The last issue of SCAN brought a front-page story about the proposed reorganisation of the campus bars, following a decline in student attendance. Here at Lifestyle, we think our bars deserve more credit than they often receive. County President Levina Masterson agrees. “Freshers need to make the most of them,” she told Lifestyle. “Especially in the current climate with everything going on in the bars at the moment. They are a cheap way to socialise, meet people and just have fun close to home. They have lots of events going on and freshers should embrace the places that make our uni -and our collegiate system – work so well.”
So freshers, not sure which bar to head to? We’re here to help.
County
Also known as the Northern Oak, this bar also incorporates a great day-time diner and plays host to weekly comedy nights on a Thursday. Don’t miss the real-ale festival every December, too. “County bar is ideal for day and night,” Politics student Becky Cutler told SCAN, “because of the open atmosphere, cheap grub from the cafe and comfy booth seats.”
Bowland
Right in the heart of campus, Bowland has the cosy atmosphere of a proper local pub. Also serving food and real ale, and after its 2011 makeover, the Trough of Bowland is the perfect mix of modern and homely.
Furness
Returning students will know that a lot of time and effort has gone into the renovation of ‘Trev’, and this September the brand new bar will finally be opening its doors. Promising to have stepped up the style, while maintaining what second-year Liz Gallimore affectionately calls “Trev’s old-man pub charm”, keep an eye-out for the infamous 15-hour bar crawl organised by this bar.
Fylde
Where better to watch live sport than in the great sporting college’s bar? With a healthy lunch menu to accompany both Sky and ESPN HD viewings, Fylde’s leather sofas are the perfect place to meet up with friends.
Grizedale
Boasting the ultra-chic furnishings of a city-centre venue, Grizedale bar has recently been transformed into our very own on-campus cocktail bar. County student Steven Machin admits to preferring Grizedale Bar to the Northern Oak. “It’s the place I take friends who have come up to visit me, because it’s probably the best-looking bar.”
Pendle
The Pendle Rooms is the place to go for music-lovers of all tastes. From Pendle Live, which runs every Thursday, to local DJ sets, this is the go-to venue for students in need of entertainment with their drinks.
Lonsdale
Also known as The Mane Place, this bar has style, atmosphere and Wi-Fi to boot. With top sound systems, Lonsdale often hosts its own events, from DJ sets to ‘Lonnie Idol’ (not to be missed!) Outdoor seating is great on warm, sunny evenings.
Grad
Don’t forget, you don’t have to be a post-grad to enjoy Grad Bar! The Herdwick is known for its brilliant beer, and has been included in the CAMRA good beer guide for ten years. From local curry nights to cider festivals, there’s something for under- and post-grads alike.
So, now you know a bit about each bar, here’s Lifestyle’s round-up of the top five reasons to pay your college venue a visit…
- You’ll save money on taxis into town.
- You’re more likely to run into your friends on-campus.
- Campus bars are exclusive for people your age, so no more creepy old men eyeing you up.
- They’re great places to get part-time work, so pop along and hand in a CV.
- It’s less far to stagger home…
