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Getting Around Hull: Transport Tips for Students

Starting university in Hull is exciting. There’s a new city to explore, new friends to meet, and a fair few lecture halls to find your way to. 

One of the first challenges students often face is figuring out how to get around without draining their entire student budget on travel. Thankfully, Hull is compact, student-friendly, and full of affordable options that make it easy to get from one place to another. 

Whether you’re heading to campus, the city centre, or a night out, there are plenty of ways to travel around Hull without breaking the bank.

Taking the Bus

For most students, buses quickly become the backbone of daily travel. Hull’s main bus operators, East Yorkshire Buses and Stagecoach East Midlands, run regular services across the city and out into the surrounding suburbs. 

The central hub for buses is Hull Paragon Interchange, which also connects to trains and coaches, making it simple to switch between modes of transport. From here you can easily reach the university, shopping districts, and Hull’s nightlife spots.

Students usually find that weekly or monthly travel cards are far more cost-effective than buying single tickets, especially if you’re travelling most days. Both major bus companies offer discounted student passes, which can save a substantial amount over the course of a term. 

With early lectures and late nights often part of the student routine, downloading the bus company apps is a smart move. These allow you to buy tickets directly from your phone and check live times, so you’re never left wondering if the bus is still on its way.

Cycling Through the City

Hull has another advantage for students on the move: it’s one of the flattest cities in the United Kingdom. That makes cycling not only practical but also incredibly easy compared to hillier locations. 

With no steep climbs to worry about, you can get across town without feeling like you’ve run a marathon, which means arriving at lectures a little less flustered.

Over the years, Hull has invested in cycle lanes and bike-friendly routes, particularly around the main corridors leading to the University of Hull. Many student houses provide bike storage, and the campus itself has secure stands so you can park up safely. 

If you don’t fancy buying a bike, Hull also has bike hire schemes that are perfect for occasional journeys. Cycling is not only affordable but also one of the quickest ways to beat the traffic, and it doubles up as daily exercise without even stepping into a gym. The only thing to keep in mind is security – investing in a solid lock is essential to protect your wheels.

Walking the Compact City

Depending on where you live, walking may turn out to be the most convenient way of getting around. 

Hull’s city centre is relatively compact, and it’s easy to move between shops, bars, restaurants, and student areas on foot. For many students, a fifteen or twenty-minute walk is enough to cover most of their daily needs, from lectures to social meet-ups.

Walking has the obvious advantage of being completely free, but it also lets you get to know the city in a way that buses and bikes sometimes don’t. Exploring the Old Town, with its cobbled streets and historic architecture, or strolling along the Marina makes journeys far more enjoyable. 

Just be prepared for the famous Hull weather – being close to the coast, it can be windy, so having a good coat or umbrella handy is always a wise decision.

Using Trains for Escapes

Although trains aren’t particularly useful for everyday journeys within Hull, they come into their own when you fancy a change of scenery. 

Hull Paragon Interchange provides connections to bigger cities such as Leeds, York, and Manchester, which makes day trips and weekend breaks straightforward. A 16–25 Railcard can help cut costs dramatically, giving you a third off fares and quickly paying for itself after just a couple of journeys.

For daily student life, you’re unlikely to need the train, but when the library walls start to feel a little too familiar, or when you need a dose of big-city energy, the rail network is your gateway out. 

It’s also worth keeping in mind that rail services are handy for visiting home during the holidays if you’re not staying in Hull year-round.

Saving Money on Student Travel

Being a student is all about balancing budgets, and travel is one area where small savings can make a big difference. Choosing the right pass for buses, cycling instead of paying for short trips, and even planning routes in advance can all help stretch your money further. 

While late-night buses don’t always run, taxis are a good backup option if you split the fare with friends, especially after a night out. The important thing is to have a plan so you’re not caught off guard at the end of the evening.

Walking or cycling whenever possible will naturally cut down costs, but it also means you save your cash for more exciting things, whether that’s a night out, a society trip, or even just a cheeky takeaway after lectures. Keeping a little aside for those unavoidable journeys – like a last-minute dash across town – is always sensible too.

Getting Home Safely After Nights Out

Hull has a lively nightlife scene, and knowing how to get home safely after an evening out is just as important as finding your way to lectures. 

Buses usually stop before midnight, so once the clubs close, your main options are taxis, ride-hailing apps, or walking. It’s always best to travel with friends where possible, and keeping a taxi number stored in your phone makes life much easier at 2am. 

