Life at Glamorgan

In Pontypridd

Pontypridd is just ten miles outside Cardiff. If you would prefer somewhere a little quieter for your studies, this place is ideal. Away from the noise of the city, you will find friendly campuses surrounded by green open spaces and plenty of fresh air. Our students say they love the community atmosphere, as well as the convenience of living and studying in the same area.

Pontypridd is a welcoming area so you’ll soon feel right at home. The University’s growing reputation and student population mean that the town is now largely a student area, with an abundance of student-friendly shops, pubs and restaurants.

Leisure

Pontypridd is not far from the Brecon Beacons National Park where there is a wide variety of activities on offer, including hill walking, canoeing, caving, cycling and geocaching. If you want a quiet night out, the nearby Parc Nantgarw leisure complex has a large cinema, a bowling complex and a variety of restaurants to choose from (many of which offer student discounts).

Music and Culture

Pontypridd is proud of its local arts centre, The Muni, which is based in a converted church. It has music nights, comedy, theatre productions and is often the place to catch emerging local bands. You can also learn about local mining history by visiting the Rhondda Heritage Park.

Eating and Drinking

There are some fantastic places to eat in Pontypridd. For a special meal, try The Bunch of Grapes or Alfred’s Bar and Grill. Closer to campus there is the Otley Arms which is gaining a great reputation as a brewer of quality beers and ales. The food there is great value and the place is always welcoming. For drinking and dancing, the Blueberry is a boutique bar and club that also serves food.

Sport

The famous Pontypridd Rugby Club is a great place to go to steep yourself in Welsh rugby history and enjoy lively local games. There is also a cricket pitch in Ynysangharad Park, which is also the home of Pontypridd Town AFC. You can also enjoy the lido in the park in summer months.

Shopping

There is an indoor Victorian market in the centre of Pontypridd where you can buy anything from comics to washing machines. It’s full of quirky little stalls and also sells good quality local food produce. If you’re after olives, oils or continental meats, try Pepworth’s Deli on Mill Street.