I’m Niamh and I work and study in Middlesbrough – here are some top reasons why it’s a great place for both
Things to do
When I’m not at university or studying, I love exploring the local area. The campus is in the heart of the town, just a short walk away from places to shop, eat and have fun.
Right in the middle of the town centre, you can find Baker Street and Bedford Street, a collection of independent bars, cafés and restaurants. From quaint cocktail bars to lively pubs, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re looking for a lively day out, visit on an Orange Pip market day to enjoy pop-up bars, eateries, live music and performances.
If you fancy a spot of retail therapy, there are plenty of big high-street brands right here in Middlesbrough including JD Sports, Primark, Lush, Flannels, River Island, TK Maxx, Sports Direct and more.
There are also many places to have fun in and around Middlesbrough. Level X is Middlesbrough’s newest entertainment venue, offering a racetrack, escape rooms, bowling, karaoke pods, crazy golf and interactive football.
Teesside Park is just a short drive away, where you can enjoy more retail brands, food offer, and entertainment at Showcase Cinema and Hollywood Bowl. And if you fancy having some outdoor fun, Tees Barrage is just down the road. Here, you can enjoy on-water sports such as paddleboarding, boat trips and white-water rafting.
Beauty spots and nature
Middlesbrough is also a great central point to explore a little further. Teesside is home to some great beaches and seaside towns. Visit Hartlepool’s historic quayside to explore the National Museum of the Royal Navy. And take a trip to the marina for some stunning scenery, cafés, restaurants and entertainment.
If you’re looking for a traditional seaside town, you can visit Redcar beach for fish and chips, and a famous lemon top ice cream. Heading a little further, you’ll find Saltburn with its magnificent Victorian pier and miniature railway – it’s a great place for a day out.
You could also explore the amazing countryside spots. If you enjoy climbing, Roseberry Topping provides spectacular views of the region. There are also some great walking and cycling routes around the area.
Local investment
Teesside University has invested £280m in the campus to date, with even more on the way. But there’s also some amazing and transformational things going on in the wider Middlesbrough area.
The Boho Zone is a major development opposite Middlesbrough station. It’s a creative hub, home to some of Teesside’s thriving digital and tech businesses. And it’s growing, with construction on its newest building – Boho X – well underway, and residential flats currently being built.
Tees Advanced Manufacturing Park (TeesAMP) is another recent development in Middlesbrough. With leading and innovative manufacturing companies already on site, it will also become home to the University’s Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre.
Government investment in our area has also seen many civil service jobs moving to a campus in Darlington. These investments offer some great prospects and opportunities for when you graduate.
Cost of living
Whether you’re a local student or moving away from home, it’s important to think about the cost of university and budgeting. Middlesbrough was ranked seventh against more than 70 cities in the StudentCrowd 2022 Cheapest UK Cities for Student Accommodation League Table (tees.ac.uk/source). With the cost of living generally increasing the further south you go, it’s also a very affordable place to live and spend time.
So, make the most of our fabulous area 🙂
