
Planning a move to the United Kingdom for university studies? Explore the ten best cities for students across Britain. From the vibrant culture of London to the scenic beauty of Scotland, discover the top cities that offer a mix of affordability, convenience and student-friendly amenities.
Introduction
In recent years, the United Kingdom has become one of the most popular destinations for international students. With its world-renowned universities and colleges, the UK offers a wealth of educational opportunities.
However, choosing to study in the UK is not just about finding the right course or institution. It’s also about finding the right city. After all, you’ll be spending a lot of time in your chosen city during your studies, so it’s important to make sure it’s somewhere you’ll feel comfortable and safe.
So, which are the most student-friendly cities in the UK? Here are our top picks:
Manchester – The Northern Powerhouse
If you’re looking for a city with plenty of opportunities for students, Manchester is the place to be. The so-called “Northern Powerhouse” is one of the UK’s most vibrant and diverse cities, with a thriving economy and a huge range of things to do. From world-class museums and galleries to lively nightlife and great shopping, Manchester has something for everyone. And with Manchester Metropolitan University – it’s also one of the country’s top destinations for higher education.
Bristol – South West Haven
Bristol is a buzzing city in the south west of England and is popular with students for its lively nightlife and diverse range of bars and clubs. The city also has a number of parks and green spaces, making it a great place to relax and unwind between studies. Bristol is home to two universities, the University of Bristol and the University of the West of England, as well as a number of colleges.
Edinburgh – World Heritage City
Edinburgh is one of the most student-friendly cities in the UK, and it’s easy to see why. The city has a rich history and culture, and is home to some of the best universities in the world. There are plenty of things to do in Edinburgh, and the city is well-connected to the rest of the UK.
Edinburgh is a World Heritage City, and its Old Town is one of the most atmospheric places in Europe. The city is full of narrow streets and medieval buildings, and there are plenty of hidden gems to explore. If you’re a history buff, you’ll love Edinburgh.
The universities in Edinburgh are world-renowned, and there are plenty of opportunities for students to get involved in research. The city is also home to many start-ups and tech companies, so there are plenty of internship and job opportunities for students.
There’s always something going on in Edinburgh, from festivals and concerts to exhibitions and theatre productions. And, if you fancy exploring beyond the city limits, there are plenty of beautiful countryside walks nearby.
Glasgow – Scotland’s Finest City
There are plenty of reasons why Glasgow should be at the top of your list when considering studying in the UK. For starters, it’s Scotland’s largest city, and is therefore packed with things to do, see and experience. From world-renowned Museums and Art Galleries, to stunning architecture and a vibrant music scene, there’s something for everyone in Glasgow.
What’s more, the city is extremely student-friendly, with plenty of affordable accommodation and dining options. There are also a number of excellent universities to choose from, including the University of Glasgow – one of the UK’s leading educational institutions.
So if you’re looking for an exciting and varied study experience in the UK, be sure to add Glasgow to your list!
Birmingham – Hub of the Midlands
Birmingham is the largest city in the Midlands region of England and is known as the ‘Second City’. The city is a major commercial centre with a thriving business district. Birmingham is also home to two universities, the University of Birmingham and Aston University. The city has a lot to offer students, with a lively nightlife, good shopping and plenty of cultural attractions.
Liverpool – Home of The Beatles
Liverpool is a city that needs no introduction. It’s the home of The Beatles, one of the most influential bands in the history of music. The city has a rich musical heritage and is still a major player on the international music scene. If you’re a fan of The Beatles, or just music in general, then Liverpool is definitely worth a visit.
The city has a lot to offer visitors, from its world-famous museums and galleries to its thriving nightlife. Liverpool is also home to two universities, making it a great place to study. With its friendly locals and student-friendly atmosphere, Liverpool is definitely one of the most student-friendly cities in the UK.
Nottingham – Castle City of England
Nottingham, the castle city of England, is a top destination for students studying in the UK. The city has a rich history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period, and its architecture and culture reflect this. Nottingham is home to two universities, the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, as well as a number of other higher education institutions. The city has a lively student population and is known for its nightlife. There are many bars and clubs catering to students, and the city also has a lively music scene.
Nottingham is an affordable city to live in, with a wide range of accommodation options available to suit all budgets. The city is well connected by public transport, making it easy to get around. There are plenty of things to do in Nottingham, from exploring its historic buildings to taking part in the many festivals and events that take place throughout the year. If you’re looking for a student-friendly city in the UK, Nottingham is definitely worth considering.
Newcastle Upon Tyne – A Gem on the River Tyne
Newcastle upon Tyne is a city in the North East of England located on the River Tyne. The city has a population of 280,000 and is the core of the Tyneside conurbation, which has a population of 1.7 million. Newcastle is a member of the English Core Cities Group and is considered to be one of the most student-friendly cities in the UK.
The city has two universities; Newcastle University and Northumbria University, which between them have over 60,000 students. The universities are both ranked within the top 100 in the UK and offer a wide range of courses. Newcastle University was ranked 14th in the Guardian University Guide 2018 and 18th in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2018. Northumbria University was ranked 70th in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2018.
The cost of living in Newcastle is very reasonable compared to other UK cities, with students able to find affordable accommodation close to all the main amenities. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets, making it a great place to socialise after lectures or during weekends.
The city centre is compact and easily navigable by foot or bike, with all the main attractions within easy reach.
Oxford – Home of The University of Oxford
Oxford is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK, and it’s easy to see why. The city is home to The University of Oxford, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Even if you’re not a student, there’s plenty to do in Oxford. The city is full of Historic buildings and monuments, as well as Museums, Art galleries, and other attractions.
If you’re looking for a place to stay while you’re in Oxford, there are plenty of options. There are many hotels and Bed & Breakfasts in the city centre, or you can try one of the student accommodation options if you’re on a budget.
Whether you’re visiting for a few days or staying for longer, Oxford is sure to have something for everyone.
Cambridge – Home to the University of Cambridge
There are few places in the world as steeped in history and tradition as Cambridge. The city is home to the University of Cambridge, one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the world. Founded in 1209, the university has produced some of the greatest minds in history, including Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Stephen Hawking.
Today, Cambridge is a lively and vibrant city with something to offer everyone. From its rich cultural heritage to its lively nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Cambridge. The city is also home to a thriving student population, making it the perfect place to experience all that Britain has to offer.