Student Life 2013/14 January 2014 | Page 133

HIDDEN GEMS Newcastle is a city full of places to explore and discover. For modern art, the converted grain warehouse, Baltic, on the Gateshead Quays offers one of the biggest spaces in Europe for thoughtprovoking and inspiring exhibitions. The Centre for Life is a science-based attraction offering insight into science’s most mind boggling discoveries and helps to promote science. They often hold themed nights, with a memorable one on Halloween, called Frankenstein: Escape the Monster, which features free vodka shots and a special 4D motion ride. If comedy is more your thing and you’re looking for a different night out, The Stand comedy club in the city centre has regular shows with up-and-coming acts alongside more established names on the UK comedy circuit. Equally, Tyneside Cinema is a little off the beaten track; this particular hidden gem is a great form of entertainment if you want something a little different. Showing movie classics, experimental and foreign language films in art-deco surroundings, it offers a new kind of viewing experience. Newcastle is also only a 25-minute Metro ride from the nearest beaches, which are a great place to visit and home to some of the best fish and chips in England. Alternatively, Newcastle Castle Keep is the oldest structure in the city, dating back to at least the 11th century. So steeped in Newcastle’s history it often gets overlooked, but is a great landmark and an excellent way to spend the day www.accommodationforstudents.com 133 NEWCASTLE A great place to head for good student deals is the Gate. It houses a number of great restaurants to choose from, such as Nandos and Pizza Hut, which always offer student discounts. The Bistro is a handy place for food as it is located on-campus. I found, however, that it reminded me too much of school dinners as it has a very ‘canteen’ atmosphere. There are other areas on-campus to try, including the Students’ Union, which contains the newly-opened Mens bar. This offers good value, tasty food and, if that’s not enough, there is also a Subway and Dominos in the building. For something a lot cheaper and a little different, why not walk down to Grainger market where there are lots of little cafes and cheap places to eat you can also pick up your fresh fruit and veg while you’re there.