Studying in the East of England
Discover what to expect from student life in the East of England – from what the region’s like and where its unis are, to transport options and what to see and do.
CONTENTS
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About the East of England
-
Places in the East of England
-
Universities in the East of England
-
Getting around the East of England
-
Things to do in the East of England
- What students say about the East of England
About the East of England
Living so near the coast is special – an experience students in the East of England can take full advantage of. One of the UK’s most picturesque regions is renowned for its beaches, countryside landscapes, and charming villages.
The potential for constant adventure is why so many students are drawn to studying in England’s East. But beyond its natural beauty, students choose to study in the region due to its highly regarded institutions, friendly locals and ease of living.
Places in the East of England
Six counties make up the East of England. They are:
- Bedfordshire
- Cambridgeshire
- Essex
- Hertfordshire
- Norfolk
- Suffolk
Within these counties the major cities and towns are:
- Bedford
- Cambridge
- Colchester
- Ipswich
- Norwich
- Luton
- Peterborough
- Southend-on-Sea
University campuses and/or further education colleges can be found in each of the above cities and towns.
- READ MORE
- Studying in Cambridge
- Studying in Norwich
Universities in the East of England
Your university options for the East of England are:
- Anglia Ruskin University
- Norwich University of the Arts
- University of Bedfordshire
- University of Cambridge
- University of East Anglia UEA
- University of Essex
- University of Hertfordshire
- University of Suffolk
Further education colleges in the region include:
- City College Norwich (incorporating Easton College)
- Cranfield University
- University Centre South Essex
- West Suffolk College
Getting around the East of England
Public transport makes travelling within your town or the region simple. You’ll also have the option to cycle and drive to better explore surrounding areas, while rail and air networks make it easy to go outside the region.
Air
You won’t travel via plane within the region. You’ll only do so to reach other parts of the UK and abroad. Major airports within or near the region are Norwich International Airport, London Stansted, London Southend, and London Luton.
Ferry
You’ll only use the ferry to reach other parts of the UK. Harwich International is the East of England’s main port, from which you can visit the Hook of Holland.
Rail
You typically won’t use the train to get around your town, but you will when travelling throughout the region and UK. Great Anglia and Great Northern both offer extensive links. They, along with Thameslink and the new Crossrail, will connect you to London. Invest in a 16–25 Railcard for a third of rail fares.
Bus
There should be a local bus network within your town offering regular services. They’ll typically be inexpensive and check what student discounts are available. National Express services can take you around the region and UK.
Cycle
Cycling is a go-to for students. It’s convenient, keeps you fit, and allows you to save money on transport. Your uni may have a cycle scheme, or you can find a local second-hand bike shop. On weekends you can explore the many cycle trails that sprawl the Suffolk and Norfolk countrysides.
Other
Your town should have local taxi services, and possibly a ride-hailing service like Uber or Bolt. Getting to know the region on foot will help you become familiar with your surroundings, while coastal walks will clear the head. Having a car’s useful but not necessary unless you want to take it for weekends away. Hiring a car is also a possibility.
Things to do in the East of England
University events and other activities in the town will keep you busy throughout the year. But do make the most of what the entire region can offer, because the things to see and do in England’s East are wide-ranging.
Arts & culture
The East of England’s cathedrals and museums offer a window into the region’s historic culture. This is infused with modern architecture like the Sainsbury Centre of Visual Arts which epitomise the region’s creative development. Performances and festivals occur year-round and make the most of the cosy arthouse cinemas. Film shooting often occurs too across the region’s vast landscapes.
Events
You’ll have a range of festivals to pick from, like Out There in Great Yarmouth or the Norfolk and Norwich Festival. Check local venues, like Ipswich’s New Wolsey Theatre or Suffolk’s Haverhill Arts Centre, for theatre, music and comedy performances. Football dominates in the east, thanks to top teams like Norwich City FC, Luton Town FC, and Ipswich Town FC.
Outdoors
Endless coastal and beach walks are found in Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, and Southend-on-Sea. There are miles of countryside, woodland, and forest to escape to, with cycling routes like at Bacton Woods offering weekend adventures. You can also explore nature at Broads National Park or RSPB Minsmere.
What students say about the East of England
We asked University of Hertfordshire student, Katy, about her experience living in the region:
Living in Hertfordshire is great! The transport links to London and surrounding areas are quick, easy and accessible, allowing you to broaden your university experience and enhance your studies with plenty of placement opportunities. There’s also lots of parks and greenery close by for meeting up with friends or getting some fresh air. Hertfordshire is a great place to study and live - you get the best of both worlds!
Katy, Primary Education student at University of Hertfordshire
If I had the opportunity to re-select my university location, I wouldn't choose any different. Hertfordshire has got just the right amount of activity to keep your student life exciting whilst maintaining an environment where you can still focus on your education and get stuff done. It strikes the perfect balance and it's absolutely great, especially for international students who'd be keen to explore London which is just a couple of minutes' train ride away.
Michelle, Aerospace Engineering student at University of Hertfordshire
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