NEWCASTLEUNIVERSITY

PROSPECTUSby students for students

*

*

“Hello and welcome to Newcastle University’s Alternative Prospectus! This handy little brochure is aimed at providing you with an insight into what life at Newcastle is like beyond your degree. In here we try to cover as much as possible, including what the different

accommodation sites are actually like, what sports and societies we have to offer and all the different things you can get up to in the city of Newcastle.

Selecting a course, a university and deciding where you’ll spend the next few years of your life, can be daunting. Nonetheless, these are among the most exciting decisions you’ll ever make and they mark the start of what are set to be the best years of your life. Once here, first year generally consists of trying absolutely everything you can and having fun with it all, until you find out what works best for you. This prospectus will give you a taste of what life as a student at Newcastle University is all about.

Whether your passion is culture, food, music, sport, or just hanging out, Newcastle has it all. Having experienced life as a student at Newcastle and everything the University and the city have to offer, I couldn’t have wished for a better time at university.

So, without further ado, I’ll leave you to have a flick through this booklet and get a glimpse of exactly what it is that makes Newcastle University – and Newcastle itself – so incredible.

Jade, Editor of The Courier 2016–17

3

Welcome

Newcastle University Students’ Union Carnival of Lights The Heavy perform at the Students’ Union

Contents 3 Welcome

4 Your Students’ Union

5 Where it all begins: Freshers’ Week

More than a degree:

6 Sport

8 Societies

10 Student media

11 Get involved

Accommodation:

12 Home sweet home: Where should I live?

Discover:

16 My NCL

19 Newcastle’s best-kept secrets

20 Newcastle after dark

22 Your first year

23 Love Newcastle

5

“Here at the Students’ Union we aim to be central to your university experience. There’s so much more to university than just academia and that’s where we come in. We’re completely shaped by our student population and aim to provide the support, advice and experience that will enhance your time at Newcastle – and leave you in fantastic shape for whatever awaits after university.

We look after students in a huge variety of ways. Whether it’s representing you to the wider region, providing a wealth of extracurricular activities, or offering specialist advice through our Student Advice Centre, we’ve got you covered. We want all our students to have a brilliant time at Newcastle and you’ll go a long way to achieving that with the opportunities on offer at the Union. My two biggest pieces of advice to a new student: get a warm coat for winter and continue with your hobbies and interests at university, it’ll improve your experience no end!

Jack, President of Newcastle University Students’ Union 2016–2017

Your Students’ Union

4

www.nusu.co.uk

Your Students’ Union

“Freshers’ Week is your chance to get stuck in to student life outside of your course before the hard work sets in. There is so much going on, it’s hard to decide what to

do first. During the day, the Freshers’ Crew organises loads of fabulous activities and trips, such as cocktail-making classes, Zorb football and even tours of St James’ Park. Every night there are events organised by the Students’ Union, ranging from themed club nights to grub crawls around the best restaurants in Newcastle. Make sure to hit the Freshers’ Fair, too, and sign up to as many societies as you fancy, because now is your chance to try something new. There’s always plenty on offer, from dance to ultimate frisbee, as well as student radio, baking, and even Pokemon. Chat to the members on the stalls and sign up; societies are a great way to meet new people in your first week at university.

Siobhan, from the Isle of Man

“ I loved getting to know my flatmates and the city and having an excuse to dress up! Ellie

Where it all begins: Freshers’ Week

“ Say yes to opportunities! Thomas

More than a degree...

Sport

Athletics and Cross Country

“I had never seriously taken part in cross country events before coming to Newcastle, but they are now a big part of my life. The club is very inclusive with training sessions for both social and competitive runners led by the club captains, as well as weekly training at the prestigious Gateshead International Stadium, led by a qualified coach. There are numerous competitions throughout the year all over the country, with the highlight being the BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport) Championships.

