Cardiff is able to maintain a harmonious equilibrium between urban life and nature retreat, and it also boasts the largest inner-city park space per capita in the United Kingdom. Ensure that you visit Cardiff’s castle during your stay, as it is situated at the center of the city and serves as a poignant reminder of its 2,000-year history.
The most student-friendly suburbs
Cardiff is a city that is exceedingly accommodating to students. Cardiffians are amiable, always willing to engage in conversation, and always willing to provide directions—an ideal combination for a newcomer.
There is truly something for everyone, whether you wish to reside in halls of residence (as the majority of undergraduates do during their first year) or secure a single-family residence.
Cardiff is a relatively compact metropolis. You are consistently within walking distance of the local shop, pub, hairdresser, gym, and other amenities.
Although it is not mandatory to reside in lodgings during your first year of university, it is an excellent opportunity to establish new relationships and engage in social activities. Throughout ‘Freshers’ Week,’ halls frequently organize events to foster a sense of community and facilitate the introduction of apartmentmates.
Halls of residence are located in the city center and in areas that are further from it. It is important to consider the location of your primary university facility and the type of neighborhood you would prefer to reside in.
Cathays
Are you in search of a more lively and bustling suburb? Cathays is the optimal choice.
This region is densely populated with pupils of ALL academic years. Additionally, it is situated in close proximity to Cardiff University, rendering it an optimal choice for individuals who prefer to avoid lengthy commutes to lectures.
Roath
Roath is an excellent choice for those who appreciate tranquil neighborhoods that feature unique stores and markets.
This is the location of Anna Loka, one of Cardiff’s most prominent brunch spots. It is entirely vegan, and if you ever visit, you must sample the “bacon” crepes. Another Roath highlight is Ripple, a recently established zero-waste establishment. They offer a wide range of products, including outerwear, pasta, and laundry detergent.
City centre
Living in the center provides immediate access to the retail center, arcades, markets, and nightlife.
For instance, Cardiff University and the University of South Wales have their lecture theaters situated here.
Find out the location(s) of the course(s) you are applying to in order to determine your preferred living area. Lastly, evaluate the factors that are most significant to you.
Irrespective of whether you reside in close proximity to your university, Cardiff’s transportation system is an efficient means of transportation.
Navigating Cardiff’s transport system
The city of Cardiff is easily navigable due to its transportation system, which includes buses, railroads, and bicycles (for those who wish to maintain their fitness while traveling).
Buses
The orange and green design of the “Cardiff Bus” buses that operate in the vicinity of Cardiff is easily identifiable. If you are between the ages of 16 and 21, you may purchase either single or weekly tickets. Additionally, a travel pass card is available, which provides a 30% discount on all fares.
The Met Rider shuttles are available for transportation from Cardiff city center to both Cardiff metropolitan campuses and to halls of residence.
Keep a watch out during Freshers’ Week for additional details, as each university will provide a unique deal for bus passes. If you are considering Cardiff University or the University of South Wales (the city center campus), a bus pass may not be as essential, as they are more centrally located.
Trains
Occasionally, it is more convenient and efficient to travel by train in Cardiff, particularly due to their frequent service.
Cardiff is served by four primary stations that facilitate the process of traversing the city and provide the opportunity to branch out and explore the surrounding area. Particularly if you possess a “young persons’ railcard,” train fares are exceedingly inexpensive. If you are between the ages of 16 and 25, you are eligible to register for one of these, which will reduce your fares by one-third.
This railcard is especially advantageous for those who are undertaking lengthy excursions.
Bikes
Keep an eye out for Next Bikes, Cardiff’s bike share system.
The cost of renting a Next Bike for the day is £1 per 30 minutes, with a maximum of £10 for 24 hours. The city is replete with Next Bike facilities, which are easily identifiable by their distinctive blue backs. There is also an application that enables users to locate the motorcycles and pay for their rental.
When you arrive at the university, inquire whether they provide a student discount for Next Bikes. Throughout the city, there are cycle paths that are entirely traffic-free, as well as some that are located on the main roads. Parks are frequently the sites of these pathways.
How to spend your first week in Cardiff
It is your initial week of residence in Cardiff, and you are eager to explore the city’s offerings.
It is probable that the first week will be dedicated to establishing acclimatization, navigating the city, and settling into your new surroundings.
Monday
The commencement of a new week is an ideal opportunity to establish a rapport with your new flatmates. If the urge strikes, you can always indulge in a cup of coffee, a meal, or even a dance session.
Mill Lane in Cardiff City Centre is an ideal location for this. You won’t have to travel far, as it is a road that is home to restaurants, bars, and clubs in the evening.
For those who prefer to explore during the day, Bute Park in the city center and Roath Park in Roath are both excellent locations to relax, enjoy a picnic, and engage in old-fashioned conversation. Rowing vessels and kayaks are available for rent during sunny weather at Roath Park, which also features a substantial lake.
Tuesday
Is it possible that you will need to purchase a toaster, tea, and cutlery?
