Bangor at a glance
Bangor is one of the smallest cities in the UK, but one of its most distinctive university towns. Located in North Wales near the Snowdonia National Park and Menai Strait, it offers breathtaking landscapes, a peaceful lifestyle, and a close-knit student community.
Home to Bangor University, the city welcomes students from across the world with a strong focus on sustainability, research, and wellbeing. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor adventures or quiet study spots, Bangor provides a unique and enriching student experience.
Bangor is a fantastic and vibrant seaside city. The juxtaposition of the sea and mountains has a striking landscape that doesn’t fail to provide activities – ranging from hiking Snowdon, sailing in the Menai strait, swimming in waterfalls and walking nature trails. (Third year student, Bangor University)
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Browse through the universities and colleges in Bangor to find one that suits you.
Universities and colleges in Bangor
City highlights
Bangor may be small, but it's full of charm. Stroll along the historic Garth Pier for views of Anglesey or visit Bangor Cathedral, one of the oldest in Britain. The Pontio Arts and Innovation Centre is the cultural heart of the city, offering cinema, theatre, and tech labs under one roof. Weekly markets, student societies, and events bring life to the town all year round.
Student life in Bangor
Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.
Sunday chilling
When family visit
Low on cash
Feeling cultural
Transport tips
Getting around Bangor is easy thanks to its compact size. Most students walk or cycle between accommodation, campus, and the town centre. Bangor Railway Station has direct trains to Manchester, Cardiff, and Holyhead for ferries to Ireland. Local buses run by Arriva serve nearby towns and attractions. For longer trips, Liverpool and Manchester airports are accessible by train and coach.
Accommodation
Most students live in Bangor itself or nearby areas like Upper Bangor and Penrhosgarnedd. Accommodation is generally affordable, with university halls and private rentals close to campus.
The cost of living in Bangor is lower than in many UK cities, and the town is considered very safe and student-friendly. The university offers international student support, mental health services, and help with accommodation and finance throughout your time in Bangor.
International student information
Discover everything you need to know as an international students planning to come to the UK.
Whether you're coming for the first time, returning for postgraduate, or are still waiting to make a decision, our international pages can help you prepare as best you can for life in the UK.
Where to eat
Bangor’s food scene is small but diverse. Try Blue Sky Café for vegetarian options and live music, or Voltaire for tasty plant-based dishes.
For a budget-friendly bite, Mike’s Bites is a student favourite, and Noodle One serves up Asian fusion dishes at great prices. Local supermarkets, cafés, and market stalls make eating well on a budget easy, with halal and vegan choices widely available.
What to visit
Explore the best of Welsh history and landscape right on your doorstep. Visit Penrhyn Castle, a dramatic National Trust property with vast grounds, or walk up to Roman Camp for panoramic views. Bangor University's museums and art galleries offer exhibitions and collections worth exploring between lectures. For those who love the outdoors, the nearby mountains, lakes, and coasts provide endless inspiration and adventure.
Bangor has an exciting and safe nightlife. The student nightclub Academi is approachable and accessible, with very reasonable entry prices. Other options include the multitude of bars along Bangor’s high street that offer excellent services at affordable prices.
One of the greatest benefits of living in Bangor is that everything from the university to supermarkets, to cafes and even clubs are all within walking distance to wherever you decide to live.
On your doorstep
Snowdonia National Park is less than 30 minutes away, offering hiking, climbing, and breathtaking views. You can also visit Anglesey for beaches and island culture, or take a ferry from Holyhead to Dublin for a weekend abroad. For bigger cities, Liverpool and Manchester are both under two hours away by train, offering excellent day or weekend trip options.
Basic safety
It’s important to adhere to basic safety practices when studying and living in any city. Being aware of your surroundings is always wise, especially in busy and populated areas.
Some basic advice from the Metropolitan Police will help to ensure you stay as free from crime as possible:
- Keep your valuables hidden and don’t carry large amount of cash.
- Beware of scams, such as street hustlers, unlicensed taxis, and non-official sellers.
- Keep your belongings, shopping, and luggage close to you at all times.
- Don’t leave your drinks unattended or accept them from strangers.
- Travel as a group and always make sure you tell your friends you got home safely, and vice versa.
- Double check all taxis have a visible and valid licence before using them.
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