Toby, from Reading

Stan Calvert Cup

“The annual Stan Calvert Cup is one of the most highly anticipated sporting events in Team Newcastle’s diary. Every year, over 1,500 athletes across 25 sports battle against our local rivals, Team Northumbria, in an attempt to win the Stan Calvert Cup and hold sporting victory for the year. Our athletes give absolutely everything they’ve got to the competition with fierce competitive spirit and strong support from the whole University. The competition concludes with a huge finale with hundreds of students coming to support the competing teams. The atmosphere is fantastic and students from both universities get involved in the friendly banter, as both teams desperately try to bring home the treasured cup.

Sophie, Athletic Union Officer 2016–17

Aikido and Taekwondo

“Although polar opposites in both fighting style and technique, the Aikido and Taekwondo clubs build a sense of camaraderie between students that is unparalleled – sparring with someone, and trusting them not to hurt you, is a surprisingly good icebreaker! These sports have allowed me to make friends from a variety of degrees and backgrounds, as well as being enjoyable ways to stay in shape. The Taekwondo Club competes in a national competition each year, which is probably one of my highlights of university life.

Sakura, from Italy

There’s a sport to suit everyone!

AikidoAmerican FootballArcheryAthletics and Cross CountryBadmintonBall HockeyBasketball (Men’s)Basketball (Women’s)BoatBoxingBrazilian Jiu Jitsu and Mixed Martial ArtsCanoeCanoe PoloCavingCheerleadingClay Pigeon ShootingCricket (Men’s)

Cricket (Women’s) CyclingDance DartsFencingFootball (Men’s)Football (Women’s)FutsalGaelic FootballGolfGymnasticsHockey (Men’s)Hockey (Women’s)Ice HockeyJitsuJudoKarateKickboxingLacrosse (Men’s)

Lacrosse (Women’s)MountaineeringNetballOrienteering and Fell Running ParachutePoloPool and SnookerReal TennisRidingRifleRugby (Men’s)Rugby (Women’s)Rugby LeagueSailing and YachtingSepak TakrawSki and SnowboardingSquash

Sub AquaSurfSwimming Table TennisTaekwondoTennisThai BoxingTrampolineTriathlonUltimateVolleyballWater Polo WeightliftingWindsurfing

76 www.nusu.co.uk

“Water Polo

The club has just under 100 members and is one of the most successful competitive clubs in the Athletic Union, with both boys’ and girls’ first teams in the national premier leagues – the girls took home bronze medals at nationals this year. There

are second teams that also compete at a high level and the coaches work hard to make sure every member gets to play in a match, if they want to. Joining the Water Polo Club has also packed out my social life, with socials taking place at least once a week.

Sydney, from the Wirral

“ Grab the bull by the horns – you’re only a Fresher once! Charlotte

“ Don’t be scared to push your boundaries, you might find yourself to be a born champion. Peter

“ I really felt like part of a team. Cassie

For more information go to www.nusu.co.uk/au

“ Clubs build a sense of camaraderie between students.Sakura

“ Our athletes give absolutely everything they’ve got.Sophie

8

Baking Society

“The Baking Society has continued to grow every year since its ratification in 2013 and is now one of the largest recreational societies on campus. With nearly 300 members, its USP is definitely access to the kitchens in the Agriculture Building. The society holds two baking sessions on Wednesday afternoons, during which members are equipped with a recipe, ingredients, and good company; all they have to do is bake, while socialising and meeting fellow sweet-toothed enthusiasts. The society also offers masterclass events, allowing members to benefit from the expertise of external ‘star bakers’, including an Easter Egg masterclass.

Grace, from Bradford

Irish Dance Society

“As an international student, I have always felt welcome at the Irish Dance Society. It really is a society for all and if you want to have a new hobby, as well as meet new people, it’s a great choice. Dancing classes are held once per week, divided into groups depending on experience. The busiest time of the year is St Patrick’s Day when there are performances around campus and everyone is encouraged to participate. It’s like the best social of the year because, even though we have to practise more, we get to know everyone while having fun. The society also cares about organising other activities, including nights out, chilled socials and even trips.

Marina, from Portugal

9 www.nusu.co.uk

More than a degree...

Societies “ It is almost impossible to find someone who couldn’t find a society to suit them.Caroline

There is a fantastic range of societies to join...

