Moving away from home to uni can be pretty daunting. We’re here to ease that transition a bit, and show you what your choice of town or city is really like. Next up on our UK tour: Gloucestershire!
Updated: 09 Jul 2026
Are you heading to study at the University of Gloucestershire? Want to find out more about your new home, and what there is to keep you occupied in your spare time? You're in the right place!
The University of Gloucestershireis based across the town of Cheltenham and the city of Gloucester, in the West Country. Found close to Wales, Bristol and other bustling cities, Gloucester and Cheltenham have more than enough to offer its new inhabitants.
The university is the only one in the area, avoiding any rivalries with other campuses, but this doesn’t mean this is a boring place to live. Here’s just a few things the 10,000-strong student population do to keep themselves occupied…
Good for: Watching sport in a friendly atmosphere.
What it is: Lounge 72 is bigger than your normal drinking joint, spread across two floors and featuring American pool tables to keep everyone busy.
Why you should go: The drinks offers aren’t rare here, so you can always grab a good deal. And with late opening hours, it's the perfect place to go for a night out with great drinks prices.
Good for: Letting your hair down and getting mucky.
What it is: A three day music festival right on your doorstep.
Why you should go: 2000trees is Gloucester’s answer to Glastonbury. The independent festival has been a student hit for years, taking place at Upcote Farm and featuring more than 80 acts on four different stages. It’s not all about the music either, with plenty of entertainment going on, including comedy acts, and a trader village.
Good for: A friendly place to drink into the small hours.
What it is: A bar and restaurant with a calm and relaxing atmosphere.
Why you should go: Café Rene is a big hit amongst students, and that isn’t without reason. Live gigs or sports are more common than not, and the home-cooked food that is served day in day out reminds students of the simpler things in life.
Good for: Dancing.
What it is: A typical student night out venue with all the cheesy tunes you could ask for.
Why you should go: Moo Moo’s is notorious amongst students for being the go-to night out in the area. Before you catch a train to trial Bristol’s clubbing scene, Moo Moo’s must be done first – you won’t regret it.
Good for: Dining that won’t break the bank.
What it is: The best collection of restaurants around.
Why you should go: We all know that student budgets can shrink before our eyes, so finding somewhere that’s good and affordable to eat can be quite the challenge. Luckily, The Brewery has you covered. It has a fab selection of cheap dining spots fit for students, and can leave you satisfied with your wallet still full.
Good for: Fashion on a budget.
What it is: A retail outlet with beautiful scenery.
Why you should go: The Quays boasts up to 70% off of designer brands, and it really isn’t too good to be true. Including big names such as Calvin Klein, Ted Baker and Nike. High street fashion also features, so whatever you purchase will definitely stand out on campus. The river views are stunning too, and Gloucester Cathedral is a short walk away for something more historic.
Good for: Watching your favourite band live.
What it is: An iconic entertainment venue in the heart of the city.
Why you should go: Gloucester Guildhall has hosted some of the biggest names in the music and entertainment industries, explaining why it’s such a popular venue. Acts such as Muse and George Ezra included the space on their circuit, and comedian Stephen K Amos and others love the Guildhall. With a good central location and plenty of acts to visit, seeing your favourite performer live won’t just be a pipe dream.
Good for: Thrill-seekers.
What it is: A high-speed race track for any keen go-karters.
Why you should go: If you fancy a taste of something different, this might be just the activity for you. Take the chance to race your friends inside the hall, not forgetting to try out laser tag on your way out. For a break from reality, JDR has you covered.
Good for: Embracing a bizarre local tradition.
What it is: An annual event whereby people chase a giant wedge of dairy.
Why you should go: This event is known across the world, and whilst you’re in the area it’s worth seeing the sight for yourself. Having run since the 1800’s, spectators and competitors get their game faces on and plummet down Cooper’s Hill like there’s no tomorrow. People don’t just do this for the joy either – the winner gets to keep the spectacular 8lb Double Gloucester.
Good for: Beer drinkers and rugby fanatics.
What it is: One of the strongest rugby teams in the South West.
Why you should go: In this part of the world, rugby is more than just a sport. It’s a way of life, it brings people to Gloucester regularly through rugby-oriented college programmes and brews a sense of patriotism in supporters that they never previously had. Known in the area as the Cherry and Whites, the rivalry between local teams is strong, so pop on down to the Kingsholm Stadium to watch the action live.
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