Top five things to do as a student in Coventry
Coventry boasts the presence of two prestigious universities, Coventry University, and the University of Warwick. With world-renowned academic status, lively nightlife scene, and warm hospitality from the locals, it comes as no wonder that the city is home to a thriving community of nearly 68,000 students!
Transitioning to university life is a monumental milestone and can understandably seem quite daunting. To ease your journey and to help you explore the city, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide featuring the top activities and experiences for students in Coventry. With this resource at your disposal, you’ll find yourself settling in and feeling right at home in no time!
Have a pint (or two)
If it’s simply a few drinks you’re after, there’s plenty of choice. Head to the array of lively bars and eateries within the city centre, including the Castle Grounds and The Cosy Club
If you’re a beer fan, Coventry has two of its own microbreweries, Twisted Barrel based at FarGo Village, and Dhillon’s Brewery, whose beer is served up at various venues across the city, including its own Dhillon’s Spire Bar and the Sky Blue Tavern, where you can catch all the Coventry City Football Club matches, as well as plenty of other live sport.
Looking for something different? Everybody loves some light-hearted fun and games, and Boom Battle Bar in Cathedral Lanes has everything for a competitive night out, from pool and crazy golf to beer pong and axe-throwing! 147 Nightclub is a few minute’s walk from Coventry University, they show no restraint when it comes to a fun night of dancing the night away!
Live events
Coventry boasts a vibrant live events scene, with a diverse array of venues that cater to a wide range of entertainment tastes. The HMV Empire, an iconic location in the city, serves as a hub for music enthusiasts, hosting electrifying concerts and gigs featuring both established artists and emerging talents.
Meanwhile, Warwick Arts Centre offers a cultural haven, showcasing an eclectic mix of performances, from theatre and dance. to comedy and classical music. The Belgrade Theatre, with its rich history and commitment to producing thought-provoking and innovative theatre productions, further enriches the city’s cultural landscape. Coventry’s live events, anchored by these remarkable venues, provide residents and visitors alike with unforgettable experiences that celebrate the arts in all their forms. Additionally, the Albany Theatre adds its unique charm, contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural mosaic with a diverse program of events that range from drama and music to comedy and community performances.
Together, these venues make Coventry a cultural hub, offering an enriching live events experience for residents and visitors alike.
Sports in the city
Are you looking for an exciting way to immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying some top-notch entertainment? Look no further than Coventry’s vibrant sports scene. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan, a rugby enthusiast, or eager to experience the thrill of ice hockey, Coventry has a sports team for you.
Cheering for Coventry City Football Club at the Coventry Building Society Arena, rallying behind the Coventry Rugby Club, or catching a game with the Coventry Blaze ice hockey team is not just about sports – it’s about forging lasting connections, embracing the city’s spirit, and creating unforgettable memories with fellow students.
Into E-sports? SideQuest is the gaming hub destination for every type of gamer. Their goal is to create an enjoyable space for everyone who enjoys gaming – by providing spaces to play, events to take part in, opportunities to grab some food & drink and make new friends and grow gaming communities.
Explore Coventry Instagram-worthy eaters
We all know that these days, food and drink are never just about how they taste. It’s important of course, but something else is nearly as key – how it looks on Instagram!
Even before you indulge in the culinary delights, Coventry offers a feast for the eyes with its Instagram-worthy interiors. Explore the Telegraph Hotel, boasting a rooftop terrace that’s a photographer’s dream, adorned with remnants of its past life as a newspaper headquarters. Right in the heart of Coventry’s city centre the Cosy Club invites you to capture its camera-friendly decor, while the newcomer Turtle Bay enchants with vibrant murals and a colourful interior that will keep your camera busy snapping away.
Need a coffee before you can function in the morning? Bean and Leaf and Baxter Baristas are a must-visit. Whether you’re a devoted coffee enthusiast, or simply seeking a spot to gather with loved ones, Coventry has some of the best expertly crafted coffee. Alternatively, if you prefer some personal time to get some studying done, discover a comfortable nook for introspection while observing the world around you.
Shop for back to uni essentials
Coventry is a popular shopping destination, with retail parks in and around the city. In the city centre, West Orchards and the Lower Precinct Shopping Centre are home to your high street favourites, such as Waterstones, hmv, and Flannels to independent retailers like Milk Vintage Clothing and Just Drop In Record Store.
If you’re looking for a bargain, Coventry has one of the most successful markets in the country, where you can find many hidden gems. Just outside the city centre, FarGo is an artistic industrial space, where you will discover over 40 independent businesses.
We hope you settle in quickly and enjoy your time here in Coventry. If you’re out and about taking pictures while you’re here, don’t forget to tag us on Instagram (@visit_coventry) and follow us for more updates about the great things to see, do and experience throughout the city.