Getting to grips with bus timetables in a new city can be a rather complicated process, but don’t worry, we’ve put together a handy little guide that should help you figure it all out, so you’ll be able to get to and from campus like a pro.

Lancaster University Campus Buses

The good news is that Lancaster University benefits from one of the most frequent campus-to-city-centre timetables in the UK. So, if you find yourself on campus, desperately needing to get to Sainsbury’s to pick up some all-important supplies, you’ll be pleased to know that there are typically up to 14 buses per hour from Monday to Saturday during the day in term time. A less frequent service then runs daily until around midnight, with a limited, later night bus (N1) service during term time.​

Key Stops for Arrivals & Departures:

All the buses drop off and collect passengers from the Underpass, which you can find underneath Alexandra Square in the centre of campus, except for an hourly 40 or 41 bus that calls at the University gates only. Additionally, the 2 and 42, along with certain 4, 40 and 41 buses serve the southern perimeter road and South West campus. There are also stops directly outside the Sports Centre on the main drive, and all buses which serve the Underpass stop here, so you’ll be able to jump off here to attend that all-important yoga class.

Late and Night Buses:

After 7pm, services are less frequent but continue until around midnight most days. The N1 night bus provides an extra-late service during university terms, from the Underpass to the city centre (Lancaster Bus Station) with a single daily departure at 01:15, including Friday and Saturday nights.​

Getting to Campus from Town

With CityBlock conveniently found on Penny Street, as well as our new builds in the centre of the city, all you have to do is walk a short distance to George Street and head to stand E. There you’ll find the regular direct service of the number 1 bus which will drop you off at the University, just a 10-minute drive away.

Main Routes:

The bus station can be found on Damside Street, and most services also stop at Common Garden Street. As well as the 1 bus which provides a service every 10 minutes, the 1A, 4, 4X, 40, 41, 42 and 100 also serve the University.

University of Cumbria Students:

If you’re a student at the University of Cumbria, the Lancaster campus is only a 5-minute walk from your CityBlock accommodation.

Free Sainsbury’s Student Bus

For students wanting to do their weekly shop, Sainsbury’s offers a free bus service every Wednesday during term time. To use the bus, you simply need to spend a minimum of £5 in Sainsbury’s.

• Departures from Lancaster University Underpass from 11:00 then every 55 mins past the hour until 13:55 then resume again from 17:23 and 18:23. The bus also collects passengers at Bowerham Hotel, about 10 minutes later.
• Departures from Sainsbury’s start at 11:25 then every 25 mins past the hour until 14:25 then resumes for 17:00, 18:00, and 19:00. The return service drops at Bowerham Hotel, 13 minutes after leaving Sainsbury’s.​

Seats can fill up quickly, especially around midday, so it’s a good idea to be at the stop early and keep your Sainsbury’s receipt handy for the return journey.

UniRider and UniRider Gold

While you’re a student, it’s definitely worth looking into the Lancaster UniRider, which gives unlimited travel on all Stagecoach services in Lancaster and surrounding areas. For those living outside the Lancaster UniRider zone or wanting to explore further, such as Preston, or The Lake District, the UniRider Gold pass covers a much wider area. Both passes can be bought online with student ID, and offer annual, termly, and flexible options for regular travel.​

National Buses

Want to get out of Lancaster for the day? Megabus and National Express services run from both the campus underpass and Lancaster bus station, serving most of the UK, with booking recommended in advance for best fares and seat choice. Megabus tickets now also give access to National Express routes for wider travel options.

UK Bus Tips

Lancaster’s buses include a variety of single and double-decker vehicles, providing flexible capacity depending on the route and time of day. Many of the buses are equipped with USB charging points for phones and other devices, making it easier for students to stay connected and powered up on the go.

Just remember to:

• Always check the bus number and destination on the front before boarding.
• Wave as the bus approaches to let the driver know you want to get on.
• Queue up behind the people in front of you waiting for the bus and allow people exit the bus before getting on.
• Have payment ready before boarding. Payment is made when boarding; most services accept contactless cards or cash. Mobile ticketing is widely used.
• If you need help, ask the driver, they’re generally happy to help.
• Timetables may change for holidays or university term time, so double check before important journeys, especially evening or late-night buses.

Keeping Up to Date

Bus timetables and routes may change throughout the year, especially at the start of university terms or during holidays. Always check for the latest schedule using:

• Stagecoach Bus app (live tracking, mobile tickets, service alerts)
• Official Lancaster bus users website
• Lancashire County Council timetables and service updates
• Bustimes.org for real-time departure information

If you have any questions, contact us at CityBlock where our team is happy to help!

 If it’s your first time away from home then venturing out into an unknown city for the first time can be quite daunting, and you might not know the best bars or pubs to go to, or even where they are. However, Lancaster University’s campus is well-known for its lively nightlife, and it’s just a 15 minute bus ride to the university from our CityBlock apartments, with a regular bus service running to and from the city centre to the campus. 

