Keeping on top of your student finances.
As a student whether you are in first year or third, it can be a challenge to manage your money. From socialising with friends, to that last-minute meal-deal when you are on a deadline. There are so many ways you can watch your student loan disappear, especially when you aren’t keeping track of your spending.
But fear not, there are plenty of easy solutions to help you save while studying in Newcastle!
Budget Friendly things to do in Newcastle
As costs are rising, finding good value places to go where you can still socialise and enjoy yourself is more important than ever.
Here is a list of our favourite budget friendly places to visit in Newcastle.
1. The Quayside
Running along both sides of the River Tyne, the Quayside is a stunning place to visit. Walking along costs nothing but is a great way to spend some time with friends or a partner.
On the Gateshead side of the river, the Sage offers student friendly concerts, for instance, classical music concert tickets for only £5 for anyone under 30, offering up two hours of beautiful music. Ticket costs depend on the acts but there are many which are less expensive for students and younger people.
2. Jesmond Dene
Located in the heart of Newcastle between Jesmond, Heaton and South Gosforth, the Dene is a great place to go for a walk and get out of the house. The best bit, it is completely free to appreciate the nature there. Make sure you go and visit the waterfall.
3. Stand-up Comedy at The Stand
The Stand is a comedy club that offers a variety of cheap events and shows throughout the year. At Red Raw, one of their events for £5, you’ll get to see up to 10 acts trying out their new material and is great when you’re looking for a laugh on a budget.
4. Live Music the Cluny
The Cluny is a place that offers budget-friendly live music, food, and drink to enjoy throughout the year. A great place to go if you love listening to a variety of bands and artists or if you just want to get out the house, take a break from coursework, and unwind.
5. Art at the Baltic
If you’re interested in modern art, then the Baltic is a must-visit. With free entry, the Baltic is a contemporary space filled with various art exhibitions that change all year round so there is always something new to explore.
All students can apply for a free art pass which allows you to visit any art galleries etc in Newcastle with no cost.
6. The Coast
Whitley Bay and Tynemouth are seaside towns 10 miles east from Newcastle Upon Tyne. From beaches and arcades to fish and chips and castles, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Newcastle’s Metro system offers an alternative way of transport that takes you directly to several seaside towns in around 20 minutes.
Also, Tynemouth Metro Station hosts a market every Saturday and Sunday. Walking around is a great way to have some fun and there is no need to buy anything, you can always have a wander and just appreciate the atmosphere.
7. Mini Golf
Want to have some fun playing golf? Try out Golf Fang. With a selection of different courses to play, cocktails, food and there are student discounts on certain days making it an affordable night out.
Shopping in Newcastle
Everyone needs those new shoes for a night out or a new jumper to wear to your lecture. Yet with that weekly grocery shop, there might not be money to spend, even though we all know that doesn’t always stop us.
Here’s a few cheaper alternatives in Newcastle to keep in style for less.
- Kilo sales are a great way to save money, pick up all the clothes you want and pay a certain amount for a kilo. You can easily get loads of great outfits without spending much. Try out Worth the Weight, Headlock Vintage, and Vintage Vera. Do your research into local Vintage Clothes Stores, Newcastle has a great variety and you’re likely to find a great deal on something stylish.
- Charity Shops can be a bit more hit and miss, however, they do have some gorgeous stuff if you take the time to look around properly, so this is a great option to save money. You won’t pay more than £10 for most of the clothing.
- At the Student Union there are Vintage clothes sales and kilo sales – and sometimes even houseplant sales. With it being at the university, there are often deals on the day which are specifically for students.
Student Financial Support
Whilst following the tips about could save you overspending, rising costs just for basic things is impacting all students in the UK.
If you are in a situation where you are really struggling, this is some of the support we have at Northumbria, and you should never feel afraid or shameful for asking for some help. We are always here and understand how difficult this time can be.
What our university offers?
Northumbria University has an article outlining the average Living Costs at University. This is helpful for prospective students, who want to prepare themselves for the living costs.
We also offer financial support for UK, EU and International Students. The Welfare, Immigration and Funding team are available to give advice on financial issues throughout your time at Northumbria. They offer impartial, confidential, and professional advice, guidance, and information for free.
We have a wide range of scholarships available for UK and EU/International students.
Northumbria’s hardship fund; if you are struggling, we have an ‘Access to Learning Fund’ which can be applied for and is awarded dependant on individual circumstances. This is for UK students only.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Northumbria has a Wellbeing Toolkit to help you with coping skills and maintain a positive wellbeing.
Student Union
The Student’s Union are offering support to lessen the impact of rising costs for students.
You can get free hot water from the Greenhouse or Habita for your tea, porridge pots, pot noodles or hot water bottles.
The NSU Laptop Loan Scheme offers Northumbria students a short-term laptop loan if you need it.
The short term loan scheme enables you to loan a laptop for a maximum of 1 week.
Find out more here.
The SU has two microwaves that are free to use to heat up your lunches between lectures. This is great for heating up left-overs from last night’s dinner.
Something that naturally occurs and is unavoidable like your period shouldn’t be breaking your bank. With that in mind, the SU has partnered with the University staff to provide sanitary products across several locations on campus.
Want to discover more of our student recommendations? Follow us on TikTok to see what budgeting tips our current students are sharing.
