We got you covered

So, you’ve decided to stick around Nottingham for the summer, or maybe you’re staying in your halls because of work, research, or internships. Whatever the reason, staying in halls over the summer can be a totally different vibe than the busy term time... but don’t worry, there’s still plenty to enjoy!

Here’s how you can make the most of your summer stay, even if most people have gone home:

1. Explore Nottingham like a local

Campus might be quieter, but that doesn’t mean Nottingham is. There’s so much to see and do in the city, and summer is the perfect time to enjoy it with (hopefully) some sun.

• Take a walk around Wollaton Park: With beautiful grounds, a lake, and the iconic Wollaton Hall (aka Wayne Manor from Batman!), it’s an ideal spot for a summer stroll or picnic.
• Check out the Nottingham Castle: If you haven’t yet, this is a great time to explore the history of the city. With its art galleries and beautiful views over the city, it’s a must-visit.
• Explore the local cafes: Nottingham has an amazing coffee scene, with plenty of independent cafes serving up great brews. Take the time to explore, sit in a comfy café, and relax with a book or journal.

2. Take advantage of uni resources

Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean all university resources shut down. In fact, you can still make use of a lot of facilities and help if you need it:

• The library: Need a quiet place to study, or are you catching up on reading? The UoN Library is still open over the summer, so take advantage of the peaceful environment to get whatever you want done.
• Sports facilities: Whether you want to keep up your fitness or try something new, our sport centres offer summer memberships. There are also outdoor spaces to enjoy, from tennis courts to outdoor gyms.
• Careers & employability: It’s a great time to focus on your future career. Whether it’s updating your CV, finding an internship, or chatting with a career advisor, the Careers & Employability Service is available all summer to support you.
• Wellbeing: Sometimes it can get lonely when campus is quiet over the summer, but we are here if you need to chat. No matter the topic, your mental health is important and ResX are available 7 days a week if you need the support.

3. Socialising and meeting new people

There’s still an opportunity to meet new people. If you’re feeling like a social butterfly, try some of these:

• Join summer activities or events: There will still be stuff happening on campus if you're interested. Keep an eye on our events, workshops, or meet-ups happening throughout the summer.
• Get involved with local activities: Many local organisations run summer events and activities like film screenings, music festivals, or charity events. This is a great way to meet like-minded people and stay social.

4. Take time to focus on you

Summer is also a great opportunity to relax, recharge, and do the things you’ve been putting off during term time. Here are some ways to enjoy the quieter months:

• Learn a new skill: Always wanted to learn how to cook? Or maybe you’ve wanted to pick up a hobby like photography, painting, or coding? Use the free time to try something new or build on something you’ve always wanted to explore.
• Prioritise self-care: It’s the perfect time to focus on your mental and physical well-being. Try a new form of exercise (like yoga or running), practise mindfulness, or just enjoy some downtime with a good book or Netflix binge.
• Catch up on personal projects: Whether you’re working on a side hustle, creative project, or just need some personal time, summer is a great opportunity to make progress on things you care about outside of uni.

5. Keep the summer vibes going with day trips

Not in the mood to stay in Nottingham every day? There are loads of amazing day trips you can take from the city. Explore nearby areas such as:

• The Peak District: If you enjoy the outdoors, a trip to the Peak District is a must. Whether it’s a hike or a visit to a quaint village, it’s an easy trip from Nottingham.
• Lincoln: A lovely historic city, Lincoln is only a short train ride away. Explore its cathedral, medieval castle, and great independent shops.
• Chatsworth House: For a bit of elegance and nature, head to Chatsworth House. The home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, with stunning gardens and a beautiful house to explore.

Staying in halls over the summer might feel different, but it’s a chance to enjoy a slower pace, explore more of Nottingham and the surrounding areas, and focus on yourself. Plus, there are plenty of resources available to help you stay productive, make new friends, and enjoy your summer, even if most people have gone home.

Dedicate most of your time to you!