20 Minute SocietyA CappellaAccountingAfro-CaribbeanAIESECAmnesty InternationalAnaesthetics & Critical CareAnglo-ChineseAnglo-Japanese SocietyAnglo-PhilippineAnimeArchaeologyArchitecturalArtAtheists & Secular HumanistsBahraini

BakingBAME NetworkBar Society (Law)Bee SocBig BandBio Sci (Bio Medical Sciences)Bio Soc (Biology)BruneiBulgarian SocietyCaledonianCatholicCEGsoc (Civil Engineering & Geosciences)Cheese & WineChemical

Engineering

ChessChinese Students & ScholarsCircus SkillsClassicsCoast to CoastCocktailCOCOs Society CoffeeCombined HonoursComedy SocietyComputing & TechnologyConservationConservativeCreative WritingCulture ClubDanceDebatingDementia FriendsDisability & NeurodiversityEconomicsEldon (Law)ELSA Newcastle (European Law Students’ Association)ENACTUS NewcastleEng (English)Engineers Without BordersEntrepreneur SocietyErasmusFashionFellwalkingFeministFILM-SOC

Finance SocietyFood SocietyFrenchFriends of MSF NewcastleGamingGeographyGilbert & SullivanGin AppreciationGlobal HealthHellenicHelping Our HomelessHistoryHong KongImam HussainIndonesianInternational DevelopmentInternational SocietyINTO ConnectInvestmentIraqi StudentsIrish DanceIslamicIt Happens HereJazz OrchestraJewishJoint HonoursLabourLatin AmericanLatin & BallroomLaw4NonLawLeague of LegendsLGBT SocietyLibyanLifeLINKS (St John Ambulance)Lithuanian StudentsMACSoc

MalaysianManagementMarine ProjectsMarketingMarrow (Newcastle)MarxistMathsMature StudentsMauritianMechanical Engineering Medical Leadership & ManagementMind The GapModel United Nations Society (MUNSOC)Modern LanguagesMotor SportMusicMusic ProductionMusical MedicsNerdNeurologicalNewcastle Emergency Medicine SocietyNewcastle Free Education NetworkNewcastle Sport & Exercise Medicine (NSEMS)Newcastle Student Orchestra & ChoirNewcastle University Christian Union SocietyNewcastle University Social Tennis

Newcastle Wilderness Medicine SocietyNon-League FootballNSRNUBS Board of StudentsNUTSNUTV – The Courier TelevisionObstetrics & GynaecologyOmaniOphthalmologyOrthoSocPakistanPalliative CareParkour & FreerunningPhotographyPhysSoc (Physics Society)PilatesPlanningPokemon

PokerPole DancingPoliticsPostgraduatePsychologyRaising & Giving (RAG)Real Ale & Cider Appreciation RENEWcastleRockRunning ClubSalsaSankirtanaSaudiScout & Guide

Sexpression NewcastleShocksocSingaporeSociologySoil ScienceSouth AsianSpeech TherapySSDP (Students for Sensible Drug Policy)Student Action for RefugeesStudent BrewingStudent LifeSub-Saharan Africa ResearchSurgicalSwing DanceTamil & MalayaliTeach FirstTeam Kenya SocietyTeddy Bear HospitalThaiTurkishUNICEF on CampusVegetarian & VeganVietSocWetSocWind BandYogaYoung Greens

If you don’t see anything you like, you can start your own society.

For more information go to www.nusu.co.uk/soc

“ Join societies! You’ll meet people outside of your course and halls.Ellie

The Courier

“The Courier is a great way for aspiring journalists to exercise their creative talents in a relaxed, friendly setting and it’s always gratifying to see your name in print after all your hard work! I began writing for The Courier last September as a first-year student and have had articles published on a wide variety of subjects – from the effects of video games on young people, to who is, or isn’t, dressing Melania Trump and why. There are opportunities to write reviews on new films, plays and local exhibitions, and chances to take on more responsibility, with editorial roles available from second year onwards. Overall, I’d say it’s a really easy way to get involved in a core aspect of Newcastle University’s wide range of societies and an excellent stepping stone on the way to a career in media, journalism, or publicity.

