10 Brilliant Things to do in Bangor | The Student Guide

Bangor is one of the smallest cities in the UK, and this North Wales-based university actually has more students than it does locals, which makes it an interesting and fun place to study.

There are also no other universities in the area and as a result, university life is at the centre of everything in Bangor.

Living in Bangor as a student is never dull, not only will you find plenty of things to do in the city, but it is also surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscape and nature in the entire country. With Snowdonia National Park on your doorstep, as well as the beautiful Menai Strait between Bangor and Anglesey…what more could you really want?

Looking at Bangor for things to do before you move? Don’t worry, our list of 10 places will be sure to get your calendars looking busy! Keep reading to find out what made the cut…

1. Explore Snowdonia

Snowdonia must be seen to be believed. When searching for Bangor things to do, you are in the perfect location to explore Snowdonia National Park.

Invest in a good pair of walking boots and you can head up one of six walking routes up to the top or take the easy route and catch the Snowdon Mountain Railway…who really needs to know?!

The scenery throughout Snowdonia is stunning, it’s bound to take your breath away!

For students looking to get out and about in nature, or to blow away the cobwebs after a night out at the Student Union, a visit here will sure clear your head!

Don’t forget to prioritise your mental and physical well being whilst at uni! A walk here will release any tension and relax your body.

2. The Llyn Peninsula

Just 30 minutes away from your student accommodation in Bangor, the Llyn Peninsula is like walking into a completely different part of the world.

It is home to some of the finest beaches you’ll find anywhere in the UK and that’s why it is often talked about as a piece of the Mediterranean in North Wales.

If you are looking to get away from stress and be out in nature, the Llyn Peninsula is the perfect place to chill out with friends in the great outdoors or to take part in water sports.

Along the unspoilt coastline you’ll discover fantastic walking paths, dinghy sailors, wakeboarders, and wildlife enthusiasts.

3. Treborth Gardens

Hidden right by the side of the Menai Bridge, Treborth Gardens is a fantastic place where students and locals come together every week (Thursdays) to help with the growth and cultivation of wild and tropical orchids.

The humid Orchid House is a good place to go on those cold days during the winter months, as Bangor can be quite cold all year round in all honesty! It is a really fulfilling way to spend your time and to meet new people.

4. Go Surfing

If you are into water sports, and surfing in particular, Surf Snowdonia at North Wales’ WaveGarden is the perfect place for you, just a 30-minute journey outside of Bangor.

Here, you’ll find the world’s longest man-made surfing wave which stretches for a magnificent 150 metres.

If you are learning to surf for the first time or want to hone your skills, it is the best place to be in this part of the world.

5. Go to Zip World

Another fun day out is Zip World, where you’ll find the longest zip line in Europe. It also happens to be the fastest zip line in the world, so prepare for some real thrills.

It is a fun-filled, action-packed day out that is perfect for a group of university friends looking for something to do in Bangor, and something away from what you’d normally expect.

If you’re looking to bond with new uni mates or just treat yourselves after some hard studying sessions, Zip World is a lot of fun!

6. A Night Down The Pub

Patrick’s Bar is an institution for students in Bangor. It’s an Irish pub located in the heart of the city, and you’ll find a little bit of everything here.

If you are into cheap shots to get a big night out started, Patrick’s has you covered. If live sport on the TV screens is more your thing, you’ve got access to that. For live bands and music, there’s plenty of dates booked in the calendar you need to check out!

7. A Coffee At Blue Sky Café

A firm favourite coffee spot in Bangor, Blue Sky Café is a fantastic place to sit and take a rest during a hectic day of study.

The café has a strong purpose focusing on locally sourced ingredients and ethical trade, which makes them super popular amongst both locals and students.

There are comfortable sofas, wicker chairs and wood-burning stove, making it a fantastic place to study away from your desk in your bedroom.

Blue Sky often becomes a second home for students in the city, with its comfortable and friendly vibes.

8. Visit Penrhyn Castle

A stunning example of Welsh history, Penrhyn Castle is a fantasy castle from the 19th century.

Located between Snowdonia and the Menai Strait, it is an incredible piece of architecture that must be seen to be believed.

It is home to one of the largest collections of classical art in the whole of Wales and during the warmer months, it is a relaxing and interesting place to take a picnic and sit out on the well-kept grounds.

You can even spot the North Wales coast from here if you look closely…we’re in love!

9. Explore The Wealth Of Arts And Culture

Storiel and Pontio are the two great places for arts and culture in Bangor.

Storiel is the former Gwynedd Museum and Art Gallery and it is the oldest building in Wales to be dated by an inscription.

It is home to art from as far back as 1884 and showcases the history and cultural shifts in Wales over the centuries.

Pontio on the other hand, is the creative hub of modern art and culture in Bangor.

It is open 7 days a week and has a cinema that focuses on independent releases, theatre, live music, cabaret shows, contemporary circus and workshops for aspiring artists.

10. Go Bird Watching

Just on the outskirts of Bangor, the Spinnies Aberogwen North Wales Wildlife Trust is a fantastic place to go bird watching.

For newcomers and experts alike, a day out at the Spinnies, with the incredible surroundings of the Snowdonia Mountains and Menai Straits, is a sight to behold.

The nature reserve is the perfect location to view bird feeding, providing plenty of shelter for birds including the Kingfisher, ChiffChaff, Little Egret, Greenshank, Orange-tip and many more.

There is no entry fee to the reserve, and it remains open during the daylight hours, so Autumn and Spring are the perfect seasons to head on down and see the best of birdlife in the area.

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Bangor, both in the city and throughout the beautiful and spectacular surroundings. Whether you are looking for a hike up a mountain, a leisurely coastal walk, you want to see art and culture, music, a drink with friends or a quick cup of coffee before university, there is plenty to see and do in this small and charming cathedral city in North Wales.