The Student Room Group

Are these good choices for a Cardiff first year?

Hi everyone!
I’m heading to Cardiff University this September and I’m trying to narrow down my accommodation list. My budget is around £150/week max.
I’m looking for somewhere that is:
1. Social I want to meet people and have a good first-year experience.
2. Value for money Not looking for anything luxury, just decent.
3. Guest-friendly My boyfriend will likely be visiting/staying over occasionally, so I'd prefer a vibe where that isn't an issue (and maybe an ensuite if it fits the budget).
Here is the list I’ve put together so far:
Talybont North Heard this is the social hub and has cheaper ensuites?
Senghennydd Court Love the idea of being right by the SU/City Centre.
Aberconway Hall Seems like a good central location for Cathays.
Hodge Hall Looks like a nice balance of everything.
University Hall Looks cheapest, but is it too far away from the action?
Roy Jenkins Hall Good for the budget, but is it "too" quiet?
Would love to hear from any current or past students! Which of these would you rank as the best for a social first year? Also, how strict are the guest rules at these places if someone stays for a weekend?
Thanks! :smile:

Reply 1

Hey! I went to Taly North, just to say about guests it honestly isnt a problem at all. I was in a relationship during my first year and we experienced no problems as there's no check-in desks for accoms and certainly nobody checking! So you'll be fine.

That being said, Taly North and South are your best bets for the social scene, ensuite, and price, and are generally consisted the best definition of the “uni experience”. I'll be honest, University Hall doesn't have a great rep, and Roy Jenkins doesn't have a great one either. Neither of those are great for the social scene, however I can't comment too much on the living situation there!

Reply 2

Original post
by riebtw
Hi everyone!
I’m heading to Cardiff University this September and I’m trying to narrow down my accommodation list. My budget is around £150/week max.
I’m looking for somewhere that is:
1. Social I want to meet people and have a good first-year experience.
2. Value for money Not looking for anything luxury, just decent.
3. Guest-friendly My boyfriend will likely be visiting/staying over occasionally, so I'd prefer a vibe where that isn't an issue (and maybe an ensuite if it fits the budget).
Here is the list I’ve put together so far:
Talybont North Heard this is the social hub and has cheaper ensuites?
Senghennydd Court Love the idea of being right by the SU/City Centre.
Aberconway Hall Seems like a good central location for Cathays.
Hodge Hall Looks like a nice balance of everything.
University Hall Looks cheapest, but is it too far away from the action?
Roy Jenkins Hall Good for the budget, but is it "too" quiet?
Would love to hear from any current or past students! Which of these would you rank as the best for a social first year? Also, how strict are the guest rules at these places if someone stays for a weekend?
Thanks! :smile:

Hi!
I stayed in Taly North in my first year and based on what you’ve said I think you’d find it great there! It is more social and good value for money. I can’t specifically speak for the other accommodations but I can send a link to our accommodation website that provides an interactive online tour so you can get a feel of the rooms. Just click on the halls you’re interested in and select the green button at the top ☺️
https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/accommodation/residences
All the best moving forwards!
Jess - 3rd Year Student

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