Pubs & Bars 

The campus has a multitude of venues that provide a vibrant and lively student atmosphere in a home from home environment, catering specially for the student lifestyle. 

Here at CityBlock we’ve put together the ultimate guide to Lancaster University’s pubs and bars to ensure that you can get the best on-campus experience when going out. 

The Northern Oak: County College 

This bar offers a wonderful contemporary atmosphere. During the day, it’s a popular chill out bar where students come to drink coffee or eat snacks from a wide range of different light bites on offer, but during the evening, it offers a livelier atmosphere. With regular live music performances every alternate Wednesday and fortnightly stand-up from the County Comedy Club, this bar is a great place to go with your mates. This bar is very popular with societies, and is known for its lively fun and friendly atmosphere. 

Trevor Bar: Furness College 

Trevor bar has been open for more than 40 years! This bar hosts a number of exciting events throughout the year, including its very own real ale festival in December. In addition, it’s the home of many other college socials including international theme nights and Jam-in-Furness, the bar’s jazz night. Trevor is a vibrant and lively bar and it’s one of the traditional starting points for the vast majority of college socials.  Trevor was recently re-launched, and now has a great selection of quality wines, along with all of its usual favourites.  It also has a range of locally brewed ales from Lancaster University’s on-campus brewery. 

The Mill: Fylde College 

For a sports bar with a difference, you should definitely pay The Mill a visit. With its recently re-launched food menu, The Mill boasts that it’s currently the only place in Lancaster where you can buy a crocodile, kangaroo or even a llama burger! They also serve food until 9:30pm, seven days a week, and have an excellent menu with a wide variety of different foods such as burrito wraps, pizzas and burgers. If you’re looking for great place to watch sports with your mates, then this is the place for you. All major fixtures are shown throughout the bar on HDTVs, as well as their big screen. There’s also the One Big Kitchen event, which is a big party held every Saturday with great drinks deals and a fantastic environment. 

Grizedale Cafe Bar: Grizedale College 

Located at Lancaster University’s South Spine, the Grizedale Café Bar is one of the main hubs when it comes to starting off on a night out around Lancaster University’s campus, and also when it comes to eating great food. This bar has a wonderful contemporary atmosphere, along with a wonderful menu of top quality food including delicious pizzas, hot wraps and scrumptious doughnuts. This is also the place to go on campus for classy cocktails. From Strawberry Daiquiris to Long Island Iced Teas, it’s a great place to come and chill whilst visiting Lancaster University’s many other great campus bars. 

Barkers: Cartmel College 

Tucked away in Cartmel College on the South West Campus, Barkers is one of those places that feels instantly familiar. It’s the kind of bar where you can settle in for a chilled pint, catch the match with mates, or just grab something decent to eat between lectures. The menu’s full of proper pub favourites, think burgers, loaded fries, and a Sunday roast that’s got a bit of a reputation across campus. 

It’s also a solid spot for events, with a lively atmosphere when things kick off, but still laid-back enough for a quiet coffee during the day. Speaking of which, they serve Starbucks, so whether you’re after a flat white or something sweet and frothy, you’re sorted. Barkers isn’t flashy, but that’s part of the charm, it’s reliable, friendly, and always a good shout when you’re on the South West side of campus. 

Restaurants 

It’s not all about the bars, campus also has some great spots for food and coffee. Whether you’re after something fresh and healthy, a proper meal, or just a good brew, there are a few places that stand out. 

HIVE 

HIVE sits on the first floor of Health Innovation One and brings a fresh, relaxed vibe to the campus. It’s known for its healthy, feel-good menu, with vegan and low-sugar options that actually taste good. You’ll find locally sourced Atkinson’s coffee, fresh meals, and a few sweet treats too. Whether you’re grabbing lunch or meeting up for a chat, it’s a bright, open space that makes it easy to hang out or get stuff done. 

The Marketplace 

Up on North Campus in County South, The Marketplace is a solid choice for a proper hot meal. The menu changes daily, always offering two meat options and something veggie, plus hot sides and a fresh salad bar. It’s a good shout if you’re after something filling and balanced, and they serve Costa coffee too, made fresh at the bar. 

The Deli 

Right off Alexandra Square, The Deli is a cosy spot with a brunch menu that covers everything from pancakes and mac n’ cheese to fresh salads and flatbreads. They serve Atkinson’s coffee and specialty teas, making it a great place to grab something warm and tasty in the middle of the day. 

Still Stay in The Loop 

Whether you’re still looking to secure student accommodation in Lancaster, or you’ve already booked your room, you can be assured that you’ll have a great night out if you visit Lancaster University’s campus. Unlike many of the bars in the city, the campus bars won’t burn a hole in your pocket, as they’re run by students for students. 