If you are walking, stick to well-lit routes and keep your wits about you. Hull is generally a welcoming city, but late at night, it’s better to be cautious.

A Student-Friendly City

When you piece everything together, Hull really is an easy place for students to navigate. 

The buses are regular and affordable, cycling is straightforward thanks to the flat landscape, walking is practical for short trips, and trains give you an escape route when you need one. Most importantly, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get around.

As you settle into life at university, you’ll quickly discover which modes of transport suit your lifestyle best. Some students rely almost entirely on their bikes, while others get their money’s worth from bus passes. The beauty of Hull is that the choice is flexible, and the distances never feel overwhelming.

Final Thoughts

Getting around Hull doesn’t need to be complicated. Think of it as part of the student adventure: learning the quickest shortcuts, working out which buses to avoid when they’re packed, and making the most of the money-saving travel options on offer. 

With a mix of buses, bikes, trains, and your own two feet, you’ll soon know the city inside out. More importantly, you’ll feel at home moving around, which means more time enjoying student life and less time worrying about how to get from A to B.

Local Student Living: What You Can Get for Your Money in Nottingham vs. Hull

When deciding where to live and study, students often weigh up more than just course rankings or university reputation. 

Cost of living, lifestyle, and quality of accommodation are becoming increasingly important factors – especially with the rising cost of living across the United Kingdom. 

In this feature, we compare two student-friendly cities, Nottingham and Hull, to help you understand what your money can get you in each location. From rent prices to social scenes, this is your go-to guide for making an informed decision between the two.

Rent Prices: How Much Does Student Accommodation Cost?

As one of the UK’s most popular student cities, Nottingham boasts two large universities: the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University. 

With such high demand, rent can vary significantly depending on the area and type of accommodation. On average, students can expect to pay between £130–£180 per week for an ensuite room in a purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), or around £100–£140 per week for a room in a shared student house.

The most popular student areas include Lenton, Dunkirk, and the city centre – all close to campus and nightlife but often at a higher cost. Bills are sometimes included, but not always, so students need to factor in an extra £15–£25 per week if not included.

Hull, home to the University of Hull, offers a more affordable student living experience overall. 

Rent prices are typically lower, with students paying around £90–£120 per week for ensuite PBSA, and as low as £70–£90 per week for shared student houses. The Avenues, Cottingham Road, and Newland Avenue are popular student zones, offering good access to campus and local shops.

In many Hull properties, bills are included in the rent, making budgeting simpler and often more cost-effective in the long run.

Verdict: If cost is your priority, Hull is the clear winner for affordability, often saving students around £40–£60 per week compared to Nottingham.

Lifestyle and Entertainment: What’s There to Do?

Nottingham offers a vibrant city experience with a buzzing nightlife, large music venues, and cultural hot spots like the Nottingham Playhouse and Nottingham Contemporary. The city is packed with bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets.

Students here can enjoy a lively student union scene, popular bars in the Lace Market, and regular gigs at Rock City and Rescue Rooms. For daytime activities, there’s the Victoria Centre for shopping and beautiful green spaces like Wollaton Park.

Hull, while smaller, has undergone significant redevelopment over the past decade, especially after being named UK City of Culture in 2017. 

It offers a growing selection of quirky cafes, pubs, and live music venues. The Hull Truck Theatre, Fruit Market, and Humber Street host art exhibitions and events throughout the year.

Although nightlife in Hull is smaller in scale, it still delivers, especially around Newland Avenue and Princes Avenue. For a more laid-back student lifestyle, Hull delivers plenty of charm without the hustle of a large city.

Verdict: Nottingham wins for nightlife and variety, but Hull holds its own with a strong sense of local culture and a more relaxed pace.

Travel and Transport: Getting Around

Nottingham’s public transport system is efficient, with regular buses and trams running through student-heavy areas and into the city centre. A student bus pass can cost around £240–£270 for the academic year, and the tram network is particularly useful for those living slightly further from campus.

Cycling is also popular in Nottingham, with designated bike lanes and city-wide rental schemes like Lime e-bikes.

Hull is a more compact city, which means many students can walk or cycle to campus without needing a travel pass. There are buses available, and a student pass is generally cheaper than in Nottingham – around £180–£200 per year.

What’s more, Hull is also part of the national rail network, with decent links to Leeds, York, and beyond.

