Discover iQ summer cities

Summer is just around the corner. Long nights, cold drinks and picnics with friends in the park - we can’t wait! Whether you’re planning a staycation or want to arrive earlier in the summer, you can find plenty of accommodation options all over the UK with iQ Summer Stays.

To give you a taste of what’s around the country, check out some fun things to do in five of our summer cities.

London

London's cultural scene, historic sights and vibrant nightlife offer something for every kind of student. From the weird and wacky to wonderful, there’s an endless number of fun things to do around the capital this summer. And with 9 properties dotted around the city for the summer, our centrally located studios and apartments put you right in the heart of the action.

Thinking about booking a Summer Stay in one of our East London properties? You’ll have the pick of the lot with Brick Lane and Shoreditch just around the corner. From Boxpark to Bounce, an abundance of bars and restaurants are at your feet.

Our go‑to place? Queen of Hoxton, the 3-storey event spot which hosts everything from cinema evenings and drag parties to DJ club nights. The Queen has a rooftop garden complete with kitchen, bars and panoramic views over the city – perfect for summer nights sipping their Moet slushies.

Even better, this is only a 13-minute walk away if you decide to book a Summer Stay with us at iQ Shoreditch. Top tip: Book yourself in for a Rooftop Cinema Club night. Beanbags, bottomless popcorn, and a wide screen? You can’t go wrong.

Whether it be spring, summer or fall, Hampstead Heath is a go‑to place for any Londoner. For those staying at iQ Tufnell Park, this is less than 20 minutes away – ideal if you want to arrive before your university course starts. When it gets warm, make sure you pack your swimming costumes and head to Hampstead Heath Ponds – voted one of the best outdoor swimming areas in London.

Whether you’re new to this multicultural metropolis or have been living in London all your life, we’re sure there will be something for you. Check out more things to do in our iQ London City Guide.

Bournemouth

Thinking of visiting the coast this summer? Why not head to the seaside town of Bournemouth, one of the top coastal destinations for students. Sea, sand and surf, this eclectic town has it all – and minutes from away from the train station and short walk from the centre is iQ Dorchester House.

Booking at iQ Dorchester House means you’ll have the seven‑mile stretch of Bournemouth beach right on your doorstep. Summer or not, make sure you head there for a great day out. Trip Advisor named it ‘Best Beach in the UK’ and it’s clear to see why. Golden sands, clear waters plus activities like jet‑skiing and paddle-boarding... you can’t go wrong.

You can expect more than just beaches from Bournemouth too. Situated on the mouth of the Bournemouth Pier is the cocktail bar Aruba. Popular with both students and tourists alike, Aruba is perfect if you’re looking to get glammed up and party by the beach. Expect bright colours, fun DJ nights and a great drink selection. If you’re looking for something more low‑key, head to Aruba for breakfast, lunch or dinner... complete with a breathtaking ocean backdrop.

Already booked in iQ Dorchester House for 24/25 and fancy arriving early? Have a peek at some more fun things to do this summer in our Bournemouth City Guide.

Dundee

Whether you’re planning a summer trip or studying there this autumn, this Scottish city boasts everything from cute shopping spots to dolphin spotting  - yes, dolphins. iQ Parker House is located right in the centre, putting you in the perfect place to create the summer you want.

If you're a fan of art, you've got to visit V&A Dundee. It's the first dedicated design museum in Scotland and a hub of helping you explore your creativity. It's got a great waterfront location, so it looks a work of art even from the outside and gives you the perfect place to keep on strolling once you've perused the art inside. iQ Parker House is just a 22 minute walk from V&A Dundee. 

Whether you're feeling scientific or romantic, Mills Observatory drums up the stargazing of your dreams. It's located in Balgay Park, so make a day of it and go for a woodland stroll up Balgay Hill and check our the gardens at the adjacent Victoria Park. For a different kind of scenery, take a 48 minute trip to Broughty Ferry Beach and feel the sand beneath your feet. 

When you wanna get louder, Dundee has plenty more on offer. Start off your day with a rainbow bagel from The Flame Tree Café, cop your latest vintage fit at Sook Souk, and don't forget to check out all the street art on the way. Grab a drink and some food at Bird & Bear and end your night with some karaoke at Kandy. 

