аÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±

In the past few years, I’ve visited many places that have added excitement to my student experience in аÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±. They’re fun, affordable, and don’t require loads of planning. They're where real student life happens: spontaneous nights out, inside jokes, and memories you’ll be laughing about for years. Plus, they’re all walkable or easy to get to from campus, so it’s minimal effort for maximum reward.

My name is Aleksandra, I’m a third year Drama and Performance student at the аÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½± - and here are my absolute favourite places that you should try outside of lectures:

1. Playzone & FlipOut

If you're the type of person who wants to feel like a child again, or wants to physically bounce out the stress, Playzone and FlipOut are worth a try. Adult-sized soft play and trampolines that make you feel like a kid again, and the best part is – you can grab a snack or a drink and bring it to the venue. I go there with my teammates when we need a good time and laugh, or when we want to celebrate someone’s birthday. A bonus is that it is also a workout and a way to stay active while having fun. Both venues are located in Cosham and the best way to get there is by train to Cosham station, after that there is a 15-20 minute walk to the play centres. 

2. Quiz Night at Guildhall Village or The Dockyard

Nothing bonds a group of students like arguing over which 90s TV show had the best theme song. Quiz nights are a weekly tradition for us. Guildhall Village is super chill and always has a solid vibe, and The Dockyard’s food and drinks are amazing. Even when we don’t win, the banter makes it worth it. You can usually find details for pub quizzes on the Pub’s social media pages.

3. Karaoke at The Fleet or One-Eyed Dog

If you’ve never seen someone sing Bohemian Rhapsody like their life depends on it, you haven’t lived. Karaoke nights at The Fleet or One-Eyed Dog are hilarious. It’s zero judgement, pure vibes – and honestly, after a couple drinks, everyone thinks they’re the next X Factor winner anyway. The Fleet pub is in the city centre near the University accommodation buildings, and the One-Eyed Dog is at the top of Albert Road which is another popular student area. 

4. Bowling at Hollywood Bowl - Classic Student Fun

Sometimes you just want something classic and low-effort fun – and that’s where Hollywood Bowl comes in. Whether you’re actually competitive or just here for the nachos, it’s a chill way to spend an evening. Plus, it’s indoors, so no weather excuses. You can find Hollywood Bowl in Gunwharf Quays, which has plenty of restaurant options for a post-bowling meal as well.

5. Pool at The Honest Politician - The Local Vibe

This place is popular with students for a reason. It’s not flashy, but it has that cozy pub feel, decent drinks, and a pool table that we basically live around. Whether you’re a pool pro or just pretending to know what you’re doing, it’s a great spot to unwind and catch up. The Honest Politician is on Elm Grove in Southsea, and only a 10 minute walk from the University Library.