week with club nights on Fridays and Saturdays as well as FUSION every Tuesday.

Sunday is Karaoke Night.

NIGHTLIFE

THE DEFILED

THE ZOMBIE HALLOWEEN BALL

VIII www.student365.co.uk

org.uk. A decked terrace area means you can sip a cool cider outside while staying close to all the cultural action. From art displays to community radio station Phonic FM, there’s always something happening.

The Lemon Grove: Cornwall House, St. Germans Road, EX4 6TJ. Tel. 01392 263511. exeterguild.org/ lemon. Venue for indie, rock and grime artists on the rise. The ‘Lemmy’ comes into its own as a late-night venue on Fridays and Saturdays (8pm-2am). Black Veil Brides play on October 7 and King Blues on November 8.

Mama Stones: 1 Mary Archers Street, EX4 3BA. Tel. 01392 848485. mamastones.com.

Run since 2008 by mum of Devon soul singer Joss Stone, this club and Soul food-themed restaurant has established itself as the place for live rhythm and blues and the occasional gig by Joss herself.

CINEMA Picturehouse: 51 Bartholomew Street, EX43AJ. Tel. 0871 902 5730. picturehouses.co.uk.

Independent cinema chain showing mainstream and arthouse pictures. Sells quality drinks and food and also features live music sessions. Concessions available for students.

Odeon: Sidwell Street, EX4 6PL. Tel. 0871 224 4007. odeon.co.uk.

City centre based cinema with four screens. Perfect for relaxing after a shopping spress in Princesshay shopping centre.

THEATRE Northcott Theatre: Stocker Road,

EX44QB. Tel. 01392 439439. exeternorthcott.co.uk. Situated at the heart of the university Streatham Campus, the Northcott offers a diverse range

of productions from dance, drama and comedy to music and the odd guest talk from literary greats. Upcoming shows include comedian Hardeep Singh Kohli (October 9), Beauty and the Beast (October 25-30) and the English Touring Opera (November 16-19).

Bikeshed Theatre: 162/3 Fore Street, EX4 3AT. Tel. 01392 667080. bikeshedtheatre.co.uk.

Quickly becoming the most exciting new cultural venue in Exeter and surrounding area, The Bike Shed Theatre will, this autumn host 27 companies and two brand new in-house productions.

USEFUL INFO Stagecoach: Exeter Bus Station, Paris Street, EX1 1JN. stagecoachbus.com/southwest.

City & Devon-wide destinations, 18-year-olds go cheaper.

National Express: Paris Street, EX1 1JN. nationalexpress.com.

For coaches all over the UK. Gemini: 53A South Street, EX1 11E. Tel. 01392 666666. geminitaxis.com. Local cab company with a number that’s easy to remember.

The Real McCoy: 21 McCoy Arcade, Fore Streetm EX4 3AN. Tel. 013924 10481. therealmccoy. co.uk. Vintage and retro clothing ideal for shabby chic look as well as fancy dress and evening wear.

Book Cycle: 7 West St, EX1 1BB. Tel. 01392 420021. book-cycle. org. A hidden gem that looks like the set of Black Books. It’s a ‘not-for-profit organisation’ which collects unwanted books from donors. And if you find a book you want, simply pay whatever you wish. Half the profits go to developing countries and the other half goes to planting trees around Britain.

WORDS: Chris Watson

Held on October 30 at Exeter Pheonix (Brandninch Place, Gandy Street, EX4 3LS. Tel. 01392 667080. exeterphoenix.org.uk) the Zombie Halloween Ball is a rock and metal bands showcase timed to celebrate the witching hour. Concert is a standing only event though there are plenty of extra events to be found around the Phoenix, as being organised by The Rock Show of Phonic FM. Bands include the hottest new metal act The Defiled supported by Cambion, Cry o Storm and Codex Alimentarius. There will be a pre-show Zombie walk through the city and apple bobbing. Admission is £7.50.

The Cavern Club: 83-84 Queen Street, EX4 3RP. Tel. 01392 495370. cavernclub.co.uk. A rite-of-passage underground club. Skinny-jeaned musicians can often be spotted hovering around the entrance. Indie club every Saturday night and a strong emphasis on hard rock with upcoming gigs including The Answer (October 11), Evile (October 17) and Sensor (November 14).

Timepiece: Little Castle Street, EX4 3PX. Tel. 01392 493096. timepiecenightclub.co.uk. Head up the cobbled hill to a buzzing nightlife sanctuary that offers respite from the city centre. Split into three areas the main dance floor plays indie on Thursdays.

Grab a burger at the end of the night from their outdoor BBQ. Exeter Phoenix: Brandninch Place, Gandy Street, EX4 3LS. Tel. 01392 667080. exeterphoenix.

DOUBLE LOCKS

WORDS: Anna Rutherford

ATTRACTIONS

WHAT’S ON FRESHDIRECTION

Bristol

WALES & WEST BRISTOL ATTRACTIONS M Shed: Wapping Road, Princes

Wharf, BS1 4RN. Tel. 01173 526600. mshed.org. Brand new dockside museum telling the story of the city. From Banksy to Brunel, the free M Shed is the place to brush up on your Bristolians.

Arnolfini: 16 Narrow Quay, BS1 4QA. Tel. 01179 172300. arnolfini. org.uk. Open Tue – Sun, 11am – 6pm. Spacious contemporary arts centre offering films, music, galleries and more. The relaxed bar is a popular hangout with creative types.

Clifton Suspension Bridge: Bridge Road, BS8 4HA. cliftonbridge. org.uk. Bridges generally aren’t exactly thrilling, but with spectacular views over the Avon Gorge, Brunel’s bridge is a landmark students come to know and love.

The Lanes: 22 Nelson Street, BS1 2LE. Tel. 01173 251979. thelanesbristol.co.uk. When the bowling stops, the dancing starts.

This retro venue blends club nights, cocktails, karaoke a pizzeria and a vintage shop with the ten pin experience.

Coombe Dingle Sports Complex:

Coombe Lane, BS9 2BJ. Tel. 01179 626718. bris.ac.uk/sport. Join any of the large sports societies and Coombe Dingle will become a second home. This vast complex is just a short bus ride from the student union.

RESTAURANTS Rocatillos: 1 Queens Row, BS8

WORDS: Chris Watson

WORDS: Anna Rutherford

1EZ. Tel. 01179 297207. Trendy American diner serving the best breakfasts in Bristol. Hungover students swear by the Rocatillos’ full English, Ben & Jerry’s milkshakes and the maple syrup pancakes.

Magic Roll: 3 Queens Row, BS8 1EZ. Tel. 01179 221435. Wrap bar serving lip-smacking combinations of falafel, chicken, bacon and mozzarella with zingy salads and

mango salsa. Students queue ‘til 3am at weekends.

Browns: 38 Queens Road, BS8 1RE. Tel. 01179 304777. brownsrestaurants.co.uk. Think Browns, think parents. Modelled on a Venetian Palace this stylish brasserie with its reliable European menu is perfect for entertaining visitors.

Renatos: 33 King Street, BS1 4EF. Tel. 01179 297712. Nestled next to the Old Vic theatre, this charming Italian bar serves pizzas with your pint. Packed with character and perfect for a pre-clubbing bite.

Jubo Raj: 37B Cotham Hill, BS6 6JY. Tel. 01179 733733. juborajbristol.co.uk. Slap bang in the middle of the student area this Indian restaurant and takeaway is Bristol Uni students’ favourite curry house and offers a 20 per cent discount if you present a student card.

BARS

BRISTOL’S MARITIME HISTORY

Bar 100: University of Bristol

moored so if you start to feel seasick, it’s time to go home.

The Woods: 1 Park Street Avenue, BS1 5LQ. Tel. 01179 250890. Tim Burton-esque bar with antique furniture and spooky stuffed animals. The heated terrace, pitchers and late closing time make this bar a popular last port-of-call.

Student rates and ‘Directors Hall’ upgrades available.

Watershed: 1 Canon’s Road, Harbourside, BS1 5TX. Tel. 01179 275100, watershed.co.uk.

Independent cinema screening the best in world film, also has adjoining bar with harbour views.

NIGHTLIFE

Bristol Old Vic: King Street, BS1 4ED. Tel. 01179 877877. bristololdvic.org.uk. English and drama students in the city are blessed to be near one of the oldest and most prestigious theatres in the UK. Big supporter of local Bristolian drama.

Bristol Hippodrome: St Augustine’s Parade, BS1 4UZ. Tel. 0884 871 3012. bristolhippodrome.org.uk.

Huge venue attracting all the big musicals. The Christmas panto is a favourite ‘guilty pleasure’ of local students - this year it’s Peter Pan and stars former Baywatch star/ German pop star David Hasselhoff.

Student’s Union, Queens Road, BS8 1LN. ubu.org. Revamped and relaxed union bar filled with sofas, pool tables and the cheapest drinks deals around.

It’s the safest student hangout and spacious enough for group socials.

The Hill: 31–34 Cotham Hill, BS6 6JY. Tel. 01179 733793. The best sports bar in the city, with big screens for the lads and cocktails for the ladies. Look out for 2-4-1 pizzas on Tuesdays.

Start the Bus: 7-9 Baldwin Street, BS1 1RU. Tel. 01179 304370. startthebus.tv. Fashionable but friendly music bar featuring the bands and brands of tomorrow.

Adored for its inspired décor, Moshi Moshi vibe, Fruli on tap and retro Sunday markets.

The Apple: Welshback, BS1 4SB. Tel. 01179 253500. applecider. co.uk. Living in Bristol you must sample cider, and this boat’s the best place to start. Just remember that The Apple is

The Bunker: 78 Queens Road, BS8 1QX. Tel. 01179 304604. thebunkerbristol.com. A favourite with freshers and the closest Bristol has to a student club. The music spans dubstep to Gaga and the drinks are cheap.

Motion: 74 –78 Avon Street, St Philips, BS2 0PX. Tel. 01179 723111. motionbristol.com. Skate park by day, heaving dancefloor by night.

Bristol’s hottest club is a bit of a trek from the student areas, but features the best dubstep and dance DJs in the world.

Po Na Na: 67 Queens Road, BS8 1QL. Tel. 01179 256225. bristolponana.com. Laid back, Moroccan-themed venue popular with the Bristol uni crowd.

Fatpoppadaddys every Tuesday is the biggest hip-hop and funk night in town.

Wonky: Basement 45, Frogmore Street, BS1 5NA. clubwonky.com.

Monthly alternative night for LGBT folk and their friends. The mix of cutting edge and classic pop attracts a fashion-conscious but friendly crowd. Second Saturday of every month.

CINEMA Showcase Cinema de Lux: Cabot

BROWNS RESTAURANT

Circus, BS1 3BX. Tel. 0871 220 1000. showcasecinemas.co.uk. The latest releases across 13 screens.

THEATRE

USEFUL INFO Bristol Bus Station: First Travel

Shop, Marlborough Street Bus Station, BS1 3NU. Tel. 0871 200 2233. firstgroup.com/ukbus/ bristol_bath. The number eight and nine buses cover the central student areas, though buses depart for all over the area from this travel shop operated by First Choice buses.

Bristol Temple Meads Rail Station:

BS1 6QF. Tel. 0845 700 0125. firstgreatwestern.co.uk. First Great Western operates most rail services from Bristol, and routes include cities all over the UK including London.

Swiftline Taxis: 181a Hotwell Road, BS8 4SA. Tel. 01179 252626.

Reliable 24-hour taxi service, not

too expensive and recommended by both students unions.

Ryman: 51 Queen’s Road, BS8 1QQ. Tel. 01179 251758. Close to the University Precinct, Ryman offers the best range of stationery, pens and other essential uni need-tohave’s. They also operate a handy 12.5 per cent student discount.

IKEA: Eastgate Centre, BS5 6XX. Tel. 0845 355 2264. Need to outfit your new bedroom? If you’re looking for some cheap, but minimalistically Scandanavian furniture, then there’s only one place to go.

GET ON THE BOAT! Climb aboard the good ship Thekla every Thursday for Pressure, Bristol’s best indie and alternative night. The venue itself is a bit special - a large converted boat moored in the harbour, Thekla comes with a Banksy artwork, regularly features in Skins, and has just been named Best Small Venue by the NME. Standout club night Pressure blends exhilarating live music with the best DJs and signature 2-for-1 drinks. It’s a favourite hang-out for skinny-jeaned students, musicians and indie celebs.

Temper Trap and Yeasayer have partied here, although Plan B was refused entry after his diva-ish VIP demands for champagne.

Highlights of the new term include Pressure’s 2nd birthday event featuring special guest DJs on Thurs 16 November. It’s advisable to get to the boat early as these nights usually sell out. Check out the website (pressuredub.co.uk) for more information or call 01179 293301.

FRESH DIRECTION/ WHAT’S ON AUTUMN 2011 IX

FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Cardiff

WALES & THE WEST CARDIFF CF24 4NH. Tel. 02920 397575.

Friendly, tasty and cheap.

What more do you need? They have eggs any way you want them, full English breakfasts and vanilla french toast. The only problem you get here is choosing what to eat.

BARS The Blackweir Tavern: 35 North

NATIONAL MUSEUM

ATTRACTIONS National Museum: Cathays Park,

CF10 3NP. Tel. 02920 397951.

Opening hours: Tue-Sun, 10am-5pm. A must see for anyone living in Cardiff. With several exhibitions a year as well as the permanent, and priceless, displays the museum is a good way to spend a few spare hours.

Plus it’s all free.

Hollywood Bowl: The Red Dragon Centre, Hemingway Road, CF10 4JY. Tel. 0844 826 1456.

Opening hours: 10am – late. Hit the lanes and see which of you and you’re mates can get the most strikes. Starting from less than a fiver there’s no reason to miss knocking down those pins.

Great idea for birthdays.

Dr Who Exhibition: The Red Dragon Centre, Hemingway Road, CF10 4JY. Tel. 02920 489257. Opening hours: 10.30am-6.30pm. What Dr Who fan could pass up the opportunity to visit this exhibition. Have a picture taken with the Tardis or meet a Dalek – this is one day out not to be missed.

Cardiff Castle: Castle Street, CF10 3RB. Tel. 02920 878100.

Opening: Mar-Oct, 9am-6pm; Nov-Feb, 9am-17pm. You cannot live in Cardiff and not visit the Castle right in the city centre.

It’s not only a good day trip but also holds events such as jousts and cheese festivals.

The Flora: 136 Cathays Terrace, CF24 4HY. Tel. 02920 405038.

Cheap and cheerful. For when the pennies are few but the hunger is hufe. Nice big portions for small prices. Feeling brave?

Try the Hulk Burger Challenge if you think you’re stomach can handle it.

Milgi: 213 City Road, CF24 3JD, Tel. 02920 473150. For the vegetarians. Excellent original food for decent prices. Small snacks or large meals – they have them all and with plenty of variety. Plus the mojitos or any number of delicious cocktails are the perfect compliment to your meal Waterloo Gardens Teahouse: 3 Waterloo Gardens, CF23 5AA. Tel. 02920 911072. For the tea lover this is a must. With dozens of flavours to choose from, it will take you all year to taste everything - though you might as well give it a go. The Oolong Iron Goddess of Mercy and a jam scone is recommended to brighten up any rainy day - or just as an everyday treat.

Road, CF10 3DX. Tel. 02920 34 1405. Mainly student pub near the Talybont student residences.

Excellent menu and drink choice.

Great place for a quiet night down the pub, or the place to start with a pub quiz. Discount card available.

The Woodville: 1-5 Woodville Road, CF24 4DW. Tel. 02920 397859. Your classic student bar. Cheap and cheerful.

Located right by most university buildings – ideal spot to go for an afternoon pint in between class or to hang out all night.

Discount card available.

Varsity: 199-201 Richmond Road, CF24 3AQ. Tel. 02920 484480.

Fancy watching the game with a pint? This is where you should be. With several sports channels on demand, Varsity is the perfect place to settle in, watch the footy with the lads and grab a fantastically cold beer.

The Old Library: Trinity Street, CF10 2BH. Tel. 02920 666566.

Live music and good drinks.

Good old-fashioned pub with a great atmosphere and an ideal place to grab some lunch while shopping or to begin your night out on the town.

Minsky’s Show Bar: Saint Davids Centre, CF10 2GF. Tel. 02920 233128. For a night out with a difference. Minsky’s is the proud home of the best and most outrageous drag artists in Cardiff. Come here to eat, drink and take in a brilliant, fabulous show. Open until late.

NIGHTLIFE: Metros: Bakers Row, CF1 2AL.

Tel. 02920 371549. Dance music not your scene? Metros is the only rock/metal bar in Cardiff.

Wednesday is the best night to go –with drinks starting as cheap as £1.50 and free toast at around 2am. Plus you can keep on rocking out until 4am.

Live Lounge: Queen Street, CF10 2AQ. Tel. 02921 328159. Prefer live music? Live Lounge is the place for you. Huge variety of music and a different band every night – you will get a different experience every time you go. Open until 4am.

Vodka Revolution: 9-11 Castle Street, CF10 1BS. Tel. 02920 236689. Tuesday is the night for Cardiff University students and Wednesday for UWIC students.

Vodka in every shape and form with a dance floor set over two levels – this is the place to end your party-filled night. Open until 2am.

WOW Bar: 4 Churchill Way, CF10 2DW. Tel. 02920 666247.

The most popular LGBT bar in Cardiff. With cheap drinks and a friendly crowd of many ages you will be dancing all night long to the excellent music until the doors close at 2am.

Cardiff University Students’ Union:

Park Place, CF10 3QN. Tel. 02920 781400 cardiffstudents. com. Whether you want to dance until the early hours, chill out in a pub atmosphere or laugh out loud to comedians, the SU has everything to offer with a different club night most nights of the week. NUS discount available for tickets.

CINEMA Cineworld: Mary Ann Street,

CF10 2EN. Tel. 0871 200 2000. cineworld.co.uk. Tuesday is the day to visit this cinema, with tickets being cheaper than a fiver. Shows the biggest and best new Hollywood releases.

Odeon: The Red Dragon Centre, Hemingway Road, CF10 4JY. Tel. 0871 224 4007. theodeon.co.uk.

Why not mix the night up? Go to the cinema, play some ten pin bowling and gamble your savings away at a casino – why not? Here it’s all under one roof.

THEATRE

RESTAURANTS

New Theatre: Park Place, CF10 Mowglis: 151 Crwys Road, CF24

X

CARDIFF CASTLE

www.student365.co.uk

3LN. Tel: 02920 878889. newtheatrecardiff.co.uk.

Whether you want a dramatic, funny or musical night out , this place has it all. Tickets start at £8.50. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat is among the packed schedule for the coming months.

USEFUL INFO Blackwells Book Shop: Cardiff Student Union, Senghenydd Road, CF24 4AZ. Tel: 02920 340673. Opening hours: Mon-Sat, 9am-5.30pm; Sun, 10.30am-4.30pm. Get all the reading materials for your course in a handy uni location.

Cardiff Bus: Customer Service Centre, opposite Central Bus Station, Wood Street.

Tel: 02920 666444. MonFri, 8.30am-5.30pm; Sat, 9am-4.30pm. The first port of call for bus timetables and services in and around Cardiff.

Premier Taxis: Unit 9, Wroughton Place, CF5 4AB. Tel. 02920 555555. Reliable taxi firm who offer a quick, affordable service and even send a text with the car model and license number for guaranteed security.

Cardiff Computers: 114 Whitchurch Road, CF14 3NB. Tel: 02920 611713. MonFri, 9am-5pm For all your computer and software needs.

The staff are friendly, reliable and knowledgeable - perfect if you’ve just lost all your essays because of a catastrophic hard drive malfunction.