Having had the opportunity to meet your flatmates, you can now collectively determine the items you require, the individuals who will be purchasing them, and the location from which they will be obtained.
Ikea is located a brief bus ride from the city center, and there are numerous student-friendly stores in the center that offer a wide range of items at affordable prices.
A substitute for this approach would be to investigate second-hand websites. Groupon and Facebook Marketplace are excellent starting points, as they allow you to specify Cardiff as your location in the parameters.
Another recommendation is to become a member of the Facebook student pages for universities. Students who are preparing to graduate and relocate frequently offer their possessions for sale at an exceptionally low price.
Wednesday
Student sports night is held on Wednesday, during which all three universities in Cardiff host their sports team social events.
It is an opportunity to establish a connection with your team, as well as to interact with students from other universities and sports organizations. Numerous nightclubs, taverns, and bars will provide students with discounts on admission, food, and beverages.
Thursday
Many of the exhibitions at the National Museum are free, and it is conveniently located near Cardiff University.
Attempt to visit on a weekday to have a more tranquil experience, as it will be less crowded. Keep an eye out for upcoming events and shows online, as there are always new things to discover.
Cardiff Castle is also worth visiting while you are in the area. The Castle has been reconstructed numerous times throughout the course of history, dating back to Roman times. In 1947, the Bute family transferred it to the citizens of Cardiff. There are excursions that are conducted by experts in under an hour, ensuring that you will have acquired all the necessary information.
You will be eligible to receive a ‘castle key’ for £6.50 if you can demonstrate that you are a resident of Cardiff. Re-entry will be granted for a period of three years.
Friday
Are you contemplating joining a sports club or simply seeking to maintain your fitness? Cardiff provides a variety of recreational activities, including trampoline parks, rock climbing centers, ice rinks, and swimming pools.
Consider the activities you are interested in pursuing and determine whether any establishments are accepting club members. You will not be required to make a commitment if you simply wish to participate in a taster session, as the majority of institutions offer them.
Saturday
The weekend has arrived! Cardiff Bay is an excellent destination for a day trip on Saturday, whether by train, foot, or watercraft.
Every half hour, the ferry proceeds from Bute Park to the Bay, with a maximum duration of 30 minutes. There are numerous restaurants to select from, and the majority offer a stunning view of the piers. The Millennium Stadium, which is situated in the Bay, is the site of numerous musicals and performances.
Sunday
Cardiff’s numerous outdoor markets are ideal for leisurely strolls on Sundays.
In the event that you are able to move quickly, you may be able to squeeze in two or three, as they frequently operate in the morning. You are likely to find a market in close proximity to your residence, as they are located throughout Cardiff.
The Riverside Market, situated adjacent to the Principality Stadium, boasts an eclectic atmosphere and a variety of vendors, including those that specialize in seasonings, vegan cakes, locally sourced organic produce, and freshly baked bread.
The Roath Real Food Market is another favorite. It is slightly smaller than The Riverside Market and slightly less crowded. In between the homegrown potatoes, olives, and onion bhajis, you will be inundated with culinary inspiration to bring back to your kitchen.
Student-friendly cafés to study in
Cardiff’s student-friendly atmosphere ensures that there are numerous cafés throughout the city, providing ample opportunities to study throughout the day.
Some of the most noteworthy are included below:
Coffee Corner
This is an independent café located in the heart of Cardiff, where you can enjoy delectable fresh cuisine and coffee while studying.
The personnel at this establishment are exceedingly accommodating and well-informed regarding coffee. The essay can be written while you observe the world passing by from the chairs by the window and the tables in the rear.
Uncommon Ground
The Royal Arcade is the location of Uncommon Ground, which serves some of the finest coffee in Cardiff. Nevertheless, there is an extensive selection of fresh beverages and teas available for those who prefer not to indulge in coffee.
Lots of individuals opt to study and function in this location, as it exudes an electrifying atmosphere. If you are convening with a group of friends from university or are engaged in a team project, their expansive tables are perfect for conversing and relaxing.
Coffee Barker
Coffee Barker is situated in the Castle Arcade and was influenced by the West Village of New York City and Paris. This establishment is typically the busiest; however, if you are able to secure a table, you will be able to enjoy the remainder of the day.
If you are fond of this location, there are three additional establishments in the vicinity of Cardiff that are owned by the same family, one of which is Barker Tea House. You will never want to leave, thanks to the inspiring décor and the most comfortable benches! Additionally, they provide seating along the Arcade for those who prefer to work outdoors. Blankets are available at each table in the event that the temperature drops.
The Little Man Coffee Shop
Another coffee establishment that operates independently and is relatively new to Cardiff.
Additionally, The Little Man Coffee Shop offers live theater performances in the evening and hosts Yoga Breakfast Mornings, in addition to being a premier academic institution. Toasties, stews, salads, and smoothies comprise the menu.
Given its proximity to one of the student halls of residence, this coffee establishment may serve as your new neighborhood hangout.