Your Ultimate Guide to Living in Lancaster: A Student’s Dream City!

Discover the best of Lancaster with our ultimate student guide! From shopping and nightlife to top restaurants and transport tips, find everything you need to make the most of your time in this vibrant city. Plus, secure your spot at Nido Living for the perfect student accommodation.

6 February 2025   •    5 min read

Your Ultimate Guide to Living in Lancaster: A Student’s Dream City!

So, you’ve just landed in Lancaster - welcome to your new adventure! Whether you’re here for your degree, a semester abroad, or just exploring something new, Lancaster is ready to show you what it’s all about. From cozy cafés for studying (or procrastinating) to nights out that could turn into legendary stories, this city is packed with all the things you need to make your student life unforgettable.

In this guide, we’re giving you the inside scoop on everything Lancaster has to offer. So grab your best pair of walking shoes (you’ll need them) and let’s explore the best spots to shop, eat, chill, and party in Lancaster - because your uni experience is about to get way more exciting.

Shopping in Lancaster: Treat yourself (you deserve it!)

Let’s be real, shopping is a must—whether you’re grabbing a fresh new outfit for a night out or just treating yourself because, well, you’re a student and deserve it.

Here’s where you should go to satisfy all your shopping cravings:

  • Lancaster Market: More than just fruit and veg, this market has a cool mix of vintage finds, unique clothing, and quirky gifts. Plus, you can grab a snack while you're there. Double win.
  • St. Nicholas Arcades: Packed with everything from trendy high street stores to independent boutiques. It’s the perfect place to grab new threads, a cheeky pair of shoes, or something you didn't know you needed.
  • The White Cross: For something a little different, head to this lovely area for small shops and local treasures. Great for picking up gifts or finding something unique for your room.

Student pro tip: Always check for student discounts! Most places offer them—just ask, and don’t forget about apps like UNiDAYS!

Nightlife: Where the fun never ends

Lancaster might be a small city, but trust us, it knows how to throw a good night out. Whether you’re into casual drinks, dancing, or karaoke, the city has a spot for you.

  • The Sugarhouse: The ultimate student nightclub! Known for themed nights, crazy drink deals, and a student crowd. It’s the place to be on a Saturday night.
  • The Josephine: For something a bit more chilled but still full of character. Think cocktails, good tunes, and a relaxed vibe.
  • The Crafty Scholar: If you’re after a pub that serves up great pints and good times with mates, this is your go-to spot. Bonus: It’s just far enough off the beaten track to avoid the crowds but still delivers on the fun.
  • The Bobbin: A perfect mix of music and pub vibes. You can hit up the dancefloor or just kick back and chat over a drink.

Fun fact: Lancaster is home to some of the friendliest people you’ll meet on a night out. It’s not just about the places—it’s about the vibes!

Food and coffee: Fueling your study sessions (and cheat days)

We all know the real question is, where’s the best food at? Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between classes or celebrating a win (or surviving a uni crisis), here are the spots that’ll keep you fed and caffeinated.

  • Brewery Arts Café: Perfect for brunch or a mid-afternoon coffee, this spot offers delicious food, live events, and good vibes for when you just need to chill.
  • The Lune Café: The ultimate hidden gem for those who appreciate a good cuppa and a great atmosphere. It’s quiet, relaxed, and ideal for solo study sessions or catching up with a friend.
  • The Dalton Rooms: Serving up hearty food and killer cocktails. Ideal for a night out or a cheeky treat when you're done with the textbooks.
  • The Whale Tail: A vegetarian paradise with epic dishes that are both wholesome and mouth-watering. Perfect for when you’re craving something different.
  • Hannah’s: If you love homemade cakes (and, let's be honest, who doesn’t?), you NEED to check this spot out. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Getting Around Lancaster: No car? No problem.

Worried about how you’re going to get around Lancaster? Relax, it's a super walkable city with plenty of options to help you explore, whether you’re heading to campus or to your fave coffee spot.

  • Lancaster city centre: Everything is super close, and walking is often the easiest (and cheapest) way to get around. You’ll be walking through cobbled streets and past picturesque buildings in no time.
  • Buses: Lancaster has a pretty solid bus network for when you’re feeling lazy or need to get a little further afield. Student discounts are available, so no excuses!
  • Cycling: Lancaster is cycling-friendly, with plenty of routes to take you through the scenic parts of the city. Need a bike? You can easily rent one for a day or longer.
  • Taxis and ubers: If you’re running late or just don’t feel like walking, taxis and Ubers are readily available, and not too pricey.

Pro tip: Download the Stagecoach app for bus times and to plan your routes—because, let’s face it, getting lost isn’t fun.

Sightseeing: More than just your uni

You’ve got some downtime between lectures, or maybe you’re just trying to skip your next study session (we won’t tell). Here’s where you can unwind and enjoy Lancaster’s charm:

  • Lancaster castle: A real-life historic site and a must-see. The tours are incredible, and the views over the city are totally Instagram-worthy.
  • Williamson Park: Perfect for a long walk or a picnic when the sun’s out. Don't miss the amazing Ashton Memorial—it's a beauty!
  • The Lancaster canal: Take a stroll along the canal or even hop on a canal boat for something different. There’s a chill vibe that makes it perfect for some down time.
  • The forest of Bowland: Need to escape city life for a bit? Take a short drive out to the Forest of Bowland, a stunning area full of rolling hills, wildlife, and plenty of fresh air.

Why Lancaster?

Lancaster might be small, but it's got everything you need for a successful and fun student life. From shopping and nightlife to great places to eat and hang out, it’s the perfect place to dive into university life and make lifelong memories.

So get out there, start exploring, and don’t forget to have fun along the way. Oh, and let us know your favourite spots—we love hearing about the hidden gems of Lancaster!

Ready to make Lancaster your home?

Looking for a student accommodation in Lancaster that’s as awesome as the city itself? At Nido Living, we’ve got you covered. Our modern, fully equipped rooms are designed with students in mind.

Secure your spot with us today and make your time in Lancaster unforgettable. Book now and get ready to enjoy all the perks of student life, with a little extra comfort and style.

Let’s make your Lancaster experience one to remember!

Share this post

Student Life

Blog

Related articles

1/0

View all blogs