The sexual wellness brand analysed its sales data to find out which university towns have the most distinctive tastes when it comes to everything from sex toys and lube to costumes and bondage – and some of the results are surprisingly specific.

Mancs appear to have a particular appetite for everything from strap-ons and dildos to more realistic toys, while bondage accessories such as paddles are also especially popular in the city.

Cambridge ranks second overall in the university-town table and is apparently almost three times more likely than Oxford to buy adult toys and lingerie. It also takes the top spot in the UK for nipple tassel purchases.

Oxford, meanwhile, languishes towards the bottom of the table, ranking 38th overall. According to Lovehoney, it sits in the lowest five per cent of UK towns when it comes to pleasure retail.

Only Cardiff, which ranks 40th, came lower.

Sarah Mulindwa, a Sexual Health Nurse, said: “Freshers Week is an exciting time when lots of young people start living independently for the first time. They meet new people and potentially explore new sexual relationships. But my biggest piece of advice is to prepare before the night begins.

“Carry your own condoms, know where your local sexual health service is and talk openly about boundaries and protection before you’re caught up in the moment.

“It’s important to enjoy yourself, but remember that you never owe anyone sex, and you should never feel embarrassed about prioritising your health.

“If something doesn’t go to plan, don’t panic or avoid getting help – sexual health professionals have heard it all before, and we are there to support you, not judge you.”

Additional thumbnail photo credit: wundervisuals/Diem.ph (iStock)