Lauren, from Manchester

The Courier Television (NUTV)

“NUTV produces regular shows such as the weekly (and hilarious) ‘Bigg Market Banter’. Not only have I made lifelong friends, I’ve also gained the type of practical skills that employers really value. Newcastle’s media is produced by the students, so you’re always going to read, watch and listen to things that you care about. It’s incredibly easy to get involved with all forms of student media at Newcastle University and no former experience is necessary – just turn up to meetings and volunteer!

Helen, from Teesside

www.youtube.com/TheCourierOnline

10 11

More than a degree...

Student media

More than a degree...

Get involved

Nightline

“Nightline is a volunteer-led service which provides emotional support and a listening ear to troubled students. The phone number (0191 261 2905) is on the back of all student cards and connects to our office, where any student can talk to one of our trained volunteers. All volunteers are given full training by our committee and we have a very close community of wonderful people. It’s an immensely valuable service that is regarded very highly by employers and educators nationally, as well as being a fantastic way to improve your communication skills, particularly for those seeking careers in clinical psychology or medicine. Nightline is one of the few volunteering opportunities where you get directly involved in a caring role while studying at university.

Ollie, from North Yorkshire

Raising & Giving (RAG)

“RAG (Raising & Giving Society) is one of the largest societies at Newcastle University and with good reason! All year round you get discounted entry to fun events like pub quizzes, fashion shows and days out, all in the name of charity. It’s a society full of outgoing people, all sharing the common interest of helping other people in need; no matter your age or subject, you’re almost guaranteed to make friends. RAG Week especially is one to mark in your calendar, as it consists of seven days of working with a crew of around 10 other people, organising events and raising lots of money. RAG Week 2017 raised over £5,000!

Tilly, from Wales

SOLAR (Science Outreach Learning and Research)

“SOLAR is a volunteering group mainly for Biomed students based in the Faculty of Medical Sciences. We organise, prepare and run interactive workshops for schools around the North East, on topics such as the heart, DNA extractions and – our most requested – snots, sneezes and germs! As President, I’m extremely proud of the hard work and enthusiasm all the members have shown over the years. We aim to spark interest in science in as many schoolchildren as possible. We also cover areas that aren’t in the syllabus, to challenge the children and make them think. Our workshops are usually held on Wednesday afternoons, with opportunities throughout the year to work and develop new projects. You can also follow us on Twitter @NclSOLAR

Sakura, from Italy

“ I met new people from across the country and world!Valence “ It’s like starting

afresh, so throw yourself into everything! Eleanor

www.nusu.co.uk

Celebrating at last year’s Student Media Awards

www.nusu.co.uk

Liberty Plaza

“I absolutely love living at Liberty Plaza! It’s still fairly new and in very good condition and the location is perfect for the University, the city centre and the railway station. It’s split into a few blocks, with a range of apartments and flats containing standard and premium rooms. I live in a standard room, but still have a double bed which is a massive bonus and, of course, it’s really nice to have en suite facilities! The people I’ve met at Liberty Plaza have become my best friends, too, and even though it’s off campus, it’s close enough to get to everywhere you need.

Yasmin, from Cambridge

The View

“If you choose to live at The View you will never be short of friends hoping to be invited round to investigate the rumours surrounding the existence of baths, the overall luxurious setting and to see if the view from the top floors really is as breathtaking as residents claim – it is! Furthermore, The View’s great central location makes it a strong contender for anyone looking to be near both campus and all that Newcastle city centre has to offer.

Lily, from Merseyside

St Mary’s College

“St Mary’s is a great hall, it’s always got a friendly atmosphere and there’s a warm community feeling about it. You may think it would be tricky travelling to town from here, but there are several free buses in the mornings and evenings and it’s about a 30-minute walk (or 10-minute cycle ride) through beautiful countryside. The taxis are also super cheap – if you share with three other people the fare works out at about £1 each to the city centre – much cheaper and more convenient than the public bus service! There’s also a supermarket just a 10-minute walk away.