Make sure you keep up to date with all the latest CityBlock news and events by checking out our Facebook and X (Formally Twitter) pages! 

We’re taking a closer look at what makes Lancaster an ideal destination for students. Lancaster’s size is one of its greatest strengths for students. Unlike larger cities like Manchester, Lancaster offers a quieter, more focused environment where academic success can flourish without overwhelming distractions. Whether you’re a prospective student or already studying here, this guide will help you discover why Lancaster stands out as a premier student city.

Major Connections

Lancaster is situated on the West Coast Main Line, offering excellent rail connections to major cities across the UK. You can reach London in just 2.5 hours by direct train or head to Manchester in just over an hour—perfect for weekend trips or visits home during term breaks. Scotland is also easily accessible via train routes from Lancaster station. For international students, Manchester Airport is only about an hour away by direct train service, making global travel convenient despite Lancaster’s smaller size.

Lancaster Canal

The Lancaster Canal runs through the city centre and connects several towns and villages. Built in the 18th century, it was originally designed to transport coal from southern Lancashire to Preston and the northern farmlands. Today, the canal features charming canal boats and offers a scenic walking route from Garstang through meadows and dairy farms to Galgate. It crosses the River Lune on an impressive aqueduct before reaching Hest Bank and continues to Carnforth, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Lake District. The canal provides a gentle walking experience with beautiful wildlife and picturesque scenery.

The Coffee

Lancaster is home to a strong coffee culture vibe thanks to all its independent coffee houses dotted about the city, including the famous Atkinson & Co. coffee roasters. Established in 1837, the wonderful aroma of coffee from Atkinsons can be found floating down China Street. They supply coffee beans to many of the coffee houses in Lancaster and have two of their own cafes, The Hall and The Music Room, which are popular venues for students. You can also purchase a vast array of coffee beans and other coffee accessories (as well as some teas and hot chocolates) from the shop itself to enjoy at home.

Pubs and Bars

The city is full of independent pubs and bars, making for a vibrant nightlife. The Three Mariners, the oldest pub in Lancaster, dates back to the 15th century and sits inside a Grade II listed building. Or, for a more up-to-date experience, you can head to Tipple on King Street for a delicious cocktail. When it comes to a night out, there are so many places to choose from.

Arts and Culture

Lancaster boasts a vibrant arts scene with various cultural activities for students, including music and literature festivals. The Dukes, an independent theatre and cinema, features theatrical performances and independent films. Students can also enjoy two popular board game cafes, Board and Sword as well as Tabletop Republic, which are great for relaxing with friends after lectures. For those interested in pool or snooker, several halls in the city such as Squires offer competitive fun. Don’t miss term-time events like university traditions or local festivals such as Light Up Lancaster and Christmas markets in Dalton Square, providing memorable experiences with friends while exploring the city.

Cycleways

Lancaster is home to 50 miles of cycleways in and around the city, making for a fantastic place for people who love to get out and about. The Lancaster University campus has a cycle path that goes directly to the city centre, making getting from campus to town a breeze. The Lancaster to Morecambe promenade is just three miles away, or you can follow the River Lune from Glasson Dock to the Forest of Bowland.

Lancaster Market

If you want to experience authentic Lancashire produce like cheeses or potted shrimp from Morecambe Bay, look out for the weekly traditional market every Wednesday and Saturday in the centre of Lancaster. Here, you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables, homemade cakes, craft supplies, books, and flowers, or indulge in some street food from one of the many vendors.

Why Choose Lancaster?

Lancaster offers a unique blend of academic excellence, affordability, and community that makes it an ideal choice for students. Whether you’re looking for a focused academic environment, exciting recreational activities, or vibrant city life, Lancaster has something for everyone. With its excellent rail connections and proximity to natural beauty spots, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—academic success and personal fulfilment.

Ready to make your move? Explore our student accommodation in Lancaster today and discover why CityBlock is the perfect choice for students looking to thrive in this special student city!

It’s finally Christmas time! The decorations are everywhere, the festive music is blasting from every radio, and the shops are filled with plenty of Christmas treats. It’s impossible to walk through Lancaster in the evening and not get into the festive spirit.

At CityBlock, we’re thrilled to call Lancaster our home all year round (as are our many residents), but during this time of year, the city has a special air of magical charm. With events, markets, and festivities around every corner, it gives us the opportunity to share the joy of Christmas, integrate, and celebrate together.

We want students to have the best experiences when staying with CityBlock, especially those who aren’t travelling home during the festive period. That’s why, in today’s article, we’ll show you a fun way to spend this magical time in Lancaster.

Exploring Lancaster’s Christmas Market

We’ll start with one of the classics – a Christmas market, because who doesn’t love them?