You can find out more of Dundee's hidden treasures and must-visit spots in our iQ Dundee City Guide.

Manchester

From its legendary music scene to world-famous sporting arenas, Manchester has plenty to inspire if you are planning a visit there. With 6 iQ sites to choose from, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect property for your Summer Stay.

More than just a walk in the park, Heaton Park is a historic area on the edge of Manchester city centre and the perfect spot for a summer day out. The largest municipal park in Europe, it’s home to the Grade I listed Heaton Hall and the park itself offers activities including guided walks, orienteering, boats, tram rides and beekeeping.  As the summer rolls in, make sure to take full advantage of an amazing events programme each year that includes outdoor concerts, dramas and plays. The perfect space for a cultured summer evening out.

With one of the biggest student populations in the UK, Manchester is also one the best spots in the UK for a student night out.  Our top place? Deansgate Locks – a hubbub of pocket‑friendly pubs, clubs and rooftop haunts. Staying with us at iQ Wilmslow Park? You’re a mere 25-minute stroll away. Why not arrive early before your degree starts and get to know the Manchester nightlife scene a little better?

You can check out more places to visit in our iQ Manchester City Guide.

Plymouth

Living with us at iQ Astor House in Plymouth? Why not stick around a bit longer for the  summer? From the lively night life in the city centre to the beautiful Cornish beaches, there’s an abundance of things you can get up in Plymouth this summer.

If you want to do some exploring before moving in, the historic Barbican and Sutton Harbour is at the heart of the city's culture. Expect cobbled streets,vibrant buildings, old landmarks and the amazing National Marine Aquarium. You can hire boats and learn to catch fish or discover Plymouth’s maritime heritage. Dinner plans won’t be an issue as the harbour boasts an eclectic mix of restaurant cuisines.  With Greek, Japanese, Indian, Himalayan and Mexican, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Fancy heading to the oldest working gin distillery in England? Book in with us at iQ Astor House and the Plymouth Gin Distillery is only 4 minutes away. Take a guided tour and learn about the art of making Plymouth Gin, plus the production process and history of botanicals. With a part of the building dating back to 1421, you’re guaranteed a magical day out. Tour prices range from £7 to £40 and everybody gets to leave the distillery with their own little gin bottle. Why not book a Summer Stay with us to experience it for yourself?

Already booked in iQ Astor House for 24/25 and are considering arriving early? Take a look at more things to do in our iQ Plymouth City Guide

Nottingham

Already living with us Nottingham? Stick around a little bit longer. Take all the time you want to explore the city this summer and discover why Nottingham's so popular for students and tourists alike.

Stay cool and start off the summer underground at the City of Caves. Nottingham is home to over 500 caves dating back to the dark ages and even today some pubs are using their to store their beers. When you come back up to earth, you can take a stroll along the canal at Castle Wharf and stop off at one of the waterside bars and restaurants. 

For some retail therapy, head to Old Market Square and make your way through the city to the Creative Quarter that's full of great vintage shops and designer boutiques for something a little more unique. 

When you want to sit down and hang out with friends, head to Bar Iberico for some great tapas and follow it up with The Magic Garden for some drinks with a special outdoor setting. Or, head to Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, apparently the oldest pub in the country. It's carved into the cliff and packed with history, with a beer garden for when the sunshine hits. 

For more things to do in Nottingham, check out our iQ Nottingham City Guide

Sheffield

Sheffield is a city with a lot of soul, making it a great place to spend your summer as a student. 

Go slow with a stroll in the Winter Gardens, close to the train station. The urban glasshouse is the biggest in Europe and is home to more than 2500 plants, with great shops and coffee bars to break up your visit. Plus, it's free to enter, so you can keep going all summer long. Right next door you'll find the Millennium Gallery with over 13,000 pieces of metalwork documenting Sheffield's steel industry history.

There are plenty of cute shops to pick up something cute for your room. Head to Moonko and Vulgar for some great independent shopping. The Antiques Quarter has lots of options plus some great pubs to stop off at, including The Brothers Arms and the New York style Picture House Social. 

For more things to do in Sheffield, check out our iQ Sheffield City Guide

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