WHAT’S ON THIS TERM? Art fans be sure to head down to John Cale’s ‘Dark Days’ exhibition at the National Museum during the coming months. For music lovers there’s Katy Perry hitting Cardiff (Motorpoint Arena, Oct 19) but if punk’s more your thing then catch Bowling For Soup at the Cardiff Student Union (Oct 20). For comedy fans there’s funny man Alan Carr on his Spexy Beast tour (Motorpoint Arena, Oct 20-22) and Bill Bailey bringing his weird genius (Motorpoint Arena, Nov 10). But if you’re feeling spooky around Halloween, then a ‘Ghost Tour’ (St Fagans, Oct 28-30) is sure to excite. Getting closer to Christmas, warm up the vocal chords at Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat (New Theatre, Nov 1-13) before going shopping at ‘Winter Wonderland’ (City Hall, Nov 10-Dec 31). Finally end term with a classic panto - go see Robinson Crusoe and the Caribbean Pirates (New Theatre, Dec 10 – Jan 22).

WORDS: Kay Stevens

4NH. Tel. 02920 343705. Calling Indian food lovers! This is the place to be on a Sunday. For less than £15.00 you can feast on of the most delicious meal deals around. No other place gives a better deal, tastier food or friendlier service

Sherman Cymru: Senghennydd Road, CF24 4YE. Tel: 02920 646901. A theatre with a difference. With a focus on promoting and championing Welsh productions, this is one for humanities students to get involved with whether on stage, behind it or in front of it.

WORDS: Tom Goodwyn

Café Calcio: 145 Crwys Road,

WHAT’S ON FRESHDIRECTION

Oxford

MIDLANDS OXFORD ATTRACTIONS Modern Art Oxford: Pembroke

Street, 0X1 1BP. Tel. 01865 722 733. modernartoxford.co.uk.

Oxford’s most cutting edge art gallery, which has just undergone a major refurb. It hosts exhibitions from some of the world’s most interesting and high profile artists, with new work from John Gerrard and Kerry Tribe set to go display this autumn. Free Entry.

Ashmolean Museum: Beaumont Street, OX1 2PH. Tel. 01865 278 000. ashmolean.org. Oxford’s most famous and prestigious museum is busier than ever after it underwent a top to bottom refurb. Exhibitions of Indian and Japanese art are booked for the winter, alongside the museum’s enormous collection of coins, antiquities, Eastern art and casts, which are always on show.

Bowlplex: Grenoble Road, OX4 4XP. Tel. 01865 714100. bowlplex. co.uk Situated out of town next to Oxford United’s ground, the city’s bowling mecca will let any student have a game of ten pin and a pint for only a fiver on any night of the week.

Cherwell Boathouse: Bardwell Road, OX2 6ST. Tel. 01865 515978. cherwellboathouse.co.uk. It’s an Oxford rite of passage to go punting and the best and most affordable place to do it is at the Cherwell, which is just outside the city centre.

Barton Leisure Centre:

Waynflete Road, OX3 8GA. Tel. 01865 467290. oxford. gov.uk. A swimming pool and gym complex which is a short bus ride away from the middle of town. You can swim from £2.30 and hit the gym for just £3.70 with student ID (it’s even cheaper if you sign up for membership).

RESTAURANTS

WORDS: Kay Stevens

WORDS: Tom Goodwyn

The Nosebag: 6-8 St Michael’s

Street, OX1 2DU. Tel. 01865 203222. Situated a quick dash off the high street, The Nosebag is a top spot for both lunch and afternoon tea. The cakes are amazing, the tea piping hot and nothing will cost you the earth.

Highly recommended.

Combibos: 93 Gloucester Green, OX1 2BU. Tel. 01865 250072. combibos.co.uk. Superb café set in the heart of Gloucester Green square. The Panini’s and the café’s notorious peanut butter cake are not be missed out on.

Mortons: 103-105 Covered Market, OX1 3DY. Tel. 01865 721673. mortonsatwork.co.uk. Locally run sandwich business, which has branches all over the city. Very popular with students. Ideal for a quick bite on the go. Try the great value ‘3 for £3.33’ deal.

RAOULS The Mission: 8 St Michael’s Street, OX1 2DU. Tel. 01865 202016. missionburritos. co.uk. Cantina style Mexican restaurant with an array of salsas and chillies that range from mild to searing. You can eat like a king for under £7 and be full for the rest of the day.

Browns: 5-11, Woodstock Road, OX2 6HA. Tel. 01865 511995. browns-restaurant.com. Browns is a high quality restaurant, set back a few hundred yards from the high street, with a menu full of wholesome treats. The ideal place if the parents are coming to lunch (and they’re paying..).

BARS Jericho Tavern: 56, Walton

Street, OX2 6AE. Tel. 01865 311775. thejericho.co.uk. The best place to catch the finest rising stars in music, with Summer Camp, Visions Of Trees and Cashier No.9 all booked for the months ahead. The Jericho also does superb Sunday roasts too.

The Turf Tavern: 7 Bath Place, OX1 3SU. Tel. 01865 243235. theturftavern.co.uk. One of the oldest pubs in Oxford, the Turf seems to win awards every five minutes for its real ale. Set apart from the city down a cobbled side street, it was here in fact that Bill Clinton famously tried marijuana, but didn’t inhale!

Raoul’s: 32 Walton Street, OX2 6AA. Tel. 01865 553732. raoulsbar.co.uk. Oxford’s snazzier cocktail bar, which boasts a comprehensive menu of extremely alcoholic beverages, and some fancy booze-free ones too.

The Cape Of Good Hope: 1 Iffley Road, OX4 1EA. Tel. 01865 262291. Whether you’re dropping in for the first drink on a night out or a quiet couple of pints, the Cape’s warm atmosphere and wide range of

beers and spirits means it is a versatile venue for all sorts of different people - and students, of course.

Purple Turtle: Frewin Court, OX1 3HZ. Tel. 01865 247007. purpleturtlebar.com. A rough and ready rock’n’roll bar tucked down a town centre side street. Ideal for those who like their music loud and razorsharp. Occasionally they have bands too, but mostly it’s just a jet fuelled jukebox.

NIGHTLIFE O2 Academy Oxford: 190 Cowley

Road, OX4 1UE. Tel. 01865 813500. o2academyoxford.co.uk. Oxford’s main venue for live music, with two rooms inside, one holding just under 1.400 and the other, smaller room holding around 450. Bombay Bicycle Club, Enter Shikari and Professor Green are just some of the acts booked for the winter The Regal: 300 Cowley Road, OX4 1UR. Tel. 01865 241261. the-regal. com. As well as hosting gigs and comedians, the Regal is also one of Oxford’s best nightclubs, with Ministry Of Sound, Warehouse and drum’n’bass kings Hospitality regularly hosting nights at the venue.

The Coven II: Oxpens Road, OX1 1RX. Tel. 01865 242770. Despite the interior resembling a Nordic cave, the Coven is Oxford’s best gay nightclub, with Friday and Saturday night always packed out for a mixture of club classics and chart floor fillers.

Lava! Ignite: Cantay House, OX1 1JD. Tel. 01865 250181. lavaignite. com/oxford. Large scale city centre nightclub which hosts at least two massive student nights each week. Dance, electro and dubstep are usually on the play list, though there’s always a little bit of cheese thrown in. The entry fee is usually £4.50 Bridge Club: 6-9 Hythe Brige Street, OX1 2EW. Tel. 01865

242526. bridgeoxford.co.uk. The closest thing in Oxford to a super club, which also hosts at least two dedicated student nights a week. There’s also an old skool dance and R’N’B double header every single weekend. Entry starts from £3.

CINEMA Odeon: 17 Magdalen Street, OX1 3AE. Tel. 0871 224 4007; 38 George Street, OX1 2BL. odeon. co.uk. Oxford’s Odeon cinema is peculiar in that it’s split into two separate buildings, two full streets apart. George Street is bigger and where you’ll find the blockbusters. Magdalen Street, meanwhile, is smaller with only three screens which focus on artier releases.

Phoenix Picturehouse:

57-58 Walton Street, OX2 6AE. Tel: 0870 758 3218. picturehouses.co.uk The Phoenix is Oxford’s best independent cinema, hosting all the best in art house and non-mainstream releases, as well as special events, like one off screenings and Q&A sessions with directons.

THEATRE Oxford New Theatre: George Street, OX1 2AG. Tel. 01865 320760. newtheatreoxford.org. uk The New Theatre mainly hosts

mainstream productions and one off performances, with ballet, opera and large scale musicals like South Pacific all part of their winter plans.

Oxford Playhouse: 11-12 Beaumont Street, OX1 2LW. Tel. 01865 305300. oxfordplayhouse. com. The more traditional end of theatre in the city, with Shakespeare, Chekhov and Pinter still regularly performed in the 600 seater hall. Students can get in for at least £2 cheaper on all shows.

Burton Taylor Theatre: Gloucester Street, OX1 2BN. Tel. 01865 305 305. oxfordplayhouse.com/ burtontaylor. A 50 capacity venue to the side of the Playhouse, the Burton Taylor is a haven for local drama society and student productions, as well as the smaller touring comedians.

USEFUL INFO BMA Locksmiths: 15 Oxford Road, OX4 2EN. Tel. 01865 714 000.

Oxford’s best locksmith, centrally located with 24 hour call out available.

A Exell Plumbing: Oxford Road, OX3 0PQ. Tel. 01865 242125; 24hr: 0777 929 8030. Reliable plumbers for any sprung leaks or broken showers. If your house is flooding, you know who to summon.

CycloAnalysts: 150 Cowley Road, OX4 1JJ. Tel: 01865 424444. cycloanalysts.com. Bike shop set in the heart of Oxford’s student district, you can hire a bike for a full day from £18. Expert assistance and advice if you’re seeking to get on two wheels.

001 Taxis: 108 St Aldates, OX1 1BU. Tel. 01865 240000. 001taxis.com.

Taxi depot just within staggering distance of the town centre, also very quick for call outs and fairly affordable too.

Blackwell’s Bookshop: 48–51, Broad Street, OX1 3BQ. Tel. 01865 792792. blackwell.co.uk. The largest and most well stocked book shop outside of London, there is seemingly nothing too obscure to not be hidden within this shop’s enormous vault. A treasure trove for book lovers who could get lost for days here.

CHEAP EATS Oxford mainly has two kinds of restaurants - expensive, gourmet eateries and your standard high street chains. However dip down one of Oxford’s many side streets and there are bargains to be found. The best of these is Brothers’ Café (Avenue 3, The Covered Market, OX1 3DY. Tel. 01865249527), upstairs in the city’s busy Covered Market.

A tranquil spot, amid the hustle of the market, it’s the best, most reasonably priced lunch in town. If it’s been a heavy night, then a fry up in Jericho Café (112 Walton Street, OX2 6AJ. Tel. 01865310840. thejerichocafe.co.uk) can kill a hangover dead for under £7. Another steal meal can be found at the News Café (1 Ship Street, OX1 3DA. Tel. 01865242317), which offers cut price bagels and cheap coffee.

FRESH DIRECTION/ WHAT’S ON AUTUMN 2011 XI

FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Birmingham

MIDLANDS BIRMINGHAM

BUSTLING BIRMINGHAM Lord clifden, Art Bar restaurant:

Ackers Leisure centre: Golden Hillock Road, Sparkbrook, B11 2PY. Tel. 01217 725111. ackers-adventure. co.uk/activities. Snowboard, ski, abseil, and practice your archery at this massive indoor leisure centre in the heart of Birmingham.

Perfect for novices or experts or if you just want a great day out with your mates! cadbury World: Linden Road, Bournville, B30 1JR. Tel. 0844 880 7667. 10am – 5.30pm. cadburyworld.co.uk. See a real life Chocolate Factory! (Oompa Loompa’s not included). Take a tour to find out where the magic happens, blow your loan on discounted chocolate and try not to step in any glass elevators!! star city: 32 Watson Road, B7 5SA. Tel. 01213 271140, Opening times vary. starcitycentre.co.uk.

With ten pin bowling, cinema screens, restaurants, golf, gym facilities, indoor climbing and laser quest; its impossible not to find something you’ll enjoy at the world famous Star City.

Bullring shopping centre: Central Birmingham, B5 4BU. Opening hours: Mon-Sat, 10am–8pm; 11am – 5pm Sundays. One of the biggest shopping destinations in Europe. With Restaurants such as Yo Sushi! and Jamie’s Italian, The Bullring doesn’t just offer quality shopping. Look out for catwalk shows, celebrity spot in Selfridges or simply shop in the 160 stores.

Great Hampton Street, Hockley, B18 6AA. thelordclifden.com In the heart of the Jewellery Quarter, this stylish pub offers traditional pub grub, all day Sunday roasts and home made puddings, whilst DJs spin tunes by the outdoor BBQ serving burgers and hotdogs.

Big Wok chinese Buffet: 5 Wrottesley Street. Tel. 01216 666800. bigwok.co.uk/ birmingham.htm. Opening hours: 11am–11.30pm. With a choice of over 80 dishes in its £9.99 buffet spread, eat as much as you can and never be short of choice! Features discounts during the day for lunchtime diners, this bustling restaurant now also serves Japanese sushi.

Moo Baa: 7 Suffolk Street, Queensway, B1 1LT. Tel. 01216 431253. Takeaway and eat in food, cooked fresh on the premises.

Choose from burgers, pizzas and chips all for under a fiver and serving until 4am. Perfect for those post club hunger pangs or for food on the move.

Duet cuisine: Fort Dunlop, Erdington, B24 9FD. Tel. 01217 481234. duetcuisine.co.uk.

Winner of Birmingham’s prestigious ‘Best Balti Award 2011’ this Indian / Italian Fusion restaurant offers fine food at fine prices, with offers throughout the week. Birmingham’s Balti Belt at its best.

rEstAUrAnts

BArs

selly sausage café: Bristol Road, Selly Oak, B25 6AU. Tel. 01214 714664. sellysausage.co.uk.

Opening hours: 8am – 6pm. Fully licensed café owned and run by ex students! Expect tea and toast, full English breakfasts, burgers, pancakes and panini’s. With prices starting from just a quid, this is the perfect student eatery for any time of the day, any appetite and any budget.

the Actress and Bishop: Jewellery Quarter, B3 1EH. Tel. 0121 2367426 theactressandbishop.com. This student friendly bar has drinks offers on all week, DJs playing indie and northern soul and some of the best live talent around at its regular music and comedy nights.

Perfect for an evening out on a budget. the Gun Barrels: Bristol Rd, B5 7SW. Tel. 01214 712672screampubs.

XII www.student365.co.uk

cLUBs/niGHtLiFE Fridays and saturdays @ VUDU:

61 Smallbrook Queensway, B5 4HX. Tel. 01216 430859. Recently relocated Vudu Club comprises three floors of the best Punk, Rock and Metal music out there. With regular theme nights cheap drinks and guest DJs from the biggest bands around, you’ll dance, mosh and drink till the early hours at Vudu. Plus admission is £3 with an NUS card.

HAPPY MonDAYs @ niGHtinGALEs: Essex House,

Kent St, B5 6RD. Tel. 01216 221718. nightingaleclub.co.uk.

Hosted by the fabulously funny Miss Marty, Happy Mondays is one of the best LGBT nightclubs around. Dance the night away with £1 drinks to the best urban dance, music, club anthems and RnB. Plus it’s another venue that charge a concessionary £3 to NUS card holders. saturday nights @ Gatecrasher:

Superstar Boudoir, 182 Broad Street, B15 1DA. Tel. 01216 331520. gatecrasher.com/venues/ birmingham. Dance as the biggest DJs in the world play the finest turntable anthems and club classics every Saturday. Dress to

impress at this stunning 3 floor venue, complete with 14ft mirror ball DJ booth. Flash your NUS ot get in for only £6 and to ensure drinks start at just £2.50.

Wednesdays @ snoBs: 29 Paradise Circus Queensway, B1 2BJ. The Biggest Indie night in Birmingham. Two rooms playing 60s, Indie and Rock, complete with beer vending machines. With Beers, spirits and Mixers from £1, there’s something for everyone at this underground floor filler. £3 concessionary door charge with an NUS card.

Glee club: The Arcadian, B5 4TD. Tel. 0871 472 0400. glee.co.uk/ birmingham. For music, comedy, burlesque and everything in between, get your fix of Glee!

Bringing the most prestigious and talented acts to Birmingham this intimate venue comes complete with Champagne bar and different acts every night. Ticket prices vary per event, check site for details

cinEMAs the Electric: 47–49 Station

Street, B5 4DY, Tel. 01216 43787. theelectric.co.uk. The UK’s oldest working two screen cinema.

Themed movie drinks and snacks and the classic atmosphere ensure this is a night at the movies like no other. Plus NUS card holders can get tickets for just £4.50. the AMc: Broadway Plaza 12, 220 Ladywood Middleway, B16 8LP. Tel. 01214 506800. amccinemas.co.uk/ amc-birmingham. This large 12 screen multiplex shows the latest releases from Hollywood and often does late night showings, for those who like skulking off for a midnight feature. The AMC also operates a student discount for those with an NUS card, so remember to bring it. cineworld: 181 Broad Street, B15 1DA. Tel. 0871 200 2000. cineworld.co.uk. Large bar, 12 screens and plenty of parking if you drive. A fairly standard multiplex, though close to the city

centre so easy to get to. Also do a handy student discount.

tHEAtrEs the Mac: Cannon Hill Park , B12 9QH. Tel. 01214 463232 macarts. co.uk. A multimillion pound site in Cannon Hill, catering to theatre, cinema and the arts. Features an eclectic mix of events over the coming months, including jazz concerts, classical recitals, plays, book readings and comedy from the likes of Arthur Smith. the Alexandra theatre: Station Street, B5 4DS. Tel. 01212 309070. alexandratheatre. org.uk. With everything from Derren Brown to The Wiz, this fun loving theatre has it all.

In the coming months enjoy the best of the West End with Legally Blonde: The Musical and Grease, comedy from top standup’s such as Milton Jones and even opera such as Madame Butterfly.

Birmingham repertory theatre:

Broad Street, B1 2EP. Tel. 01212 364455 birmingham-rep.co.uk.

The Rep offers student work placements, volunteering posts and workshops as well as award winning shows. If you’re coming to Birmingham to study drama or english, then getting involved with The Rep is a good idea.

UsEFUL inFo Birmingham new street station:

New Street, B2 4ND. Tel. 0845 748 4950.nationalrailco.uk Birmingham’s main rail station, serving routes all over the country.

Check out the National Rail website for timetables and fares.

Wherever you’re travelling be sure to keep your student card and NUS card handy for discounts.

A2B taxis: Unit 6, Stirling Road, Shirley, Solihull, B90 4NE. Tel. 01217 333000. a2bradiocars. com. Birmingham’s biggest taxi company with over 400 cars available. Reliable service for call outs all over the city.

CONTINENTAL CHRISTMAS IN THE HEART OF BIRMINGHAM the Frankfurt christmas Market (new street, Victoria and chamberlain squares. christmasmarkets.com/UK/birmingham-christmas-market.html) runs from nov 17 until Dec 23 and is open from 10am to 9pm daily. it is one of the most anticipated events in Birmingham - with the streets decorated completely in christmas lights, the market’s 200 stands of arts, crafts, clothes and gifts are the perfect place to do some christmas shopping. With independent jewellers and fashion stores hosting special stores here for a limited time only, you can find something truly unique on a budget. once you’ve finished shopping, stick around and try some delicious Glühwein (hot mulled wine with spirits), an extra large wheat beer or a spicy frankfurter hot dog followed by chocolate covered fruit in one of the decorative wooden chalets dotted around chamberlain square. With traditional fairground rides such as helter skelters and Victorian merry-go-rounds, the markets are always busy, always buzzing and always brilliant fun, no matter what your budget. Don’t just go once - make sure you go back and sample everything the markets have to offer.