Victoria, from Norwich

Windsor Terrace

“Love an easy life? Love lie ins? Love to be close to the action? If your answer to any of these questions is ‘yes’, Windsor Terrace is the accommodation for you. The central location means you have the luxury of being in bed one minute and at a lecture the next and gives you plenty of opportunities for spontaneous outings into Newcastle city centre. Another benefit of life at Windsor is it doesn’t have the price tag of some of the other centrally located accommodation. The flats themselves are lovely and are a great place to socialise, or simply relax with your flatmates.

Lydia, from Essex

1312

Bowsden Court flats are comfortable and sociable, with open plan kitchen/living areas and spacious bedrooms

“ Read everything you can… listen to the advice of students who’ve done it before you have!William

Bowsden Court

“Bowsden Court wasn’t my first choice, nor was it my second choice, but if I had to make my choice again, I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. At first I was put off by the distance from campus, but after using the Metro I realised Bowsden wasn’t far away from the city centre. Living in Bowsden Court has been a good experience because the size of the accommodation gives it a communal feel and you form very close friendships with all the students in the flats around you.

Charlotte

THE VIEW & LIBERTY PLAZA ST MARY’S &

BOWSDEN COURTWINDSOR

TERRACE

“ Don’t worry about looking daft, everyone is in the same boat.Saffron

Home sweet home:

Where should I live?For more information go to www.ncl.ac.uk/accommodation

Park Terrace

“Park Terrace is fantastic accommodation, right in the heart of campus. Around 240 people are lucky enough to be able to call Park Terrace home and we all live in

www.nusu.co.uk

Living at home

“I decided to stay at home because I live so close to Newcastle. If this is an option for you, you might want to consider this instead of moving out into accommodation – it really can save you a lot of money during first year. I pay around £40 for my bus fares per month, but I can still enjoy all the comforts of home while my friends in halls are experiencing the realities of student life, like having to do their own washing and cleaning! Socialising at first was a bit different for me as I wasn’t living among my fellow students, but you do make friends – I certainly have!

Jack, from Consett

Marris House

“Marris House is a great place to live; it ticks all the boxes for what university accommodation should be! It’s only a three-minute walk from the Med School and a 10-minute walk from the Students’ Union, meaning you can roll out of bed and be in your lecture within minutes. Flats house six students and even though rooms don’t have en suite facilities, you’re only ever sharing with two other people, so there’s never a shower queue. Our kitchens are so spacious that they’re great places to host ‘pre-drinks’ and hang out in after a long day at uni – there’s even a TV! Just round the corner is a Londis shop, which is super convenient. I’ve made friends at Marris House that I know I’ll keep for life; if I had to go back and re-pick my accommodation, I wouldn’t hesitate in choosing Marris House again.

Caitlin, from Leeds

Castle Leazes

“Castle Leazes is Newcastle University’s largest accommodation block, with over 1,000 students calling it home – meaning you’ll never be short of someone to walk to lectures with. In terms of location, it’s a tough one to beat, being only a 10-minute walk to campus and 20 minutes to the city centre. The accommodation itself is among the cheapest, although you will have to be quick getting in for a shower when you’re sharing with nine other people! With large flats and a block setting, it’s a very lively and sociable place to live. If you like your home comforts, there’s an option to have a cooked breakfast and dinner every day. Castle Leazes also has facilities like no other accommodation – you won’t find many halls with a bar and computer cluster. If convenience, socialising and cheap accommodation are your thing, Castle Leazes is ideal for you.

Charlotte, from Northumberland

Leazes Parade

“Leazes Parade is like a street where you’re friends with all your neighbours! In each flat the kitchen and living area is very spacious and there are two very comfy sofas. In my flat we spend most of our time in the kitchen because it’s so big; it means it’s a great place just to relax. I’ve loved living in a flat of six because you get to know everyone really well. Each bedroom has a washbasin and lots of storage space, which is really useful. One downside is that you can only collect your post from 8am–11am, so you’ll have to become an early riser if you want to pick up that food parcel that’s been sent from home!

