City guides: Warwick

Despite popular belief, the University of Warwick is situated on the outskirts of Coventry; nearing Warwick, Kenilworth and Leamington Spa - three beautiful little towns; all fine favourites of the Midlands. Getting here, getting back, visiting friends or escaping for the weekend is simple; being in the heart of England, you're close enough to just about everything.

Bars and clubs

If you don't fancy spending the evening in an on-campus bar, the newly-refurbished Varsity pub is a five minute walk and sits just outside Warwick Campus, serving bargain pints and homey grub. Start your weekend at the Kasbah nightclub in Coventry. With cheap entry and drinks on a Friday night, its three rooms and the much-loved beer garden are swarmed with high-spirited students. For a change, indulge in one of Leamington Spa's choice of bars. With many relaxing pubs such as The White Horse, lunches and drinks with friends are always enjoyable.

Leamington-favourite Smackk nightclub is situated on the north end of the main parade, making Tuesday nights the place to be - be sure to get a picture against the height chart. Evolve is south of the parade; a newly refurbished, large club that 'notoriously' accommodates all party-lovers on a Monday and Friday night. Saint Bar, Moo and Kokos are just a few others you may wish to try. As for the family visit - take them to a tranquil Kenilworth pub.

Shopping

If shopping is your thing, hop on a twenty-minute train to Birmingham. Take a whole day to embrace the brilliance of the Bull Ring and perhaps an hour or two to wander the streets and nearby markets. Whether it's Selfridges or Apple you're after, Birmingham will have it. Closer by, Coventry is home of the high street and will cater for those everyday essentials. Don't forget to visit the fabulous market near the Lower Precinct, open daily until 4pm - grab your meat, fish, flowers or fancy dress outfit from there, at a bargain price. Leamington's main parade has slightly smaller shops but most things you’ll need.

Eating                                                                                                         

With many pubs and bars all serving food in and around Coventry, it is not difficult finding that perfect place for that perfect lunch. Warwick Campus has Curiositea café and Xananas Restaurant, serving both snacks and main meals. For romantic dinners, or meals with friends, Leamington Spa has a fabulous range of restaurants. Pizza Express, Zizzi's and Cafe Rouge sit beside more boutique dining experiences such as Oscar's, La Bistro Pierre, Momenti and Seven. You will not be disappointed.

Entertainment

The University of Warwick's very own Arts Centre is one of the most reputable venues in the country. Located in the Warwick bubble, the Arts Centre has its own cinema, theatre, café and bar. With comedians such as Jimmy Carr returning to the venue annually, its popularity is growing all over the country. Whether it's a student production of A Clockwork Orange or a River Dance, there is always something on worth watching. Birmingham’s O2 Academy and the NEC Arena are nearby with Coventry’s Ricoh Arena situated in the north of the city, just a twenty-minute drive from campus. Welcoming Coldplay in 2012, the Ricoh Arena is swelling with success - even if the football club isn’t.

Student accommodation

First-year students live in the Warwick Bubble, on campus. There are shared flats, halls, and rooms with en-suites to cater for every preference possible. The on-campus student accommodation ranges from £94-145 per week; something for absolutely everyone. Second and third year students tend to relocate and live in Leamington Spa. The Unibus runs frequently from the town, passing through Kenilworth (if you choose to live there), and takes approximately twenty-five minutes. Some students choose to live in Coventry; Canley and Tile Hill are popular choices as they are in walking distance to the university and Coventry is much cheaper to live in than Leamington Spa. Find out more about student accommodation.

Top 3 Places to See

1. Kenilworth and Warwick Castles
2. Leamington’s Jephson Gardens (and others!)
3. Coventry Cathedral Ruins

There's a lot to see outside of the bubble.