Liverpool is the best student city in the UK, 3 reasons why

Who knew the northwest city's nightlife was up there with the Great Wall of China?

An incoming student to Liverpool will have heard all the usual jokes: how they'll be coming home in a shell suit, stealing car tires - or will find themselves repeatedly asked to say “chicken” in a scouse accent. However, the real joke is on those who let their views of Liverpool be dominated by such stereotypes.

Living in Scouseland, you get to thrive in an intimate and vibrant city while those outside live in deluded ignorance at how much of a good time you’re having. So, why is Liverpool possibly the best student city in the UK? Here are three simple reasons why:

1) Nightlife

A prerequisite for any student city is a good nightlife in order to ensure the best students work hard - and play even harder. Almost every ‘listicle’ seems to claim their city’s nightlife to be above all else. However, Liverpool’s got placed third on things to experience in an international bucket list, just above the Great Wall of China, in fact. It's obviously got some big claims to make, especially as this is the birthplace of clubbing brand Cream.

Students in Liverpool are spoilt for choice: Monday Raz, Tuesday Bumper, Wednesday Level, Thursday Juicy, Friday Heebies - if you're looking for a good student night you, won’t find yourself disappointed. However, if you find yourself looking for a less-than-typical night out experience, you need look no further than the warehouse scene in the Baltic Triangle, with nights hosted at places such as the Camp & Furnace and 24 Kitchen Street. While Alma de Cuba, a bar in a former church, as well as the multitude of secret bars, such as Berry and Rye and Ex-Directory provide another avenue for a less-than-typical experience.

To top it all off, Bontan was recently named best kebab shop outside of London, so you know where to start your post-night recovery.

2) Liverpudlian Culture

European Capital of Culture in 2008, Liverpool can make some pretty big claims in terms of its contribution to global culture. Everybody knows about the Beatles, however, the city has offered so much more, with venues like Macguire’s and The Kazimier, and events like the Biennial. The extensive nature of culture in Liverpool from FACT to The Tate, from the Bluecoat to the Everyman, there are many unique hubs for creativity.

For students, the cultural vibrancy on offer allows them a way to interact and connect with their surroundings that makes them want to stay in the city after the end of their degree. This a city that turned it’s bombed-out church into a concert venue, and has a night specifically dedicated to wandering around and looking at various light installations throughout the city. Liverpool’s culture augments its environment, allowing new students to easily connect with the city.

3) Smithdown Road

The centre is a great place, with a variety of things to see, eat, and do. However, for the student, it’s all about Smithdown. Located in Wavertree, this is the hub for students living in housing after first year. Removed from the comfort of halls, you are now thrown into real city life, experiencing life alongside fellow students as well as a good number of delightful scousers.

Burritos at Evil Eye and £1.25 per pint at Brookhouse on Thursdays will satisfy all students’ needs. Overall, there’s just something about the vibe of the area. Welcoming and always brimming with energy, students will be glad to have lived here when their time in Liverpool is done.

Twitter: @Max_Baker96