Cardiff University Aberdare Hall

Living in an all girls accomodation is definitely a unique experience as there is only ONE in all of Cardiff University. Aberdare Hall’s 19th century gothic-revival architecture is hard to miss as it is located in the smack dab centre of the cathays campus. Besides the several perks of being one of the closest student accoms to the uni, being part-catered, and having a private courtyard, Aberdare Hall has many other characteristics that make it special.

From my personal perspective as an international student, being in Aberdare Hall for my first year hit the nail on the head for my craving to live out a Harry Potter, dark academia, and quaint scholarly life that initially drew me to studying in the UK. If you have had the chance to attend any north campus ResLife events in Aberdare Hall, you’ll see what I mean in regards to the strikingly historic aesthetic. 

Crafts and holiday events at Aberdare seldom need much decor as the hanging light fixtures, grand fireplaces, red-brick arched windows, and intricate oak panelings speak for themselves; it comes as no shock that the dining hall is frequently rented out externally for lavish dinner parties. I would argue that there aren't many other accom that get into the spooky and jolly spirit quite like Aberdare.

My experience during Christmas was filled with several roast dinners followed by mince pies for dessert, a large festive tree set up in the main reception, and hot chocolate movie nights. Later in the year, once temperatures and the UV index started to rise, I would see girls -myself included- sprawl out on towels and soak in the rays every morning on the private grass lawn; catching up on their vitamin D before the short walk to lectures. 

However, every accom has its downfalls. Although the traditional feel is captivating and spices up everyday spaces such as the dining hall, there is no denying that the rooms themselves are old; understandably a deal breaker to some. The building dates back to 1893 and retains many of its ‘charming’ original features, this includes  a ‘list of rules’ to be a ‘proper Aberdare lady’ in the reception, rickety doors that squeak or slam shut, and an uneasy feeling of being watched after hearing rumours of the ghost of Aberdare; naturally a nineteenth century nun. 

But try not to get caught up in weighing out all the pros and cons of each accom, there is possibility for friends and memories anywhere. Aberdare Hall is a part of ‘quiet living’ so if the chill weekends and early bedtimes are your speed, this will be a match!

An ‘all girls’ accomodation, especially in this building, can rub some as being posh or exuding a sort of pretentious boarding-school vibe but I would say it's nothing short of welcoming and wholesome.