Staying behind? The best way to enjoy Christmas at University

By on December 15th, 2015

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Here at Downing, we know that finding the right place to live while you study should be easy. But, if you’re enjoying where you live so much that you decide to stay for Christmas, where are you going to go find that festive cheer when the majority of students return home?

Don’t worry, here’s our handy ‘what’s on’ guide to the fun and frolics taking place near your University campus…

Cambridge – The North Pole Christmas FestivalParker’s Piece, Parkside, Cambridge, CB2 1AA

If you’re staying in Cambridge over Christmas, then a trip to The North Pole Christmas Festival is a must! Running until January 4th,  the annual festival is centred around a stunning 600m open-air ice rink, with something for everyone around the edge: the sweet aroma of BBQ cooking on the authentic German Swing Grill, traditional German sausage and Bratwurst, speciality beef burgers, festive turkey and chicken stuffing rolls. Those with a sweet tooth aren’t left out, either, with opportunities to indulge in crepes, donuts, sweets, hot chocolate with marshmallows and, of course, mulled wine and hot cider. Get along as soon as you can and join in the fun… who knows who you might get talking to!

Liverpool – The Snowflake Trail – Various locations – download the map

Those students staying with us at Nelson Street and Caledonia Street over the festive period are in for a treat. Liverpool is a city that comes alive at special times – and they don’t come alive much more than Liverpool in December. The city’s many restaurants and bars are a hive of festive fun and there is also lots to do for those with a budget. We recommend taking on The Snowflake Trail – it’s a great way to find hidden places that you would never normally venture to and, who knows, you may find a cool little bar or craft shop along the way!

Exeter – Ali Baba & The Forty Thieves – Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Road, Exeter Devon EX1 1SN

For those staying on campus during the Christmas break, there is still plenty going on. Perhaps you’re working over the festive period and are looking for a bit of relaxing fun, in between? Why not head into town and enjoy a bit of pantomime craziness… ‘Ali Baba & The 40 Thieves’ starts at The Barnfield Theatre on December 27th and student concessions are available at the box office.

London – The Castle – The Castle, Victoria Road, North Acton, London, W3 6UL

Where to start? For those students staying behind at The Lyra this Christmas, there is all kinds of fun that you can get up to in the capital. But, on a budget, it can be tricky. So, why not treat yourself to a festive meal at The Castle? North Acton’s finest is serving on Christmas Day and has lots of special offers available to students. Go on… indulge yourself on the big day!

Newcastle – Tyne Bridge – Tyne Bridge, A167, Newcastle upon Tyne, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear,NE8 2BH

The Geordies are famous for having fun – especially at Christmas! The cold weather does nothing to dampen spirits on Tyneside, so, if you’re staying at Verde or The View this Christmas, why not join in with the locals? December 25th is going to be particularly special this year – a full moon will light up the skies of Newcastle on the big day for the first time since 1977 (and they say it won’t happen again until 2034!) Make sure you get a glimpse and enjoy the best views possible.

Glasgow – Waxy O’Connor’s Hogmanay Rock Lock-In  – Waxy O’Connor’s, 44 West George Street, Glasgow, G2 1DH

If you’re staying behind at the West Bridge this year, there is still plenty going on in and around campus. And Waxy O’Connor’s annual Hogmanay rock lock-in is the place to be! Hogmanay is the big deal up in Glasgow, much more than Christmas, so here’s your chance to join in with the locals and rock ‘n’ roll into the New Year at the biggest party in town.

Leeds – Reindeer Trail – Various Locations – download the map

For students staying with us at CitySide, Christmas promises to be a whirlwind season in Leeds. With something for everyone, the city is at its very best at the moment… and what better way to celebrate that, than at Christmas! ‘Where magic begins and drama unfolds, lights sparkle and wishes are told…’, so goes the PR, why not follow the Leeds Reindeer Trail to discover all the enchanting delights the city has to offer this festive season? It’s a great way to get about and perfect to show visitors around the city whilst having a little fun along the way!

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