WORDS: Lara Coffey

AttrActions

co.uk/thegunbarrelsbirmingham.

Set in the heart of the student village of Selly Oak, this SCREAM bar hosts regular quiz nights, cheap food and drink. A big student favourite, it also features huge plasma screens for sports and a beer garden so it has everything needed for a great night. the Victoria: 48 John Bright St, B1 1BN. Tel. 01216 339439. thevictoriabirmingham.co.uk Come sample the best cocktails and vibes Birmingham has to offer. With professional mixologists serving up cocktails and imported lagers from around the world, an exclusive ‘Soul Food’ menu and eclectic music, The Victoria is as unique as it gets.

Eden: 116 Sherlock Street, B5 6NB. Tel. 01216 221953. theedenbar. co.uk.Friendly, stylish, late opening LGBT Bar, Eden puts on some of the best nights in Birmingham.

With impressive drinks and constantly great events it’s easy to see why. Voted one of Birmingham’s best gay bars in 2010, it’s a party must.

Walkabout: 266-271 Broad Street ,B1 2DS. Tel. 01216 325712. walkabout.eu.com/venues/ Walkabout-Birmingham. Calling all sports fans! Walkabout, an Australian pub with a big attitude, shows all the big games on SKY in HD and sometimes 3D. This sports bar is always packed due to its great atmosphere. Cheap beer and food offers available with a Boomerang Card.

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Trains leave every 20 minutes Monday to Friday 9am-4pm and Saturday 7am-6pm, hourly on Sundays.

FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Nottingham

Leicester

MIDLANDS NOTTINGHAM / LEICESTER AttrActioNs Nottingham contemporary:

Weekday Cross, NG1 2GB. Tel. 01159 489750. nottinghamcontemporary. org. Who ever said art was dull obviously never visited this vibrant gallery in the heart of Nottingham. When day falls to night they often host some top music nights. twycross Zoo: Burton Road, Atherstone, CV9 3PX. Tel. 01827 880250. twycrosszoo.com.

Zoos remind us of tigers, which reminds us of The Hangover, which is probably what you will be heading to Twycross with; we all know the best outing choices are made after a night out.

Expect cute Snow Leopards and giggles at randy monkeys.

Quaser Elite: Cranbrook Street, NG1 1ER. Tel. 01159 589178. laserarena.co.uk. Turning the lights off and getting ready to do battle is standard procedure after a night in the union, but getting your mates together and replicating a scene from Tron is up there on the fun-o-meter. Let battle commence!

National space centre:

Exploration Drive, LE4 5NS. Tel. 01162 610261. spacecentre. co.uk Remember those lame school trips which you had to go on, but secretly loved? Well now you can recreate that fun as a fully grown, erm, student.

Catch the Aliens anniversary on the September 24 and 25 (Sigourney Weaver not included).

rEstAurANts royal clay oven: 21 Goose Gate,

NG1 1FE. Tel. 01159 505070. royalclayoven.co.uk. Kebabs and nights out go together like students and work avoidance.

So why not marry the two and get stuck in to the tastiest take away Nottingham has to offer. It gets so busy you may even pull if you struck out in club.

Jam café: 12 Heathcoat Street, NG1 3AA. Tel. 01154 83566. jamcafe.info. Ever wondered why the Friends gang were obsessed with Central Perk?

Step in to the Jam Café and you might find out. A hidden gem in the centre of the city, offering a laid back vibe and

some astonishing live mid-week musicians.

Bar De Nada: 43 Broad Street, NG1 3AP. Tel. 01159 881199. bardenada.co.uk. If beans on toast becomes too much to take, then Bar De Nada can offer you a Be-tox, with lush tapas in a chilled and funky atmosphere.

Leave the tin opener at home.

Eataway: 75 Churchgate, LE1 3AN. Tel. 01162 230555. eataway.co.uk. The words ‘all you can eat’ are music to student’s ears, so tune in and head down to this delicious Oriental buffet.

Stretchy joggers optional.

Fat cats: 41 Belvoir Street, LE1 6SL. Tel. 01162 553610. fatcatcafebars.co.uk. Get glammed up for a trendy night on the tiles, with 2-4-1 cocktails and the odd ladies night thrown in. Then head back to the scene of the crime for the weekend recovery service, complete with endless coffee and chilled music.

Hey they might even still have your dignity behind the bar.

BArs Propaganda: Broadway, The Lace Market, NG1 1PS. Tel. 01159 502727. propagandanottingham. co.uk. Nottingham’s newest gay bar in the uber stylish Lace Market offers wallet friendly drink prices, regular themed evenings and an atmosphere to rival any club. Get your sequins and meet us by the DJ booth.

Baa Bar: 17-19 Goosegate, NG1 1FE. Tel. 01159 585573. baabar. co.uk. Willy Wonkas wacky imagination meets an episode of Skins; we’re talking quirky interiors fused with out of this world shots, and enough bodies to allow you to crowd surf over to the loos. cucamara cocktail Bar: Hurts Yard, NG1 6JD. Tel. 07947 689925. cucamara.com.

Nottingham’s original cocktail and tequila bar is the only place to start your night out. Cramped at times, but a phenomenal atmosphere, and a great chance to witness people’s faces as they sample the dreaded Leg Wobbler cocktail. the Loaded Dog: 114 London Road, LE2 1ED. Tel. 01162 549356. screampubs.co.uk/ theloadeddogleicester. The only pub where burgers and beer

EVENTS TO HELP FIGHT OFF THE COLD

XIV www.student365.co.uk

Night LiFE Ng1: 76-78 Lower Parliament Street, NG1 1EH. Tel. 01159 9502727. ng1club.co.uk. Go on now, go - walk through the door, welcome to NG1, you’ll be coming back for more. Trust us when we say the music is cheesy, the clientele are camper than Christmas and during term time everyone comes out here to play.

Pitcher & Piano: 18 High Pavement, NG1 1HN. Tel. 01159 586081. pitcherandpiano. com. There’s something not quite right about drinking in a converted church, but who are we to preach? One of Nottingham’s most happening bars and the perfect place at start a night on the town. rock city: 8 Talbot Street, NG1 5GG. Tel. 01159 506547. rock-city.co.uk. If rocking to indie anthems one minute and re-enacting the Hoff running to the Baywatch theme the next sounds like your kind of bag, then Rock City is the place for you. Keep an eye out for big bands playing across the autumn and winter months.

Liquid Night club: 97 Church Gate, LE1 3AN. Tel. 01162 619553. liquidclubs.com/leicester.

Cheesy, cheap and cheerful; Liquid does exactly what it says on the tin, and Monday nights are the place to be for fancy dress, frolics and falling all over the place to the top ten tunes.

Great fun, vibrant place.

the Emporium: 67 Belvoir

Road, Coalville, LE67 3PD. theemporium.co.uk. For those who have serious Ibiza blues, The Emporium is the place for you.

It cannot promise you warmth, sexy dancers or a pint of vodka and Red Bull for no money, but the funky house vibe is enough to take you back to the White Isle.

ciNEmA cineworld: The Cornerhouse,

29 Foreman Street, NG1 4AA. Tel. 0871 200 2000. cineworld. co.uk. With 12 screens and more ice cream on offer than Mr Whippy has seen in a lifetime, The Cornerhouse Cineworld is the place to be when you should probably be revising.

Broadway: 14-18 Broad Street, NG1 3AL. Tel. 01159 526611. broadway.org. If overpriced coke and popcorn isn’t your thing, then the Broadway should be.

Not just a cinema but a café, bar and entertainment venue. They recently turned 21, which is all the more reason to get yourself down there and celebrate!

Vue: Meridian Leisure Park, Lubbesthorpe Way, Braunstone, LE19 1JZ. Tel. 0871 224 0240. myvue.com. Use that halls buddy taxi service to whisk you and your mates away to Vue Cinema. A hugely popular chain, with the Leicester branch showing all the usual blockbusters and big screen smashes.

thEAtrE Nottingham Playhouse: Wellington

Circus, NG1 5AF. Tel. 01159 474361. nottinghamplayhouse. co.uk. Instantly recognisable with the giant wok like structure outside, The Playhouse never fails to cook up top notch plays, comedy shows and, of course, Kenneth Allan Taylor’s infamous Pantos.

Nottingham theatre royal:

Theatre Square, NG1 5ND. Tel. 01159 895555. royalcentrenottingham.co.uk. Student

life can be full of drama, but sometimes it’s nice to watch it on a stage rather than in your own living room. Catch Jason Manford, post scandal, on October 7 and 8 for £20. curve theatre: Rutland Street, LE1 1SB. Tel. 01162 423560. curveonline.co.uk. Billed as a place for exciting, diverse and inspiring theatre, Curve never fails to disappoint. Get the feel of London, without the crowded tubes, and catch Blood Brothers from November 14-19.

usEFuL iNFo Nottingham city transport: Tel. 01159 506070. nctx.co.uk.

Local and national bus service information for the Nottingham area. club taxis: Tel. 0116 231 3001. clubtaxi.co.uk . Unfortunately they do not offer a night club experience in a taxi, but they do offer you a comfortable, reasonable and jolly journey after a night of John Travolta dancing. st margeret’s Bus station: Gravel Street, LE1 3AG. Tel. 0871 781 8181. nationalexpress.co.uk Leicester’s main bus station, local and national services are hosted from here.

STILL WANT MORE? if the alternative house scene is your thing, then check out the interlude. they aim to bring you club nights like never before. in partnership with fashion giants superfly, their launch party is on sept 24 with tickets just £5. or if you’re tired of fake laughing at your housemates’ jokes head to the Fosters comedy Nights at highlight comedy club in Leicester, with tickets only £4.

And if you really want to feel the cold while busting moves then Nottingham ice Arena has club nights every Friday from 7.30pm-10.30pm for only £6.

WORDS: Kelly Holgate

going out is the new staying in this autumn/winter, so wrap up warm and get set for a social life hotter than a flaming sambuca.

Nottingham’s home grown indie band Dog is Dead play rock city ( Dec 17) with tickets only £7.50. But if you feel like getting loud and taking that umbrella-ella indoors, then rihanna plays the capital Fm Arena on November 22, tickets £39.50.

ROCK CITY, NOTTINGHAM

meet banter and big nights out. With everything from pub quizzes to cheap drinks, this is the place to be before, after and during any night out.

Fire Bug: 1 Millstone Lane, LE1 5JN. Tel. 01162 551228. firebugbar.co.uk. Hot sounds and bugging beats, Fire Bug is the place for live music, and sees a mix of students and professionals amongst the bar dwellers - they relive their uni days and we get a glimpse of dreaded life to come.

WE KNOW WE’RE NOT THAT SEXY, BUT WHEN IT COMES TO STUDENT TRAVEL...

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FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Derby

Wolves

Warwick

MIDLANDS DERBY / WOLVES / WARWICK ATTRACTIONS Derby Gaol: 50-51 Friar Gate,

DE1 1DF. Tel. 0800 027 7928. derbygaol.com. Opening hours: Sat, 11am-6pm. One of the most haunted places in the country, the jail was featured on Living TV’s Most Haunted in 2002. Take part in an overnight vigil including a ouji board and séance session if you’re brave enough.

Derby Rollerworld: Mansfield Rd, DE21 4AW. Tel. 01332 345828. derbyrollerworld.co.uk. Located just outside the city centre, this 3,000 capacity venue boasts the largest maple floored rink in the UK. Don’t know how to skate? Just turn up at their skate sessions on Monday’s and Saturday’s.

Warwick Castle: Warwickshire CV34 4QU. Tel. 0870 442 2000. warwick-castle.com. Dating back to 1086, the castle was built by William the Conqueror and has evolved over its 1,100 year history.

Keep an eye open for year round events including dungeon tours, ghost walks and a Halloween spectacular.

Heritage Motor Centre: Banbury Road, CV35 0BJ. Tel. 01926 641 188. heritage-motor-centre.co.uk.

Open daily 10am-5pm. A must see for fans of cars both modern and classic, the Heritage Motor Centre has cars including the first Mini ever produced as well as the FAB1 from the Thunderbirds movie, rally cars and a Rolls Royce Phantom.

WALK THIS WAY...

Bilston, West Midlands, WV14 7LU. Tel. 01902 552507. wolverhamptonart.org.uk/bilston.

The largest dedicated craft venue in the West Midlands, visitors can see exhibitions featuring the best in contemporary ceramics, glass, jewellery, textiles, metalwork and woodwork as well as join in with workshops covering everything from sheepskin slipper making to jewellery.

RESTAURANTS Robbie’s Restaurant: 74 Smith St,

CV34 4HU. Tel. 01926 400470. robbiesrestaurant.co.uk. Located in a 15th Century Grade Two listed timber building on one of the oldest streets in Warwick, Robbie’s serves international cuisine. With a seasonal menu that changes every six weeks, check out the two course menu at £15.50.

Warwick Spice: 24 Smith Street, CV34 4HS. Tel. 01926 491736. warwickspice.co.uk. Opening hours: 5.30pm-11.30pm. Award winning Indian and Bangladeshi restaurant Warwick Spice serves a huge variety of dishes from the region and occasionally holds Elvis nights for diners.

Take advantage of a 10 per cent discount on takeaway orders and free delivery on orders over £15.

The Crown: Wergs Rd, WV6 9BP. Tel. 01902 753634. thecrownwergs.co.uk. Open daily from 11am. This country pub is steeped in local history and the historic Battle of Tettenhall took place here. Today, it serves modern British food with Mediterranean influences. For meals on a budget that don’t scrimp on glamour try the two course fixed menu for just £12.50.

Caffe Grazia: 63 St Peters Street, DE1 2AB. Tel. 01332 297630. caffegrazia.com. Located opposite picturesque St Peter’s Church, sit outside and people watch whilst enjoying a freshly made coffee.

For some cerebral stimulation, ask to join the book club and you never know who you might meet.

Madame Clark’s: 4-5 King Street, WV1 1ST. Tel. 01902 569191. madamclarks.co.uk. A traditional, waitress served coffee shop, Madam Clark’s serves the largest selection of teas and coffees in Wolverhampton. The building has a long and colourful past, having once been regularly frequented by ladies of the night.

SMACK, LEAMINGTON SPA JJ’s: The Sky Dome, Croft

Road, Coventry, Warwickshire, CV1 3AZ. Tel. 02476 555913. jjsnightclub.com. The place to be on Tuesday night, check out JJ’s for mayhem, games, cheap drinks and some of the best music around including the best in mainstream dance and electro, R’n’B & indie. Drinks offers start at £1.50.

Smack: 9 Tavistock Street, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, CV32 5PJ. Tel. 01926 422223. trysmack.co.uk. Popular on Tuesday’s, when entry is £5 and drinks are reasonable, and Saturday’s. One of the coolest interiors around. Check out the Banksy and graffiti art whilst you’re there.

Gorgeous: 34 - 36 School Street, WV1 4LF. Tel. 01902 427247,

The Blue Note: 14A Sadler Gate, DE1 3NF. Tel. 01332 295115, thebluenotederby.

The Light House: The Chubb

Walkabout: 9-11 Market Place, DE1

XVI www.student365.co.uk

NIGHTLIFE

com. Where many students end up on a Wednesday night after Walkabout, The Blue Note offers free entry Monday to Thursday and most drinks are just £2.50.

Syn: 27 Colyear Street, DE1 1LA. Tel. 01332 332569. syn-derby. co.uk. A hit with the trendy crowd, Syn is busy on Monday’s when student night Gossip offers drink deals, dance tunes and even a celebrity line up. With four rooms, three dancefloors and six bars there’s something for everyone.

Kasbah: Primrose Hill Street, Coventry, West Midlands CV1 5LY. Tel. 02476 554473. kasbahnightclub.com. One of the most popular venues in Coventry, Monday nights are Poptastic. With three rooms playing three styles (chart, in the main room, live music in the side room and urban vibes in the globe bar) and drinks starting at 80p, it’s also a live music venue hosting names such as CSS and Ms Dynamite.

Wolverhampton Civic Hall: North St, WV1 1RQ. Tel. 0870 320 7000. wolvescivic.co.uk. One of the region’s largest music venues, the Civic hosts some of the UK’s biggest singers, comedians and dancers.

Russell Kane, Adele, Hard Fi and James Morrison are just some of the acts to come to Wolverhampton this Autumn.

CINEMA

BARS 3QE. Tel. 01332 292172. walkabout. eu.com. A popular place to end up on evenings, it regularly holds student nights and drinks promos including the famous Mukky Duck night where drinks start at £1.50.

gorgeousbar.co.uk. Set over two floors, Gorgeous offers Wolverhampton’s biggest gay night out. Swing by on a Thursday when £5 entry will get you 99p drinks all night.

Royal London: 4-6 Wulfrana Street, WV1 1LX. Tel. 01902 795761. screampubs.co.uk/ theroyallondonwolverhampton.

Part of the student friendly Scream chain, ask for a Yellow Card to get the best deals on drinks all day, every day. A great venue for sports lovers, there are plenty of big screen sports events shown all year.

BEVERLEY KNIGHT

Buildings, Fryer Street, WV1 1HT. Tel. 01902 716055, light-house. co.uk. One of the UK’s few remaining independent cinemas, tends to show arthouse and indie movies.Catch a film on Student Monday’s for just £3.

Showcase Cinema: Foresters Park, Osmaston Park Road, DE23 8AG. Tel. 0871 220 1000.

WORDS: Alev Dervish

Find your feet and explore the city during the Derby Walking Festival (Sept 17-Oct 15, visitderby.co.uk/ derbywalkingfestival) and maybe even join a ghost walk if you think you won’t be spooked. For something more challenging take part in the High Peak Trail Winter Challenge Hike and support the British Heart Foundation (Nov 29. Tel. 08001693672). Brush up on your Shakespeare and take in his dark play Macbeth in nearby Stratford at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre (until Nov 5. Tel. 08448001110) and enjoy special discounts and special offers by signing up to the RSC Key. Whilst you’re in Stratford, why not see Fleetwood Bac, the UK’s first Fleetwod Mac tribute band play live at Cox’s Yard (Oct 22. Tel. 01789404600).

And if you fancy a flutter visit Wolverhampton Racecourse (Tel. 01902390000) or support your local team and see Wolverhampton Wanderers play Chelsea (Nov 26, Tel. 0871222 2220).

Bilston Craft Gallery: Mt Pleasant,

Derby

Wolves

Warwick

WHAT’S ON FRESHDIRECTION

MIDLANDS DERBY / WOLVES /WARWICK showcasecinemas.co.uk. Showing the biggest films on general release, Showcase Cinema offers free parking and student discounts.

Warwick Arts Centre: University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, Coventry, West Midlands,CV4 7AL. Tel. 02476 524524. warwickartscentre.co.uk. Showing films all year round, the Centre is an arts and culture venue hosting plays, art exhibitions and comedy nights.

THEATRE Derby Theatre: 15 Theatre Walk,

Eagle Centre, DE1 2NF. Tel. 01332 255800. derbytheatre. co.uk. Part of the University of Derby, the community and learning theatre shows well known and cutting edge modern plays. Any drama students can get involved.

Bridge House Theatre: Myton Road, Warwick, CV34 6PP. Tel. 01926 776438. www. bridgehousetheatre.co.uk.

A fully licensed venue, the Bridge House shows opera, theatre, musicals and dance productions. Contact the venue for details of discounts.

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre:

Lichfield Street, WV1 1DE. Tel. 01902 573300. grandtheatre. info. Set within a Grade II listed building, the Grand holds regular performances of classics and family favourites such as Madame Butterfly, Annie and Snow White at Christmas.

USEFUL inFo network West Midlands: Centro,

Centro House, 16 Summer Lane, B19 3SD. Tel. 0871 200 2233. networkwestmidlands.com.

