Once a simple city-centre pub, the Vulcan Lounge now boasts an artful decor mixed with comfortable leather sofas and reclaimed wood furnishings, creating a warm and welcoming student lounge. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but the beverage selection is just as appealing. From craft beers to homemade vodka infusions and signature cocktails, there’s something for every palate. And when hunger strikes, the Vulcan Lounge satisfies with an array of budget-friendly pub classics and lighter fare, with discounts available for black card holders
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THE BEST STUDENT PUBS IN CATHAYS
25th of March 2024
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Cathays, the vibrant student quarter of Cardiff, is a bustling neighbourhood that pulses with the energy of university life. Brimming with pubs, cosy cafes, and dynamic social spaces, Cathays embodies the spirit of student living. This guide is designed to introduce you to the heart of student socialising in Cathays – where every corner offers a new adventure, and every venue promises memories that will last long after your student days have passed.
THE TAF
The Taf is the perfect student pub, located conveniently on campus. It offers a vast array of events and specials that cater to every student’s needs. Whether you’re there for a leisurely lunch, a rousing game of interactive darts, or a raucous Friday night, The Taf’s welcoming atmosphere and wallet-friendly prices make it a mainstay of student life.
MISFITS SOCIAL CLUB
7 Miskin Street, Cardiff CF24 4AP
Start your week with a song in your heart at Misfits Social Club’s Karaoke Monday. It’s not just the music that’s uplifting – the drink deals are sure to put a smile on your face too. With house pints at just £2.90 and the chance to double up any £3 single spirit for a mere £1.50, your wallet will be as happy as you are. Free entry means you can bring along all your friends for a night of fun without breaking the bank.
THE WOODVILLE
1-5 Woodville Rd, Cardiff CF24 4DW
Fondly known as The Woody and situated in the heart of the Cathays community, it’s the perfect spot to relax after lectures. Enjoy a hearty burger or some traditional pub grub as you watch the world go by from the front terrace or find a secluded spot in the delightful beer garden out back. An essential stop for pub crawls and a comforting retreat post-Wednesday sport, The Woody has that home-away-from-home vibe that every student craves.
THE MACKINTOSH
The Mackintosh, affectionately known as ‘The Mack’, is a local favourite where quality pub grub meets student-friendly prices. With sports screenings, pool tables, and a jukebox, it’s a great place to hang out any day of the week. The beer garden, described as a sun trap, is perfect for those warm Welsh afternoons, making The Mack a top choice for relaxation and social gatherings.
THE VULCAN LOUNGE
2 Wyeverne Road, Cathays CF24 4BH
THE FLORA
2 Wyeverne Road, Cathays CF24 4BH
The Flora has quickly ascended to the top of Cardiff’s student social scene. Its recent transformation has crafted a space that’s both stylish and laid-back. The cocktails are city-centre quality, the food is innovative and delicious, and the beer selection is extensive. Students rave about The Flora, especially on Sundays when their roast becomes the talk of the town. Booking ahead is recommended, and once you’re there, the vibrant beer garden and exciting events calendar will ensure your return.
GASSY’S
39-41 Salisbury Rd, Cardiff CF24 4AB
Gassy’s is more than a pub – it’s a lively centre of student activity with themed nights throughout the week. From quizzes to live music, this venue knows how to entertain. And if you’re not in the mood for the scheduled event, you can always grab a controller and challenge friends to a game on the retro consoles or start a competitive match of beer pong.
THE CRWYS
Right on Crwys Road, in the bustling heart of Cathays, lies The Crwys. It’s a venue that effortlessly blends a welcoming ambience with great food and drinks. Its outdoor garden space is particularly impressive, offering an enclosed oasis that feels miles away from the city’s hustle and bustle. The Crwys is also known for its popular weekly quiz, which has become a staple for students and locals alike.
THE PEN & WIG
34, Crwys Road, Cardiff CF24 4NN
Just a brief walk from the heart of Cathays, The Pen and Wig is a sanctuary for those who appreciate the time-honored pub atmosphere. It’s a place where the beer is real, the food is satisfying, and the beer garden is an enchanting escape from the academic grind.
THE CLAUDE
140 Albany Rd, Cardiff CF24 3RW
Just a short stroll from Cathays you will find The Claude which is a blend of the classic and the contemporary. It’s a place where you can enjoy a moment of nostalgia by the fire or join the lively crowd in the sports bar which has 3 pool tables. The menu’s recent update offers a range of delicious options to suit every palate.
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Cathays is not just a collection of streets around a university – it’s a community, a lifestyle, and a diverse cultural tapestry. Each of these venues is a thread in the vibrant fabric of student life. They offer the comfort of a home away from home and the excitement of a night out with friends. These hotspots are the places you’ll remember long after you leave, the places that will always welcome you back. So step out, explore, and immerse yourself in the unique student culture that can only be found in the heart of Cathays.
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