Queen's Bucket List for New Students
New to Queen's? Here are some must-do activities in and around campus, as recommended by current students!
Take a pic in front of the Lanyon
"Take a picture of yourself in front of the Queen's gates at the Lanyon Building! On graduation day, there often is a long queue to take a photograph by the gates in front of the Lanyon Building. By taking a picture in the beginning of your student journey, you will be reminded of how much you have grown and all the memories you have made."
Priscilla Jeyaraj, PhD Medicine, Malaysia
Explore the main campus
"There are so many wonderful things to do once you arrive at Queen's. It would truly be difficult to choose just one. If I had to, however, I'd say...take a walk around the Lanyon Building. Meander without music or company and allow yourself to soak up every detail of where you are, who you are, and all of the wonderful circumstances that brought you here. Ground yourself and feel these precious moments to their fullest potential. You're here; you've made it. The present is beautiful, and the future is yours for the taking."
Brittany Marasciulo-Rivera, MA Creative Writing, New York, USA
Visit the Queen's Students' Union
"When you first arrive to Belfast I recommend heading to the Queen's Students' Union. Here you can meet other students, see the facilities and chat with the students' union team. I would recommend checking out the events held at the students' union. I recently went to the Star Wars quiz, my team didn’t walk away with winners bragging rights, but it was great fun and we did get to enjoy some themed blue milk cocktails."
Charlene Spence, BSc Midwifery, NI
"Go to the Students’ Union. Whether you’re going for a coffee, a pint, or just a nosy around - it’s a rite of passage. The SU is where things happen. It’s where you’ll meet people, hear about events, and start to feel like you belong. It’s not just a building; it’s a heartbeat—a space that pulses with the energy of student life. Whether you’re there for a society event, a quiet study break, or just to people-watch, you’ll leave feeling a little more connected to Queen’s and everything it has to offer."
Faye Colhoun, English and French, NI
Sign up for a Club/Society at Freshers' Fair
"A must-do activity is definitely joining Clubs and Societies at the Queen's Freshers' Fair. From there, you will without a doubt meet new friends who (not knowingly at first) will be your friends for life. Or at least, throughout your time at university.
Freshers' Fair was an eye-opener. The number of clubs and societies blew me away – I mean, a Poker Society? A Rubber Duck Society? Who knew!"
Keith See Choy Xing, Law, Malaysia
Get your coffee fix on campus
"Take advantage of all the great coffee spots in and around the campus and go out and explore! My favourite places to get coffee are Hope Cafe in the McClay, or Blue Train on Botanic. Get a coffee and walk around the campus, explore Botanic Gardens, or even head into town and make the most of how close Queen’s is to the city centre! There are loads of tours available as well, from Titanic Quarter to Queen’s itself - you can book a tour and learn some fun facts along the way!"
Grace Nelson, LLB Law with Spanish, Donegal, Ireland
Visit the Titanic Museum
"The Titanic experience! Located in the Titanic Quarter, it’s one of Belfast’s main attractions (and known around the world) with millions of visitors every year. I went the first week I was here and I had a blast! It’s so impressive and overwhelming to be surrounded by so much history. I highly recommend it to everyone who wants to be immersed in a different world for two hours. You’ll be transported to a different time and place, and you’ll learn a lot about Belfast’s history too.
It’s something you can do with family, friends, or on your own. You’ll see people from everywhere and there’s also some great restaurants and cafés nearby for a quick bite afterwards. Also, make sure to purchase your tickets online and look for the student discount!"
Miguel Ruiz Reyes, BSc Psychology, El Salvador
Check out Colombian student Isa's experience of the Titanic Museum here!
Connect with your tutors
"My advice to the new students once they arrive at Queen’s would be to start connecting with the professors and tutors, and share your thoughts about the module to them. Engaging with the lectures and actively participating in the tutorial discussions would always keep you one-step ahead. This practice is also especially helpful to tackle the gloomy assignment-stress phase, as you wouldn’t be completely lost with “where to start?”. Consistent guidance is provided by every tutor and building a rapport with the professors and tutors would further make you comfortable to ask questions and clarify any doubts!
Another significant must-do activity is to join a student-led society or attend workshops/game nights conducted by your School in the University. This is a perfect opportunity to gain friendships, have fun, and seamlessly adapt to the university environment."
Natasha Charles, Anthropology and English, India
Park and Pizza!
"Every year when I move back to Belfast, one of my first stops is the Botanic Gardens. It’s such a lovely place to relax and soak up the last of the sun, and you’ll definitely bump into other students doing the same! When you’re there be sure to do the ferris wheel while it’s still there. Whether you’re catching up over iced coffee or boba, or grabbing a pizza from Orto in the evening, Botanic Gardens is the best spot to take a breather and settle in."
Chloe McCann, BA English, NI
Find out more
VIDEO: Must Visit Spots on Queen's Campus
Things to Do During Your First Week in Belfast
5 Things You Can Do in Belfast That You Can’t Do Anywhere Else!
Why Queen’s Students' Union is Your Key to an Unforgettable University Experience