Verdict: Hull is easier to navigate on foot or by bike, making day-to-day travel cheaper and simpler. Nottingham offers more public transport options, but they come at a higher cost.

The Bigger Picture: Overall Student Experience

Studying in Nottingham means enjoying a large student population, top-tier universities, and excellent links to other major cities like Birmingham and London. 

With more happening across the city, students often feel like they’re part of something bigger. The trade-off is a higher cost of living and more competition for accommodation.

Hull provides a tight-knit, friendly student community with lower costs across the board – from rent to socialising. It may not offer the same scale of events or nightlife as Nottingham, but it makes up for it with affordability and a growing cultural scene.

Verdict: Choose Nottingham if you’re looking for a big-city student experience with lots of buzz and events. Choose Hull if affordability, community feel, and simplicity are more your style.

Final Thoughts

Both Nottingham and Hull have plenty to offer, but they suit different types of students. 

If your budget is tight and you want good value for money, Hull offers excellent living standards without the financial strain. If you’re after a more fast-paced, dynamic experience with everything at your fingertips, Nottingham’s lively atmosphere and broad entertainment options may justify the extra cost.

Whichever city you choose, the key is to balance what matters most – be it cost, culture, nightlife, or campus access – and make sure it matches your own goals and lifestyle preferences.

The Best Hotspots for Students in the City of Hull

Whether you’ve just arrived in Hull for university or you’re heading into your final year, finding the best spots to unwind, hang out, and let loose is essential to making the most of your student life. 

While lectures and deadlines are part of the package, so too are unforgettable nights out, chilled afternoons with mates, and random bursts of adventure.

Hull might not always top the list of student cities in the United Kingdom, but don’t let that fool you – it’s packed with hidden gems and buzzing student hotspots that keep life exciting and affordable. 

From cheap nights out to offbeat activities, here’s your guide to the best places to explore as a student in Hull.

Nightlife Nirvana: Where to Let Loose

Piper Mondays – The Student Rite of Passage: If you’re a Hull student and haven’t been to Piper on a Monday night, are you even really a student? Piper Mondays are legendary – packed with partygoers, pulsing with music, and loaded with drink deals. Expect chart hits, cheesy classics, and a vibrant student crowd that makes Mondays the new Saturdays.

Welly Thursdays – Big Tunes and Bigger Energy: The Welly Club, a Hull institution, is the place to be on Thursday nights. With multiple rooms playing everything from indie anthems to house and hip hop, Welly is a multi-genre dance haven. Their themed nights and events are also a huge draw – don’t be surprised if you’re queuing in fancy dress before long!

Atik – For the Classic Clubbing Vibe: Located right in the heart of Hull’s nightlife scene, Atik is your go-to for a more polished clubbing experience. Think neon lights, commercial bangers, VIP booths and three rooms of music. Perfect for birthdays, society socials or those ‘go big or go home’ nights out.

Laid-Back Evenings and Chill Vibes

Roots – A Cool Hangout with Good Food: Roots is the kind of place that makes you want to linger. Think cosy interiors, quirky decor, and a menu packed with comfort food – burgers, nachos, loaded fries – you name it. It’s an ideal spot to wind down after lectures or fuel up before a night out.

Gardeners Arms – Beer Garden Glory: A solid favourite among Hull students, the Gardeners Arms is where classic pub charm meets buzzing student life. Affordable pints, pool tables, pub quizzes and a spacious beer garden make it the perfect hangout for chilled evenings or sunny days with your housemates.

Vox Box Karaoke – Sing It Loud: Sometimes, the best nights out don’t involve clubbing at all. Vox Box Karaoke gives you and your mates the chance to belt out your favourite bangers in private karaoke booths. Whether you’re unleashing your inner Adele or embarrassing yourself with some ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ it’s guaranteed fun.

Adventures Beyond the Bar

Escape Room Hull – Crack the Code: If you’re after something a bit different, Escape Room Hull offers a challenge and a laugh rolled into one. Gather your mates, pick a room theme (think crime, mystery, horror), and work together to solve puzzles and escape in under 60 minutes. Great for team bonding or just switching things up from your usual night out.

Lost City Adventure Golf – Jungle Vibes Indoors: Rainy day? No problem. Lost City Adventure Golf offers two immersive indoor mini-golf courses decked out with lush jungle scenery, tribal statues, and sound effects. It’s a light-hearted way to compete with friends and break up your week with something memorable.

