Our chosen hidden gems of Wrexham, on and off campus

Wrexham is the newest city in Wales and is filled to the brim with exciting places to visit.

The up-and-coming energy of the city is reflected in the developments we have on campus, as well as the new and obscure places around Wrexham.

We have put together a guide for you to find the hidden gems on and off campus as you study with us, or if you want to explore more of the city as you visit the university for an open day.

On campus

Communal Garden

A quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle, the communal garden behind the primary teaching spaces on our Wrexham campus, provides a breath of fresh air away from the traditional learning environment.

Nature has taken over this corner of our campus for you to enjoy a serene view of seasonal flowers, a little pond, and visiting dragonflies.

The garden is located by the Bevan Building, and you can refer to our for more details of where to find it.

Catrin Finch Centre Café

Treat yourself to a Starbucks drink in the new café just on the edge of the university. You may not have noticed the new café in the Catrin Finch Centre, which you will find closest to the campus exit, leading to Wrexham General train station and Wrexham student village. 

Switch up your normal routine and visit this out of the way spot to get your caffeine hit before lectures.

Off campus

Restaurants and bars

Wrexham has been ranked in the top three best and cheapest nights out in the UK. The city has a lot to offer, including delicious food and an exciting nightlife.   

Gusto d’Italia- Hidden away amongst the stalls and café’s in Ty Pawb, this Italian restaurant offers delicious and authentic Italian food.

The Drunk Monk- A micro craft beer bar in Wrexham high-street, the Drunk Monk offers a wide selection of over 80 canned, bottled and keg craft beers. They also host events and quiz nights and describe themselves as being “very chilled in atmosphere and with customer service”.

ThaiDine- This brand-new Thai restaurant in the middle of Wrexham describes itself as a “a true hidden gem, offering a delightful fusion of traditional flavours and modern flair”. Located on Bridge Street, why not treat yourself to a fancy dinner when you visit us for an open day or if you get a great result on an assessment?

Entertainment

William Aston Hall- Wrexham’s largest theatre and concert venue is located on campus for you to enjoy. Theatr Clwyd works in partnership with the university, and hosts comedy events, music, and a variety of live performances, with student discounts available on certain events.  We recommend keeping an eye out of what’s coming up, so you can discover what’s on at Wrexham, and you won’t miss the exciting shows on your doorstep when you get here!

Xplore!- Adult learners with families can take advantage of the activities going on at Xplore Science Centre in the middle of Wrexham City centre. Kids can find “science, exploration, and fun” when they visit with their families, or at one of their many events.

Outdoor activities close to Wrexham

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct- You will find the “most eye-catching UNESCO heritage site” only a 17-minute drive away from Wrexham. Walk along the “stream in the sky” and take in the breath-taking Welsh scenery. 

Park in the Past- Swim, paddleboard, canoe - this lake, which has been converted from an old Quarry, has it all! The Park comprises of 120 acres of woodlands and wetlands, a 35-acre lake and the River Alyn. A full-scale Roman Fort, along with a Celtic village, is in the works at this location as part of their “innovative heritage and conservation project that aims to create a totally unique heritage attraction and vital community resource”.

Plas Power Woods- A fantastic place if you fancy a walk through some woodland or a wild swim. A 10-minute drive away from Wrexham centre, you can park in Nant Mill and walk through the woods over the road to connect with nature, and it’s only a stone’s throw away from the city.

Be part of the community at Wrexham and explore our courses, as well as our up-and-coming city.