Wales is a top destination for international students, providing a great amalgamation of city life and student life, with nature and all its wonders.
Wales welcomes more than 20,000+ international students every year, and it is easily one of the most welcoming and inclusive destinations in all of Europe.
Given the number of students that fly in spanning 135+ countries, you will find a plethora of activities to do in Wales, as a student, and bring in new experiences, without burning a hole in your pocket.
We asked the experts at Amber Student Accommodation to break it all down and round up some of the amazing student attractions in Wales.
Cardiff City Centre
As the capital of Wales, Cardiff boasts a bustling city centre. It's a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The area around Cardiff University and Cardiff Metropolitan University has a plethora of cafes, bars, and shops that cater to the student population.
Main Attractions
● Shopping At Cardiff Market - A Victorian glass indoor market that once used to be a jail!
● Cardiff Castle - Visit Cardiff Castle which dates back to 50 AD and was once home to the richest man in the world - the 3rd Marquis of Bute.
● Cardiff Central Library - The library has a massive collection of resources and is a great place for students who wish to study in a place apart from their student accommodation in Wales.
Closest Train Station: Cardiff Central Rail Station
Swansea's Wind Street
Locally known as 'Windy Street', this is the go-to destination for a student to enjoy the nightlife in Swansea. The street is lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for students from Swansea University and the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.
Main Attractions
At Wind Street, you will find a plethora of speakeasy bars and hipster pubs, making it a great spot for students to have a night out. For a unique experience, you can visit the No Sign Bar, which is one of the oldest bars in Swansea, dating back to the 1690s.
Closest Bus Stop: Wind Street
Aberystwyth Seafront
Home to Aberystwyth University, the town's seafront is a picturesque location where students often gather. The promenade, with its views of Cardigan Bay, is perfect for walks, and the nearby Royal Pier offers dining and arcade games.
Main Attractions
● The National Library of Wales
● The Pier at Aberystwyth - A pier that turns out into the sea, hosts some restaurants, games arcades, a night club and a few bars, too, making it a great place for students to hang out.
● Catch a sunset at Constitution Hill
Closest Train Station: Aberystwyth Station
Hay-on-Wye
Locally known as Hay, it is a community and a market town in Wales and it is also known as a town of books with more than 20 bookshops in the historic county. It also hosts beautiful natural areas for relaxation and enjoying the river, making Hay a very unique student attraction.
Main Attractions
● Castle Book Store: Unique bookstore housed in a 12th-century castle.
● Hay Castle: A historic site with free entry, offering a glimpse into the town’s past.
● Hay-on-Wye Thursday Market Day: A vibrant local market is held every Thursday with a variety of stalls.
● Hay Distillery: A micro-distillery in the town centre producing award-winning gins and spirits.
Closest Train Station: Hereford Railway Station. From Hereford, you can take a bus or taxi to Hay-on-Wye.
Isle of Anglesey (Ynys Môn)
The island of Anglesey offers a mix of beaches, historical sites, and natural beauty, making it a great escape for students. The island is a walker’s paradise, with numerous trails that showcase its natural beauty, and to top it all Anglesey is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Main Attractions
● Cycling Routes: Exploring Anglesey by bike is a fantastic way to experience its scenic landscapes.
● Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path: A path that encircles the island, perfect for walkers and cyclists to explore the coastline.
Closest Train Station: Holyhead Railway Station
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