Studying in South West England
Discover what it’s like to live in South West England as a student, from transport options to keeping yourself entertained.
CONTENTS
South West England is the largest geographical region in the UK but with one of the smallest populations– just five million. The region’s home to some of the most enchanting UK coastlines, from the rocky coasts of St Ives in Cornwall to Dorset's sandy beaches.
Beyond the sea and sand, South West England has a rich history. Follow in the Romans’ footsteps and visit the ancient baths in Bath or get in touch with the cosmos at Stonehenge in Salisbury to find out more about Britain’s pagan past.
The Southwest is made up of the following counties:
- Bristol
- Cornwall
- Dorset
- Devon
- Gloucestershire
- Somerset
- Wiltshire.
Within these counties you’ll find a diverse range of major towns and cities, including:
- Bath
- Bristol
- Exeter
- Gloucester
- Plymouth
- Salisbury
- Truro
- Wells*
*Wells is the smallest city in the UK, but its impressive cathedral has earned it city status.
Universities in South West England
Whether you’re looking for a coastal, rural, or city location there are plenty of universities to choose from:
- Arts University Bournemouth
- Bath Spa University
- Bournemouth University
- Falmouth University
- Hartpury University
- Plymouth College of Art
- Plymouth Marjon University
- Royal Agricultural University
- University of Bath
- University of Bristol
- University of Exeter
- University of Gloucestershire
- University of Plymouth
- University of the West of England
There’s so much to see and do in South West England, so you’ll need to know how to get about.
Air
For those looking to arrive at uni by plane or for those wanting to explore further afield during the holidays, the region’s three main airports are Bristol, Exeter, and Newquay. Cardiff airport may be a good option for those further west. All airports offer domestic and European flights, with some tour operators going as far as north Africa and Turkey. Bristol Airport offers the widest range of destinations.
Ferry
Plymouth port offers ferry trips to France, Spain, and the Channel Islands, while Lymington port in Dorset offers ferries over to the beautiful Isle of Wight.
Train
The Great Western Railway (GWR) and South West trains offer travel across the region and further afield, with many direct routes to the major UK cities. You can save up to a third off your train travel if you apply for a 16–25 Railcard. All those between 16 and 25, or older but in full-time study, are eligible.
Bus
Local bus companies operate across the area, so check your prospective unis travel pages for more information on these services. National Express, Stagecoach and Megabus provide long distance journeys across the region and beyond.
Whether you want to stuff your face with pasties, marvel at architectural wonders or surf the waves off the wild coast, the South West of England has got you covered.
Arts & culture
Home to guerilla graffiti artist, Bansky, and Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol is a thriving arts scene where you can absorb yourself in old and new. In Devon, Exeter and Plymouth are known for their fantastic nightlife including live music, comedy, and club nights. Those looking for calmer pursuits can soak up the culture at Penlee Park Open Air Theatre or Tate St Ives.
To get a feel for South West England’s Roman history, visit the Roman Baths of the goddess Sulis Minerva in Bath. For something even further back in time catch a solstice sunrise or sunset at the mystical Stonehenge at Salisbury Plain.
Food
If food is your thing, you’re in for a treat staying in the South West of England as a student. With local dishes to samples like Cornish pasties, stargazey pie, and cream teas, as well as a plethora of different seafood from the rugged and beautiful coast, you’ll not be short of things to eat. There are farmers' markets, street food, and traditional restaurant offerings in all the southwest’s major uni towns and cities, have fun exploring all your taste buds are offered.
Outdoors
If you’re outdoorsy, South West England has plenty to offer. Try the long walks at the South West Coast Path that circle the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, or the Durdle Door & White Nothe walk. Wareham Forest in Dorset has plenty of glorious routes, and you could even set yourself the challenge of completing it before your degree is over.
For water babies, there’s plenty to do in and on the water – from surfing and paddleboarding to snorkeling and scuba diving. Coasteering’s popular in Dorset, involving swimming, climbing, and jumping into deep water plunge pools. With its Jurassic coastline, a bit of fossil hunting wouldn’t go amiss either.
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