THINGS TO DO IN CHELMSFORD
From theatre and live music to green spaces and independent shopping, there’s plenty to keep you occupied outside of your studies in Chelmsford.
Ideas Hub – Run by the community for the community, this venue uses art, creativity, and volunteers’ support to build a culture of wellness, fulfilment and connection. One of their projects, The Art Place, is a dedicated space for visual arts in Chelmsford’s city centre, hosting local artists’ shops, galleries and workshops. Whether you’re making art or just enjoying it, Courtyard Arts is a great place to connect and create.
Shepherdess Café – Located close by the theatre, this is a great option for a hearty breakfast before starting a day of training.
Hot Box Live – A buzzing live music venue in the heart of town, hosting gigs, comedy nights, game tournaments, and chess club. This intimate setting plays host to a mix of up-and-coming artists, open mic nights, and well-known bands and makes for a fun and affordable night out.
Coffee Republic – Also within a few minutes walk, this is a favourite for a reliable lunch while studying.
Green Spaces – For those looking to connect with nature, Chelmsford’s Central Park includes Central Park Memorial Gardens, Frank Whitmore Green, Bell Meadow Park, and Sky Blue Pasture. It’s a whopping 35.6 acres of parkland along with a Nature Reserve. From Bell Meadow Park in the heart of the city centre, it’s a relaxing walk up the River Can to explore the peaceful woodlands, lakes and greenery in the Chelmsford area, including a lovely stop for refreshments at the Park Café.
The Plough – Cosy pub vibes and a student socialising favourite.
Town Centre – Just 10 min walk from Chelmsford Theatre – explore shops, catch live music at local venues, or take a walk along the River Can.
Chelmsford Theatre – Don’t forget the obvious! Chelmsford Theatre is a hotspot for arts and culture, producing and hosting a variety of live shows: comedians, musicals, dramas, dance, live music, talks, courses, films, and interactive events. With two auditoriums, bar, and café, the venue has become an essential cultural and entertainment hub for the community.
SU AND NUS
Mountview’s Student Union (SU) is made up of second-year students from across all courses who have been elected to represent students both inside and outside of Mountview. They organise social events, fundraise for charities, work with the National Union of Students (NUS), and act as friendly faces. The SU will be formed in July and include the following roles:
President, Open Mic Team, Anti-Racism Officer, Vice President, Women’s Officer, International Student Officer, Secretary, Men’s Mental Health Officer, Disabilities Officer, Treasurer, Gender, Sexuality & LGBTQIA+ Officers, Environmental Officer, Publicity Officer, Welfare Officers, Production Arts Representative, Events Team, Sexual Health Officer, CertHE Officers
Contact the SU on studentunion@mountview.org.uk.
Join the 2025-2026 Facebook Group here (please note that the group is managed and run by the SU, and operates independently of Mountview).
The National Union of Students (NUS) is an organisation whose aim is to “promote, defend and extend the rights of students and develop and champion strong students’ unions.” Find out more on their website.
STUDENT DISCOUNTS
Many businesses offer discounts for students. The top student discount providers include:
