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    Study in Pontypridd

    City guide

    Market town ‘Ponty’ is nestled within the lush South Wales valleys, with the hustle and bustle of Cardiff just half an hour away.

    It's very well connected to Cardiff and all the amenities there, while also having a countryside feel due to the surrounding greenery and hills. There's also plenty of options for student activities, as basically everyone who lives there is a student, so the town provides for them very well. (Third year student, University of South Wales)

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    • Aaliyah

      University of Hertfordshire
      Animation, film, games and creative media
      Hi, I'm Aaliyah! I am a final-year Games Art student and want to work hard to hone my skills and improve as a character artist! I am also a producer so if you want to talk about that specialism within Games and VFX then feel free to ask. You might be feeling a bit worried or uneasy about what there is and what the course entails but I am here to answer all your questions. No matter how big the question or how small :) Whilst I'm not in the other animation pathways (3D/VFX, 2D animation, Comic & Concept Art) I can always give my knowledge in those areas too. Just pop a message over! Very excited to talk about the courses with you :D

    • Adrianna

      University of the Arts London
      Public Relations
      ✨Public Relations student passionate about creative storytelling & making an impact through strategic marketing. 📈Obsessed with digital analytics, media research 🔍, and fostering real connections within the media world! 🤝 👩‍🎓Active as a Peer Mentor, Senior Student Ambassador, and Media School Rep – always here to help and share my journey! 🌟 💡 Let’s chat all things PR, media, and beyond!

    • Accalia

      University of Sussex
      Law with International Relations LLB (Hons)
      I would love to be engaged in various sectors specifically Media, Law and International Business, My end goal is to be an international consultant for Caribbean small businesses.

    • Aditya

      University of Glasgow
      Medicine [MBChB]
      Hello everyone, This is Aditya. I am a 2nd Year international medical student at the University of Glasgow. My aspiration is to become a cardiologist with a special interest in interventional cardiology and cardiac physics. I am open to any questions you guys might want to ask about the university, the medical school, or even the city and how it’s been adapting to a new culture as an international student :)

    • Aditi

      University College Birmingham
      Finance and Accounting
      I am Aditi Ghevade, from the city of Mumbai, India. Currently pursuing my postgraduate studies in Finance and Accounting, I find immense joy in delving into the intricacies of financial systems and exploring the world of numbers. Fluent in English, Hindi, Marathi, and even French, my multicultural and multilingual background has equipped me with a versatile skill set.

    • Abigail

      Bournemouth University
      BA (Hons) Film
      Hi, I'm Abigail and I'm a third-year Film student! I'd be very happy to answer anything about filmmaking and media related questions at Bournemouth University, and what it’s like to move out for the first time and settle into a new city! :))

    • Abdul

      University of Lincoln
      Architecture - BA (Hons)
      “Hi! Feel free to ask me any questions about the courses here in Lincoln and also about the city itself. I am more than happy to help you with any questions you might have.”

    • Abbey

      Leeds Trinity University
      Criminology with Police Studies BA Combined (Hons)
      I am looking at going into the police after university and doing their graduate detective program. I enjoy watching all sorts of true crime documentaries.

    • Adrianna

      Bangor University
      Marine Biology
      Hi, I'm Adrianna. I'm from North West England. I decided I wanted to do marine biology, when someone did an online talk at my college all about the marine environment and biology. My main hobbies include sewing; gaming; watching films and series; and spending time with friends and family. Some of my favorite games are Animal Crossing; Slime Rancher; and Stardew Valley. Some of my favorite movies/series are: How to Train Your Dragon; Vampire Diaries; Grey's Anatomy; and Disney movies.

    • Advika

      University of Glasgow
      Common Law [LLB]
      Hey there ! I am Advika from India🇮🇳 and I am a third year Common Law student. I would be happy to answer all your questions about the university, studies, student life, or anything else. Please feel free to chat 😊

    • Abigail

      City St George's, University of London
      Politics BSc (Hons)
      Hi, my name is Abigail and I am a 2nd year Politics undergraduate, who wants to become a lawyer in common law. I am happy to answer questions regarding university, a career in law, etc! ❤️

    • Abdullah

      Liverpool John Moores University
      Computer Science, BSc (Hons)
      Currently in my second year, I’m focused on making the most of my degree and building a strong foundation in my field. After completing my bachelor’s, my plan is to pursue a master’s in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. I’m passionate about using AI to tackle real-world challenges, and eventually, I’d love to work in a tech company that’s leading the way in innovation. My vision is to be part of projects that push the boundaries of what technology can achieve—I’m excited about what the future holds!

