Britain's Top 5 University Towns

You'll never want to leave.

5. Manchester

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Along with the standard museums and shopping centres, Manchester is not short of the odd secret bar or hidden gem. 1920s speakeasy styled bar The Fitzgerald has a vintage atmosphere and holds wine tasting courses and classic film nights. Although a private members club, membership is completely free!

The Portico Library

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The Portico library is the second oldest in the city and is home to a gallery area hosting many exhibitions and events.

Black Dog Ballroom

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Living in a contemporary city means you can go late night ten-pin bowling. Newly opened Black Dog Ballroom is an ultra cool New York styled venue where you can enjoy a game of bowling while sipping on a delicious cocktail.

4. Brighton

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Oozing with creativity and culture, Brighton is much more than a seaside resort. For the best Brighton shopping experience, The North Laine is the place to go. Two minutes from Brighton station you will find over 400 independent businesses where you can buy everything from vintage treasures to a scone and a cup of cream tea.

Brighton Fringe Festival

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Whats most impressive however is Brighton's creative and cultural ethos. The Brighton Fringe for example is one of the largest fringe festivals in the world, educating and entertaining audiences from all over.

The Haunt

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Finally, the nightlife. Brighton's character filled pubs and eccentric bars will leave you wanting more, and The Haunt, an old cinema turned live music venue and nightclub, is one of the best.

3. Cambridge

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As Britain's second oldest University, Cambridge's entrenched academic tradition and rich history attracts many tourists who pack the streets over the summer months. The heart of the city is the market square which hosts a range of stalls selling everything from jewellery to garden plants, with Sunday dedicated to arts, crafts, and local produce.

The Mill

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If all else fails, then there are many great pubs to choose from! The Mill is a traditional pub located centrally overlooking the River Cam.

Punting

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Speaking of the River Cam, a must-do in Cambridge is to take an afternoon off to go punting. With gorgeous views of the many sights of the city, including the infamous colleges, there is no better way to relax.

2. Newcastle

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It is safe to say, there is never a dull moment when it comes to Newcastle, and its not all about the legendary nightlife! Newcastle has recently seen a wave of investment creating new cultural venues, parks and institutions. One of the most impressive new additions is the Baltic. As a major international centre for contemporary art, the exhibitions are constantly changing, so you can see something new each time you go.

Quay Ingredient

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The Quayside is another area to explore and is home to luxurious restaurants, cafes and homely pubs like Quay Ingredient. With a fantastic view of the River and the famous bridges, it ticks all the boxes for a perfect evening.

Football

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Finally, Newcastle is famous for its football. The Strawberry pub, located next to the Newcastle United football stadium, has a great atmosphere and is ideal for a pre and post match pint.

1. York

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York tops the list as the best university town and if you don't believe me, believe the World Travel Awards, which has named York Europe's leading destination two years in a row. Situated half way between London and Edinburgh, York offers stunning architecture, talented buskers and quality cafes where you can get the finest food around.

York Minster

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The main attraction is the York minster, a gothic structure with buckets of history and is free to enter for York students!

Evil Eye

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After strolling through the beautiful museum gardens or visiting the York Dungeon what better way to finish your day than choosing from the famous 365 pubs and bars that York has to offer. Evil Eye offers both traditional and adventurous cocktails and Hollywood star Johnny Depp has been spotted there having a drink!

Affordable nights out, great transport links and a range of new things to see and do, make York perfect for student life. For more, see the full article.