Connecting the region’s buses, trains and metro, Network West Midlands operates buses from Wolverhampton to Birmingham and beyond.

Arriva Midlands: Tel. 0871 200 2233. arrivabus.co.uk.students.

Arriva buses are giving away 10 per cent Student Saver tickets when you buy online. Plus go to their website to enter a competition to win one of four iPad2’s Stagecoach, Warwick: Stagecoach Midlands, Rothersthorpe Avenue, Northampton, NN4 8UT. Tel. 0845 600 1314. stagecoachbus. com. Perfect for students

WEIGH-IN FOR A WINNING NIGHT

travelling across Warwick, Warwick University, Leamington, Kenilworth and Coventry. Be sure to ask for the Unirider to save a bundle on the price of a ticket.

Etta Plumbing and Heating Services:

Unit 28, Osmaston Road Business Park, Osmaston Road, DE23 8LD. Tel. 01332 204533, ettaplumbing.co.uk. If you find yourself in hot water, contact Etta Plumbing for a free estimate. It’ll keep your head above the flood..

Western Cars Derby: 60 Osmaston Road, DE1 2HZ. Tel. 01332 331331. westerncars-derby.co.uk. Quick and affordable cab service for Derby and around the Midlands.

Central Taxis: 37-38 Thornley Street, WV1 1JP. Tel. 01902 575757. centraltaxis.uk.com. Serving Wolverhapton and it’s area, these guys do quick call out’s and are handy for getting about town when you’re in a hurry.

Express Lock Services, Warwick:

Birmingham Road, CV34 5RH. Tel. 01926 827844. locksmithswarwick.co.uk.

Offering a round the clock service with no call out charges.

And you may just need a locksmith if you’ve had a end up losing your keys.

DUNGEONS AFTER DARK AT WARWICK CASTLE

FIND A TRACK AT www.gbgb.org.uk

WORDS: Alev Dervish

2009 Derby champion Kinda Ready

FRESH DIRECTION/ WHAT’S ON AUTUMN 2011 XVII

FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Manchester

NORTH WEST MANCHESTER on your dancing shoes, and strut the night away!

Tiger Tiger: The Printworks, 27, Withy Grove, M4 2BS. Tel. 01613 858080. tigertiger-manch. co.uk. Every Monday plays host to a student night at Tiger - six separate bars make sure you’re never going thirsty, with different styles in each to keep you entertained.

AXM: 100 Bloom Street, M1 3LY. Tel. 01612 281666. axmgroup. co.uk. AXM is one of Manchester’s biggest gay night clubs in the heart of the world famous Gay Village district, and hosts some of the biggest parties around.

MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY

ATTRACTIONS Manchester United Museum & Tour:

Sir Matt Busby Way, M16 0RA. Tel. 01618 688000. websales. omniticket.com/muf. Opening hours: 9.30am-5pm. From one of the world’s most famous football clubs comes an experience that any avid football fan would be stupid to miss!

Museum of Science & Industry:

Liverpool Road, Castlefield, M3 4FP. Tel. 01618 322244. mosi.org. uk. Opening hours: 10am-5pm.

Renowned for its outstanding exhibits, this museum is a must for anyone wishing to exercise their brain cells!

The Wheel of Manchester:

Exchange Square, M4 3TR. Tel. 01618 319918. Opening hours: Mon-Thur, 10am-9pm; Fri-Sat, 10am-12am; Sun, 10am-7pm.

Up and away in one of 42 airconditioned capsules which takes you 60 metres high. An excellent way to view the city.

Chinatown: Faulkner Street, M1 4FE. manchester.com/community/ chinatown. Chinatown is arguably one of the most vibrant and exciting areas that Manchester has to offer, with many restaurants, clubs and casinos for you to experience.

Ardwick Leisure Centre: Stockport Road, M12 4NE. Tel. 01612 728076. Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 9am-10pm; Sat-Sun, 10am-4pm.

If sports are your thing, this multi-purpose sports hall is perfect, offering activities such as basketball and five-a-side football.

RESTAURANTS

BARS The Union Bar: Oxford Road, M13 9PR. Tel. 01612 752930. Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 11am-11pm; Sat, 7pm-11pm; Sun, 7pm-10.30pm. An obvious favourite for students.

Gather your mates to unwind together after a hard day, or use it as a workspace to get stuck-in before your next deadline.

Bar Odder: 14 Oxford Road, M1 5QA. Tel. 0871 230 3662. oddbar.co.uk/ odder/. Opening hours: Sun-Wed, 12pm-12am; Fri-Sat, 12pm-2am; Sun, 7pm-10.30pm. A unique gem located in the heart of Manchester, popular with many students and socialites. A must-visit location.

Pure Space: 11-13 New Wakefield Street, M1 5NP. Tel. 0871 230 5319. purespacecafebar.co.uk. Opening hours: Mon-Sun, 12pm-late. Three floors of tasty cocktails, a host of different music and a party vibe other bars envy. Perfect for a night out.

PUBS The Briton’s Protection: 50 Great

Bridgewater Street, Manchester M1 5LE. Tel. 0871 230 2210.

XVIII www.student365.co.uk

Opening hours: Mon-Thu, 11am-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-12am; Sun 12pm-11pm. Voted Manchester’s best pub of 2009 and 2010, The Briton’s Protection boasts an enormous whisky collection and a very comfortable atmosphere.

The Old Nag’s Head: Jackson’s Row, off Deansgate. M2 5WD. Tel. 01618 324315. old-nags-head. co.uk. Opening hours: Mon-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 12pm-8pm. One of Manchester’s busiest pubs and an award winner which was used regularly in the tv series ‘Cold Feet’.

Odeon: The Printworks, 27 Withy

NIGHTLIFE

Grove, M4 2BS. Tel. 0871 224 4007. odeon.co.uk. Opening hours: Mon-Thur, 10.30am-10pm; Fri-Sat, 10.30am-12am; Sun, 10.30am-10pm. With multiple screens including an IMAX theatre, the Odeon is a fantastic place to go to watch the latest movie releases.

AMC: AMC Great Northern 16, 253 Deansgate, M3 4EN. Tel. 01618 173000. amccinemas.co.uk/ amc-manchester. If you’ve only a little cash in your pocket, AMC is definitely the best choice of cinema around.

The Manchester Evening News Arena:

THEATRE

Victoria Station, M3 1AR. Tel. 0844 847 8000. men-arena.com/index. php. The M.E.N. Arena is currently the largest indoor arena in Europe, with a capacity of 21,000 and has played host to some of the biggest names in the world.

Manchester Academy: Manchester Academy, 1 Oxford Road, M13 9PR. Tel. 01612 752930. manchesteracademy.net/index. html. For a more intimate venue, Manchester Academy is the place to go for all the newest names in the music business.

CLUBS Birdcage: Withy Grove, M4 3AQ.

Tel. 0845 603 6950, birdcagelive. com. Student nights at Birdcage are always a good time, every Wednesday from 10pm. Just get

The Palace Theatre: Oxford Street, M1 6FT. Tel. 01612 456600. manchestertheatres.com/ palacetheatre.htm. The Palace Theatre plays host to some of Britain’s best musical theatre productions and some of the biggest names in the industry.

The Lowry Theatre: Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ. Tel. 0870 787 5780. thelowry.com. Elegant and vibrant, The Lowry Theatre is a great place to unwind and treat yourself to a fantastic night seeing one of the exciting productions on offer.

The Opera House: Quay Street, Manchester, M3 3HP. Tel. 01618 281700 manchesteroperahouse. org.uk. Many make The Opera House a stop on their tours to treat audiences with great

ROCKY HORROR TRIBUTE SHOW Manchester’s very own Birdcage (Withy Grove, M4 3AQ. Tel. 0845 603 6950. birdcagelive.com) is to play host for one night only to what is going to be an astounding Rocky Horror Picture Show Tribute on Sunday October 30! The Halloween special will open its doors at 8pm and is sure to go on late into the night. Some of the best drag queens from all over the country will come together for this special event, and with tickets at only £10 per person for reserved seating, or £8 per person for a queue jump, it’d be scandalous to miss.

Not only that, but get your fishnet tights and high heels at the ready, because the three best costumes will grant their owners a free bottle of Moet. All bookings can be made over the phone on 0845 603 6950.

USEFUL INFO FIRST Buses: Wallshaw Street,

Oldham, OL1 3TR. Tel. 0845 788 1155. firstgroup.com/ukbus/ greater_manchester. Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm.

Granting easy access throughout the whole of the city, FIRST buses are a sure fire way to get to where you need to go in Manchester and beyond.

Arriva North West: 73 Ormskirk Road, Aintree, Liverpool L9 5AE. arrivabus.co.uk.students. Arriva buses are giving away 10 per cent Student Saver tickets when you buy online. Plus go to their website to enter a competition to win one of four iPad2’s Manchester Piccadilly: Fairfield Street, M60 7RA. Tel. 01618 207579. networkrail.co.uk.

Manchester’s principal railway station, with 12 platforms and over 28 million people using the station each year. Routes to every major city in the UK. Manchester Victoria: Todd Street, M3 1PB. Tel. 0845 000 0125. northernrail.org. Another of Manchester’s bustling rail stations.

Extremely popular, Victoria is used by thousands of people daily to get to many different locations all over the UK and runs numerous local and national services.

GML Locksmiths: 399 Hollins Road, Greater Manchester, 0L8 3BD. Tel. 01616 223938. gmlocks.co.uk.

Get locked out of the office? Then you’re going to want to call these guys, a 24 hours locksmith service.

They could be the difference between sleeping rough after losing your keys and actually getting back into the house.

Fast Fix: Advantage Business Centre, 132-134 Great Ancoats Street, M4 6DE. Tel. 0800 781 7890. fastfixservices.co.uk. If you need a broken toilet, backed-up sink or leaky pipe fixed in no time, then best to try these guys.

They also do an emergency 24hr call-out service which is handy if you get home in the middle of the night to find your house has completely flooded.

StreetCars: 29-31 Sackville Street, M1 3LZ. Tel. 01612 287878. streetcarsmanchester. co.uk. Much cheaper than the black cabs scattered around Manchester, and an extra 10 per cent off for all students!

Bargain!

Radio Cars: 59 Whitworth Street West, M1 5WW. Tel. 01612368033. radiocarsmanchester.co.uk. A popular, cheap and cheerful service that many students use frequently to save a bit of money. Quick and reliable.

WORDS: Dan Falconer

University V Grills: 12 Precinct Centre, Oxford Road, M13 9RN. Tel. 01612 732551. Let’s face it – we all love a greasy fry-up, and this café is said to provide one of the best in the city.

Starbucks: 1-5 Oxford Road, M1 6EY. Tel. 01612 736394. starbucks.co.uk. Opening hours: 7am-7pm. The largest coffeehouse company in the world is sure to prepare you

CINEMA for the day with one of its exceptional drinks or snacks.

SHLURP! Soup Bar: Unit 2, Brazennose Street, M2 5BP. Tel. 01618 395199. shlurp. co.uk. Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 7.30am-3pm. Eat-in or take-away from a high quality, freshly prepared soup bar. Shlurp!

Pizza Express: The Triangle, Exchange Square, M4 3TR. Tel. 01618 346130. pizzaexpress. com. Opening hours: MonWed, 11.30am-11pm; ThuSat, 11.30am-11.30pm; Sun, 11.30am-10.30pm. Provides perfect Italian food with a relaxed, upmarket atmosphere. Also available to take-away.

KRO2: Oxford House, Oxford Road, M1 7ED. Tel. 01612 361048. kro.co.uk. Both a Danish restaurant and bar, KRO2 offers food, drink and an amazing night out.

shows from musicians, psychics, magicians and much more

WE KNOW WE’RE NOT THAT SEXY, BUT WHEN IT COMES TO STUDENT TRAVEL...

2 d a P an i

the For

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e to c n a ch

s visit k/student s.co.u u b a v arri

Save 10%

on Student Saver tickets when you buy online or via m-ticketing Quote promotional code 37374347

arrivabus.co.uk/students

FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Liverpool

NORTH WEST LIVERPOOL ATTRACTIONS

eclectic group of acts playing there in coming weeks.

The Liverpool Echo Arena: Kings Dock, Liverpool Waterfront, L3 4FP. Tel. 01514 758888. choarena. comt Liverpool’s major arena can hold 11,000 punters and hosts the city’s biggest events, including comedy, music and events.

Rhianna, Katy Perry and Bill Bailey are among the upcoming attractions.

The Walker Art Gallery: William Brown Street, L3 8EL. Tel 01511 4784199, liverpoolmuseums.org. uk/walker/. Liverpool’s premier art gallery, housing painting and sculpture from the 13th century to the present day. From late October will be displaying the art books of Henri Matisse for the first time in the UK. Museum of Liverpool: The Waterfront, Pier Head, L3 1DG. Tel. 01514 784545, liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/mol/.

Newly opened museum tells the story of Liverpool’s history and it’s continuing global significance with modern exhibitions and displays, all housed in a brandspanking new landmark building on the city’s waterfront.

CINEMAS FACT: 88 Wood Street, L1 4DQ.

RESTAURANTS Red Hot Buffet: Unit P11, The

Terrace, Paradise Street, L1 8JF . Tel. 01517 079688 redhot-worldbuffet.com/ redhot_liverpool.html The allyou-can eat buffet is always a favourite for hard-up students and this place – featuring Indian, Italian, Chinese, Japanese and Mexican cuisine – is perfect for a monster feed costing a oneoff fee.

Nandos: 14 Paradise Street, L1 8JF. Tel. 01517 097780. nandos. co.uk/restaurant/liverpool-one.

OK so this Nando’s is pretty much no different to any other Nando’s from around the country – but it’s chicken is still really good and very reasonable.

Perfect for students tired of cooking for themselves.

MUSEUM OF LIVERPOOL The Pub In the Park: Springwood Avenue, Clark Gardens, L25 7UN. Tel. 01514 942664 This pub is housed in stately Allerton Hall, a beautiful old house situated leafy parkland south of the city centre. Perfect for stopping in for a quick bite to eat while on a weekend outing with mates.

Pod: 137-139 Allerton Road, Mossley Hill, L18 2DD. 01517 242255. Lively venue, good for people watching and a frequent haunt of minor and major Liverpool celebs. Choose from the set menu during the day or try some authentic tapas at night.

BARS The Punch & Judy Pub: Bolton Street, L3 5LX.Tel. 01517 095209. Near to Lime Street rail station, the Punch and Judy is a cheap and cheerful pub perfect for catching a match, watching or local band or simply have a quiet drink.

The Pilgrim Pub: Pilgrim Street, L1 9HB. Tel. 01517 092302. A renowned student haunt, the Pilgrim is often filled with those just out of class or about to go

WHAT’S THAT ECHO?

XX www.student365.co.uk

NIGHTLIFE Newz Bar: 18 Water Street , L2 8TD. Tel: 01512 362035. thenewzbar.com. Probably one of the plushest clubs in Liverpool, Newz Bar can be relatively pricey but still attracts a sizeable student clientele – as well as a smattering of celebs.

Baa Bar: 43-45 Fleet Street, L1 4AR, Tel. 01517 088673 baabar. co.uk/the-baars/fleet-street/.

Another night spot renowned for £1 shots, this Baa Bar location is the original of a chain which now

has locations in Manchester and Nottingham.

Igloo: 78-82 Wood Street, L1 4DQ. Tel. 01517 087008. iglooliverpool. co.uk/. Well known club and a little bit more upmarket. Still their Thursday club night, Ego, features spirits and beers for the bargain price of £1.50.

Revolution: St. Peters Square, Fleet Street, L1 4DQ. Tel. 01517 098462. revolution-bars.co.uk/ stpeterssquare This well known chain have locations all over the country, but their focus on vodka based drinks and cocktails makes it a Merseyside favourite.

The Tea Factory: 82-84 Wood Street, L1 4DQ. Tel. 01517 07008. urbansplash.co.uk/commercial/ tea-factory. As indicated by the name this bar-club is situated in a reclaimed and renovated tea makers. It’s well known for good music, a spacious modern bar area and decent prices considering the area.

The Masque: 90 Seel Street, L1 4BH. Tel. 01517 07617. masqueliverpool.com. A new venue holding many popular club nights such as Circus, Mixed Bag (with great drink deals) and Chibuka (which often features top-quality guest DJ’s). Also a well-known music venue – The Maccabees, British Sea Power and Tom Vek are playing over the coming months.

02 Academy: 11-13 Hotfam Street, L3 5UF. Tel. 01517 07200. o2academyliverpool.co.uk One of Liverpool’s premier music venue’s, the 02 Academy hosts some of Britain’s and the world’s top music talent. Jessie J, James Morrison and DJ Shadow are among the

THEATRES The Playhouse Theatre: Williamson Square, L1 1EL. Tel. 01517 094776. everymanplayhouse.com This theatre has traditionally had a for promoting local Mersey talent and this continues today, with their playbills also featuring some of the country’s finest touring shows and events.

Empire Theatre: Lime Street, L1 1JE. Tel. 01517 027320. liverpoolempire. org.uk. Hosts a great variety of cultural must-see’s over the next few months, including top comedians such as Stephen Merchant and Sarah Millican, the Welsh National Opera and the English National Ballet.

USEFUL INFO Liverpool Lime Street Station: Lime

Street, L1 1JD. Tel. 0845 711 4141. nationalrail.co.uk. Liverpool’s main rail station services both local and national routes, with most UK cities reachable direct from this city centre location.

Arriva North West : 73 Ormskirk Road, L9 5AE. Tel. 0844 800 4411. arrivabus.co.uk.students. Arriva buses are giving away 10 per cent Student Saver tickets when you buy online. Plus go to their website to enter a competition to win one of four iPad2’s.

Mersey Cabs: Abbey House, 5-7 Falkland Street, L3 8HB. Tel. 01512 982222. merseycabs.co.uk. If you need a quick, reliable and decently priced taxi about town, then rely on these guys to get your around.

WORDS: Mike Green

The Echo Arena is the place to be for huge gigs, massive comedy nights and must-see shows. And in the coming months, the Echo is packed out with wall-to-wall talent. On October 7, Rihanna will be strutting her stuff across the Echo stage, while fellow mega pop star Katy Perry will be liking it when she hits arena on October 18. Meanwhile for comedy buffs comics visiting in the next couple of months include Paddy McGuinness, Jason Manford and Bill Bailey.

to class. Look out for drink deals – they also do a mean hangover busting English breakfast.

The Jacanadra: 21-23 Slater Street, L14BW, Tel. 01517 078281. Historic pub in the city centre, this drinking den was frequented by the Beatles back before they were big. These days a more modern affair, it’s basement section still retains it’s classic feel.

Augustus John: Alsop Building, Brownlow Hill, L3 5TY, Tel. 01517 945507. Cheap as chips student pub situated on Liverpool University’s campus. Naturally filled with university goers and it also features a great range of cask beers.

Bar Cava: 4a Wood Street, L1 4AQ. Tel. 01517 099300. myspace. com/barcava. This place tends to be permanently full of students because it has a great vibe, a comfy atmosphere and – best of all – does £1 tequila shots. Plus their tequila comes in bizarre flavours, such as strawberry, chili and baked bean. A Liverpool institution.

WORDS: Rachael Clegg

The Merseyside Maritime Museum:

Albert Dock, L3 4AQ. Tel. 01514 784499 liverpoolmuseums. org.uk/maritime/visit/ . A mustsee for anyone interested in Liverpool’s extensive maritime history, this museum features all things sea bound. Situated on Liverpool’s historic Albert Dock.

Sudley House: Mossley Hill Road, Aigburth, L18 8BX. Tel 01517 243245 liverpoolmuseums.org. uk/sudley/. Calling all drama and history students – Sudley House is a perfectly preserved Victorian merchant house replete with a dazzling collection of art. It also features period clothes from centuries past.