This year, our residents who have re-booked their student accommodation in Lancaster will be pleased to know the award-winning Christmas markets return to Dalton Square for the 2023 season. Known for its outstanding stalls and Giant Tipi Bar, it’s a must-visit for students looking to embrace the festive season in all its glory. A main highlight is the internationally acclaimed ‘Lancaster on Ice,’ featuring a sprawling 800m real ice rink for those with steady balance! This unmissable wintertime event also includes a giant Ferris Wheel, giving breathtaking views of your home away from home.

Festive Indoor Celebrations in Lancaster

If you’re not up for braving the cold, there are also plenty of events to attend that don’t require you to stay outside in the Lancastrian weather! Let’s look closer at some of the events taking place indoors this December.

The Mayor’s Christmas Carols Concert

Taking place at Lancaster Town Hall, the Mayor’s Christmas Carol Concert will let you feel the magic of Christmas carols, all while supporting a fantastic local cause: St John’s Hospice. With an entry fee of  £10, you get to enjoy a beautiful concert while donating to a charity that deserves every penny.

Christmas Plays

If you’re a fan of the theatre, it’s worth checking out this season’s plays at Lancaster Grand Theatre. From Sleeping Beauty (a classic panto) to Rapunzel (an adults-only panto!), you can expect to find something to watch this Christmas. But be quick; some of the shows are already sold out, so make sure to book it in advance!

A Christmas Carol Musical

A Christmas Carol is a must-see, classic Christmas story that takes place in Victorian England, so what better setting to watch it than the historic city of Lancaster? You’ll have a chance to see the performance until the end of December at The Dukes Theatre. What’s more? This is only a few minutes’ walk from our central student flats in Lancaster, meaning if you wrap up warm, you can make it before the show starts in no time.

Christmas Shopping Made Easy

When it comes to shopping, Christmas is always the busiest time of the year as everyone’s rushing to get all the presents ready before the 25th. Being a student, we understand it can be difficult to manage your time, especially if you have assignments throughout the month. So, if you’re thinking “How do I manage shopping and the exams month?” we’ve got some good news for you!

During the festive season, one of the most popular places for shopping in Lancaster, Marketgate Shopping Centre, has extended opening hours. Even though it normally closes at 5:30pm, on selected days before Christmas, it’s open until 9pm. And, for those last-minute buys, it opens from 10:30am – 4:30pm on Christmas Eve, meaning that all the busy bees will be able to do the necessary shopping before the big day.

Creating a Warm Christmas Atmosphere in Your CityBlock Accommodation

If, for the Christmas season, you’re staying in our Lancaster student apartments, it’s important to make the best of your situation and get into the festive spirit! So here, we’ll show you how to make your accommodation cosy and magical with some budget-friendly ideas for decorating your space.

Christmas Lights

Use classic Christmas lights to decorate your flat, both in communal areas and in your room. You can use it to create a ‘starry sky’ effect by placing the lights on the ceiling or hang them on the curtains to brighten up the window. Whatever you choose to do, once hung, you have the perfect backdrop for your Christmas selfies!

Personalised Decorations

Why not get crafty with your flatmates? Organise an evening where you get together and create DIY ornaments. Pop on a Christmas film or your favourite festive playlist and have fun with it. It’s a great opportunity to bond with your friends, and in the end, you have beautiful handmade decorations to use. Top tip: to make it more sustainable, you can make it out of the things that you already have in the flat.

Greenery

Christmas trees, wreaths, and garlands can transform your space into a cosy sanctuary, giving it a sense of homeliness during the holiday season. These additions not only serve as reminders of joyous festivities, but the addition of greenery and plants provides a therapeutic environment that supports mental health and overall well-being.

CityBlock: Your Home Base for Christmas in Lancaster

We know there’s no place like home during Christmas time, but as CityBlock is your home away from home, we still want to provide the best experiences for those who are staying with us. Don’t forget, if you’re struggling during this time of the year (or any other time), remember that we’re always here to help you out!

Please don’t hesitate to reach out, and we’ll support you the best we can. Merry Christmas from team CityBlock!

Practice Your Culinary Abilities

Starting University and moving into student accommodation in Lancaster could be the first time many students will be responsible for their own cooking. Often it can feel overwhelming and easier to stock up on microwave meals. While these are always useful, they do not provide the substance or the nutrition to maintain a well-balanced diet. Knowing how to cook some basic meals will help keep the takeaway bills under control and ensure you feed your body with the vitamins and nutrients you need for stamina and concentration to keep up with your studies. Speak to family members or check out some great recipes online to help get inspired. Even if you are a returning student to University, it is never too late to experiment and come up with some fresh new ideas.