Rebound Trampoline Park – Bounce Off the Stress: Let off steam (and maybe relive some childhood joy) at Rebound Trampoline Park. With giant trampoline zones, foam pits, dodgeball courts, and slam dunk lanes, it’s perfect for a spontaneous afternoon of fun. Plus, it’s a great workout in disguise.

Cool Down and Try Something New

Hull Ice Arena – Glide into Something Different: Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a total beginner, the Hull Ice Arena offers something a little different from your usual night or day out. Cheap student sessions and skate hire make it an accessible way to socialise while trying something fun and out of the ordinary.

Rock Up Hull – Conquer the Climbing Walls: Looking for something to get your heart pumping? Rock Up Hull is an indoor climbing centre with 26 walls of varying difficulty. It’s an epic way to challenge yourself, clear your head, and get a proper dose of adrenaline without leaving the city.

Hull Go-Karting – Race Your Mates: Unleash your inner Lewis Hamilton at Hull Karting. Located just outside the city centre, this high-speed haven is where you can race your mates around tight corners and hairpin bends. It’s perfect for competitive types, birthday events, or just a wild Saturday afternoon.

Why Hull is More Fun Than You’d Think

Hull might not have the same flashy reputation as Manchester or Leeds, but that’s part of the charm. 

It’s got all the student essentials – affordable nightlife, great activities, friendly locals, and an easy-to-navigate city layout that means you’re never too far from the next adventure. Plus, being slightly under-the-radar keeps the prices student-friendly and the queues manageable.

With so many options available, there’s genuinely something for everyone. Whether you’re the type to dance until dawn or you prefer mini-golf and mocktails, Hull offers a well-rounded student experience that’s full of life, laughter, and plenty of stories to tell.

Final Thoughts

Being a student isn’t just about textbooks and deadlines – it’s about discovering new places, trying new things, and making memories that last a lifetime. Hull delivers that in spades.

So next time you’re wondering what to do with your evening or weekend, give one of these hotspots a go. Whether you’re singing at Vox Box, cracking codes in an escape room, or dancing at Welly until your feet hurt, you’ll find your own rhythm in this city.

Student life in Hull? It’s more than alright – it’s actually brilliant.

Exploring the Best Neighbourhoods for Students in Hull

Finding the perfect neighbourhood to live in during your time at university is crucial for a positive student experience. Students want more than just a place close to their campus; they want a vibrant community, access to amenities, and exciting social opportunities. 

Hull, home to the University of Hull, offers an excellent blend of all these factors. With a low cost of living compared to other UK cities and a variety of student-friendly areas, Hull provides something for everyone. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the best neighbourhoods for students in Hull, focusing on key aspects such as proximity to campus, local amenities, social opportunities, and nightlife.

Newland Avenue: A Vibrant Hub for Students

Newland Avenue is perhaps the most popular neighbourhood for students in Hull. Its location, just a short walk from the University of Hull, makes it incredibly convenient for those who want to be close to campus while enjoying a lively atmosphere. 

The University is just a 10-15 minute walk away, so students living in this area can easily make it to classes on foot without needing public transport. This is especially beneficial for first-year students who are still getting to grips with university life and the city.

In terms of social life, Newland Avenue truly shines. It’s filled with cafes, bars, and independent shops that cater to the student population. Places like The Pave and Larkin’s Bar are popular hangouts where students can grab a drink or listen to live music. For those looking for a laid-back atmosphere with a chance to mingle, these venues offer the perfect opportunity. 

On top of the social spots, Newland Avenue is home to essential amenities like supermarkets and pharmacies. There’s a Sainsbury’s Local and Lidl nearby, making grocery shopping quick and easy, while the student market provides affordable options for furniture, books, and other necessities.

When it comes to nightlife, Newland Avenue offers a more relaxed environment compared to the bustling city centre. There are plenty of casual bars where students can unwind, making it perfect for those who prefer socialising in a more low-key setting. 

However, for bigger nights out, students often head to other parts of Hull for a more diverse nightlife experience.

The Avenues: Ideal for Postgraduates and Quieter Living

Just to the west of Newland Avenue is The Avenues, a residential area favoured by postgraduates and students looking for a quieter, more suburban feel. 

This neighbourhood is only about a 15-20 minute walk or short bike ride from the University, so it still offers convenient access to classes. Its tree-lined streets and residential vibe give it a more peaceful atmosphere compared to the bustling Newland Avenue.

