Sober activities
Looking for alcohol-free ways to socialise and enjoy yourself? Here are ten sober activities you can get involved in whilst at university.
Explore your surroundings
Nottingham has many interesting areas to explore, and whilst you're living here, it's well worth ticking off some of the city's highlights.
If you want to explore further afield, we run fun trips and tours to visitor attractions around the UK throughout the year (usually for cheaper than the general admission price).
They are open to all students but are an excellent option for international students wanting to explore the country while studing here. You can see our upcoming trips and book on to them here.
Host a games night
Having a games night with your friends is guaranteed to be full of laughs. Everyone can bring a game to choose from, or if you have a gamesmaster friend, you can leave it in their capable hands.
Some well-known board/card game favourites we love are cards against humanity, giant Jenga, and what do you meme. But, if you don't own any games, you can opt to play simple games that require as little as a pen and paper, such as charades, card games, or Who am I.
We also run games nights in our venues, where you can play loads of board games, from classics like Monopoly to fast, fun favourites like Smash Up. See when the next one on your campus is here.
Go to the cinema
An oldie but a goodie, the cinema is an easy way to do something with your friends. The best bit? Most cinemas offer discount student tickets, so it can be a cheap night out.
We also run free movie nights on campus, showing everything from big blockbusters to cult classics and documentaries. See what's on at your campus here.
And, for some added novelty, try visiting an outdoor cinema during summer.
Try a fun sport
Nottingham is home to many sporting venues. You can try bowling, ice skating, rock climbing, crazy golf, and more—all within the city centre. Take advantage of having these on your doorstep, get together with friends, and make some memories.
Visit a museum or gallery
Museums and galleries allow you to see cool new (or really old) things, inspire your creativity, and enjoy something different with your friends. Most galleries change their exhibitions every month or so, so even if you've already been somwhere, there's a reason to keep going back.
Nottingham Contemporary is the spot for seeing modern art, but you can find an extensive list of Nottingham's museums and galleries here.
Make DIY room décor
Making your university room feel like home is crucial for your comfort and happiness. Creating DIY room décor allows you to give your room a personalised touch.
Why not chip in for some craft materials with friends and create some weird and wonderful room decorations? Here's some inspiration to get you started. Just be mindful of what you're putting on your walls—you don't want to risk losing your deposit due to damage.
If crafts are your thing, look out for our free craft sessions on your campus.
Rent out bikes
This is something you have to do at least once whilst at university. It's a great way to explore the city or relax away from the hustle and bustle in one of Nottingham's parks.
You can hire bikes around the city from Transport for Nottingham for up to 24hrs, with prices capped at £10.
Have a movie night
Between you and your friends, someone is bound to have a streaming service full of movies for you to choose from. Pick a location, agree for each person to bring a snack, make it cosy, and you have yourselves an at-home-cinema.
Come dine with me – student house edition
This has got to be one of our favourites. Either with your friend group or housemates, take turns once a week to host a Come Dine With Me-style dinner.
If cooking a three-course meal alone sounds like your idea of hell, get everyone to pair up and prepare a different meal course. If you're feeling competitive, you can even score each night to see who the winner is at the end.
Discover your favourite cafes
You've heard of bar hopping, but what about café hopping? Nottingham has no shortage of independent cafés to try.
How does morning coffee, followed by a stroll and a sandwich, then visiting another cafe for a slice of cake before finishing with a cup of tea to wash it all down sound?
It's super-fun, relaxing, and booze-free. And if you spend smartly, it shouldn't cost much more than what you'd otherwise spend on a night out. So, all in all, well worth it.
