Your main reason for coming to the UK may be to learn English, but when you’re a student in a foreign country there’s a lot more to consider, when it comes to settling in, than your language classes. Of course, you will meet fellow students from across the world at your language school, some of whom may become life-long friends, but the place where you study will also make a huge difference to your memories of your stay and the activities you are able to enjoy whilst studying.
With this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the top cities in the UK for all those who want to learn English whilst enjoying real British student life. Criteria considered in compiling this list include the presence of other students, activities and events on offer, value for money, nightlife and general atmosphere.
In no particular order, here are our top 5 student cities in the UK:
1. Cambridge
For foreigners coming to Britain, cities of renowned educational excellence such as Cambridge are a real draw – not just for their academic credentials, but also for the tradition, history and architecture that come along as part of the package. Cambridge is one such place: it is a city of magnificent old university colleges, age-old traditions such as the boat race and punting on the River Cam, a thriving student life and plenty of pleasant cafés and bars to soak up the atmosphere and practise your English when not in class. It may not be the cheapest place to learn English, but for many this can be overlooked given its fine reputation in the academic world and appeal in so many other ways.
2. Glasgow
If you’re looking for a good time, look no further than Glasgow. Expect a few bleary mornings if you join in the fun and party like the locals, for Glasgow is a city crammed with bars, clubs and live music venues. The city’s many students tend to be found in the West End, which is surrounded by green parkland and home to a number of independent pubs and quirky cafés, although Glasgow itself is small enough to feel quite compact and it’s easy to get around. Add to this the fact that it’s one of the most economical places to learn English in the UK, and you’ll see why it’s easy to stay in the bar for just one more dram.
3. Liverpool
Liverpool has to be one of England’s most exciting cities in which to be a student. European City of Culture in 2008, this once-degenerated city on the River Mersey is now one of which its locals, or Scousers, are immensely proud. With art galleries such as the Tate, the legend of the Beatles, two magnificent cathedrals, a bustling waterfront at the Albert Docks and terrific pubs and clubs, students in Liverpool are spoilt for choice when it comes to after-class activities. And it’s only a hop, skip and a jump to the outdoor playground of Snowdonia, over the border in Wales, where walking, climbing and biking are just some of the thrilling outdoor pursuits on offer.
4. Brighton
You won’t feel out of place as a foreign student in Brighton, as this hedonistic city on England’s south coast is full of visitors from foreign shores. You’ll hear a handful of different languages just walking down the street, but the truth is you can’t blame them: Brighton is known as ‘London by the sea’ as it boasts much of what the capital offers with the added bonus of a beach (albeit pebbles, not sand), a good dose of bohemian chic and a distinct amount of quirkiness. Shopping in the fashionable North Laine, beach volleyball after class and fish and chips on the pier are popular pursuits by day, while dancing the night away at one of the many seafront clubs is where you’ll find most students by night.
5. Nottingham
Located in the Midlands, Nottingham boasts a prime location within easy reach of the beautiful Peak District and legendary Sherwood Forest, of Robin Hood fame. It is home to two of England’s best-loved universities and as such attracts and caters well to students. It’s vibrant and cosmopolitan yet compact and very affordable in comparison to lots of other UK cities. As a location to study English, Nottingham will give you the usual benefits of urban living but with plenty of green spaces and history to enjoy too – to say nothing of an abundance of bars, cafés and clubs to enjoy once class is out.
Cactus offers English language courses in some 30 locations across the UK, covering England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. A variety of courses are available, to cater to all ages, levels, interests and budgets, and accommodation can be arranged alongside your course too. All schools offer a comprehensive range of activities and excursionsto enable you to make the most out of your stay, meet other students and practice your English.
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