Cardiff University

The largest of Cardiff's universities is Cardiff University. As well as academic subjects, it is home to the Cardiff Medical School and Cardiff University of Dentistry – renowned throughout the country. It is often ranked in the top 150 universities in the world.

The main Cardiff University building is approximately an 8-minute drive from Future Inn Cardiff. By Cardiff Bus it would take around 30 minutes to get there - with the bus stop across the road from the hotel. You could also get the train from Cardiff Bay, which is one stop to Cardiff Queen St – then it is a 10-minute walk, or change the train for one stop to Cathays. By bike, it would take around 15 minutes.

University of South Wales

The University of South Wales has campuses in Cardiff, Newport, Pontypridd and Dubai. The Cardiff campus is for creative subjects including media and marketing, dance and design and even film and fashion. 

The Cardiff campus at the University of South Wales is very close to Future Inns, it is approximately a 7-minute drive. There's even a pay and display sizeable open-air car park in front of the building. Using Cardiff Bus, it would take around 20 minutes to get there - with the bus stop across the road from the hotel or from the nearby Wales Millennium Centre. You could also get the train from Cardiff Bay, which is one stop to Cardiff Queen St – then it is a 5-minute walk. By bike, it would take around 10 minutes, or you could walk, which would take 25 minutes.

Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff Metropolitan University has several research and enterprise centres, including the Food Industry Centre, the Welsh Centre for Tourism Research, and the National Centre for Product Design and Development Research. It is also known for its state-of-the-art sports facilities.

The Llandaff campus is approximately a 17-minute drive. On Cardiff Bus it would take around 45 minutes to get there - with the bus stop across the road from the hotel. By bike it would take around 22 minutes, to take you down the Taff Trail. 

The Cyncoed campus is a 15-minute drive from Future Inns. Using the Cardiff Bus network, it would take around 50 minutes to get there. Alternatively, it would take 30 minutes by bike. 

Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama

The Royal Welsh or College of Music & Drama as it is often shortened to is in a beautiful location. It backs onto Cardiff Castel and Bute Park. Performance-based degrees are available at this university, and it has three theatres. Its famous alumni include Sir Anthony Hopkins and Rob Brydon.

The Royal College of Music & Drama building is approximately a 9-minute drive from Future Inns. By Cardiff Bus it would take around 30 minutes to get there - with the bus stop across the road from the hotel. You could also get the train from Cardiff Bay, which is one stop to Cardiff Queen St – then it is a 17-minute walk. By bike, it would take around 15 minutes or a 43-minute walk.

Why Cardiff for university?

When asked why Cardiff is the best city for students, the following points came out top:

1. Big city, small-town vibe

With a population of around 350,000 people, Cardiff feels like a small town rather than an intimidating capital city.

2. Nightlife

Cardiff is renowned for its great nights out. Whether you like commercial music, live music, gay bars or alternative, there is something for everyone. Even now, after lockdown has ended, there are many safe and social distancing-friendly things to keep you entertained. See how you can enjoy Cardiff safely.

3. Rugby days

Some will say there's nothing better than Cardiff on an international rugby day. Hordes of people head to the city centre to witness the game in the Principality Stadium or the local pubs. The atmosphere is always electric. 

4. Live music

Lots of big stars visit Cardiff, whether that be at the Principality Stadium, The Motorpoint Arena, St David's Hall or even the Students' Union. There's never a shortage of upcoming events or festivals.

5. Entertainment

From musical theatre to plays and even comedy nights, Cardiff has it all. The Wales Millennium Centre sits in the heart of Cardiff Bay, a short walk from Future Inns, as well as the Glee Club. In the centre, you'll find the New Theatre, St David's Hall and the Sherman Theatre, which has regular touring shows and the annual panto.

6. Shopping

There are shops galore in Cardiff, with modern shopping complexes and historical arcades packed with independent traders. Plus, what can be better than using your student discount?

7. Cardiff Castle

It's impossible to live or visit Cardiff and not spot the castle. Cardiff Castle sits in the city centre alongside other historic buildings, including the National Museum of Wales.

8. Location

It is so easy to get around the city, with many bus and train links. If you want to escape further afield, there are many beaches within 30 minutes of Cardiff. The Brecon Beacons are also an hour's drive away. There's so much to do outdoors in Cardiff.

9. Bike-friendly

Cardiff and further into Wales have the most breathtakingly beautiful cycle routes. Cardiff is one of the flattest cities in Britain, too. In Cardiff, you can explore the Cardiff Bay trail and the Taff Trail, which is 55 miles long. 

10. Beautiful parks

Cardiff's parks and gardens are beautiful. Each suburb of the city has its own recreational space, so you're never too far away from a park. Bute Park is one of the most popular, and in the summer months, it is used by students to enjoy the sun and do a spot of revision.

11. Great food

Cardiff has your favourite chain restaurants, but the food scene has changed over the last few years. Independents serving up food using local ingredients are leading the way. You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to breakfast, vegan, international cuisine and even Welsh food.

12. Green

Cardiff is one of the greenest cities in the UK. Over the years, it has been recognised for its sustainability, too. Cardiff is also the first Fairtrade capital city in the world.