Student Societies and Clubs in Newcastle: Complete Guide to University Life in 2025

Newcastle's student society scene is absolutely massive. With over 300 clubs and societies spread across Newcastle University and Northumbria University, you'll find communities for every interest imaginable, all easily accessible from top-rated student accommodation in Newcastle.

Whether you're into sports, politics, music, gaming, or just want to meet people from your home country, there’s a society for it. Most students say joining a club is where they made their first real friendships and found their place at uni. It’s more than just fun—it’s your shortcut to feeling at home in Newcastle.

TL;DR

• Newcastle offers 300+ student societies across both universities.
• Newcastle University has 180+ societies through NUSU.
• Northumbria has 100+ through NSU.
• From llama walking to investment clubs, there's something for everyone.
• Membership costs around £5.
• You can join multiple societies or start your own with 15 members.

Newcastle University Societies - 180+ Options Through NUSU

Newcastle University Students' Union (NUSU) runs one of the UK's most diverse society programs. Over 28,000 students can choose from 180+ societies covering every conceivable interest.

Living close to the action makes it even easier to get involved. With a wide range of student accommodation from city-centre studios to sociable shared flats, you’re never far from society meetings, campus events, or spontaneous nights out.

Want a full picture of campus life? Here's everything you need to know about Newcastle University.

Academic & Professional Societies

These societies connect you with classmates and industry professionals:

Subject-Specific Groups:

• WetSoc (Marine Technology Society): Perfect for marine engineering students
• Newcastle University Agricultural Society: Connects farming and agriculture students
• Investment Society: Workshops, networking sessions with Barclays and eToro speakers
• Creative Writing Society: Weekly workshops for poets, novelists, and playwrights

Professional Development:

• Career-focused networking events
• CV workshops and interview practice
• Industry guest speakers
• Internship opportunities

Want to earn while building your CV? Here's where to find part-time student jobs in Newcastle.

Cultural & International Societies

Newcastle's international community shines through these societies:

International Groups:

• Afro-Caribbean Society: Cultural celebrations and community events
• Anglo-Chinese Society: Bridging Eastern and Western Cultures
• Greek and Cypriot Society: Traditional food and cultural events
• Polish Society: Language practice and cultural exchange
• Turkish Society: Cultural events and networking

These societies help international students feel at home while sharing their cultures with others.

Unique & Quirky Societies

Newcastle's society scene includes some truly unique options:

20 Minute Society: This legendary society organises mystery activities with just 20 minutes' notice. Members get texts about secret locations for activities like axe throwing or escape rooms. They've organised trips to Budapest, Krakow, and Italy, plus mystery weekend getaways.

Llama, Alpaca and Goat Society (LAG): Yes, this exists! Members enjoy llama walks, alpaca feeding, and goat yoga. Perfect for de-stressing after intense study sessions. They organise goat-themed nights out and LAG-related adventures throughout the year.

Table Top Society: Gaming enthusiasts gather for weekly board games, role-playing games, and trading card games. They also have separate Pokémon, Anime, and Genshin societies for specific interests.

Looking for more fun outside societies? Here are 20+ unmissable things to do in Newcastle.  And if you’re curious about what makes this city so unique beyond student life, check out these Fun Facts about Newcastle that you should know.

Sports & Recreation Societies

With 62 sports clubs under Team Newcastle, options include:

Traditional Sports:

• Rugby, football, cricket, tennis
• Swimming, rowing, athletics
• Basketball, volleyball, netball

Alternative Sports:

• Parkour, rock climbing, martial arts
• Ultimate frisbee, quidditch, korfball
• Surfing, sailing, kayaking

Music & Performance Societies

Newcastle's music scene thrives through various groups:

Music Groups:

• A Cappella Society: Unauditioned main group plus three competition teams
• Jazz Big Band: Regular performances around Newcastle
• Student Orchestra and Choir: Classical music ensembles
• Newcastle Bach Choir: Community-connected performances

Performance Arts:

• Drama societies with regular productions
• Dance groups covering various styles
• Comedy societies for aspiring comedians

Faith & Belief Societies

Newcastle supports students of all faiths:

Religious Groups:

• Christian Union with regular services
• Islamic Society with prayer facilities
• Buddhist meditation groups
• Multi-faith prayer rooms on campus

The University Chaplaincy organises worship services, discussions, and social events while connecting students with local faith communities.

Northumbria University Societies - 100+ Groups Through NSU

Northumbria University Students' Union (NSU) offers over 100 societies with a strong focus on practical skills and career development.

Popular Northumbria Societies

Academic Excellence:

• Course-based societies for networking
• Professional development groups
• Research and innovation clubs

International & Cultural:

• Over 20 international societies
• Cultural celebration events
• Language exchange programs

Special Interest Groups:

• Snow Sports Society: Ski trips and winter activities
• Game of Thrones Society: Fan meetups and themed events
• Pole Dancing Society: Fitness and performance art
• Student Media: Journalism and broadcasting opportunities

Society Categories at Northumbria

How to Join Student Societies in Newcastle

Membership Process

Newcastle University (NUSU):

1. Browse societies online at nusu.co.uk
2. Attend Freshers' Week society fairs
3. Pay membership fee (typically £5)
4. Attend welcome events
5. Participate in regular activities

Northumbria University (NSU):

1. Check mynsu.co.uk for society listings
2. Join at orientation events
3. Pay the annual membership fee
4. Attend committee meetings if interested
5. Participate in events and trips

Starting Your Own Society

Both universities make starting societies straightforward:

Requirements:

• Minimum 15 interested members
• Executive committee (president, secretary, treasurer)
• Clear constitution and purpose
• Approval from the Students' Union

Support Provided:

• Financial accounts setup
• Webpage creation
• Committee training sessions
• Event planning assistance
• Ongoing mentorship

Cost of Society Membership

Society membership in Newcastle remains incredibly affordable:

Most societies include social events, workshops, and networking opportunities in membership fees.

