If you’ve chosen Middlesbrough as your place of study, there’s some must-know spots to check out! Luckily for you, we’ve broken down a list of the top ten…
Updated: 09 Mar 2025
Located in North Yorkshire, Middlesbrough is one of the best value places to live in the UK – making it ideal for those a student budget.
If you're heading to Middlesbrough this year, here’s the top 10 things we found to keep you entertained outside of the lecture theatre…
Good for: The best night out in Boro.
What it is: Spensley’s is perfect for people of all music tastes. Whether its rock, dance, or drum and bass this club is the one for you. Unlike some major cities, the music scene isn’t dominated by just one genre, so if you fancy something different than what you’re used to each week day can provide a different experience.
Why you should go: If there’s one thing you should know about the north, it’s that they know how to throw a good party. Leave your coats at home and head on down to a student favourite, where you’re bound to bond with new uni friends or make some dance floor acquaintances after a hefty exam season.
Good for: A dose of fresh air.
What it is: 100 acres of Middlesbrough’s finest greenery, the park is right next to the river Tees and houses a museum too. It’s great for a warm cuppa on a cold day, or a day break with your course mates.
Why you should go: Whether it’s the peak of summer or a dreary day, the lush scenery and nature here can distract you from any deadline stress or student-type issues you’re facing. It’s a perfect place to revise too, supplying serenity in bucket loads.
Good for: Art buffs.
What it is: Translating to the Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art, this contemporary gallery brings a bit of culture to the area. Partnered with Teesside Uni, the relatively new hotspot of art proves that the Boro can match major cities in terms of diverse attractions.
Why you should go: Admission is free!
Good for: Footie fans.
What it is: Home to Middlesbrough FC, the stadium for the second tier team defines Boro spirit. You can watch more than just football here too, so any music fans can also get their fix.
Why you should go: To support the local team.
Good for: The best parmo around.
What it is: Anyone from the Boro will know what this means, but southerners may be slightly confused. A parmo is a Middlesbrough delicacy of deep-fried breaded chicken, pork, or other meat covered with béchamel sauce and cheese and then grilled, typically sold as takeaway food.
Why you should go: It's cheap, cheerful, greasy, and the perfect hangover cure.
Good for: A mini holiday.
What it is: A costal town only a little journey out of Middlesbrough. It’s a cheap thrill and takes you out of the town you see daily, so bring your buckets and spades and enjoy the beach whilst it’s only a short while away.
Why you should go: To dip in the British sea (if you’re brave enough).
Good for: The best scenery you’ll find.
What it is: With hills and mountains providing views of the entirety of Teesside, there’s no place more blissful than Roseberrry Topping.
Why you should go: It's perfect for when your parents come to visit for the weekend, or when you need a break from the revision notes. Roseberry is the scenic landmark in the area, and takes 1-2 hours to climb in exchange for fabulous views.
Good for: Picking up a new outfit.
What it is: A shopping mall in the town centre.
Why you should go: The mall has a wide range of shops, covering trendy clothing stores, cafes, drug stores and more. Whether you're looking to stock up on beauty essentials or buy a new outfit, or just grab a coffee with friends, Cleveland has you covered.
Good for: A pint after a long day.
What it is: Fittingly positioned on Baker Street, Sherlock’s is Middlesbrough’s most raved about pub by far. Serving just about any drink you fancy, this spot is perfect for any type of get together, whether it be course mates or family visits.
Why you should go: To experience a top-notch microbrewery.
Good for: Bonding with your uni friends (or entertaining your family)
What it is: An interactive escape room with multiple different themed rooms and challenges to check out.
Why you should go: Test your brain in a different way and try something a bit different! Escape rooms are a great way to test your problem-solving and lateral thinking skills, and it makes a change from the day-to-day coffees, pints and studying.
So there you have it, lots of things to do in Middlesbrough. Students studying in the city at Teesside University have a lot of great things to say about this the up and coming city…
Dillon, Business Management BA (Hons)
Billie, Fine Art BA (Hons)
Sami, Computer Games Design with Foundation Year BA (Hons)
Jay, Civil Engineering BEng (Hons)
Alana Clemenson Comics and Graphic Novels BA (Hons)
So there seems to be plenty to please prospective students - both academically and non-academically in Middlesbrough.
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