A Comprehensive Guide for New Students at Cardiff University

Photo by Taylor Floyd Mews on Unsplash

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Welcome to Cardiff University! Moving to a new city and starting university life is an exciting adventure, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. To make your transition smoother, here’s a comprehensive guide on grocery shopping, eating out, nights out, and entertainment in Cardiff.

Grocery Stores

Budget-Friendly Options:

1. Lidl (Cathays Terrace) – Perfect for students on a budget. Lidl offers a wide range of groceries at very affordable prices.
2. Aldi (City Road) – Another great option for budget shopping. Aldi is known for its low prices and good quality products.

Mid-Range Options:

1. Tesco (Albany Road, Cathays Terrace) – A convenient option with a balance of price and variety. Tesco offers a good selection of groceries and household items; apply for the Clubcard to get discounts on certain items, it is free to join.
2. Sainsbury’s (Queen Street) – Slightly more expensive than Lidl and Aldi but offers a wider range of products.

Premium Options:

1. Waitrose (Pontcanna) – For those who prefer higher-end products, Waitrose is the place to go. It’s more expensive but offers premium quality items.
2. Marks & Spencer Foodhall (Queen Street) – Another premium option, ideal for occasional splurging on high-quality food and treats.

Average Spending on Eating

On average, students might spend around £30-£50 per week on groceries, depending on their eating habits and choice of stores.

Popular Restaurants in Cardiff:

1. Bwydiful (Romilly Crescent) – Known for its delicious burgers and friendly atmosphere.
2. The Potted Pig (High Street) – A popular choice for a more upscale dining experience with a fantastic menu.
3. Anna Loka (Albany Road) – A must-visit for vegan students, offering an array of delicious plant-based dishes.
4. Milgi (City Road) – Another great option for vegans and vegetarians, with a cosy and unique ambiance.

Nights Out

Cardiff is known for its vibrant nightlife. Here are some popular spots:

1. Clwb Ifor Bach (Womanby Street) – A legendary music venue with a variety of live music and club nights.
2. Pryzm (Greyfriars Road) – One of the largest nightclubs in Cardiff, offering multiple rooms with different music genres.
3. Revolution (Castle Street) – A popular bar and nightclub known for its cocktails and lively atmosphere.
4. Gassy’s (Cathays) – A student favourite, perfect for a casual night out with friends.

Other Entertainment

Apart from nightlife, Cardiff offers a range of entertainment options:

1. Cardiff Bay – A beautiful area to explore, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and the Wales Millennium Centre for arts and performances.
2. Bute Park – Ideal for a relaxing day out, perfect for picnics, jogging, or just enjoying nature.
3. St. David’s Shopping Centre – The place to go for shopping, with a wide range of stores and dining options.
4. Chapter Arts Centre (Canton) – A cultural hub with a cinema, gallery, and café bar, offering a variety of events and exhibitions.

Moving to Cardiff and starting university is an amazing experience. With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your time here. Welcome to Cardiff, and enjoy your university journey!