Tel. 01517 074464. fact.co.uk.

The Foundation for Art and Creative Technology host all things new media and arts – and features an independent cinema which focuses on left-field, world and indie films. Also puts on regular programmes and offers student deals.

Contemporary Urban Centre: -51 Greenland Street, LI 0BS. Tel. 01517 083529. The CUC is a community centric arts centre which features an independent cinema. Upcoming screenings include classics such as Breakfast At Tiffany’s, A Single Man and The Diving Bell And The Butterfly.

FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Sheffield

YORKSHIRE SHEFFIELD ATTRACTIONS Forge Dam Park: Ivy Cottage

Lane, S10 7TE. Tel. 01142 211900. peakdistrictview.com. Set in the leafy, affluent suburb of Fulwood bordering the Peak District National Park, Forge Dam is a fabulous series of streams, trails, stunning woodland and cycle paths. It also has a fabulous café.

The Peak District National Park:

WORDS: Mike Green

WORDS: Rachael Clegg

Derbyshire. peakdistrict.gov.uk.

Sheffield’s proximity to the Peaks – barely a few minutes’ drive from the University of Sheffield’s library – attracts thousands of outdoormad students to this city every year. Whether it’s walking, cycling, fishing or climbing, the Peaks has it all. And it is, of course, as befits its status, an area of outstanding natural beauty.

The Climbing Works: Unit B, Centenary Works, Little London Road. Tel. 01142 509990. climbingworks.com. The Climbing Works is a haven for boulderers, the Climbing Works offers facilities that can match and style and level of climber. Well worth a visit.

Roche Abbey: Maltby, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S66 8NW. Tel. 01709 812739 english-heritage. org.uk/daysout/properties/rocheabbey. England’s most complete remains of a Cistercian monastery, laid out as excavated foundations, Roche Abbey’s gothic structure is stunning. And as if its looming remains weren’t enough to please the eye, the abbey is set in a valley landscaped by ‘Capability’ Brown in the 18th Century.

Millennium Gallery: Arundel Gate, S1 2PP. Tel. 01142 782600, museumssheffield.org.uk/museums/ millennium-gallery. The Millennium Gallery covers contemporary art, temporary exhibitions of modern art, world-class crafts, the Ruskin collection (John Ruskin established Sheffield’s first major art gallery in 1875) and a permanent cutlery display, which is a fascinating testament to Sheffield’s steel-making heritage.

Graves Gallery: Surrey Street, S1 1XZ. Tel. 01142 782600. museumssheffield.org.uk/museums/graves-

MILLENNIUM GALLERY

gallery. Graves Gallery has been home to Sheffield’s art collection since 1934. And smack bang in the city centre, the gallery is a quiet haven that features works from artists from seascape master William Turner to 60s pop art maestro Bridget Riley.

Weston Park Museum: Western Bank, S10 2TP. Tel. 01142 782600, set in the beautiful grounds of Weston Park, among Sheffield University’s main campus, is Weston Park.

The museum is family-friendly with a local history collection, themed temporary exhibitions, a stunning natural history collection and many priceless archaeological treasures.

The Site Gallery: 1 Brown Street, S1 2BS. Tel. 01142 812077. sitegallery.org. The Site Gallery is Sheffield’s international contemporary art centre, offering a changing exhibitions programme backed up with regular publications and a comprehensive calendar of conferences, artists talks and must-see events.

Kelham Island Museum: Alma Street, S3 8RY. Tel. 01142 722106. simt.co.uk/kelhamisland-museum/plan-your-visit.

Considering that metalwork has gone on in Sheffield for almost a millennia, Kelham Island’s opening in 1982 seems rather late. But it was worth the wait: through its varied collection the museum tells the story of how Sheffield became one of the most important cities of the industrialised world. Well worth a visit (and it’s near some great pubs).

RESTAURANTS La Luna: 961 Ecclesall Road,

S11 8TN. Tel. 01142 676161. La Luna is a friendly, reasonablypriced, bring-your-own bottle restaurant serving great tasting Mediterranean food. The small space lends itself to a super cosy, candle-lit atmosphere, ideal for a first date.

CRUCIBLE THEATRE Mama’s & Leonies: 111 - 115 Norfolk Street, S1 2JE. Tel. 01142 720490.

Step into Mama’s and Leonies and you’re briefly transported to downtown New York. Here, smack bang in the heart of Sheffield, you can dine on grilled hamburgers, Italian fast food and sup on an infinite supply of coffee.

East One Noodle Bar: 8 West One, Fitzwilliam Street, S1 4JB. Tel. 01142 725533. Serving Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Vietnamese food, East One is a popular spot for those with a penchant for Oriental food. And right in the heart of West Street, it’s a popular spot for students The Mogul Room: 282 Sharrowvale Road, Hunter’s Bar, S11 8ZL. Tel 01142 679846. The Mogul Room’s an award-winning, super slick Indian restaurant selling traditional and contemporary adaptations of Indian cuisine.

The Milestone: 84 Green Lane, S3 8SE. Tel 01142 728372. Awardwinning gastro pub with a chic restaurant specialising in locallysourced, organic food.

BARS Dempsey’s Bar and Club: 1 Hereford Street, S1 4PR. dempseys-sheffield. com. Dempsey’s is a members only, gay-friendly, lively club that provides a safe club for its members. Non-members are allowed into the club if accompanied by a member.

Membership costs £6.

The Leadmill: Leadmill Road, S1 4SE. Tel. 01142 212828. leadmill. co.uk. For more than 30 years the Leadmill has been supporting the UK’s most exciting music. The venue’s seen performances from the Arctic Monkeys, Pulp, Snow Patol, The Strokes and Colplay

and continues to stage some of the city’s most exciting shows and productions.

The Greystones: Greystones Road, S117BS. Tel. 01142 665599 mygreystones.co.uk. The Greystones is a new, real-ale pub complete with a stunning live venue. The venue’s reputation for booking top-quality acts attracts some of the world’s best acts, especially in rootsy, Americana and folk circles. The modest space guarantees intimate performances and always a warm, lively and friendly atmosphere.

The Harley: 334 Glossop Road, S10 2HW. Tel. 01142 752288 theharley. co.uk. The Harley is home to some of Sheffield’s liveliest, quirkiest and coolest nights, hosting shows from some of the hottest bands to some of the edgiest DJs. Expect a vibrant atmosphere, dancing and good tunes.

City Hall: Barker’s Pool, S12JA. Tel. 01142 789789 sheffieldcityhall. co.uk. City Hall is Sheffield’s grandest venue. Built in the 1930s to rescue the city’s fledging economy, City Hall is a stunning Art Deco and neo classical masterpiece hosting acts from the Halle Orchestra to comedian Russell Howard.

CINEMAS Showroom Cinema: 15 Paternoster

Row, S1 2BX. Tel. 01142 757727. showroomworkstation.org.uk. The Showroom is one of the largest independent cinemas in Europe.

Located in the heart of Sheffield’s cultural quarter, Showroom is open 364 days a year and screens the latest film releases, classic cinema, family films and world. It also has an excellent bar, unlike most picture houses.

THEATRE The Crucible Theatre: 55 Norfolk

Street, S1 1DA. Tel. 01142 495999. sheffieldtheatres.co.uk.

The Crucible is 40 years old this year and to mark the occasion the theatre is hosting a series of special events. From Shakespeare to cutting-edge contemporary drama, the Crucible is one of Britain’s most prestigious theatres.

The Lyceum Theatre: Norfolk Street, S1 1DA. Tel. 01142 495999 sheffieldtheatres.co.uk. The stunning and recently refurbished Lyceum is a triumph of Victorian theatre design and a glorious place to watch a play. From one-off gigs, such as former Pulp guitarist Richard Hawley, to modern productions, the Lyceum’s programme is hugely varied.

The Lantern Theatre: Kenwood Road, Nether Edge, S7 1NF. Tel. 01142 551776 lanterntheatre. org.uk. Set in the Victorian leafy suburb of Nether Edge, the Lantern Theatre is a beautiful miniature Victorian theatre which was, allegedly, built by a wealthy industrialist who didn’t want his daughter’s acting aspirations to take her to London where she would become a ‘hussy.’ So he built her a personal theatre in his own grounds. The Lantern hosts comedy, cabaret and intimate gigs.

USEFUL INFO Sheffield Interchange: Archway

Centre, Pond Square, S1 2BD. Tel. 01709 515151. travelsouthyorkshire. com. The main bus and coach routes pass through the Sheffield Interchange. Get local and national services through here.

Check out the website for routes and timetables.

FRESH DIRECTION/ WHAT’S ON AUTUMN 2011 XXI

FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Leeds

YORKSHIRE LEEDS ATTRACTIONS

RESTAURANTS

Leeds City Museum: Millennium Square, LS2 8BH. Tel. 01132 243732. leeds.gov.uk/ citymuseum. There are always many interesting exhibitions on at the City Museum and they are all free. Some of the ones to look forward to these Autumn include: Zachariah Croakit, where you can find out more about superstition and tradition of mourning; Black History Month Trail, which celebrates black history; and Light Night, where you can watch the city come alive and explore the museum after closing hours.

Leeds United Stadium: 47 Elland Road, Churwell. Tel. 01132 71 6037. leedsunited.com/page/ home. If sport is your thing then Leeds United Stadium is perfect. It’s a huge stadium with all the facilities anyone could wish for. The different games, dates, times and prices can be found online, so check the website.

The Maize Maze: Jowett House Farm, Cowthorne, S75 4AT. Tel. 01226 791855. maizemaze. co.uk. You are never too old to get lost! This fun Maize Maze is a good laugh on a Saturday afternoon, get your friends together and get ready to never see them again. There is also a Pet Farm and space hopper races.

Kirkstall Abbey: Kirkstall Abbey, Kirkstall, LS5 3EH. Tel. 01132 305492. leeds.gov.uk/ kirkstallabbey. Kirkstall Abbey is for those with a serious interest in medieval history.

It is a medieval Cistercian abbey from the 12th century.

The abbey is situated just three miles west of the city centre, everything stands in its original glory and it really is an impressive sight. There is no admission fee so is definitely worth a look.

Popinas: 31 Brudenell Road,

Hyde Park, LS6 1HA. Tel. 01132 744944. popinas.org.uk. Popinas makes the best full English breakfast in Leeds. They have a good traditional breakfast menu featuring all you want after a night out. But they also offer their special Mega Breakfast.

If you can defeat the Mega Breakfast you get it for free and even get your name on the wall. However there is a reason why it is called Mega, so if you want to attempt this go with an empty stomach and big appetite or you are doomed to faiure.

The Clock Café: 16a Headingley Lane, Hyde Park, LS6 2AS. Tel. 01132 945464. The Café don’t have a website but can be found on Facebook. This is a lovely café with a vibrant arty atmosphere. The food is Mediterranean inspired and student priced and it’s a great place to chill with mates. There’s free wifi, free board games and good background music. In fact the Clock Café ticks all boxes.

Pitza Cano: 92 Queen’s Road, Hyde Park, LS6 1HU. Tel. 01132 756256. pitzacano.co.uk. If you want the best pizza in town then make your way to Pitza Cano.

Here the pizza is like it should be with a thin crust and all the toppings you could dream of.

The prices varies depending on the topping, but they are all reasonably affordable. You can get your pizza delivered or pick up yourself. They also offer wraps, pasta dishes and other tempting sides.

The Dry Dock: Woodhouse Lane, LS2 3AX. Tel. 01133 912658, screampubs.co.uk/ thedrydockleeds. This is a very unusual pub as it’s actually a boat. Situated right across from Leeds Metropolitan Uni and is therefore very popular among students. It has a great pub

KIRKSTALL ABBEY

menu with good deals including two main meals for £5.50 or a beer and burger deal for only £3.75. Plus there are always plenty of events going on at the Dry Dock such as Quiz Nights, Open Mic nights and Pool competitions.

Salvo’s Italian: 107 Otley Road, Headingley, LS6 3PX. Tel. 01132 755017. salvos. co.uk. This Italian restaurant was awarded the prize of Best Independent Italian Restaurant in the UK by Gordon Ramsay, and it certainly lives up to its title. This place makes some of the best Italian dishes in Leeds, the atmosphere is relaxing and they offer some beautiful wines in lovely surroundings. However the prices are a little over student budget so you’ll have to be prepared to pay a little more than the usual student budget.

But it is a brilliant place and worth a try, so why not beg the parents a little when they come visit and give it a go.

BARS

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NIGHTLIFE Mook: Hirsts Yard, Leeds, LS1 6NJ. Tel. 01132 45996. mookleeds.com. In this bar you can get 2-4-1 cocktails all night, every night. The place has a wide variety of all your favourite cocktails such as mojito’s and daiquiri’s. They also offer pints by the bucketful if you’re more into the usual tipple. Every night of the week has something different to offer, such as Manic Monday where you can enjoy the best music of the 80s or Believe the Hype Thursday where only the best funk and soul is played. The atmosphere is always cosy with its couches and soft chairs, but also offers a lively feel with its vibrant dancefloor.

The Hifi Club: 2 Central Road, LS1 6DE. Tel. 01132 427353. thehificlub.co.uk. This club is one of the most vibrant in Leeds, and you can find all kinds of people here from students to locals, indie lovers to techno fans. This place has a broad selection of music and some nights. One of the best nights is Sunday Joint, with free entry and a band playing from 11pm until a DJ takes over. The drinks are reasonably priced and it is always a fun night out.

Evolution: Cardigan Fields Leisure Complex, LS4 2DG. Tel. 01132 632632. If you are

looking for a crazy fun Saturday night out then Evolution is the right place for you. The club offers you three arenas, awesome lighting and lazers, hot tubs, a 360 degree video wall, seven bars and one incredible atmosphere with amazing PA’s and themes every week. It is only a fiver for entry and there are often drink promotions.

CINEMA Showcase Cinema: Gelderd Road, Birstall Batley, West Yorkshire, WF17 9TB. Tel. 0871 220 1000. showcasecinemas. co.uk. Tends to focus on more artier and indie releases than the standard Hollywood fare, so the Showcase is a good place for discerning film buffs.

Plus there’s a student discount available.

THEATRE Leeds Grand Theatre: New Briggate, LS1 6NZ. Tel. 0844 848 2706. For over 130 years, The Grand has been Leeds’ premier cultural venue, hosting the UK’s top productions of theatre, opera and ballet.

USEFUL INFO Metro Buses: Leeds City Bus Station, York Street, LS2 7HU. Tel. 01132 457676. wymetro. com. For all the info on local bus routes around West Yorkshire, check out the Metro Travel Shop. It has all the fares and timetable information you need. Why not get a Student Plus MetroCard, it’s available to anyone under 22 and costs £18.30 per week for virtually unlimited travel in the area.

WORDS: Louise Van Weezel

METROCARD OFFERS SAVINGS FOR STUDENTS ON BUSES AND TRAINS

Neon Cactus: 35 Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BT. Tel. 01132 458400. neoncactus.co.uk. This is a Mexican inspired bar and is placed on Call Lane, which is an area packed full of the best bars of in Leeds. What makes this one stand out is the Mexican theme and the tequila cocktails that are all made to the highest standards. The music has indie electro beats early in the evening and gets livelier and louder as the night goes on. The bar also offers food and if you sign up to their mailing list you can get 2-4-1 vouchers, which means you have no excuse for not making a visit to this lively haunt.

A Nation Of Shopkeepers:

27-27 Cookridge Street, LS2 3AG. Tel. 01132 031831. anationofshopkeepers.com.

While not the city’s cheapest watering hole, A Nation Of Shopkeepers remains a hit with students for its odd décor, offbeat ambiance and hip atmosphere.

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E N O Y AN o t e, e l m b i a t l i l l fu Ava d n ts a n 2 e 2 d r u st e r unde u t ma visit A4 Student Plus poster V1.indd 1

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FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

York

YORKSHIRE YORK

BArs

the Little John: 5 Castlegate, YO1

9RN. Tel: 01904 658242. York’s friendliest (and only) LGBT bar is perfectly situated just off the main high street and near all the largest clubs. All are welcome, and there are often drink deals depending on the mood of the bar staff! reflex: George Hudson Street, YO1 6JL. Tel: 01904 645161. reflexbars.co.uk Right in the centre of town (basically next to two clubs) there are always some great drinks deals, and 80’s music playing all night long.

Prepare yourself for a deluge of shrieking hen parties, mirrored rooms, and a revolving dance floor. Maybe not one for the fainthearted!

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THE YORK MINSTER

AttrActions the York Minster: Deangate,

YO1 9RN. Tel: 01904 687687. yorkstmarys.org.uk. A highly unusual gallery space in an old church located in the centre of town. Recently renovated, entry is free, and currently has a beautiful and well-regarded exhibition by Cornelia Parker on that runs until the 30th of October.

rEstAUrAnts House of trembling Madness:

Stonegate, YO1 8AS. Tel: 02920 391910. Named after the beer, this unusual beer house is a great place to take visiting friends. Tasty food (try the meat platter) and the very eccentric interior will provide plenty of conversation before you get down to the serious business of eating. coffee culture: 41 Goodramgate, YO1 7LS. Tel: 01904 630325.

Opening times: 9am to 5pm on Mondays to Fridays and 10.30am to 4 pm at the weekends. Off the main tourist crawl, this tiny three-floored coffee shop does the hangover breakfast and the staff are endlessly helpful (and hugely understanding of pounding heads.) The cosy atmosphere is also comforting for some hot and steamy afternoon tea.

York Hogroast: York Hogroast I, Goodramgate; YO1 7LF. Tel. 01904 651818. yorkhogroast. co.uk. This takeaway does delicious pork and beef sandwiches – complete with perfect crackling, zingy apple sauce, and Yorkshire puddings.

A treat to eat in one of York’s many beautiful parks or gardens.

Piccolino’s: 18 Bridge Street, YO1 6DA. Tel: 01904 531155. Opening

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YO10 5AA. Bookings: 0844 854 2757. A major redevelopment has turned this crumbling eyesore into a dynamic performance space. The line-up for this venue is diverse (to say the least) ranging from a live screening of Sesame Street to an upcoming performance by Pete Doherty.

Keep an eye out for what else they have lined up as their taste seems to be one to be admired. the Willow: 37A Coney Street, YO1 9QL. Tel: 0756 134 6248.

One of York’s more infamous establishments; this Chinese restaurant morphs into a school disco type club at night.

Open until 4am, and with tequila shots being some of the cheapest around (complete with complementary prawn crackers), this is one of those university “experience” things that you really shouldn’t miss out on. Be kind to yourself and make sure you and some mates down there very soon. tuesday night salvation: 3 George Hudson St, YO1 6JL. Tel: 01904 635144. The official student night for Tuesday, Salvation usually goes all out on themes and is a consistently good night.

Two floors cater to the usual pop crowd downstairs with a more Indie-Rock feel upstairs.

The covered smoking area is great on rainy nights.

AFTERNOON DELIGHT if you need some exercise, then scramble up clifford’s tower (tower street, Yo1 9sA) and then walk along the roman Walls (starting at Micklegate) for a look around the city. if that whets your appetite for seeing more, one of the more original tours is by boat. try the YorkBoat company (the Boatyard, Lendal Bridge, Yo1 7DP. tel. 01904 628324) for an evening cruise. As the weather will likely be stubbornly British, York Dungeons (12 clifford street, Yo1 9rD) is a fun way to pass an afternoon. Book online and in advance as tickets are significantly cheaper. And if you feel like seriously raising your pulse then head to Yorkshire Paintball centre (ypc.co.uk)

13-17 Coney Street, YO1 9QL. Tel: 0871 902 5726. Showing a mixture of independent and mainstream films, the bar is great for a scenic pre-film drink. the reel cinema: Odeon Buildings, Blossom Street, YO24 1AJ. Tel: 01509 221155. Offers great deals for students and screens the usual films. Most bring their own snacks as the popcorn is often chewy and overpriced.

tHEAtrE the York theatre royal: St.