Practice Budgeting and Get a Summer Job

Becoming independent will mean learning how to budget your income and outgoings. Getting into the habit of doing this before coming to University will feel much less complicated than once you arrive. Sit down with the bill payers at home; they may suggest some helpful tips and tricks they have come across along their many years of experience. If you have no income at the time, budget ahead of starting term to get you into the swing of things. A seasonal part-time job can also help you understand budgeting and is an excellent way to earn extra income to enjoy the rest of your summer. It also looks great on a CV later in life.

You may have already been budgeting, but it is never too late to nip and tuck those skills by re-assessing and even looking where you can afford to cut back. Being experienced in those welcome-to-Uni events from last year, we don’t need to tell you that it always helps to set aside some extra money.

Get ahead of your studying

You may not have received your complete list of supplies for classes yet. However, it never hurts to get one step ahead of the game once you do. Spend some time going through the material to familiarise yourself with what you will be learning that year.

Even if this isn’t your first year, and you are already familiar with what you are learning, taking some time to go through all of the texts will ensure that doing your assignments isn’t the first time you see the texts.

Get to know the local area

Moving to a new area can be very exciting. New surroundings, new experiences and new people. Getting familiar with the local area can be a great asset to starting your new term in September. Find somewhere you can study if the weather is nice and you would prefer to be outside, or experience the unique dining establishments within Lancaster to find one that has a dish you particularly enjoy for that post-study session pick-me-up. Already familiar with the area? There is bound to be somewhere you have not yet explored. Take a look at local guides online to help find new ventures for those free days to relax and take a well-deserved break from coursework and assignments.

Start Packing and Organising

Getting started with your packing can never be done too early! Starting early can help spread the costs and ensure you get everything you need for the big move day. Even if you are just picking up a few toiletries or packing the winter coats, you won’t need them for Summer. Every little job you do now can ease the stress of last-minute shopping and struggling to find the exact items you may need.

Spend Time With Friends and Family

It could be a few weeks before you may see your family once you have started University. Your friends from home may be off on their own adventures come September. Make sure you spend some quality time with them whilst you can, because once classes start, you may not have time for that weekly facetime you promise to stick to.

Mentally Prepare

Starting University or returning can be a significant change for you. Whilst being an A-Level student can feel independent, nothing quite prepares you for moving away from home for the first time. Getting yourself mentally prepared for University can help the transition of becoming a free adult. A-level work is very different to the tasks you may do at University, so you may need to re-address your study techniques to suit. Prepare in advance by looking online for similar work you may be studying online. There are also many blogs from students to pass on their first-hand experience of being a student. Have a browse during your spare time to find one you can relate to.

Returning to University can also feel a bit worrying. Maybe you struggled with your assignments last year, or perhaps you studied too hard and missed out on the many exciting social events provided on campus or throughout the town. Take some time to think back to the previous year and figure out where you possibly struggled, and think about how you can make that easier for the upcoming term.

Suppose you are looking in advance for your housing needs. Whether you are starting University for the first time or returning for a consecutive year, early preparation can help alleviate the stress and make the first term the best one yet. We can offer student accommodation in Lancaster, so contact us today to see if we can tick one job off the list for starting in September.

Lancaster is full of incredible places to eat, and many of them offer student discounts and special offers. Some of them you probably know about already, but there are plenty of delicious hidden gems tucked away that you should try.

So, here’s a guide to restaurants close to our student housing in Lancaster that you should definitely book for your next meal out:

Bella Italia

A classic staple of the high street. Bella Italia can be found on Church Street, just down from the McDonald’s. Featuring delicious pasta and pizza dishes, Bella Italia runs regular offers at its Lancaster branch. You can find out about their current offers on their website, currently they are offering £5 pasta or pizza dishes on Tuesdays, two-for-one cocktails on Thursdays and £6.99 lunches.

If you’re looking for great Italian food at a stellar price, Bella Italia is the way to go. Additionally, with your exclusive CityBlock Discount card, you can get an amazing 25% of your food bill. So go ahead and order that extra side of onion rings.

Spaghetti House

If you just can’t get enough of pasta, Spaghetti House is guaranteed to have something to tantalise your taste buds. This restaurant is somewhat tucked away on Mary Street, but you should definitely check it out if you have a love for all things pasta based.

They run a delightful happy hour every day, where a large range of dishes are just £4.95! And if your buddy or partner isn’t a huge fan of pasta (and if that’s the case why do you hang out with them??) Spaghetti House also offers a range of non-pasta-based dishes, too.

Blue Moon Restaurant

For all your Thai cuisine needs, Blue Moon Restaurant offers a refreshing modern Thai restaurant that specialises in high-quality dishes prepared by professional Thai chefs.

This popular restaurant can be found on Rosemary Lane, opposite the Flames takeaway. The menu features delicious vegetarian and vegan options and delectable tapas options served at lunchtime. If you want to try something different and experience truly authentic Thai food, head down to the Blue Moon Restaurant.

Kaspa’s Desserts

For anyone with a sweet tooth, a trip to Kaspa’s is essential.

