Popular student hang-outs every Exeter Fresher should know about
Screen Editor Pollyanna Roberts gives Freshers a guide to the most popular student hang-outs in and around Exeter.
There is nothing quite as thrilling as starting that new chapter in your life entitled ‘Going to University’. Simultaneously exciting and terrifying, it could be incredibly daunting trying to find your feet in a sea of new people and new opportunities: not only to tread water but also to swim.
This article will hopefully guide you in understanding student life at Exeter and where the best, and most popular, places to hang out are located. Exeter has a lot to offer all students attending the university and, honestly, I’m envious you get to try it all out for the first time and find your favourite hangout spot. There is nothing quite like life at Exeter.
The Imperial
Fear not, Fresher undergrads, Exeter houses four Wetherspoons. Yes, you heard me correctly. The Imperial, located on New North Road, is the home of Freshers. This will be everyone’s go-to first choice throughout their first year: it’s fun, nearby, cheap and a guaranteed good night. Even though it’s one of the largest Wetherspoons in the UK and the grandest, it can still be a struggle to find a table. However, the Beer Garden is gigantic, and the fairy lights give it an almost magical feel (well, as magical as a Spoons can be). Take your flat or your course friends, have a pint and make some memories.
The Old Firehouse
Fresh pizza and beer, what more could a student want? The Old Firehouse, located on New North Road (it’s not as close to the Imperial as you may think), is filled with good vibes and delicious beer. While not as student-friendly in pricing as Spoons, the Old Firehouse provides a peaceful interlude from the hustle and bustle of a packed Imperial. The pizzas there are 14 inches, perfect for sharing. The Old Firehouse is a great place to take new friends, share a pizza and have a laugh. Lots of societies also host events on the top floor of the Old Firehouse, where socials stem from pub quizzes to costume parties.
The Ram
If you’re looking for something a bit closer to campus (and a bit cheaper too), The Ram is the designated student bar right in the centre of the Forum! Whether you want to study in the Marquee in the garden or watch the football with some friends over a pint and their famous curly fries, the Ram is for you! It’s also a great place to grab a quick lunch in between lectures with your course friends. On game days, the Ram has an atmosphere that is hard to beat.
Exmouth
If you’re less into drinking or simply are bored of the array of pubs available to you, lots of students enjoy travelling to Exmouth beach for a day. Only thirty minutes on the train and under five pounds for a return ticket, the beach is quite literally at our doorstep. While Autumn is fast approaching, relish the remaining heat at Exmouth! But come third term, you’ll be a frequent Exmouth-goer and perhaps you’ll even dare to take a dip!