Leonard’s Place, YO1 7HN. Tel: 01904623568. Performing a wide range of shows; from Christmas pantomimes and musicals to serious drama.

Grand opera theatre House:

4 Cumberland Street, City Centre, YO1 9SW. Tel: 0844 847 2322. The building has been beautifully restored to its 18th century splendour, providing a rich backdrop for the theatre, comedy, and live music showcased here.

UsEFUL inFo York Pullman Buses: Bootham Tower, Exhibition Square, YO30 7EW. Tel: 01904 622992. yorkpullmanbus.co.uk. Daysaver (within York) is £3.75. Discounts available for students, just be sure to carry your student and NUS card around.

Fossgate Books: 36 Fossgate, YO1 9TF. An atmospheric second-hand book shop, run by very knowledgeable staff who recommend movies and keep an eye out for certain titles, reserving them for you to pick up if you want. streamline taxis: Cromwell House, 7 Cumberland Street, YO1 9SW. Tel: 01904 638833. Reliable taxi firm, quick service and they offer student rates so affordable for getting around town.

WORDS: Rose Troup Buchanan

YO1 7HH Tel. 0844 939 0011. yorkminster.org. Opening times: 9am to 5pm for visitors.Closed for sightseeing on religious holidays. Built over six hundred years ago, this beautiful cathedral dominates the York skyline. Worth a quick look, York students get free entry (hint hint) and, irrespective of your religious affiliation, a visit is definitely recommended.

York races: YO23 1EX. Tel: 01904 620911. yorkracecourse.co.uk.

Opening hours: gates open at 11.15am with the racing starting in the afternoon. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. Prices for the enclosure are surprisingly reasonable at £6 – and you might win something! Get dressed up, place a bet, and go with a big group of friends for a day out. the original Ghost Walk: nightly at 8pm from the Kings Arms, Ouse Bridge, YO1 9SN. Tel: 01759 373090. Costing just £3 for a student ticket, this tour gives you a fascinating insight into the history of York; seen from a different angle. It’s admittedly not really scary, but it will provide a good laugh – and an excuse for a drink or two down at the pub afterwards.

York city Art Gallery: Exhibition Square, YO1 7EW. Tel: 01904 687687. yorkartgallery.org.uk.

Housed in a beautiful building near the centre of town, this gallery has changing exhibitions as well as a permanent collection. Best of all entry is totally free! Try the attached café for a piece of delicious cake in the afternoon.

York st. Mary’s: Castlegate,

Yorkshire. YO1 8AS. Tel: 01904 640002. Serving nearly any cocktail you could possibly imagine, and a few you really wouldn’t want to, the atmosphere in here is always good and is ideal either for the beginning of a big night, or just for relaxed drinks with mates.

Try the Evil Zombie cocktail at your peril; its said to be lethal!

Montey’s: 129 Micklegate, City Centre, YO1 6LB. Tel: 01904 624478. monteys.com. With two for one cocktail offers every Wednesday, few places offer better value for potency.

Centrally situated, and with a large beer garden easily able to accommodate big groups, this is a relaxed drinking hole that hosts great live events as well.

Try and see how you get on.

You’re bound to love it. the Phoenix: 75 George Street, YO1 9PT. Tel: 01904 656401.

Opening hours: weekdays from 6pm until 11pm; Saturdays from noon until 11pm; Sundays from 12:30pm to 2:30pm and then 7pm-11pm. This is a traditional, recently restored, pub with a wide selection of ale and beer on tap. The small rooms make for a cosy setting, probably best appreciated on a Sunday evening when the pub hosts a live jazz band.

cinEMA city screen Picturehouse cinema:

the Barbican: 20 Barbican Road, Evil Eye: 42 Stonegate, North

Wednesday night Ziggy’s: 53-55, Micklegate, YO1 6LJ. Tel: 01904 620602. Recently revamped and renamed Mansion, the original name has been retained for the mid-week sports night. The interior is a labyrinth of stairs, corridors and groping couples.

Expect awful costumes, badly behaved rugby lads, and a medley of cheesy pop. the Duchess: Stonebow House, The Stonebow, YO1 7NP. Tel: 01904 641413. The place in York for those with an Indie penchant: it’s well laid out, with seating at the back for those wanting a break and two bars. Home-grown talent does well here, as do nights such as Itchy Feet, which consistently sell-out.

WORDS: Andrew Caygill

times: Monday to Saturday noon to 11pm and Sundays noon to 10.30pm. This place is slightly out of the average student’s price range, but is ideal for visiting parents or older relations.

Alternatively, if you are trying to impress a date, a meal here is a sure-fire winner. Try the fresh pasta or Italian deserts. red chilli: Unit 2, 21-25 George Hudson Street, YO1 6JL. Tel: 01904 733668. Probably the best Chinese restaurant in Yorkshire. The portions are huge, the staff know their food back to front and can be trusted for recommendations, and your only danger is being unable to finish.

So be warned, pace yourself as you munch your way through a meal at Red Chilli.

Middlesborough

WHAT’S ON FRESHDIRECTION

NORTH EAST MIDDLESBOROUGH AttrActions Hollywood Bowl: Teesside Leisure Park, Stockton-on-Tees, TS17 7BU. Tel. 0844 826 1469. hollywoodbowl.co.uk. Ten pin bowling located just outside of Middlesbrough, cheap with a bar as well.

Mima museum: Centre Square, TS1 2AZ. Tel. 01642 726720. visitmima.com. Art gallery, featuring different local artists and has also been featured on Top Gear and other TV programmes. captain cook Museum: Stewart Park, Marton, TS7 8AT. Tel. 01642 311211. captcook-ne.co.uk.

Features exhibitions of Captain Cook’s life, located in the middle of a park with animals and lots of open space. transporter Bridge: Ferry Road, TS2 1PL. Tel. 01642 247563.

Middlesbrough’s most famous and iconic landmark, with a museum located on site.

Middlesbrough Football club:

Riverside Stadium, TS3 6RS. Tel. 0844 499 6789. mfc.co.uk.

Football is pretty much a religion in the North East so check out the home of Middlesbrough FC, with merchandise shop and a variety of facilities.

restAurAnts the olde Young tea House: 84

Grange Road, TS1 2LS. Tel. 0786 825 1420. theoldeyoungteahouse. com. A traditional tea house, set neatly outside of the main shopping complex with antique furniture/utensils. oodles noodles: 138 Linthorpe Road, TS1 3RA. Tel. 01642 243809. oodlesnoodles.co.uk.

Located just off campus, a delicious alternative healthier option also a lot faster than a lot of other take-aways! the isaac Wilson: 61 Wilson Street, TS1 1SF. Tel. 01642 247708. jdwetherspoon.co.uk. Located within the town centre, one of the many Wetherspoon’s in the area, offering cheap food, cheap booze and daily meal deals.

Boro Pizza: 180 Linthorpe Road, TS1 3RB. Tel. 01642 251125. justeat. co.uk. Just off campus and outside of the town centre, offers hot food up until 4am, making it the perfect place to get your pre-hangover food. royal china: 15 Princes Road, TS1 4BE. Tel. 01642 247732. royalchinata.co.uk . Cheap, but really tasty food, fast delivery and friendly service, not too far away from the central student area of Middlesbrough.

BArs the oak: 23 Newport Road,

TS1 1LE. Tel. 01642 219748. facebook.com/Oakage.

Open seven nights a week, Middlesbrough’s first gay owned and run bar, offering several drag acts and nights aimed at the LGBT community. the Medicine Bar: 72-80 Corporation Road, TS1 2RT. Tel. 01642 222250. facebook. com/pages/Medicine-BarMiddlesbrough. An alternative bar playing rock/indie music not normally played in bars, cheap drinks and a friendly atmosphere, very traditional bar.

Barracuda: 42 Albert Road, TS1 1QD. Tel. 01642 244692. barracudapubgroup.co.uk.

Cheap drinks, cheap food and a great venue for pre drinking, also part of the termly ‘Carnage’ event, the place to go to collect your t-shirts! the Keys: 208-210 Linthorpe Road, TS1 3QW. Tel. 01642 219199. thekeys.co.uk/ middlesbrough-home. Sister club to an older bar in Yarm, very stylish and has a wide variety of music, close to the university halls and campus.

nigHtliFe Blu & Basement: 77-81 Albert Road, TS1 2RU. facebook. com/pages/Blu-Basement/.

A gay run club with themed nights frequently, one of the most friendly bars in

WORDS: Rose Troup Buchanan

WORDS: Andrew Caygill

THE BEST GAY NIGHTS ON TEESSIDE For a fabulous night out with your fellow lgBt students get yourself down to Blu/Basement, Winner of ‘Best Bar none 2011’ run by teesside FM. And if you’re heading for a proper gay night then don’t forget predrinks at Annie’s Bar and the oak, the best gay-friendly pubs in town. then after the club closes why not get yourself around to Boro Pizzas to warm yourself up in the winter. if lgBt isn’t your scene (and it isn’t everyone’s) there are always other bars - the crown, empire, onyx rooms or Aruba all offer student nights with cheap drink and all the chart classics. the crown even offers a discount card which gets you money off, and for the other venues be sure to take your student card along for entry - all of them do a concessionary entry for students, but only with a card.

THE FAMOUS TRANSPORTER BRIDGE

Middlesbrough, aimed mostly toward the LGBT community!

Blu is the very trendy and camp bar, whilst Basement offers more mainstream music, home to Satur-gay. the empire: Corporation Road, TS1 2RT. Tel. 01642 253553. theempire.co.uk. A live event venue, featuring concerts by newer people to the music business including X-Factor contestants and recently Example. Also runs several very successful club nights. the onyx rooms: 2-6 Albert Road, TS1 1QA. Tel. 01642 213658. facebook. com/pages/Onyx-RoomsMiddlesbrough/20338378847.

Run a weekly student night every Wednesday, straight down the road from university campus, and exclusive to student card holders only. the crown: 143 Linthorpe Road, TS1 4AG. Tel. 01642 255311. facebook. com/#!/thecrownmiddlesbrough.

Also features live acts occasionally, and offers possibly the widest range of nights available in Middlesbrough, from LGBT to Rock nights. the Hub: Teesside University Students’ Union, Borough Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 3BA. Tel. 01642 342234. utsu.org. uk. The main club where all the events are held in the SU. Student reps sell tickets to the main events, but no reason for you to go and find them - they do rounds around all of the halls. Fun, friendly and very cheap.

cineMA

useFul inFo

cineworld: Middlesbrough Leisure Park, Marton Road, TS1 2DY. Tel: 0871 200 2000.

Just outside of the main centre, offer student discounts.

If you’re and Orange mobile phone customer you can take advantage of Orange Wednesday 2-4-1 offers here. Shows all of the latest Hollywood blockbusters and has multiple screens. showcase cinema: Teesside Leisure Park, Stockton-On-Tees, TS17 7BU Tel. 0871 220 1000. showcasecinemas.co.uk. Just outside of Middlesbrough, next to the bowling alley and a medium sized shopping square, but well worth a visit. Make sure you share a taxi with a few friends to save everyone money!

Middlesbrough train station:

tHeAtre Middlesbrough theatre: The Avenue, TS5 6SA. Tel. 01642 729729. middlesbrough.gov. uk/entertainment. Offering live concerts and performances at cheap prices, the theatre offers a great night out all round for you and friends. Check the website for upcoming winter events.

Arc: stockton Arts centre:

Dovecot Street, Stockton on Tees, TS18 1LL. Tel: 01642 525199. arconline.co.uk/ theatre.php. Live events from prestigious national acts, as well as local productions.

Zetland Road, TS1 1EG. www. nationalrail.co.uk. Located straight down from campus, a 15 minute walk, offering trains to most big locations,. Rail cards available that offer a third off for students.

Middlesbrough Bus station:

Newport Road, TS1 5AH. Tel. 0871 200 2233. visitmiddlesbrough.com. Host buses all around the North-East with cheap prices, and some student offers changing termby-term.

Boro taxis: Cambridge Road, TS3 8AG. Tel. 01642 222333. www. borotaxis.co.uk. Most reliable taxi firm in Middlesbrough, agree a price over the phone when booking, cheaper than every other and friendly staff. They also offer a handy ring back service.

Arriva Buses: Boathouse Lane, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 3AW. Tel. 0844 800 4411. arrivabus.co.uk. students. Arriva buses are giving away 10 per cent Student Saver tickets when you buy online. Plus go to their website to enter a competition to win one of four iPad2’s.

Dickens self storage: Portrack Lane, Malleable Way, Stocktonon-Tees, TS18 2QX.Tel. 0880 917 7749. dickensselfstorage.co.uk.

Convenient and safe storage for students at a cheap rate, handy for those who are coming from a distance for university and need extra storage space.

FRESH DIRECTION/ WHAT’S ON AUTUMN 2011 XXV

FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Newcastle

NORTH EAST NEWCASTLE BARS Basement Treble’s Bar: 118 Grey

ANGEL OF THE NORTH

ATTRACTIONS BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art: Gateshead Quays, Southshore

Road, NE8 3BA. Tel: 01914 78 1810. balticmill.com. Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday to Sunday10am to 6pm; Tuesdays 10:30am to 6pm. Free entry. If contemporary art is your thing, a visit to the BALTIC is a must.

What’s more, after a look around the gallery you can enjoy amazing panoramic views of the Tyneside over a coffee in the modern and classy rooftop restaurant.

Angel of the North: Low Eighton, Gateshead, NE8 7UB. Tel: 01914 333000. Have your photograph taken at the feet of a 66 foot steel angel. An asset to the Gateshead landscape, Antony Gormley’s creation is cherished by northerners. Take a picnic if it’s sunny as there’s lovely greenery around it to eat your sandwiches whilst admiring the breathtaking view. Then wander home feeling all angelic and that!

Discovery Museum: Blandford Square, NE1 4JE. Tel: 01912 326789. twmuseums.org.uk/ discovery. Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm; Sundays from 2pm to 5pm. Free entry. Get to know the

history of the city you’re living in by visiting this treasure trove of exhibitions and fun activities. Don’t miss the ‘Chronicle Exhibition’, with fascinating photos from the local rag from the last 100 years.

1st Bowl: Westgate Road, NE4 8RN. Tel: 01912 568736.1stbowl. com/newcastle/index-newcastle. html. Opening hours: daily from10am to 12pm. In between lectures and parties, why not play a few rounds of ten pin bowling. Tuesdays and Sundays are student nights, so that means games are only £1.50, and grab yourself a pint for £1.50, with 10% off food. How can you resist such an offer?

Life Centre Ice Skating Rink:

Times Square, NE1 4EP. Tel: 01912 438210. life.org.uk. From November 12th until February.

The Life Centre will get you in the festive spirit this autumn, as they’re hosting the regions favourite ice rink. You can even relax after with a mince pie and a cup of mulled wine. What’s not to love? Nothing that we can see!

RESTAURANTS Al Basha: 7-9 Bigg Market, NE1 1UN.

Tel: 01912 221303. albasha.co.uk Opening hours: from 12pm until

XXVI www.student365.co.uk

NIGHTLIFE Tiger Tiger, The Gate: Newgate

Street, NE1 5RE. Tel: 01912 357065. tigertiger-newcastle. co.uk. Whether you’re out for a bite to eat or to karaoke with your mate, Tiger Tiger has loads of offers and plenty of discounted deals especially for students. Sign up to the Tiger Tiger online newsletter for free, to get exclusive vouchers and some much welcomed free drinks.

2PQ. Tel: 01912 304474. thecluny. com. The converted warehouse offers the perfect mix of funky décor, craft ciders and live music.

If you’re an ale fan, sample all eight of the pubs real ales. You really can’t go wrong with so much choice.

The Hyena Comedy Club: 17 Leazes Park Road, NE1 4PF. Tel: 01912 326030. thehyena.com. If you’re game for a laugh and fancy a change from student pubs, make use of the ‘free membership’ available at the Hyena Comedy Club.

CINEMA Tyneside Cinema: 10 Pilgrim Street, NE1 6QG. Tel: 0845 217 9909.

Sick of the usual box office giants and fancy a change? Head to this independent marvel and enjoy films from right across the world in a comfy leather arm chair that’ll make you feel like a true film buff.

THEATRE Live Theatre: Broad Chare,

Quayside, NE1 3DQ. live.org. uk. If you enjoy interaction with performers, this is one for you.

Audiences can meet leading writers and also showcase their own scripts.

USEFUL INFO The Metro: nexus.org.uk/metro. A

convenient, fast and cheap way to travel. If you want to escape from essay stresses for the day, the yellow line will whisk you between the city and the coast.

Transfare Tickets: Available at the train station. These will allow you to travel on both bus and metro.

Quayside Sunday Market: NE1 3RT. Tel: 01912 771924. Buying local produce is often cheaper than supermarket fruit and veg. Head to the market at the end of the day for great bargains.

Blue Line Taxis: Fisher Street, NE6 4LT. Tel: 01912 626666. bluelinetaxis.com. Cheap and reliable, Blue Line are a favourite amongst students.

OUT ON THE TOON! Newcastle’s gay scene is expanding rapidly, with the re-development of the city. The Gay Village or Pink Triangle as it’s otherwise known is just near Newcastle Central Station. The Number 52 Sauna on Scotswood Road is free to students on Wednesdays, so why not head there before watching a cabaret show at the outrageous Eazy Street Bar on Westmorland Street. Eazy Street is aimed at the bohemian gay scene, so if chandeliers and chic interior are more your kind of night head to @ne Bar on Marlborough Crescent. The bar promises live music on Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays, and boasts a flash baby grand for those who enjoy listening to a tinkling of the ivories. Want to let your hair down after a hard day of lectures? Head to Switch and the Loft on Scotswood Road… with the £1 drink promotions on ‘Shag Tag Mondays’, it would be rude not to!

WORDS: Catherine Llewellyn

BALTIC CENTRE OF CONTEMPORARY ART

1:30am. Whether you fancy home cooked, Lebanese grilled food, or just want to grab a sandwich, this is the place for you. You’re guaranteed to get your money’s worth with the generous sides.

All the dishes are taken from the chef’s mother’s recipes and are delicious.

As You Like It: Archbold Terrace, NE2 1DB. Tel: 01912 812277. asyoulikeitjesmond.com. If comfy chairs, proper organic beer and tasty delights are your thing, then you’ll certainly like this. Voted the seventh sexiest restaurant in the world, this honest home-style cooking ticks every box. Enjoy a sharing platter with friends and free comedy nights in the autumn months. Also makes a great venue for a romantic date if you have a special someone to wine and dine.

Gekko: The Gate, NE1 5TG. Tel: 01912 605005. lovegekko.com.

Does your course mate love Chinese, but you prefer Mexican?

End all dinner time arguments, and head to Gekko. For £4.99, students can pick and choose from the all you can eat buffet, with anything from grillS and light soups, to patisserie desserts all taken from a variety of cuisines from acorss the world.

Munchies: 5 St Mary’s Place, NE1 7PG. Tel: 01912 210707. No night out in Newcastle is complete without a trip to Munchies. A favourite amongst students, the fast food restaurant boasts the best chips ‘n’ gravy in the whole of the city.

Sky Apple Cafe: 182 Heaton Road, NE6 5HP. Tel: 01912 092571. skyapple.co.uk. Whether your vegan, veggie or just a great fan of inventive, seasonal cooking, the Sky Apple offers a range of culinary delights. With a menu that changes every month or so, enjoy some autumnal apple doughnuts with cinder toffee in the coming weeks.