This tantalising dessert restaurant features mouth-watering sugary treats like waffles, cakes, crepes, sundaes and cookie doughs. You can top your dessert with virtually any combination of chocolates, sauces, fruit and creams and wash it all down with a scrumptious ice-cream-based milkshake.

The best part? Kaspa’s Desserts is right next to CityBlock on Penny Street! If you’re a Penny Street resident, you only need to hop right next door to enjoy a delectable after-dinner treat (or a dinner treat, we’re not judging). Better still, your CityBlock Discount card will get you a 10% discount on your order!

Kashish

For those who love a good curry, you can’t pass up a chance to dine out at Kashish. This Indian restaurant can be found on Parliament Street, down the road from the big Sainsburys. Here, you can indulge in incredible curry dishes, including all the classics like Korma, Rogan Josh, Masala and Bhuna, picking from a wide range of meats, fish or vegetarian options.

What’s better still, Kashish has a fantastic early bird offer, only £9.95 for three courses! And, as they are unlicensed, they have a bring your own drinks policy. Patrons are welcome to bring their own alcoholic drinks into the restaurant to enjoy with their meal, so you can enjoy a great curry whilst enjoying your favourite drink brought from home.

German Doner Kebab

A new edition to the Lancaster line-up of great eateries, the German Doner Kebab can be found next door to Kaspa’s on Penny Street.

Here you can indulge in an array of scrumptious kebabs, including the original doner kebab, or try something new with the likes of doner wraps, doner burgers, doner quesadillas, doner boxes with fries and even a doner box with fries and salad. Take your late-night takeaway kebab to the next level with a gourmet food experience from German Doner Kebab. And don’t forget to show your CityBlock Discount card for 10% off all orders!

The Study Room

The clue is in the name, The Study Room is the perfect place for students to kick back, relax and enjoy a great meal. You can find it on Church Street, right next to Bella Italia.

The Study Room is great for reinventing classic dishes, from home-made burgers, beef hotdogs, pimped up fries, quesadillas and salad bowls, you’ll be completely spoilt for choice. With two-for-one cocktails and great food deals updated regularly, The Study Room is the go-to place for students.

Koko

Koko is a fast, casual eatery that offers healthy, simple, delicious, exotic food that’s full of punch, crunch and fresh flavours. This Asian fusion restaurant can be found on Common Garden Street, opposite M&S.

With a build your own pokè menu, a selection of delicious bento dishes, donburis and Japanese curries, Koko is perfect for those wanting to sample a new kind of cuisine from across the world. Even better still, from Monday-Thursday you can get yourself 10% off with your CityBlock Discount card.

Molly’s

Lancaster really loves its great Italian restaurants, and Molly’s is no exception. This delightful gem can be found on Church Street, beside the St John’s Hospice Charity shop.

Molly’s specialise in delectable pizza, calzone and pasta dishes, but their true staple is their incredible deals and prices. They have a fantastic happy hour on food, during which many of the dishes are as little as £4.95!

Molly’s also run great offers throughout the year, you can find details on their website. Currently, they offer a free glass of prosecco for every lady on Tuesdays, a champagne cocktail on the house for birthday celebrations and free desserts every Monday.

Golden Jade

We couldn’t have an ultimate restaurant guide without including a Chinese. The Golden Jade sits on King Street and offers an incredible all you can eat buffet for £15. It includes all your favourite Chinese dishes including dim sum, chop suey, fried rice dishes and chow mein. The restaurant itself is quite small so you’d be wise to book a table to avoid disappointment, otherwise they also offer a takeaway service.

The Borough

The Borough is a delightful pub that can be found on Dalton Square. They source their food from local farms in the surrounding hills and valleys and specialise in everything from pub classics to superb specials and desserts. They are an award-winning gastro pub with their own micro-brewery, offering a range of beers on draught.

The Borough menu is ever changing, so you’re guaranteed a new experience with every visit. With a CityBlock Discount card, you can get 10% off your food bill, or two-for-one on all main meals from 2pm to 5pm Sunday-Thursday.

There we have it! An ultimate guide featuring the fabulous restaurants you can find in the city of Lancaster. You’ll be so full from enjoying all these great eateries, you’ll be glad your student accommodation in Lancaster is close by for you to go home and collapse into bed! Make sure you leave enough time in your studies to work your way around all these incredible restaurants, you won’t regret it.

And don’t forget to browse through the CityBlock Discounts page to check out all the amazing places you can get exclusive discounts!

So, where are best places in Lancaster for all of your Pokémon needs? The best way to discover this is to get out there and explore for yourself, but there are plenty of points of interest around this historic town to get you started! (Especially if you want to catch more than just a legion of Rattata…)

Lune Millennium Bridge

This iconic cable footbridge linking the two halves of Lancaster is a monument to the millennium built in 2000. The design of the bridge, with the distinctive ‘Y’ mast shape, is designed specifically to be reminiscent of the mast ships which once populated the water of Lune in droves at the height of the city’s port life. It is an important part of the National Cycle Network and won an award for excellence in 2005 as part of this cycling experience.

