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Studying in North West England

Learn about what it’s like to study in North West England, including the list of universities in the region, transport options, and what there is to see and do.

Manchester's Skyline

CONTENTS

  1. About North West England

  2. Places in North West England

  3. Universities in North West England

  4. Getting around North West England

  5. Things to do in North West England

  6. What students say about North West England

About North West England

North West England is home to some of sports' most recognised football clubs and influential pop-rock bands in the world. Aside from sport and music, the North West is a place of cosmopolitan cities, amazing landscapes and historical villages. 

Manchester and Liverpool are the region's two biggest student hubs – both bursting with art, culture and constant modern development. The diversity of students attracted to North West England is a testament to the region’s welcoming character. 

Places in North West England

There are five major counties that make up North West England. They are:

  • Cheshire
  • Cumbria
  • Greater Manchester
  • Lancashire
  • Merseyside

Within these counties, you have a bunch of main cities and towns, including:

  • Blackburn
  • Blackpool
  • Bolton
  • Burnley
  • Bury
  • Carlisle
  • Chester
  • Lancaster
  • Liverpool
  • Macclesfield
  • Manchester
  • Preston
  • Salford
  • Southport
  • Wigan

All the above cities and towns have at least one university or further education college.

  1. READ MORE
  2. Studying in Manchester
  3. Studying in Liverpool

Universities in North West England

The university options you have in North West England are:

For further education colleges, you’ll have the choice of:

  1. GO TO
  2. University rankings in North West England
  3. Universities in Manchester
  4. Universities in Liverpool

Getting around North West England

Transport in North West England is extensive and generally reliable. You’ll likely be using the bus, a bike, or walking when going between your accommodation, campus, and other parts of town. Train and long-distance bus networks mean you can easily move around the region too.

Air

There are three major airports, Manchester Airport, Liverpool John Lennon Airport, and Blackpool Airport. These will come in useful when heading to Europe or parts of the UK outside the region rather than for travelling within the North West.

Ferry

Ferries aren’t used for travelling within the region but can be used to reach other parts of the UK. Birkenhead and Liverpool terminals have ferries heading to and from Belfast, Isle of Man and Dublin.

Train

The Northern rail service has commuter and rural train networks operating within the region's cities and towns. Long-distance travel across the region, and the UK, is easy via the National Rail links. Purchase a 16–25 Railcard for 1/3 off travel fares.

Bus

Most cities and towns have local bus networks, ideal for short journeys. They’ll be cheaper than the train and check with your uni to see whether student discounts are available. National Express and Megabus both provide long-distance journeys around the region.

Cycle

Places like Manchester, Liverpool, and Lancaster have dedicated cycle lanes that students typically use. Cycling’s a cheap and convenient mode of transport that can also keep you fit. Check if your uni has a cycle hire scheme or scout a local second-hand bike shop for deals.

Other

You might find that you live within walking distance of campus. This is a great way to explore the area and get your bearings. Major cities and towns will have ride-hailing services like Uber, Ola, or Bolt. Local taxi services will be available if not.

Things to do in North West England

Being the cultural hub that it is, the North West of England has plenty to keep students entertained. Don’t just confine yourself to the city or town your university’s in. You’ll miss the many hidden gems scattered around the region.

Arts & culture

Manchester and Liverpool are two of the UK’s most vibrant, creative centres. Both ooze innovation and creativity, while being equally proud of their heritage. Chester holds its own too, with places like Storyhouse being home to arts, theatre, and cinema. You’ll find performing and visual arts at Salford’s Lowry Centre and most cities house a range of museums, galleries, and historic monuments to keep you busy.

Events

Studying in North West England you’ll have plenty of festivals happening around you, like Parklife in Manchester or Foodies Festival in Cheshire. Make note of your local venues too so you know what comedy nights, theatre performances, and music gigs are on. For live sport, you’ll have both Premier League and Championship football, with the region also hosting international cricket, boxing and other sports.

Outdoors

The Lake District is one of the North West’s most recognisable places. There you can scale England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike, or do other walks like Orrest Head. Brockholes nature reserve near Preston and Northern Lancashire both offer glorious outdoor escapes, along with places like Fairy Glen, Pendle Hill and Beacon Fell Country Park. If a weekend away is on the cards, why not plan a trip to the Isle of Man?

What students say about North West England

How do students feel about studying in North West England?

Studying in my home city of Liverpool has been eye opening, having met new people from all around the world. One of my favourite things about university is the societies. I'm president of the dance society at Liverpool Hope and it’s the best part of my week. Getting involved with a society is a must as it brings so many people together, creating friendships and being a little release from studies.

Taya, Criminology student at Liverpool Hope University

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