    • Adam

      Coventry University
      Sports Coaching BSc
      Hi there👋, My name is Adam and I am currently a first year Sports Coaching student and a lifelong Coventry habitant. Sports has been a massive part of my life which has lead me to studying the Sports Coaching Bachelor Degree here at Coventry. I am looking to pursue a career within Sport Coaching as I look to teach and coach others the amazing thing that is sport🤩. Feel free to ask me questions about the Sports Coaching Course and elements of University life😃 ⚽️🏀🎾🏓🏏

    • Adeola Priscillia

      Coventry University
      MSc International Business Management
      I am currently studying International Business Management and have a background in education. Although I’ve recently started as a student ambassador, I bring previous customer service experience, which has strengthened my communication and interpersonal skills. I’m passionate about pursuing a career in global business, combining my interests in education and international management.

    • Aayan

      City St George's, University of London
      Actuarial Science BSc (Hons)
      I did my Foundation year from INTO City, University of London. Currently doing BSc Data Analytics and Actuarial Science. I plan to work in Data / AI Field, I have strong interest in Trading and Content Creation 😊.

    • Abby

      Swansea University
      Sport and Exercise Science, BSc (Hons)
      I am a keen swimmer and am part of the University Swim team and have competed in the BUSL swim league as well as Welsh Varsity representing the university. The swim team is comprised of a range of abilities. I love what I study and am passionate about Sport Psychology and hope to pursue it as a Masters when I graduate. I am in my second year of the degree course and am loving it so far, so any questions about my course or the swim team are more than welcome.

    • Abdul Rashid

      University of Aberdeen
      Biotechnology, Bioinformatics and Bio-business MSc
      My current career plan is to delve deep into the core of bioinformatics and try as much as possible to make it easy for future prospects in that field of study.

    • Abigail

      University of Lincoln
      Dance - BA (Hons)
      Hi, I'm Abi and I'm a third-year BA (Hons) Dance Student. I'm from Suffolk. I started dancing from the age of 3 in Ballet, Modern and Tap and then also started training in Contemporary, Irish and Ballroom & Latin dance before completing both GCSE & A-level Dance. I'm now continuing my passion here at UOL and hope to continue this into a professional career!

    • Abigail

      University of Essex
      Criminology
      Hello! My name is Abi, and I'm currently in my third year doing Criminology with Counselling Skills. I aspire to go into the police force to be a detective! I love helping others and cooking. Alongside my degree, I am doing some content creation and photography as a fun hobby as I also have a passion for both of those things.

    • Abbie

      Leeds Trinity University
      Primary Education (Early Years 3-7) with QTS BA (Hons)
      Hi I’m Abbie 🫶🏻. I am a primary education student here at Leeds trinity completing my first year currently. I live at home and commute in for my lectures. I am a course representative so look very closely into student feedback. I am also the mental health officer for Leeds trinity and look forward to building campaigns to help those at trinity! I was very nervous joining university but realised very quickly it’s like family where everyone is supportive and tries to help at any opportunity. The campus is beautiful and I love to study in lots of different spaces to change up the scenery every now and again! I have a dog walking business to satisfy my love of animals and am also a student ambassador for university. I work part time in a pub not far from the university and love to go running in my spare time to clear my mind! I came from sixth form to university and knew what course I wanted to do. I’m here to answer all of your questions about life at university hoping to give an insight on the student life and what to expect!

    The Old Bridge

    The 140ft single-span bridge remains the town’s most famous landmark. In fact, Ponty’s name comes from ‘Pont-y-ty-pridd’, or ‘bridge of the earthen house’ in Welsh. 