As it is on top of the water, this bridge is a hotbed for many water type Pokémon. But, it is also a PokéGym! That’s right, many commuters have been left puzzled by the droves of people standing still on the bridge, intently staring at their phones in order to win the location for their team (whatever colour you may have an infinity for). This is also a great location to hunt down a Squirtle, one of the beloved starter Pokémon, as they have been known to frequent the area. If you get peckish, they are also said to loiter around the local Sainsbury’s just a few short steps down the path!

Ashton Memorial

The Ashton Memorial is a high point in the landscape of Lancaster, one that can be seen from many points in the city as it stands at an impressive 150 feet tall. It is a favourite of locals rain or shine. Construction was finished on the building in 1909, and since then it has been the location of many events in Lancaster and a favourite of happy couples for their wedding. Designed by John Belcher in the Baroque style, and sometimes described as the “Taj Mahal of the North”, it was built by Lord Ashton in the memory of his beloved wife. This may be a reason for the added romanticism that surrounds the site.

Another PokéGym, this makes for one of the more scenic places to hunt for Pokémon in the entirety of Lancaster. On the warm summer nights and bright afternoons leading into autumn, it makes for a gorgeous walk that will enable you to gaze out as far as Morecambe Bay as you hatch your eggs. A Diglett or two, winning a few battles and taking over the gym will also be a great reward for an afternoon of walking fun.

Dalton Square

One of the central points in Lancaster, Dalton Square is the location of the Town Hall and the home of Queen Victoria (in statue form). The statue is a Grade II listed building, despite being a statue, that was erected in 1906 in commemoration of the recently passed monarch. It has links to the Ashton Memorial, as Herbert Hampton designed both it and the exterior of the memorial – he was a prolific sculptor of the period. It is a must-see point in Lancaster, and it’s also conveniently located next to some of the best restaurants in the city. So, enjoy the sights as you have a meal at The Borough to get the most out of your experience!

If you are honing your Trainer skills in this area, you will be sure to find more than your fair share of Drowzees. The tired Pokémon are particularly prolific in the square. Fear not, however, as you shall never run out of Pokémon balls as Dalton Square boasts a couple of handy Pokéstops! You can always be sure to stock up on your necessities in the centre of town. Better yet, it is conveniently a short walk away from our Penny Street accommodation! It’s a quick hop and a skip from your bed to a bed of fantastic Pokémon, truly the best of both worlds.

Are you excited to explore this magnificent city as you catch them all? Then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us here at CityBlock to book your very own room at our Lancaster accommodation. Call us on 01524 541251 to secure your room today!

History

Lancaster Castle is thought to have been built on the site of a Roman fort that overlooked the river Lune, and part of it was damaged during the Scottish invasion. It was only used for military purposes again during the English Civil War.

The castle is famously known for its connection to the Pendle Witches, as ten people were convicted for witchcraft here in 1612 and sentenced to the gallows. It also served as a debtor’s prison, and then moved on to take on more long-lasting prisoners, which eventually led to overcrowding. Nowadays, when you visit the castle, you have the chance to tour inside the more modern prison, where until recently many criminals were held, or explore the much older dungeon, where the witches were kept – you can even get locked up inside one cell to try it out but, don’t worry, it’s only for a few minutes!

Lancaster Castle is currently owned by the Duke of Lancaster, Queen Elizabeth II.

Features

Not only is there always something going on at the castle, like music festivals and tours where you learn the individual stories of the Pendle witches, but you can also visit the museum, the adjacent Priory and even get married in the beautiful Shire Hall. There is also a wide range of weapons on display in the castle, each with its own history and belonging to a different time period.

You’ll be able to see a one-of-a-kind showcase, an incredible display of heraldry spanning 800 years, in the form of 650 shields that bear the arms of every English monarch, from Richard the Lionheart until the Queen – the shields of the Constables of Lancaster Castle and the High Sheriffs of Lancashire are also there.

It’s in Lancaster Castle that you’ll find one of the most stunning collections of Gillow furniture in the world, a special chair made for the visit of Queen Victoria – and, to commemorate the 400^th anniversary of the witch trials, a long-distance walking route called the Lancashire Witches Walk was created, with the last marker at the castle to mark the endpoint.

Lancaster is a beautiful city with a lot of history and the castle is no exception. You’ll have the opportunity to visit a rich historic location so, if you want to enjoy everything this stunning building has to offer, pay it a visit and see for yourself! Contact us today on +44 (0) 1524 541251 if you’re interested in the accommodation options we have to offer, and our team will be on hand to answer all of your questions.

