Things to do before you leave

James Ballantyne Regional Program Manager

Date

July 21, 2014
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Things to do before you leave. Where do we start? We have had a lot of fun trying to think of places you may not have been before so hopefully we inspire you with the following suggestions.

Cambridge

The beautifully historic city of Cambridge is a great day tip from London. The city boasts endless historical buildings including the grand Kings College Chapel. The best views of the city can been seen whilst you punt along the river Camb. Go to Scudomore's for a self hire or a guided punt. After your first punting experience, get lost in the back streets where the colleges tower above you. Stop by the market to buy last minute souvenirs and then pop into a small independent cafe to watch the students pass by. It only takes an hour to get to from London to Cambridge and there are 4 trains an hour from Kings Cross Station so you can easily go there for a day.

Cornwall

If you are looking for a bit of adventure why not head west to Britain's answer to California, Cornwall. Maybe not, but it's a great place to relax for a long weekend. Especially if the whether is good! There are plenty of great places to surf and hire all the gear, including a thick wet-suit, it will still be cold in the sea. As well as surfing there are great walks along the coasts. Whilst you are in Cornwall don't forget to have scones and cream. The Cornish are famous for their delicious Cornish cream but don't offend them, make sure you put your cream on top of the jam when you are eating your scones. It is a long journey to Cornwall but you can always stop off at Stonehenge on the way there and Bath on the way back, two equally amazing places to visit.

Brighton

If you fancy a day trip that caters to all budgets, take a trip down to Brighton. Only around an hour on the train from London, this lively seaside town has a distinctive bohemian feel. If you’re feeling adventurous, head on over to the beach and rent a kayak (prices start at £10 for an hour). A visit to the quirky charity shops in the North Lanes is also a must!  Check out Snoopers Paradise an Aladdin’s cave of previously loved items, where you will find all manner of the weird and wonderful from retro furniture, to jewellery and vintage clothing. For something to eat head to The Regency, and try some freshly caught fish, with chips of course! If you stick around in the evening, Brighton also has a fantastic nightlife, particularly know for its buzzing gay clubs and bars.

Harry Potter Studios

If you missed out on our trip to the HP studios or went and you want need to go again then here's how to. For those of you that don't know, the studios have been opened to the public to show off Harry and the other fascinating characters. The tour will give you a chance to see the sets and costumes from the main characters. Not only this you will have a chance to see some of the animated characters such as Dobby.  You will be so far immersed into the Harry Potter World that you will be able to drink Harry's favorite Butterbeer. At the end of the tour there will be a chance to grab some souvenirs for friends and family at the cool gift shop.

If you would like anymore inspiration for things to do before you leave then get in contact with the Student Life Team via the Facebook group.