Being a Student in Bournemouth
Life as a student in Bournemouth has more than a few perks. For a start, the town is home to not one, but five Blue Flag beaches: Alum Chine, Durley Chine, Fisherman’s Walk, Manor Steps and Southbourne. Stroll atop the cliffs and take in the captivating views of Bournemouth’s coastline or enjoy a picturesque walk across the sandy beaches below. When the summer months roll around, Bournemouth’s residents are the envy of the country. Talking of which, transport links are in abundance, so you’ll always feel well-connected with the wider UK.
Besides its award-winning beaches, this fast-growing Dorset town is known for its beautiful and bustling town centre. From Victorian arcades to contemporary amenities, you’ll find yourself travelling through time as you saunter through the centre. Commercial Road and Old Christchurch Road are buzzing with high street chains, but the independent boutiques off the beaten track on Albert Road, Yelverton Road and the Triangle are where the real magic can be found.
Bournemouth’s newest shopping area, Castlepoint, is situated just north of the town centre and features over forty of the biggest brands, all in one place. There are also plenty of coffeeshops and cafés for you to refuel after a shopping spree.
When it comes to entertainment, you won’t be short on options. This vibrant town has everything from international concert venues and theatres to live music and nightclubs. Students in Bournemouth know how to let off some steam, whether it’s an all-night rave at Halo Nightclub or a quality night out at The Exchange, Bournemouth’s longest running LGBT+ bar.
Renowned throughout the country for the acts it attracts, the Bournemouth International Centre is one of the south’s largest venues and regularly hosts an eclectic mix of the music industry’s biggest names. If that wasn’t enough, the nearby Boscombe also boasts the O2 Academy. Based in what used to be the Grand Theatre, this Grade-II listed building has a way of making even the most low-key sets feel special.
Besides music, Bournemouth is a comedy hot spot, offering students a huge stand up and open mic scene across its many pubs and clubs. If you’ve ever considered being funny for a living - or just want to give it a go - you’ll have plenty of opportunities here. If not, you can kick back and enjoy the show in one of the many coastal pubs that showcases emerging talent the town has to offer.
More of a movie buff? Bournemouth is home to a 10-screen Odeon cinema and the UK’s first 6D cinema – head on over to catch the latest releases with your student discount and stop off at one of the many restaurants in the area!