Ellie, from Nottinghamshire

14 15

“ Pre-drinks are a great way to meet everyone

“ Everyone’s in the same boat and you really do make friends for life!Sophia

LEAZES PARADE

MARRIS HOUSE & PARK TERRACE

CASTLE LEAZES

HOME COMFORTS

For more information go to www.ncl.ac.uk/accommodation

self-catered flats of six to 11 students. Yes, we might not have the reputation of some of the older residences, but can they say they have rooms with en suite facilities and queen-sized beds? No? Park Terrace residents can! As for the location, the Philip Robinson Library is directly behind us; but if spending all day in the library isn’t your thing, then the city centre is only five minutes away – something which, after a tiring yet amazing Freshers’ Week, is priceless! It may not be the cheapest accommodation but, if you want a home where the people are nice and the location is great, there is only one choice: Park Terrace!

Thomas, from Lancashire

in your block.Kate

16

A view of the Quayside Branch out...inside The Botanist

Something different

“If, like me, you aren’t particularly a party animal, there are plenty of other things to do in this proclaimed party city. There are quirky tea, food and clothing shops dotted all over Newcastle. This includes Quilliam Brothers, a quaint tea room with an extensive menu and cracking playlist. For a bit of alternative retail therapy, there’s what I like to call ‘vintage alley’ near the Theatre Royal.

Saffron, from Wakefield

Theatre

“The Theatre Royal is a local gem, offering discounted student tickets if you call up the Stage Door, and presenting everything from panto to Shakespeare, opera and musicals. If you’re looking

for something off the beaten track, check out Live Theatre, or the People’s Theatre. Our Newcastle University Theatre Society (NUTS) organises student-directed, written, and cast plays, staged either at Northern Stage on campus, or alternative venues such as The Cluny.

Emily, from Cambridge

Music

“Newcastle has given birth to a bevy of musical legends, such as Brian Johnson (AC/DC), Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits) and Sting (The Police). There are plenty of large-scale venues for the biggest acts, including the City Hall and Metro Radio Arena. Meanwhile, clubs tend to host DJs and producers, with Tiger Tiger, Sinners and the O2 Academy being my personal favourites. Flares is also worth a look if you prefer cheesier numbers (which, let’s face it, we all do). Lastly, a wealth of smaller, independent venues can be found if you look for them. The Cluny, Trillian’s and Hoochie Coochie all host a more eclectic range of genres, including jazz, blues, funk and soul.

Ollie, from North Yorkshire

Film

“If you’re a film lover then Newcastle is a fantastic place to study, as there are four main cinemas in and around the city! My personal favourite is the Tyneside Cinema, which is a smaller, independent cinema, just off Northumberland Street. It’s great because it shows lesser-known films, as well as the big releases and screens the classics from the last 60 years. It also stages themed nights for Hallowe’en and Christmas. Empire Cinema in The Gate is the one I visit most often, simply because you can’t beat its location, cheap student tickets, large screens to watch the blockbusters and small studios that almost feel like you’re in a home cinema! There is also a Vue cinema just across the river in Gateshead and the MetroCentre has an Odeon IMAX for those films that just need to be seen in 3D and on

“ More than just a place for partying, Newcastle is a centre for culture, class and shameless fun.Emily

Discover:

My NCL

Eating out

“The restaurants in Newcastle are dotted all over and cater for even the fussiest of palates. Restaurants in The Gate are affordable, with Za Za Bazaar offering an all-you-can-eat world buffet for a reasonable price. The Botanist is a trendy pub that serves 12 different types of martini and a selection of ‘hanging kebabs’. With its windows offering views of the beautiful Grey Street and a tree (yes, a tree) extending up to the ceiling from the bar, this effortlessly cool eatery is popular with the student population. Of course, Eat4Less is always an option if these restaurants don’t take your fancy. With baguettes starting at just 99p, it’s the ultimate student sanctuary!

Natalie, from Rotherham

17www.nusu.co.uk

mind-blowing screens!