Street, NE1 6EE. Tel: 01912 615587. Despite having the world’s longest bar, you won’t be waiting long for your drink. Don’t be alarmed if you hear someone order a ‘Golden Shower’ – it’s one of the bars specialty drinks with an unusual blend of peach schnapps, tequila, apple juice and lemonade. Sweet!

Hancock: 2A Hancock Street, NE2 4PU. Tel: 01912 815653. With pints for a pound and classic pub grub, it’s no wonder Hancock is a regular meeting point for societies and pub crawls. The pub caters for a wide range of music tastes, with four DJ’s featured on different nights.

Crows Nest: Percy Street, NE1 7RY. Tel: 01912612607. If you fancy a change from the university canteen, head to the Crows Nest and make the most of their two meals for just £7.

The Boulevard: 3-9 Church Street, NE1 4HF. Tel: 01912 507068. boulevardnewcastle.co.uk. For a night to remember, visit the faboulas Boulevard, where “burlesque meets Broadway”.

Professional female impersonators will keep you entertained, with outrageous comedy that would give Priscilla a run for her money!

Shearers Sports Bar: St James’s Blvd, NE1 4ST. Tel: 01912 018688. A must for football fans, the sports bar named after Newcastle’s ‘number nine’ has student nights on a Monday and Wednesday.

The Cluny: 36 Lime Street, NE1

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FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Sunderland

Durham

NORTH EAST SUNDERLAND / DURHAM BArS

crown tree Leisure centre:

students start their Hill College bar crawl at the bar at the top of the hill. Students say that the Butler bar is huge with reasonably priced drinks… and who wants to stumble up a hill drunk! the Glass Spider: 4 Green Terrace, SR1 3PZ. Tel. 01915 677272. A pub split across two floors gives you the choice to party downstairs or chill out with friends upstairs on the roof terrace upstairs. You do need to pay to get in, but it’s almost like two clubs in one! the Varsity: Priestman Building, 3 Green Terrace, SR1 3PZ. Tel. 01915 654783. varsitybars.com.

Find Varsity on Facebook and click like to be up-to-date with the latest offers. You’ll also be able to enter competitions. If you sign up for a ‘V’ card, you’ll save dosh on your drinks and food every time you’re in.

Luma Lounge & Bistro: 15-17 Derwent Street, SR1 3NU. Tel. 01915 145111. lumabar.co.uk. Get down to Luma for something to eat. The menus have just been revamped so now is the perfect time to get down there and give their food a go.

Crowntree Road, Town Centre, SR1 3EL. Tel. 01915 532600. sunderland.gov.uk Want to get in shape? Grab yourself a LIFE card from the reception and you can nab yourself concessionary prices. So you’ve no excuse for not getting yourself down there and pumping some iron.

reStAurAntS rumbletums old english tea rooms:

RUMBLETUMS, DURHAM

AttrActionS oriental Museum: Elvet Hill,

Durham DH1 3TH. Tel. 01913 345694. durac.uk/oriental. museum. Opening hours: weekdays 10am to 5pm; weekends 12pm to 5pm. Free entry for students. Fancy a taste of the Orient? Why not visit the Oriental Museum where you can see a range of exhibitions throughout the year.

Durham cathedral: DH1 3EH. Tel. 01913 864266. durhamcathedral. co.uk. It’s the landmark of the city so why not go and have a look at the shrine of St Cuthbert. You can even climb to the very top! thorpe Park centre: Thorpe Farm, Greta Bridge, DL12 9TY. Tel. 01833 627242. thorpefarm. co.uk. Opening hours: Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm; Sun, 10am-5pm.

A fun day out with animal paddocks and a lovely country bistro and coffee shop. There’s also lots of walks and a maze to navigate!

Freemans Quay Leisure centre: The Sands, DH1 1SG. Tel. 01913 018306. durhamcity.gov.uk/Leisure/ Locations/FreemansQuay.

Membership for £27.50 a month.

Fancy getting into shape? Head down to the Freemans Quay Leisure Centre to try your hand at many of the different exercises that are on offer. Ideal for getting in shape.

top Gear Karting: Unit 13, Rennys Lane Industrial Estate, DH1 2RS. Tel. 01913 860999. topgearkarting. co.uk. Prices Vary. Have a need for speed? Top Gear Karting is the perfect place to go. With offers on throughout the week the go-karts are ready and waiting!

Sunderland Museum and Winter gardens: Burdon Road, SR1 1PP.

Tel. 01915 532323. twmuseums. org.uk/sunderland. Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm; Sunday 2pm to 5pm. Admission is free. Why not find out about the history of your uni’s city with a variety of exhibits.

Thenwhy not fo for a wander through the gallery and winter gardens to talk about it with your friends.

Stadium of Light: Millenium Way SR5 1SU. Tel. 01915 515000. www.safc.com. Even if you don’t like football, why not head down and support Sunderland in a home match or take a tour of the stadium for just £10. Take That have even performed here! tenpin bowling: Sunniside Leisure, High Street West, SR1 1TR. Tel. 0871 873 2450.

Opening hours: weekdays 12pm to 12am; weekends 9:30am to 12am. Prices start from £5.

Why not get yourself down to the bowling alley with friends to unwind after a stressful day at uni. If bowling doesn’t tickle

SAFETY FIRST Got a family member that won’t stop nagging you about how you’ll get back to halls safely after a night out on the razz? We recommend saving a few taxi firm’s numbers into your mobile, so you have a few options if a firm can’t get to you when you need them. We also think it’s a good idea to keep your taxi fare separate from your drinking money and avoid spending it on that last rum and coke! We also think Stanley taxis in Durham are fab. Why? Because, you can pay with your credit or debit card and even pre book your taxi. Always check at uni to see which firms they’d recommend for you to get home safely.

XXVIII www.student365.co.uk

32 Silver Street, DH1 3RD. Tel. 0792 996 3614. Are you a tea lover? Then get yourself down to Rumbletums and enjoy a good cuppa with a scone or something else yummy to eat!

Jr Smith My Kinda Pizza: 38 North Road, DH1 4SE. Tel. 01913 845819.

Fancy a take-out pizza, why not try JR Smith My Kinda Pizza?

Grab your mates, a DVD or some video games and chill out for the night. Getting decent take out pizza can be tricky but JR Smith have it down.

La tasca: 58 Saddler Street, Town Centre, DH1 3NU. Tel. 0845 126 2958. latasca.co.uk. Ever thought of trying tapas? Get yourself down to La Tasca with some friends and try some delicious Spanish cuisine. Not too sure? Check out the website which has the menu online! coffea caban: 33 Blandford Street, Sunderland, SR1 3JJ. Tel. 01915 677030. coffeacaban.vpweb.com.

With a wide range of food for offer, you’re bound to find something filling and tasty to stop the extra loud rumbling that’s going on in your stomach. Even better everything on the menu is under £6, so you’ll save some needed cash too! Fantastic value for the quality of food.

Bengal Spice tandoori: 21 Melbourne Place, SR4 8LN. Tel. 01915 202727. bengalspicetandoori. co.uk. Fancy a curry for tea? You can order your curry online with Bengal Spice Tandoori and for a small price they’ll deliver right to your front door.

Marcello’s: 5 Albion Place, Town Centre, Sunderland, SR1 3NG. Tel. 01915 671032. marcellosristorante. co.uk. Located slap-bang in the city centre, Marcellos offers you some delicious and authentic Italian cuisine at two main times of the day. Open for happy hour lunches between 12 and 2pm or on of an evening between 5:30pm and10:30pm. If you’re feeling lazy, they even offer an express delivery service online that you can take advantage of! So whether you eat in or opt for the takeaway service, you’re bound to be pleased with an Italian meal from Marcello’s restaurant.

Butler Bar: Most Durham uni

niGhtLiFe Studio nightclub: North Road, DH1 4SN. Tel. 0191 384 3900. Tuesday nights will be your new nights out at Studio night club.

Having a 50p night you can get entry for that price and bag some drinks for the same price!

Klute nightclub: Elvet Bridge, DH1 3AF. Tel. 0191 386 9859. This club won FHM’s worst night club in Europe award in 1996 but has gone from strength to strength since. Always playing cheesy music, it’s always a winner for a good night. retox: 108 High Street West, SR1 1TX. Tel. 01912 145780.

Sunderland’s only gay club holds different theme nights each night of the week so get yourself down there and find out what’s happening on which night!

Liquid nightclub: Green Terrace, SR1 3PZ. Tel. 01915 670760. liquidclubs.co.uk. Buy your tickets online and get 25 per cent off you can even jump the queue!

Liquid hold theme nights on certain nights of the week so to be up to date keep checking online .

And be sure to be ready to dance the night away.

cineMA Gala cinema and theatre: 1

Millennium Place, Town Centre, DH1 1WA. Tel. 01913 324041. galadurham.co.uk. In need of a break from the books? Get yourself down to the cinema with

your friends and catch up on the latest releases. The cinema also doubles up as the city’s theatre so keep your eyes peeled to see some stage action when you tire of the silver screen.. empire cinema: 4 Lambton Street, SR1 1TP. Tel. 0871 471 4714. empirecinemas.co.uk. Admission: £4.25 with valid NUS card. Fancy watching a film but no there’s no cheap DVD’s taking your fancy?

Head down to Empire Cinema and watch a film there for the same price as buying one! Now that’s an offer you can’t refuse.

And one that rarely matched elsewhere either!

theAtre Gala cinema And theatre: 1 Millennium Place, Town Centre, DH1 1WA. Tel. 01913 324041. galadurham.co.uk. Prices vary, check online for the latest details. In need of some respite from the books? Get yourself down to the cinema with your friends and catch up on the latest blockbuster releases. The cinema also doubles up as the city’s theatre so keep your eyes peeled to see some stage action too. Perfect for an evening’s entertainment when you really fancy something a little different from the usual night out.

Sunderland empire theatre: High Street West, SR1 3EX. Tel. 01915 661040. sunderlandempire.org. uk. Claiming to be the North East’s West End, Sunderland’s Empire theatre is always bustling with different shows, so get yourself to the box office for a different night out and spend some time with the city’s luvvies. Check online for the latest information on their autumn and winter shows.

uSeFuL inFo Durham rail Station: North Road, DH1 4ST. Not located centrally, but its just a short walk down North Road to get to the town centre. There is also a bus stop just outside the station if you’re feeling a bit lazy and have the extra money..

Park Lane interchange: SR1 3NX. Need to catch the bus or hop onto the metro? This is the place to get yourself to. With a number of bus stands and regular metro trains running through here, you can get all over the North West area. Plus you can check out timetables and fare information from here.

Stanley taxis: Tel. 01913 832905.

Don’t want to walk home after a night out? Book your taxi with Stanley Taxis and you can pre pay for your taxi, so you don’t have to worry about accidently spending your taxi money. They also accept credit cards if you’re short on paper money.

WORDS: Hugo Fluendy

your fancy you could always go for a game of Laser tag instead.

FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Edinburgh

SCOTLAND EDINBURGH ATTRACTIONS

Filmhouse: 88 Lothian Road, EH3 9BZ. Tel. 0131 228 2688. filmhousecinema.com. First port of call for serious film buffs, Edinburgh’s biggest art house cinema boasts two screens and a busy calendar of foreign and independent films.

The National Museum of Scotland:

Chambers Street, EH1 1JF. Tel. 0300 123 6789. nms.ac.uk/ our_museums/national_museum. aspx . Opening hours: 10am-5pm.

Free entry. Fresh from a £47 million pound revamp, the sheer number of exhibits on show would be overwhelming if not for the well thought out categories and interactive multi-media displays.

Any one with an interest in Scottish history must visit.

THEATRE

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art: 75 Belford Road,

EH4 3DR. Tel. 0131 624 6200. nationalgalleries.org/ modernartgalleries. Opening hours: 10am-5pm. Free entry.

Set in beautifully landscaped grounds, this city centre gallery feels like a grand country house, but is only ten minutes walk from the hectic West End. The collection is world class too with major works by modern artists including Matisse, Warhol, Bacon and Hirst.

Edinburgh Castle: Castlehill, EH1 2NG. Tel. 0131 2259 846. edinburghcastle.gov. uk. Opening hours: Summer, 9:30am-6pm; Winter, 9:30am5pm in the winter. Edinburgh’s most imposing landmark dominates the skyline, but it’s well worth a closer look. Dating from 600 AD with some parts from the 12th century, it has pretty much everything you want from a castle including a portcullis, battlements, dungeons and big guns. Time your visit for the firing of the one o’clock gun.

Holyrood Palace: Canongate, Royal Mile, EH8 8DX. Tel. 0131 556 5100. royalcollection.org.uk/ default.asp?action=article&ID=36.

Opening hours: 9.30am-6pm.

The Queen’s official residence in Scotland oozes history from every stone. Even the floor is bloodstained from the murder of Mary Queen of Scots’ hapless lover Rizzio. The Queen’s Gallery also stages exhibitions from the Royal Collection.

A great visit for humanities students.

WORDS: Hugo Fluendy

Edinburgh International Climbing Arena: Ratho, South Platt Hill,

Newbridge, EH28 8AA. Tel. 0131 333 6333. hireeica-ratho. com. Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am-10pm; Sat-Sun, 10am-7pm Student tickets cost £5.75 plus equipment hire. Created by roofing an old quarry, the EICA’s enormous main arena is a suitably awe-inspiring venue for testing your nerve against the huge rock walls. There are also regular classes for beginners and membership schemes for the more committed climber looking for a challenge.

SCOTTISH NATIONAL GALLERY OF MODERN ART

RESTAURANTS Kebab Mahal: 7 Nicolson Square, EH8 9BH. Tel. 0131 667 5214. kebabmahal.com. Opening hours: 12pm-12am. Fri-Sat, 12pm-2am. Quick, cheap and delicious, this packed curry and kebab restaurant is an Edinburgh institution. With most dishes under a fiver, you can afford to finish with tea and the best baklava this side of the Bosporus.

Kampung Ali Malaysian Delight:

28 Clerk Street, EH8 9HX. Tel. 0131 6629 050. kampungali. wordpress.com. Authentic Malaysian cuisine served in unpretentious surroundings.

Don’t be put off by the yellowing photographs of noodles and formica tables. The Rendang beef with coconut rice really is culinary dynamite.Try it!

Black Medicine Coffee Company: 2 Nicolson Street, EH8 9DH. Tel. 0131 5576 269. blackmed.co.uk There’s two more in Edinburgh, but with loads of tasty snacks, a hip soundtrack, quirky decor and interesting staff serving up the best coffee in town, Black Med couldn’t be further from the chain café experience.

The Tail End: 14 –15 Albert Place, EH7 5HN. Tel. 0131 555 3577. tailendfishbar.co.uk. Opening hours: 11.30am-10pm. A cut above your average chippie, The Tail End cooks a range of fresh fish and seafood to order and has a specials board which changes daily. There’s also a reasonably priced restaurant next door.

BARS The Royal Oak: 1 Infirmary Street, EH1 1LT. Tel. 0131 557 2976. royal-oak-folk.com.

Opening hours: Mon- Sat, 11.30am-2am; Sun, 2pm-2am.

The focal point of Edinburgh’s vibrant folk scene, the small bar plays host to live music every night. The wide range

of whiskies only adds to the friendly atmosphere in this cult pub.

The Athletic Arms: 1 Angle Park Terrace, EH11 2JX. Tel. 0131 3373 822. Opening hours: 11am-11pm. Universally known as The Diggers because of the graveyard across the street, this is one for the beer lovers.

Signal to the barman as you enter to order a pint of the local heavy and you’ll understand why the Campaign for Real Ale dubbed this resolutely a no frills working man’s pub Mecca.

The Basement Bar: 10-12a Broughton Street, EH1 3RH. Tel. 0131 557 0097. thebasement.org.uk. Opening hours: 12pm-1am. thebasement. org.uk. A popular pre-club hangout, the buzzing, subterranean vibe builds the mood nicely for a night of hedonism. There’s a small restaurant area next door serving Mexican comfort food.

The Opal Lounge: 51 George Street, EH2 2HT. Tel. 0131 226 2275. opallounge.co.uk. By day a chic bar and restaurant, The Opal Lounge morphs into a funky and glamorous club at night. Located on fashionable George Street, it attracts a dressy and somewhat affluent crowd.

The Pond: 2- 4 Bath Road, EH6 7JT. Tel. 0131 467 3825.

With Krusovice on tap, the eponymous pond in the beer garden and zany clientele this is a one off bar found in a salubrious corner of Leith. With all the wildlife outside – the area is a red light district – its aquarium theme somehow seems appropriate.

NIGHTLIFE Sneaky Pete’s: 73 Cowgate,

EH1 1JT. Tel. 0131 225 1757. sneakypetes.co.uk. A tiny sweatbox venue booking local and touring acts for an

enthusiastic crowd. There are also club nights spinning everything from indie to dubstep.

Cabaret Voltaire: 36-38 Blair Street, EH1 1QR. Tel. 0131 220 6176 thecabaretvoltaire.com.

Moderately hip venue dishing up a quality mix of clubs and regular live bands.

GHQ: 4–6 Picardy Place, EH1 3JT. Tel. 0845 166 6024. socialanimal.co.uk/GHQ. Opening hours: 9pm-3am.

Stylish gay club in the heart of Edinburgh’s Pink Triangle with regular big name DJs pulling in a smart, up-for-it crowd. Look out for student midweeker Viva.

Espionage: 4 India Buildings, Victoria Street, EH1 2EX. Tel. 0131 4777 007. espionage007. co.uk/edinburgh. Opening hours: 9pm-3am. Lose yourself in this labyrinthine student staple spread over five floors. An unpretentious mix of chart, cheese and dance soundtracks a boisterous crowd on the pull.

Liquid Rooms: 9C Victoria Street, EH1 2HE. Tel. 0131 225 2564. liquidroom.com. Medium-sized live music venue with regular gigs from touring acts plus club nights including big indie night EVOL.

CINEMA The Cameo: 38 Home Street, EH3 9LZ. Tel. 0871 902 5723. picturehouses.co.uk/ cinema/Cameo_Picturehouse.

Concession tickets are available. Independent cinema screening a mix of art house andHollywood flicks: watch out for the regular late night double bills.

Brass Monkey: 14 Drummond Street, EH8 9TU. Tel. 0131 556 1961. Opening hours: 11am-1am.

Free entry. Catch a different movie for free every afternoon on the big screen in the cushion-strewn back room of this laidback student watering hole. Very comfortable, with a laidback, chilled atmosphere.

The Traverse: 10 Cambridge Street, EH1 2ED. Tel. 0131 228 3223. traverse.co.uk. Billed as Scotland’s new writing theatre, two theatre spaces are available for original drama programmes.

A great space for drama students to check out.

The Bedlam: 11B Bristo Place, EH1 1EZ. Tel. 0131 225 9893. bedlamtheatre.co.uk. Run by the University of Edinburgh, the company welcomes new members.

The Lyceum: Grindlay Street, EH3 9AX. Tel. 0131 248 4848. lyceum.org.uk. A well regarded reparatory company stages revivals of classic plays new and old in this beautiful Victorian theatre.

USEFUL INFO Lothian Buses: Annandale Street,

EH7 4AZ . Tel. 0131 554 4494. lothianbuses.com. Central Edinburgh is fairly compact but the city is well served night and day by a network of these cheery maroon buses. Check website for timetables.

Waverley Station: 101-103 Princes Street, EH1 1BB. Tel. 0845 711 4141. .networkrail.co.uk/aspx/807.aspx.

Edinburgh’s main rail station is at the East End of the city’s main shopping drag with regular services to London and other major UK cities.

Central Radio Taxis: 8 St Peter’s Buildings, Gilmore Place, EH3 9PG .Tel. 0131 229 2468. taxisedinburgh.co.uk. Taxis are a fairly expensive option in Edinburgh but in a pinch this is one of the bigger and more reliable firms who will get you around town in no time.