    Pontypridd - The Old Bridge

    Pontypridd nightlife, according to students

    There are a whole bunch of pubs and clubs in both Treforest and Pontypridd, giving plenty of options. It is also only 25 minutes by train to Cardiff, which has one of the most vibrant music and nightlife scenes in the UK. In Pontypridd, everything is fairly cheap as well due to its location in the Valleys. (Third year student, University of South Wales)

    Tom Jones

    Pop music legend and The Voice judge Tom Jones has melted millions of hearts around the world – he was born and bred down the road, in the village of Treforest.

    Tom Jones star

    Pontypridd nightlife, according to students

    Cardiff is the more popular place to go. [It’s] 20 minutes by train, and a taxi ride back. It’s easy, and it isn’t too expensive – usually about £30 to get a taxi. Ponty has Club Ice, a Spoons that has a dancefloor on the weekends, and Skinny Dog. Ponty is a bit more relaxed than Cardiff. There are also some nice pubs closer to campus in Ponty – Randy Dragon is a great option. (Second year student, University of South Wales)

    Pontypridd Victorian Lido

    Lido Ponty, a Grade II listed lido, has been restored to its former glory and updated for the 21st Century visitor.

    Student life in Ponytpridd

    Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.

    Low on cash

    Just go out for a hike! Walk up a hill, you’ll see some horses, sheep, pigs, etc. and you’ll see some amazing views! Watch the sunset on a nice day. (Third year student, University of South Wales)

    Treat yourself

    Catch a train down to Cardiff. Visit the St David's Centre for some shopping, or head over to Live Lounge for some drinks and music. (University of South Wales student)

    Friday night out

    For drinking, the Tumble Inn Wetherspoons in Ponty is the place to go. [There aren't] any sort of live music [or] comedy places, but there [are] a lot in Cardiff, like Glee Club. (Third year student, University of South Wales)

    Sunday chilling

    If you have the money, I'd recommend catching a bus up to Brecon for a walk in the Beacons, as it is beautiful up there. If you're the arty type, [take] a sketchpad or a quality camera to capture the views. (University of South Wales student)

    When family visit

    Cardiff is the best place for family activities. Being the capital of Wales, it's filled with variety. (University of South Wales student)

    Feeling cultural

    There is a museum about the history of Pontypridd, however, it is better to go into Cardiff. (Third year student, University of South Wales)

    Catch up with mates

    Hoffi Coffee is the go-to coffee shop – they do good paninis. (Third year student, University of South Wales)

    Grab a bite

    My favourite restaurant has to be Barinis, I love the mixed grill, gammon, or the steak – they’re usually my go-to options. Lovely, affordable, and very quick to serve you. (Second year student, University of South Wales)

    Groggs

    These small, clay rugby figures have been handmade here since the 1970s. Pop into the little red Broadway shop, and pick up a souvenir of your Ponty tenure. 

    Living in Pontypridd, according to students

    The whole of Treforest is really close to campus, as well as train and bus routes. The only downside is that to get to a major supermarket, you either have to go up quite a steep hill for 25 minutes, or go all the way to the outskirts of Ponty. (Third year student, University of South Wales)

    Coed-Pen-Maen Common

    My mate and I went to see the sunset, and have a picnic. Unfortunately it was quite cloudy, but it is very pretty up there, with walking paths and places to explore. You can see the entire valley from up there. (Cailin, second year student at University of South Wales)

    Coed-Pen-Maen Common

    Living in Pontypridd, according to students

    Our Treforest campus is based in the beautiful Welsh Valleys, where you'll be surrounded by picturesque views and only 20 minutes from Cardiff. (Lucy Fishley, Psychology, University of South Wales).

    Living in Pontypridd

    Housing, travel, and budgeting tips.

    Where you'll find students

    • Treforest

    Local transport

    • Mytravelpass discounted scheme funded by Welsh Government
    • 6–21 year-old residents in Wales can save 1/3 on bus fares

    Student money tips

    Ponty market has a lot of cheap grocers and general household items in it, so you don't need to go to supermarkets, or get the train into Cardiff to get fresh food. (Third year student, University of South Wales)

    The cost of living as a student soon adds up, us our budget calculator to find out roughly how much you'll need each month.

    ​Discover more savings on student life in Pontypridd with UCAS student discounts. Find the latest deals, from fashion brands and eating fresh, to big discounts on tech and travel.

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