Thinking of studying in Swansea? If you're not sure what to do in the city, read on to find out about its top student offerings.
Updated: 06 Jul 2026
Located on the south coast of Wales, Swansea is home to 20,000 students and the third-largest uni in Wales. That’s a lot of people who chose the uni, and as Wales' second largest city it has a high population, so what keeps them entertained?
If you’re considering Swansea as your city of choice, here’s some of the wonders that could be waiting for you…
Good for: All things entertainment
What is it: Swansea’s premier entertainment venue, a 3,500 capacity arena
Why you should go: From live music acts like Royal Blood and Paloma Faith, to comedy from Alan Carr, Romesh Ranganathan and Rob Beckett, and a host of theatre shows such as Mama Mia and Six, the Swansea Building Society Arena has something for everyone.
Good for: Your weekly dose of sport.
What it is: Big enough to fit every Swansea Uni student in at one time, Liberty Stadium is Swansea’s answer to Twickenham.
Why you should go: With Swansea AFC playing in the Championship, some big games take place right on your doorstep.
Good for: A hangover cure unlike anything you’ve seen before.
What it is: Literally the biggest breakfast you can imagine.
Why you should go: A plate of five bacon rashers, five sausages, five eggs, beans, spaghetti hoops, mushrooms, chips, two hash browns, three slices of toast and three slices of bread and butter. Do I need to say more?
Good for: Craft beers galore and breakfast grub.
What it is: A classic pub with a wood fire, this place is an Instagram dream. Serving day and night, whether you’re looking for a cocktail or a pizza you’ll be satisfied here.
Why you should go: Known for running regular events and quizzes, Brewstone really comes through with the portions. If you’re feeling slightly rough after an all-nighter, this is the Uplands joint for you.
Good for: A classic student night out.
What it is: Easily the student’s favourite drinking spot, Wind Street is home to endless bars and good value deals.
Why you should go: It’s a Swansea Uni rite of passage to drink here, so let your hair down after a long day and bond with your course mates over a pint or five. There's so many bars to choose from, you won't know where to start!
Good for: A bit of Welsh history.
What it is: Another central Swansea attraction, the ruins from this landmark are still around after over 900 years.
Why you should go: Providing a blast from the past in the modern city, the castle stands beautifully over a clifftop and is a nice history lesson. If you’re looking for something a bit different, the castle and its interesting stories can keep you entertained for an afternoon.
Good for: An outdoorsy adventure.
What it is: A traditional fishing village with a lot to offer.
Why you should go: Another place the parents love, The Mumbles is one of Wales’ top attractions. A small village right on Swansea Bay with a host of attractions including galleries, coffee shops, bars and restaurants, and Oystermouth Castle set in the heart of the village.
Good for: Bargain deals on a student budget.
What it is: An award winning market with fresh food galore and endless market stalls.
Why you should go: Apart from being the largest of its kind in Wales, you can find anything from unique jewellery to cockles and Welsh cakes. Very deserving of a visit, the market is a student hit.
Good for: Riding on a pedalo in the Welsh sun.
What it is: Within walking distance of Singleton Park, the lake is home to some interesting water activities, such as their colourful swan and dragon pedalo’s.
Why you should go: If you want something more interesting to look at than your room whilst revising, this lake fits the job description. Or you can grab an ice cream and have a go at fishing or crazy golf with your mates. It's also a wonderful place for a date.
Good for: Paddling out at a secret spot.
What it is: A spectacular natural landscape with a huge choice of beaches and surf breaks.
Why you should go: The stunning Gower Peninsula is a haven for surfers and ocean adventurers. It is a magnificent stretch of coastline, established as the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There is year-round surf and a variety of locations where you can find a wave whatever the swell and weather conditions.
Chuck your board and wetsuit in the car and explore for yourself, or book a lesson with one of the many surf schools in the area, to help you find your feet.
With its beautiful coastline and bustling city, Swansea offers students the best of both worlds when it comes to rural vs urban. As the second most populated city in Wales, students can benefit from the shopping, eating and drinking options around the city and it's no wonder so many students choose to make it their home each year. Back in the 19th century, Swansea was known for its copper production and there's still a lot of history around the town to explore. Poetry fans will be interested in the city's link to Dylan Thomas, who was born in the town and wrote the majority of his works there. Swansea is a great student city with plenty to offer to suit different interests.
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