Stacie, from Preston

Newcastle’s Theatre Royal, pictured right, and above, The Cluny

18 19

Art

“From the larger art galleries, such as the BALTIC, to smaller galleries like the Side Gallery, Newcastle has everything an art lover could want – whether you’re looking for a trip out with your flatmates to discover the art on display at the Laing in town, or you’re in need of a quick library break at the Hatton Gallery on campus, which showcases work from the University’s own Fine Art students and other, world-renowned artists. Exhibitions across the city are constantly changing, so there’s always something new to see and many galleries offer art classes if you’re feeling inspired (or just procrastinating about that essay that’s due in). Many of the galleries are also free, so this is a great way to explore the city without having to break the bank, meaning you can save money for those trebles on a Wednesday night! Iona, from London

“ You’re sure to find something to suit your taste and budget.Jayne

1.Ouseburn Valley Ouseburn has a vibrant mix of independent bars, cafes and music venues, meaning there’s always something to do. Ouseburn Farm, which runs livestock, growing and environmental projects, is also worth a visit.

2.Cosy Joe’s Karaoke Bar There’s no better activity on a night out than karaoke – following a drink, or two, of course! You’ll find this gem of a bar tucked away on Groat Market (NE1 1UQ), and on Thursday entry is just £2. Book ahead and you can get a private booth for your group and caterwaul the night away.

3. The BohemianA vegetarian and vegan restaurant tucked away on Pink Lane, that will win over even the biggest meat eater. Whether it’s tasty tapas or bigger portions, The Bohemian has something for everyone. It’s also a great place for cocktails.

4. Jesmond DeneOnly a few minutes away from Osborne Road, this beautiful park features waterfalls, picnic areas and even a small pets corner, which makes it a little pocket of tranquillity in an otherwise bustling city.

5. Grainger Market The market, which is centrally located in the city, offers a plethora of stalls selling cheap fresh fruit and vegetables. With produce so cheap, students have no excuse not to eat healthily!

6. The Great British Cupcakery This quaint and glamorous little parlour just off the Quayside is your quick fix for an array of sweet treats and hot beverages. If you’re up for a challenge, try their giant milkshakes topped with cream, sauce and a cookie – yum!

7. Newcastle Castle Find out where Newcastle got its name! Submerge yourself in its history and find out what made this city great!

8. Grey’s Monument You’re probably already aware of the huge statue in the city centre which is a tribute to Earl Grey, built in 1838. But did you know that at certain times you can climb its 164 steps to the top for a great view of Newcastle?

9. Tynemouth Beach A short trip on the Metro takes you to this lovely coastal town. Grab some world-famous fish and chips and if you’re feeling brave, take a dip in the sea.

10. Climb NewcastleThis indoor climbing centre contains over 200 climbs of different levels, from novice to extreme, so there is always more to conquer.

On a budget

“Newcastle has so many options for any foodies out there, even those on a student budget. So, when you get sick of all the discounted takeaway meals – and believe me, it doesn’t take long – it’s time to crack open that new cookbook and use those shiny pans. The best place to head for fresh, locally sourced fruit, vegetables, and meat, is Grainger Market. Here, you’ll also find cute takeaway stalls like, for instance, the authentic French creperie tucked away in the corner of the market, which offers a perfect lunchtime pick-me-up. Make sure you take advantage of student discounts as most of the chain restaurants in the city will give you money off your meal. However, this is sometimes only on select meals or on certain days, so use discount scheme UNiDAYS to avoid getting caught out.

Siobhan, from the Isle of Man

Comedy

“From comedy nights at the Students’ Union, The Hyena or The Stand comedy clubs, to headline names at the Metro Radio Arena, there’s always something to get you laughing. A personal favourite is Red Raw at The Stand, which runs every Wednesday night. For £3 you can see a show packed full to the brim with the hottest new and up-and-coming acts in the business.

Helen, from Teesside

www.nusu.co.uk

Discover:

Newcastle’s best-kept secrets

Daniel Buren’s exhibition at the BALTIC

20 21

Casual night! Last night was a late

one.Big

night out!

Dance! I’ll be tearing

up the dancefloor.

Fancy dress?

I’m lazy. Closer to home.

Rock, love a bit of Arctic Monkeys. Of course!No

thank you!

What makes the

night memorable?

