Seven cosy essentials that are a must this winter while at Lancaster Uni

The winter blues are back in full swing, and the whole campus is flooded by darkness too early, making the days feel so short. At this time of year, all we can think about is staying cosy in bed and not daring to step outside – let alone walk from Cartmel to County Main for a 9am seminar.

If the cold is getting to you, and you want something to warm your chilly feet (probably from the icy pavements), then you’ve stumbled to the right place. Whether you want to find something to battle the cold or some indoor sung activities – then this guide will give you the perfect cosy place in Lancs.

Fluffy socks

Cute and cosy, what else can be said? A simple necessity for the colder months, fluffy socks bring a sense of not only comfort but also lovely warmth to your toes.

There are many kinds of fluffy socks to choose from, you can never get bored or have a pair the same. They can be cute, pretty, plain, or grippy, and there are even some odd, funny socks, like ones with chicken feet on them!

They are also cheap, so it’s the perfect combination – every student needs and can afford them. You can find fluffy socks practically anywhere, so when next in town, head straight to Lancs Primark and you’re guaranteed to find a pair that’ll get you toasty for those early starts.

Chunky scarves

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Gaining popularity recently is the chunky scarf that covers nearly your whole face. Not only do they keep your neck toasty on chilly walks across Alex Square, but they have the bonus when you’re sleep-deprived from trying to finish your essay the night before, allowing you to hide during lectures.

While you’re waiting for a bus at the underpass and see someone in a chunky-knit scarf that they’re nuzzling into when it’s frosty, you must admit you feel a bit jealous of their warmth.

Much like fluffy socks, you can find a huge variety of different scarves to fit your aesthetic, and you could even invest in more than one scarf to match multiple outfits.

Coffee and coffee dates

Coffee fits ANY situation. Although not “essential” (in some opinions), this needs to be on this list and if you’re not a coffee lover, don’t scroll past! You can have any cute little drink that makes you feel snug when you’re freezing your fingertips off.

Making or going out to get a coffee is a fun activity, enjoyed alone or with friends. Head down to any of the coffee shops in Alexandra Square and see what tickles your fancy.

You could go to Costa if you want a classic Cappuccino or Coastal & Co. to try something new and out of the ordinary, like their Iced Matcha Strawberry Latte. Or Greggs, if you’re willing to stand in a queue for an hour…

Comfort shows/books

“When the wind is blowing in your face, and the whole world is on your case…” The last thing we want to do is stay outside, so why not stay in? Have a Coastal coffee in your fluffy socks, and watch your favourite comfort show or book.

Watching or reading something you know is proven to reduce stress and anxiety. Bearing that in mind – a series that has every cosy essential is Gilmore Girls, but that’s just our personal suggestion.

Visit a ‘cosy corner’ on campus

The campus is full of nooks tucked away in various places – these corners of cosiness are just what we need to finish assignments.

Starting with Barkers, located in Cartmel College (a hike for County Main residents), the ceilings are adorned with fairy lights, creating the perfect atmosphere to relax or work.

There is also the LEC Atrium found beside Fylde College, a moody ambiance that allows your mind to unwind. Then, of course, there’s the library—head over to the Living Wall or sit near the library tree to detox, bringing the outside indoors.

Hot water bottles

Sometimes associated with being under the weather (or just battling Lancaster’s relentless wind and rain), hot water bottles are the ultimate way to get warm and snuggly quickly. Just add your hot water, and on you go.

The great thing about hot water bottles is they last for a good six hours or so, so they are great to have during the day and when you go to sleep. Again, another cosy essential that comes in all shapes and sizes – Lancaster Primark does the best hot water bottle designs – even a Groot one for the Marvel fans out there.

Baking

Whether you’re trying to be the next “The Sweet Escape” or you burn your toast every morning, baking is for everyone.

It’s perfect when you don’t want to step a fluffy sock toe outside of your accommodation. Find some recipes you want to try and start kneading that dough. The best cosy food to bake (but quite advanced) is cinnamon buns or anything that has cinnamon in it. The smell, the taste, just screams cosy, cottage-core vibes. However, bake whatever you’re craving and you’ll still have fun indoors for hours – don’t worry if you forget the eggs in your cupcakes, just maybe don’t offer that batch…