Budgeting your uni life? Check out the full cost of living in Newcastle guide. Also, keep track of your spending by using our cost of living calculator.

Best Societies for Different Student Types

For International Students

• Cultural societies matching your heritage
• International student support groups
• Language exchange societies
• Faith-based communities

For Career-Focused Students

• Investment and Finance Society
• Professional development groups
• Industry-specific societies
• Networking and career societies

For Creative Students

• Creative Writing Society
• Drama and theatre groups
• Art and craft societies
• Music ensembles and bands

For Active Students

• 62 sports clubs at Newcastle University
• 30+ sports options at Northumbria
• Outdoor adventure societies
• Fitness and wellness groups

Premium Student Accommodation for Society Members

Active society participation often means late meetings, events, and social gatherings. Best Student Halls properties provide ideal locations for engaged students. Looking for more options? Explore luxury student accommodation in Newcastle and discover the best areas to live as a student, balancing convenience, vibrancy, and comfort.

Want the best student digs that support both your social life and studies? Don’t miss our Best Newcastle Student Accommodation in 2025-26 guide. Newcastle student housing is miles better than it used to be, especially for society lovers and city explorers.

Looking for options that won’t break the bank? Our Affordable Student Accommodation in Newcastle blog highlights great-value picks. And if living close to campus matters, check out Student Accommodation near Newcastle University for top nearby choices.

Society Events Throughout the Year

Freshers' Week

• Society fairs at both universities
• Taster sessions and demonstrations
• Meet committee members
• Sign up for multiple societies

Regular Activities

• Weekly meetings and workshops
• Monthly social events
• Termly trips and excursions
• Annual balls and celebrations

Special Events

• Inter-society competitions
• Charity fundraising events
• Cultural festivals and celebrations
• End-of-year awards ceremonies

Celebrating after society wins? Here are the best student restaurants in Newcastle.

Celebrating late into the night after society events? Don’t miss our Newcastle Nightlife: 2025 Complete Guide, from indie clubs to student-friendly bars, it’s everything you need to unwind in style.

Making the Most of Society Membership

Active Participation Tips

• Attend regular meetings consistently
• Volunteer for committee positions
• Participate in events and trips
• Bring friends to expand membership

Leadership Opportunities

• Committee positions are available in most societies
• Event planning and organisation
• Budget management experience
• Public speaking and presentation skills

Networking Benefits

• Connect with like-minded students
• Build professional relationships
• Access to alumni networks
• Industry contact opportunities

Academic Integration

Many societies directly support your studies:

Course-Related Benefits:

• Study groups and academic support
• Industry connections and internships
• Practical experience in your field
• Enhanced CV and job applications

Skills Development:

• Leadership and teamwork abilities
• Event planning and organisation
• Communication and presentation skills
• Project management experience

Need a quiet space or somewhere to host your study group? Explore the top student libraries in Newcastle—perfect for group collaboration, solo focus, or even prepping for society-led academic events.

Digital Engagement

Both universities offer online society engagement:

Virtual Participation:

• Online meetings for remote students
• Digital events and workshops
• Social media communities
• Hybrid participation options

Technology Support:

• Society websites and booking systems
• Event management platforms
• Communication tools and forums
• Resource sharing capabilities

Year-Round Activity Calendar

Autumn Term (September-December)

• Freshers' Week society recruitment
• Welcome events and mixers
• Regular meeting schedules begin
• Halloween and cultural celebrations

Spring Term (January-April)

• New member recruitment drives
• Major trips and excursions
• Competition seasons for sports
• Cultural festivals and celebrations

Summer Term (May-July)

• End-of-year celebrations
• Society awards and recognition
• Graduation events
• Planning for the next academic year

Society Success Stories

Newcastle societies regularly achieve national recognition:

Achievement Examples:

• A Cappella Society performing in London's West End
• Investment Society participating in national competitions
• Cultural societies organising major festivals
• Sports societies winning BUCS championships

Alumni Networks:

• Successful graduates maintain social connections
• Professional mentorship opportunities
• Career advancement through society networks
• Industry leadership positions

Special Programs

Give It a Go

Both universities offer "Give It a Go" programs, allowing students to try activities without long-term commitment:

Benefits:

• Try multiple activities before committing
• No experience required for participation
• Low-cost or free taster sessions
• Perfect for exploring new interests

Volunteer Opportunities

Many societies incorporate community service:

Impact Areas:

• Local charity support
• Community event organisation
• Environmental sustainability projects
• Educational outreach programs

Conclusion

Newcastle's society scene offers unmatched opportunities for personal growth, friendship, and career development. With over 300 options across both universities, you'll find communities that share your passions while discovering new interests.

The combination of academic societies, cultural groups, sports clubs, and unique organisations creates an environment where every student can thrive. Whether you're joining the Llama Society for stress relief or the Investment Society for career development, Newcastle's societies will transform your university experience from good to unforgettable. To get the full picture of student life beyond societies, explore the Newcastle Complete City Guide for Students 2025.