Blackwell’s: 52– 62 South Bridge, EH1 1YS. Tel. 0131 622 8222. bookshop.blackwell.co.uk/ jsp/editorial/shops/SHOP21. jsp. Opening hours: 9am-8pm; Sat-Sun, 9am-6pm.A well stocked bookshop specialising in academic texts, the ideal place to come purchase all the textbooks you need.

Duncan McLaren Locksmiths: 29 Bread Street, EH3 9AL. Tel. 0131 229 7802. duncanmclarenlocksmiths.com.

Locked out of the house? You’ll need a locksmith quick, these guys offer a 24 hour call-out service, which could get you back into your house and out of the cold.

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FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Glasgow

SCOTLAND GLASGOW between the West End and the centre of town.

NIGHTLIFE Sub Club: 22 Jamaica Street, G1

TENNENTS IS GLASGOW’S CITY BEER

ATTRACTIONS Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum:

Argyle Street, G3 8AG Tel. 0141 276 9599 glasgowlife.org. uk/museums/our-museums/ kelvingrove/Pages/home.aspx.

Opening hours: 10am-5pm most days but opening at 11am on Fridays and Sundays. Free entry.

With over 20 galleries packed full of exhibits and fine art, this is the perfect destination for a lazy Sunday afternoon’s wander.

The Burrell Collection: Pollok Country Park, 2060 Pollokshaws Road, G43 1AT. Tel. 0141 287 0047. glasgowlife.org. uk/museums/our-museums/ burrell-collection/Pages/home. aspx. Opening hours: Mon -Sat, 10am-5pm; Sun, 11am-5pm. Free entry. Shipping magnate Sir William Burrell donated this grand country house and collection of some 8,000 artworks and antiquities to the city. Set in Pollokshaws Country Park, it’s a fascinating counterpoint to more traditional images of the city’s industrial past.

The Barrowlands Market:

Kelvin Hall International Sports Arena: 1445 Argyle Street,

G3 8AW. Tel. 0141 276 1450. glasgowlife.org.uk/sport/ glasgow-club/kelvin-hall/Pages/

courses is too expensive for some student budgets, then book early for a more modestly priced pretheatre menu.

RESTAURANTS

Variety: 401 Sauchiehall Street, G2 3LG. Tel. 0141 332 4449. Opening hours: Mon-Sat, 11am-late. Sun, 12pm-late. The vintage art deco bar’s faded elegance is a magnet for the city’s bohemians and boozers alike.

Nice’n’Sleazy: 421 Sauchiehall Street, G2 3LG. Tel. 0141 333 0900. nicensleazy.com.

Opening hours: 12.30pm-late.

Don’t be put off by the name, this busy pub and live music venue is relaxed and welcoming. The beers are cheap, the food surprisingly good and it’s got a great jukebox.

Captain’s Rest: 185 Great Western Road, G4 9EB. Tel. 0141 332 7304. captainsrest.co.uk.

Opening hours: 12pm-12am.

It’s downbeat charm and determinedly unpretentious atmosphere are only part of the attraction here. It’s also a linchpin of the local music scene with everyone from Franz Ferdinand, Mogwai, Frightened Rabbit and the latest hopefuls gracing the small stage.

Stereo: 22-28 Renfield Lane, G2 5AR. Tel. 0141 222 2254. stereocafebar.com. Opening hours: 12pm-12am; clubs shutting at 3am. Top bands, hip clubs and a café/bar all wrapped up in a Charles Rennie Mackintoshdesigned former printing works close by Central Station. Further east, sister pub Mono is an oasis of cool too.

Black Sparrow: 241 North Street, G3 7DL. Tel. 0141 221 5530. theblacksparrow.co.uk. Opening hours: Mon-Thur, 12pm to 12am; Fri-Sat, 12.30pm-1am. The understated cool of the interior, relaxed atmosphere, well stocked bar and tasty pub grub make the Sparrow a reliable staging post

Tchai Ovna House of Tea: 42 Otago

Street, G12 8PB. Tel. 0141 357 4524. tchaiovna.com. Opening hours: 11am-11pm. Quirky tea shop and veggie café with a treehousestyle terrace overlooking the River Kelvin. Perfect for chilling on a summer’s day while you sample some of the 80 different kinds of tea on offer.

78: 14 Kelvinhaugh Street, G3 8NU. Tel. 0141 576 5018. the78cafebar.com. Opening hours: Mon-Fri 12.30pm-late; Sat-Sun, 12pm-late. Real fire, comfy sofas, heavy wooden tables and an eponymous gramophone give this excellent vegan restaurant a boho farmhouse feel. Plus there’s a 25% student discount on all food.

The Left Bank: 33-35 Gibson Street, G12 8NU. Tel. 0141 339 5969. theleftbank.co.uk. Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 9am-late; Sat-Sun, 10am-late. Popular bistro-style café bar with global cuisine ranging from fish and chips to Kashmiri Chicken. The all day brunch menu at the weekends is a potential lifesaver.

Mother India: 28 Westminster Terrace, G3 7RU. Tel. 0141 221 1663. motherindiaglasgow. co.uk. Opening hours: Mon-Thur, 5.30pm-late; Fri-Sun, 12pm-late.

Award-winning Indian restaurant in a city famed for its curry.

It specialises in seafood but whatever you plump for you’ll be in for a treat.

Stravaigin: 28-30 Gibson Street, G12 8NX. Tel. 0141 334 2665. stravaigin.com. Opening hours: 11am-late. Traditional Scottish dishes are given an international flavour at this West End favourite.

If around £30 a head for three

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BARS

CINEMA Glasgow Film Theatre: 12 Rose Street, G3 6RB. Tel. 0141 332 6535. glasgowfilm.org/theatre.

Concession tickets available at £5.50. Attractive art deco home of the Glasgow Film Festival and Glasgow’s leading arthouse cinema showing a wide array of films from Scotland, the UK and the rest of the world. If you see yourself as a bit of a film buff, the Film Theatre is a good place to be seen in.

Grosvenor: Ashton Lane, G12 8SJ Tel. 0845 166 6002. grosvenorcafe.co.uk/cinema.php.

Opening hours: 10am to 10pm.

Tucked away on Ashton Lane, this small independent cinema screens a mix of arthouse and mainstream releases. A great place to watch something off the wall as well as something more standard.

Sloans EatFilm: 62 Argyle Arcade, 108 Argyle Street, G2 8BG. Tel. 0141 221 8886. sloansglasgow. com/eat_films. Opening hours: Tuesdays at 9pm. Costs from

THEATRE Tramway: 25 Albert Drive, G41 2PE. Tel. 0141 276 0950. tramway. org. Opening hours: 12pm-5pm. A multi-arts venue with an emphasis on drama and dance. An old tram shed also houses one of Europe’s biggest exhibition spaces. If you’re looking for a theatre with that something extra, Tramway’s for you.

Citizens Theatre: 119 Gorbals Street, G5 9DS. Tel. 0141 429 5561. citz. co.uk. While its days as a hotbed of socialist agitation and activity may be long gone, the ‘Citz’ still retains an endearingly inclusive attitude right down to its cheap student tickets for all shows.

USEFUL INFO Glasgow Central Train Station: 79 Gordon Street, G1 3SL. Tel. 0141 335 4352. nationalrail.co.uk/stations/ GLC.html. This is Glasgow’s main rail hub with train connections right across the UK. Trains to Edinburgh leave from nearby Queen Street Station, so if you’re heading to Scotland’s capital make sure you get yourself in the right station first.

Buchanan Street Bus Station: 174 Buchanan Street, G2 3NP. Tel. 0141 332 6811. spt.co.uk/bus/bbs.

This is Glasgow’s national coach terminal handy to the city centre.

Glasgow Taxis: Tel. 0141 429 7070. glasgowtaxis.co.uk. Cabs are relatively cheap and plentiful in Glasgow, so you may be able to ‘shop’ around before committing to a fare.

GO ON, GIVE A FLYING DUCK More offbeat than a Trojan side, the Flying Duck (142 Renfield Street, G2 3AU. Tel. 0141 564 1450. flyingduckclub.com) is a free-wheeling blend of alternative weekend clubbing and stoned midweek bar hi-jinks complete with free toast for its diverse crowd. Forthcoming nights range from good humoured indie bash Pin-Up’s Red Light Nights featuring burlesque and guest DJ sets from legendary Scotland striker Frank McAvennie. With a cheap bar and regular drink promos, regular drink promos, it’s a must for any student.

WORDS: Hugo Fluendy

Gallowgate, G1 5AX Tel. 0141 552 4601. glasgow-barrowland.com/ market/barras.htm. Opening hours: Sat-Sun, 10am-5pm Free entry. Universally known as The Barras, this East End institution was, until recently, Europe’s biggest open air market. Worth a visit just to sample the rich patter, this is a veritable Aladdin’s cave of bric-a-brac.

Centre for Contemporary Arts: 350 Sauchiehall Street, G2 3JD. Tel. 0141 352 4900 cca-glasgow.com.

Opening hours: Tue-Sat, 11am-6pm Free entry. The bustling hub of Glasgow’s vibrant art scene with a packed program of exhibitions, concerts and films.

home.aspx. Kelvin Hall boasts a large, well-equipped gym, a climbing wall and an indoor athletics track. The main arena is also home to the Glasgow Rocks pro basketball team.

4QO Tel. 0141 248 4600. subclub. co.uk. A club complete with subterranean location and dimly lit banquettes strewn with hipsters.

Currently home to two of the UK’s best parties in Subculture and Optimo, the Subbie is an essential highlight of any serious clubber’s diary.

Arches: 253 Argyle Street, G2 8DL. Tel. 0141 565 1000. thearches. co.uk.Jewel in the city’s creative crown, this cavernous multi-arts venue promotes a consistently high quality mix of music, clubs, exhibitions, dance and drama.

Promises varied and exciting performances.

Polo Lounge: 84 Wilson Street, G1 1UZ. Tel. 0845 659 5905. socialanimal.co.uk/ GlasgowCityCentre/Polo_Lounge.

Glasgow’s largest gay club, the stylish multi-roomed interior is packed with uninhibited hedonists every weekend and, of course, most week nights too. Check it out as a great place to meet other gay students and get an insight into Glasgow’s gay scene.

O2 ABC: 300 Sauchiehall Street, G2 3JA. Tel. 0141 332 2232. o2abcglasgow.co.uk. A converted cinema spread over two venues and five bars., this is a very nice place for dancing, drinking and general clubbing action. The focus is on big student-orientated clubs and showcasing touring bands. A great place to watch live music as well as get down to club tunes.

£9 for two including food. With screenings of cult favourites, plus macaroni cheese for two, in an 18th century ballroom, it’s hard to think of a more mind boggling contrast to the average multiplex.

Makes a nice romantic option for a date or just good for somewhere different to try when you and your pals fancy a change.

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FRESHDIRECTION WHAT’S ON

Belfast

NORTHERN IRELAND BELFAST Belfast including the Queen’s students’ union, Stranmillis and Botanics.

Boojum: 73 Botanic Avenue, BT7 1JL. Tel. 02890 315334. A favourite for quick, affordable and tasty food, is the Mexican ‘have it your way’ burrito bar Boojum.

Pick between burritos or fajitas, choose meat or veg and pick your own toppings and make it as hot or mild as you like it! Great value eating.

Common Grounds Cafe: 12-24 University Avenue , BT7 1GY. Tel. 02890 326589. This not-forprofit coffee house has a range of delicious sandwiches, soups and great coffee, and often has evening musical performances to add to its pleasant atmosphere.

Little Wing Pizzeria: 322 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 6GH. Tel. 02890 666000. Northern Ireland’s own pizza chain offers delicious pizzas in a funky setting with a handy buy-a-slice takeaway option.

BARS FILTHY MCNASTY’S

ATTRACTIONS Ulster Museum: Botanic Gardens,

Belfast BT9 5AB. Tel. 02890 440000. The Ulster Museum reopened in 2009 after a major revamp and has become Northern Ireland’s busiest visitor attraction with a great variety of exhibitions and displays. Be sure to check out their infamous mummy Takabuti.

Botanic Gardens: BT9 5AB. Opening hours: 7.30am to dusk.

Unique glasshouses, tropical plants, beautiful blossoms, trees and sprawling lawns, all beside Queen’s University makes the Botanic Gardens a favourite place for students to study, lounge and sneak in some sun worshipping between classes.

Queen’s PEC: QUB Physical Education Centre, Botanic Park, BT9 5EX. Tel. 02890 681126. queenssport.com. Keep fit in the gym, go for a swim or get involved with a club and enjoy student membership prices at this ultra-modern sports centre with a range of activities to try.

Belfast Giants: Tel. 02890

739074. belfastgiants.com.

The Belfast Giants have been going for ten years and have developed a huge following. Enjoy their lively and entertaining ice hockey games at their home in the Odyssey Arena. Different ticket schemes are available.

RESTAURANTS Maggie Mays: 50 Botanic Avenue, BT7 1JR; 2 Malone Road, BT9 5BN. Tel. 02890 322662. The place to get a fry-up, stews and other homely meals. Their new location beside Queen’s University has a great outside seating area to watch the hustle and bustle go by while you tuck in and is very handy for a post-class munch.

Clements Coffee Shop: 68 Botanic Avenue, BT7 1JR. 02890 331827.

Clements cafes have a unique décor and enjoyable relaxed atmosphere where you can get a great cup of coffee and other tasty treats. Located across

QUEEN’S HAS IT ALL

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NIGHTLIFE Laverys: 12-16 Bradbury Place, BT7 1RS. Tel. 02890 871106. laverysbelfast.com. A hugely popular bar complex with four different venues under one roof, including club nights,

CINEMA Moviehouse: Dublin Road, Belfast

BT2 7HN. Jet Centre, Coleraine BT51 3WA. moviehouse.co.uk.

Moviehouse cinemas can be found all over Northern Ireland and offer discounted ticket prices at £3.50 on Crazy Tuesdays.

Queen’s Film Theatre: 20 University Square, BT7 1PA. Tel. 02890 971097. queensfilmtheatre.com.

Northern Ireland’s foremost independent cinema has the finest in foreign and classic films, three screens and a bar to offer students interested in all things movie. Film Theatre members get a fabulous £2.50 discount and all films are only £3 on Mondays. Great for film studies students or film buffs.

Odeon: Victoria Square, BT1 4QG. Watch a flick after you’ve done some shopping at the Odeon cinema located in Belfast’s modern shopping complex.

There’s a special student price of £4 before 5pm on Mondays to Thursdays. Otherwise tickets will cost you £4.80.

THEATRE Brian Friel Theatre: 20, University Square, BT7 1PA Tel. 02890 971382. brianfrieltheatre.co.uk.

Under the same roof as the Queen’s Film Theatre, the Brian Friel Theatre is the university’s hub for drama and performance. You can experience both student and professional productions here, so

there’s sure to be something that suits your theatrical requirements.

Lyric Theatre: 55 Ridgeway Street, BT9 5FB. Tel. 02890 381081. lyrictheatre.co.uk. The new £18m Lyric Theatre on Belfast’s River Lagan reopened this year and is now a state-of-the-art venue for theatre performances. So, if you like your venues new and shiny, this is the place to watch your favourite luvvies do their thing.

Grand Opera House: Great Victoria Street, BT2 7HR. Tel 02890 241919. goh.co.uk. Established in 1895, the landmark Grand Opera House is the home of must-see musicals and cheesy pantomimes. The historic building is adjoined by a modern addition which has a café, restaurant and bar. This means you can eat here before the show, sink some drinks after the show, or just visit without having to see a show. Either way you can really make a night of it.

USEFUL INFO Fona Cab: Tel. 02890 333333. fonacab.com. Taxis at Fona Cab provide a ‘pay later’ fare for student card holders. Handy for when you have run of readies after a night out.

Belfast Locks: 92b Bangor Road, Hollywood, Co. Down, BT18 OLR. Tel. 02890 421500. belfastlocks. com. A must-have contact in case you end up losing your keys during a heavy night or somehow get locked out - these guys can be the difference between sleeping rough and getting back into your warm bed. niftynosh.com: If you want something tasty but just can’t be bothered to leave the house to grab something, then you will be pleased to know that Nifty Nosh offers an online takeaway service from lots of food outlets around Northern Ireland. Just get online, place your order and wait for your food - simple. translink.co.uk: Make the most of public transport with a Translink Student Discount Card. Get great savings on bus and rail services throughout Northern Ireland and on cross-border services too - so you can even jaunt down to the south of Ireland if you want. It costs £7 to register for your Card.

Remember the sooner you buy your card, the quicker you can start saving on your travels.

Oxfam Bookshop: 33 Botanic Avenue, BT7 1JG. Tel. 02890 333040.oxfamireland.org/ oxfambooks. Pick up a bargain textbook for class or a cheap read for bedtime at this great shop with a wide selection of secondhand books. Has an extensive selection so there’s something for everybody and your money goes to a good cause.

WORDS: Louise Convery

Queen’s Students’ Union: 77-79 University Road, BT7 1NN. Tel. 02890 973726. qubsu-ents.com. Queen’s Students’ Union is hard to beat for all-round student entertainment and facilities. It has everything under one roof and offers affordable student prices on everything. It has a variety of events, club nights and gigs in the one place. The bars are open seven days a week with an outstanding selection of drinks and snacks. You can watch the match on huge screens and enjoy £2 a pint promos. Not bad, eh? Major student clubnights run in the Mandela Hall every Monday and Thursday. Ten-years old and still getting laughs, the union’s Comedy Club hosts top acts from across the UK and Ireland and showcases fresh talent too. Find out more online at queenscomedyclub.com.

Filthy McNastys: 45 Dublin Road, BT2 7HD. This quirky bar is compact and cool, with eclectic furnishings and décor and a new secret beer garden, it’s one for chilled out drinks with a few friends and being seen in the hippest joint in town.

Duke of York: 3-11 Commercial Court, BT1 2NB. Tel. 02890 241062. This traditional bar is down a hidden cobbled-street and if you can get a seat, is a great place for a drink and a chat. Located in the city centre near the art college, it’s a great spot for sitting outside in good weather.

The Botanic Inn: 23-27 Malone Road, BT9 6RU. Tel. 02890 50 9740. More affectionately known as ‘The Bot’, this bar complex is a favourite among students for food, pints and sport on a big screen, not forgetting its lively student night on Thursdays, 10pm. £5 entry fee.

Union Street Pub: 8-14 Union Street, BT1 2JF. Tel. 02890 316060. unionstreetpub.com.

Belfast’s favourite gay bar is a unique renovated shoe factory that offers delicious food, top cocktails and entertainment at night. With karaoke, pub quizzes, cabaret and comedy provided by its glamourous and charming drag queen hosts, a great night’s entertainment is sure to be on the cards.

pool tables and bars, there’s something for everyone.

Student clubnight is Slacker on Tuesday with a £3 entry fee..

Limelight: 17 Ormeau Avenue, BT2 8HD. Tel. 02890 327007.

The Limelight opens the doors to its neighbouring bars for the ultimate student party at Menage a Trois on Tuesdays (entry £5). The venue is also host to some of Northern Ireland’s top music gigs.

Shine: Mandela Hall, Queen’s Students Union, University Road, BT7 1NN. shine.net. One for big beats and top DJ names, Shine is a major dance event in the students’ union’s massive club venue and has featured big names like Annie Mac, 2 Many DJs and Pete Tong to name but a few of the best.

Stiff Kitten: 1 Bankmore Square, BT7 1DH. Tel. 02890 238700.

Sketchy on Thursdays sees Radio Ulster and Shine DJs provide an eclectic mix of tunes in the Stiff Kitten’s slick nightclub that remains a popular student haunt. Entry to Stiff Kitten costs £3 before 11pm and £4 after this. Get in for free if your names on the guestlist.