Can’t beat R&B, hip-hop,

chart and dance

classics.

Smart! Shirts for the boys, heels for

the girls.

Fancy a club?

Definitely

house. IBIZAAAAA!

Dress code: casual or smart?

Casual: jeans and flats for me tonight.

Chat. Need to catch up with

everyone!

Of course!

Do I need to remind

you I’m a Fresher?!

No thanks, I need a quiet

one!Venture into town or stay on campus?

Time to hit the Toon!

House or rock?

Main aim – dance or have a chat?

What music do you

want to hear?

Sick of the usual.

Alternative is my scene.

I just want to have

a laugh.

The music makes

the night...

What kind of night

are you up for?

See below for examples of venues

www.nusu.co.uk

Discover:

Newcastle after dark By Megan, from Huddersfield

Alternative • ALPHA – club nights O2 Academy style

• Cosmic Ballroom – electronic dance music and a lively crowd

• Riverside – catch local, national and international touring bands

• TheCUT – think edgy Manhattan loft party

• World Headquarters – globally influenced underground club

Rock • Gotham Town – a rock lover’s haven

• The Head of Steam – best for up-and-coming acts

• The Cluny – catch the next big thing

• Trillians Rockbar – great atmosphere and live shows

• Digital – state-of-the-art

Fancy dress • Stein Bier Keller – Bavarian-style cellar with real oompah!

• Tiger Tiger – unleash your wild side

Cocktails • As You Like It – for beer, wine, and bubbles

• Tokyo Newcastle – enjoy classy cocktails on the rooftop terrace

• The Botanist – cool vibe, great views and a tree…

• Jalou – check out the 2-4-1 offers

• 97 & Social – the clue is in the name!

Dance • THINK TANK – for underground DJs and bands

• House of Smith – swanky, sultry and splendid

• Perdu – pop-heavy soundtrack

• Tup Tup Palace – good for celeb spotting!

• Madame Koo – den-like and decadent

• Florita’s – Miami inspired upbeat club nights

Fun-filled • Filthy’s – offbeat and lively

• Flares – a guilty pleasure for Nineties kids

• Powerhouse – £1 entry with student ID on Monday

Student’s Union • Mens Bar – so close and so chilled

• The Venue – great for club nights and gigs

Chilled • Alvino’s – cosy, casual and cosmopolitan

• Lane7 – best for bowling and karaoke!

• The Bridge Tavern – artisan ales from on-site microbrewery

• The Forth Hotel – real ale pub with a log fire

• Tyneside Bar Cafe – for food, drink and free film screenings

2322 www.nusu.co.uk

Your first year

September –• Freshers’ Week

• Move into accommodation

October –Lectures start

November – Settle in to study routine

December – Break for Christmas

January – Exam period

February – Choose next year’s accommodation

March – • SU elections

• Break for Easter

April – • Student Rep awards ceremony

• Exam preparation

May – • Exam period

• End-of-year ball

June – • End-of-exam celebrations • Break for summer

July –• Summer job• Travel• Visit home

August – Relax before second year begins!

Watch our videos to find out more about what students love about the campus and city: www.ncl.ac.uk/lovenewcastle

0191 208 3333 www.ncl.ac.uk/enquiries /newcastleuniversity @StudentsNCL

Like the look of us so far? Go to www.ncl.ac.uk/undergraduate to find out more.

We would like to thank all of our wonderful students for their written contributions and photographs – this publication would not have been possible without you.Thanks also to the following for the use of their illustrative material: Chris Bishop; Sakura Brandi; Iona Crichton; John Donoghue; Matt Horne; Garrod Kirkwood; Lucinda Lawrie; O2 Academy; Graeme Peacock; Simon Veit-Wilson; Alan Wallace; Kevin Wong; Mo Esmaeil Yadegarfar.

Details included in the Alternative Prospectus are correct at the time of going to press in May 2017.

Original artwork by Eleven, Sheffield. Updated by Perro.Printed by Statex Colour Print.

© Newcastle University, 2017.The University of Newcastle upon Tyne trading as Newcastle University.

Further information