While The Avenues itself is more laid-back, it’s still close to the lively Newland and Princes Avenues, both of which offer a wealth of cafes, restaurants, and independent shops. 

Pearson Park, located in The Avenues, is a key feature of this area. It provides an inviting green space where students can relax, study outdoors, or enjoy a picnic during the warmer months. The proximity to green space is a big draw for students who appreciate outdoor environments.

Though The Avenues may not be the centre of nightlife activity, students here have easy access to Princes Avenue, which offers a more refined dining and drinking experience. 

With its quieter atmosphere and access to the social amenities of neighbouring areas, The Avenues offers the best of both worlds for students looking for a mix of peaceful living and occasional social outings.

Cottingham: A Peaceful Suburb with Strong Student Presence

Cottingham, a little further from the city centre, is a favourite among students who prefer a quieter, more suburban lifestyle. This area, known for its peaceful environment, is around a 10-minute bus ride or 25-minute walk from the University of Hull. 

While it’s slightly farther from campus compared to Newland Avenue or The Avenues, many students appreciate the calm atmosphere and are willing to commute for it. The University even provides a free bus service from Cottingham to campus, making the commute even more convenient for students living in this area.

Cottingham has a strong student community, largely because it is home to some of the University of Hull’s student halls. The village centre provides all the essential amenities, with supermarkets like The Co-op and Aldi ensuring that students can easily get their shopping done. 

The area also has its fair share of cafes and local eateries, where students often gather for group study sessions or a coffee break between classes.

While Cottingham doesn’t boast a thriving nightlife, students living here are only a short bus ride away from the bars and clubs on Newland Avenue or in the city centre. For those who prefer a quieter night out, Cottingham offers a selection of local pubs such as The Fair Maid and The Duke of Cumberland, which provide a cosy and relaxed environment for socialising with friends.

City Centre: Urban Living with Easy Access to Everything

For students who love being in the heart of the action, Hull’s city centre offers an urban living experience like no other. 

While it is further from the University of Hull than other neighbourhoods, typically a 20-minute bus ride or 30-minute bike ride, the city centre is packed with amenities, cultural attractions, and a vibrant nightlife scene that appeals to students who want it all.

Living in the city centre means being surrounded by all the conveniences a student could ask for. From the Princes Quay Shopping Centre to the historic Old Town, the city centre offers plenty of places to eat, shop, and explore. 

Whether you want to catch a film at Vue Cinema or explore one of Hull’s many museums, such as the Ferens Art Gallery or Hull Maritime Museum, you’ll never be short of activities. Additionally, Hull’s excellent public transport system means students living in the city centre can easily commute to the University while having the city’s best amenities at their doorstep.

The city centre is also the epicentre of Hull’s nightlife. Students living here are within walking distance of some of the best bars, clubs, and music venues in the city, such as Spiders Nightclub, Welly Club, and The Sugar Mill. 

These venues host regular student nights and themed events, making it an exciting place to live for students who enjoy a lively social scene. After a night out, students don’t have to worry about catching the last bus home, as they can simply walk back to their city centre accommodation.

Beverley Road: Affordable Housing with Great Connections

For students looking for a more affordable option with great access to both the University and Hull’s social scene, Beverley Road is an excellent choice. Stretching from Hull’s northern suburbs to the city centre, this area offers a range of housing options at various price points, making it a flexible choice for students on a budget.

Living on Beverley Road means being just a short walk or bus ride away from the University of Hull. Its proximity to Newland Avenue and the city centre ensures that students have easy access to all the amenities and social opportunities those areas provide. 

What’s more, Beverley Road itself is home to a variety of shops, takeaways, and supermarkets, meaning students don’t have to venture far to get what they need.

While Beverley Road may not have its own dedicated nightlife scene, its location allows students to easily travel to the city centre for a night out or head to Newland Avenue for a more casual evening. This makes it a great option for students who want to be close to nightlife without living directly in the busiest areas.

Conclusion

Hull offers a wide variety of neighbourhoods to suit the diverse needs of its student population. From the bustling social hub of Newland Avenue to the quieter, more suburban feel of Cottingham, there’s something for everyone. 

Whether you prefer the convenience of living close to campus or the excitement of urban living in the city centre, Hull’s neighbourhoods each provide a unique student experience. 

By balancing factors like proximity to the University, access to local amenities, and social opportunities, students can find the perfect place to call home during their time at the University of Hull.