Nightlife

The Apothecary Bar & Lounge offers a wide range of desserts and wines, ales, beers, spirits, and their signature Molecular Cocktail menu. You can enjoy a delightful afternoon tea Friday through Sunday, or take advantage of the full bar during the week.

Lancaster University Students’ Union (LUSU) runs the popular nightclub Sugarhouse. Established in 1982, it sports discounts for Purple Card holders. The free Sugar Buses ensure that students have a cheap way of getting to and from Lancaster University.

Culture

Every year since 1965, Lancaster University and the University of York have held a sporting competition between them: the Roses Tournament. It’s the largest inter-university sports tournament in Europe and organised by the respective students’ unions, LUSU and YUSU. It’s named after the 15^th Century civil war, The War of the Roses, which occurred between the House of Lancaster and the House of York.

Williamson Park was built by James Williamson, 1^st Baron Ashton. Presently, it covers an area of 53.6 acres, or 217,000 m². It contains the Ashton Memorial, a Butterfly House, a children’s play area, a café, and a sundial. During the summer, the local Duke’s Playhouse performs promenade plays, using the natural, beautiful scenery as a background.

Architecture

Built between 1907 and 1909, the Ashton Memorial cost over £80,000 to build, which is the equivalent to £7.5 million at 2015 rates. The Baroque and Edwardian styles were designed by John Belcher, and the Ashton Memorial has been described as “England’s grandest folly” and the “Taj Mahal of the North”. The exterior of the dome is made of copper, and the main stone used is Portland stone. The steps are made from hard wearing granite from Cornwall.

The Queen Victoria Memorial is located in the centre of Dalton Square and it faces Lancaster Town Hall. It was commissioned and paid for by James Williamson, 1^st Baron Ashton and erected in 1906. Prolific stone carver and sculptor Herbert Hampton designed the monument with Portland Stone and bronze sculpture. Queen Victoria’s statue stands on a pedestal facing south.

Formally known as the Priory Church of St Mary, the Lancaster Priory dates from the 11^th Century and it’s located near Lancaster Castle. It’s built in sandstone with roofs of slate and lead. The stunning carved choir stalls are the third oldest in England; they are made of oak and dated back to the 14^th Century. The Priory holds the usual Anglican services and civic ceremonies in modern times.

If you fell in love with what Lancaster has to offer, here at CityBlock we have stunning student accommodation in Lancaster. You can get in touch with us by giving us a call on +44 (0)1524 541251. Our friendly team is always happy to help!

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Lancaster Castle

Website: http://www.lancastercastle.com/

How many students can claim that they live in a city with a castle? Not many! This is one of the reasons why Lancaster is such a special city. The castle is a fantastic educational experience; it even used to be used as a prison and there are many exciting events that take place at the castle throughout the year; from theatre to concerts and firework displays!

Price: Adult £8.00, Concessions £6.50

Lancaster Priory

Website: http://lancasterpriory.org/

The priory is one of Lancaster’s oldest buildings and is architecturally beautifully – if you’re studying History, Fine Art or English, we really do recommend a visit as it can be very inspiring! Plus, they hold Christmas carol concerts which are the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit! It’s free so you can explore this beautiful building without worrying about the cost.

Price: Free

Lancaster Maritime Museum

Website: http://new.lancashire.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/museums/lancaster-maritime-museum.aspx

A lot of Morecambe and Lancaster’s history stems from the sea, so of course, the Lancaster Maritime Museum is an excellent visit if you would like to find out more about the history and heritage of the city and the surrounding areas.

Price:  Adults £3.00, Concessions £2.00

Butterfly House & Williamson Park

Website: http://www.lancaster.gov.uk/parks-and-open-spaces/williamson-park/butterfly-house/

Williamson Park is the home of Ashton Memorial; a stunning monument that overlooks Lancaster – you really must have seen it! Here you will also find the butterfly house which is a great day out; it’s full of exotic butterflies, and you can also visit the reptile house and view the small mammals which are adorable!

Price: Williamson Park – Free, Butterfly House – Adults £3.70, Students £2.70

Morecambe Bay

http://www.visitlancashire.com/explore/morecambe-bay

You can’t go to Lancaster University and not venture to Morecambe! It might not be the most exotic seaside destination, however it is fantastic place to spend a day at the beach – there are plenty of pubs about where you can go and enjoy a cheap meal, and arcades (they never get old whatever your age!). Go on a coastal walk and look at the stunning view right over the Bay.

Price: Free

Have Fun!

So go on, have a day out with your friends and experience all that Lancaster has to offer! If you’re looking for something a little further afield, don’t worry, Lancaster’s railway station has direct links to the major cities in England and Scotland – if you book well in advantage you can make huge savings on your tickets. Wherever and whenever you choose to spend your free time, we’re certain that you’ll have an amazing time!