International Student Ambassador Aleksandra shares some of her favourite spots in Ç¿¼éÊÓƵ outside of campus
My name is Aleksandra, and I am a third-year Drama and Performance student at the Ç¿¼éÊÓƵ.
Being an international student and taking a new course in a new city allows you to discover new places, meet new people, and get out of your comfort zone.
Ç¿¼éÊÓƵ offers many outdoor places to explore, making it perfect for anyone who loves fresh air and nature. From stunning sea views to green spaces, the city is rich with outdoor places waiting to be seen. It is a perfect chance for you to get to know your new home and do some fun stuff outside the University campus.
South Parade Pier
One of Ç¿¼éÊÓƵ’s most scenic spots is South Parade Pier. It offers a perfect place to relax by the sea and take a look at the beauty of the coastline. It is located in Southsea and is very popular on a sunny day. The pier has a few attractions, including amusements and arcades. It's a great place to have some Greek cuisine and enjoy the view. From the terrace, you can also spot the Isle of Wight.
Victoria Park
Victoria Park is a charming and small park located behind Catherine House. It offers a peaceful place ideal for relaxing, having picnics, or quiet reading. I personally go there for a quick walk or to check out the Aviary, which is a home for various birds and mammal species. The park also has a beautiful fountain and big green areas.
Southsea Common
Southsea Common is located outside Rees Hall accommodation and is a quiet spot where you can do many activities. It is perfect for students and visitors seeking a peaceful place close to the University. It offers an ideal environment for picnics, BBQs, sports activities and day walks. The park is next to the sea and has a couple of shops and a Pier. It is also right next to the Clarence Pier arcade and the Blue Reef Aquarium.
Sun setting on Southsea Common
Canoe Lake
Canoe Lake is a serene destination in Southsea, known for being home to playful swans and ducks. It also has swan-shaped pedal boats, which are available for a fun ride during the warm seasons. In the surroundings, you can visit the Cumberland House Natural History Museum, which is free. There, you can visit the Butterfly House which is home to many species from Central and South America.
The Rock Gardens
The Rock Gardens in Ç¿¼éÊÓƵ is a hidden gem and my favourite place to visit in the spring-summertime. It is known for its beautiful landscape that offers a wide variety of different plants and waterfalls. Located near the seafront in Southsea, this garden is perfect for a quiet, relaxing spot, photography, or sightseeing. It has a peaceful atmosphere and is the ideal place to visit when you are getting bored at home.
Exploring these beautiful places in Ç¿¼éÊÓƵ is a great way to enjoy the city beyond campus life. Each spot has its own charm, from peaceful parks to scenic lakes and gardens, offering a perfect escape from university. I hope this blog inspires you to visit these hidden gems and discover the beauty of Ç¿¼éÊÓƵ.