Universities in Nottingham

CONTENTS

1. Why study in Nottingham?

2. About Nottingham

3. University of Nottingham

4. Nottingham Trent University

5. Living in Nottingham

6. Entry requirements

7. Transport links

8. Getting around Nottingham

9. Things to do in Nottingham

Why study in Nottingham?

Nottingham is a student-centric city in the East Midlands that's brimming with creativity and innovation. It is a great city for students (it's home to over 60,000 of them!) and very affordable, with easy transport connections to cities across the UK. Not only is it home to one of the oldest pubs in England, but it is also known for its connection to Robin Hood.

About Nottingham

Besides its rich history, Nottingham has a thriving music scene, unbeatable nightlife, beautiful green spaces and much more.

Nottingham was at the heart of the textile industry throughout the Industrial Revolution, and the modern city still shows links to its industrial past. Many beautiful buildings in its centre date from this era, including the historic Adams Building in the Lace Market area. These days, rather than clattering looms, you'll find a vibrant arts scene, independent shops and cafes. The city also has a youthful vibe thanks to its two universities. 

University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham is a Russell Group university, meaning it places a strong emphasis on research. It has five faculties – Arts, Engineering, Medicine and Health Sciences, Science, and Social Sciences – and offers a wide variety of degree programmes.

Location

Nottingham’s main site is University Park Campus, which is around two miles from the city centre, and has many teaching buildings and halls. The uni guarantees accommodation for at least the first year of the course for those who meet deadlines and terms and conditions. There are popular housing areas near the campuses. The Students’ Union offers plenty of guidance for those renting private accommodation. 

Facilities

University of Nottingham has eight libraries which provide silent, quiet and group study spaces. There’s Wi-Fi across the campuses, computer rooms open 24/7, and students can get IT help plus laptop repairs. The Students’ Union Advice service offers free, expert advice on matters such as housing, money and academic issues. The SU also hosts student networks including BME, LGBT+, women, disabled, international and mature groups.

See the University of Nottingham profile page for an interactive map and more information.

Nottingham Trent University (NTU)

Nottingham Trent University is a modern university that focuses on employability. It offers industry-accredited courses, work-related experience, and a top careers service. Over 40,000 students study at its campuses and partnership institutions.

Location

NTU has six campuses including Nottingham, Mansfield, and a further site in London. City Campus is in the lively centre of the city. The university guarantees accommodation for UK undergraduates who book by the deadline. 

Facilities

NTU's libraries are open 24/7 on the City and Clifton campuses. Across the campuses are thousands of PCs, and students can access online learning resources from anywhere in the world. Student Services Centres at each of the main campuses offer plenty of support. NTU also has a stunning concert venue – University Hall. Student ensembles, choirs and jazz groups can perform here, and when you graduate you'll grace the stage yourself.

See Nottingham Trent University profile page for an interactive map and more information.

Living in Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers both catered and non-catered halls. Residences include en-suite or shared bathroom options. Both universities offer accommodation on or close to the campus, mainly for first year students.

During the second year, most students choose to live off-campus with friends in private rented accommodation. Common student neighbourhoods include Lenton, Dunkirk, Beeston and Arboretum.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements vary from uni to uni and course to course. The best way to check what you need to get into your preferred course at each university is to use our course chooser. There you can see what each course’s entry requirements are.

Transport links

Average train journey times from Nottingham

Getting around Nottingham

Nottingham is quite a compact city which makes it easy to travel around on foot or by bike. It also has a tram system and a great bus service.

Bus

Nottingham runs reliable and regular buses with many routes operating all day on Sundays. There’s also a Robin Hood card that could save you money if travelling often by public transport.

Cycle

A healthy and sustainable option, cycling is an enjoyable way to get around the city. There are cycle lanes and quiet roads to help you feel safe when travelling.

Tram

Nottingham is lucky enough to have a tram system in place which connects the city centre to neighbouring suburbs.

Train

Frequent trains run to and from other UK cities, including London, Norwich, Leicester, Birmingham and Cardiff. This makes it easier for students to visit home during the holidays or explore other cities.

Things to do in Nottingham

There is a range of activities and entertainment options in Nottingham. This makes the city a perfect choice for students who want new experiences outside of their studies.

Historical attractions

Nottingham has one of the UK’s largest networks of caves, with more than 800 lying beneath the city streets. They have been used as cellars, beer breweries and even as bomb shelters during World War II.

History buff or not, you should check out Wollaton Hall, a grade I listed Elizabethan mansion based within 500 acres of parkland. This building featured in the 2012 Batman movie The Dark Knight Rises – but by day it houses the Natural History Museum and Industrial Museum.

Nottingham is also famous for its Goose Fair. In the 13th century this was literally a way to sell geese. These days it's a large funfair that typically runs for a ten days.

Nightlife

With secret bars, traditional pubs and impressive nightclubs, Nottingham is the perfect city for an unbeatable night out.

One of Nottingham’s hidden gems is the Lost Caves bar, tucked away inside the Mercure Nottingham City Centre George Hotel.

For a club night, there are several popular venues. Stealth is often considered the best club in the Midlands, with past guest DJs including Annie Mac, Disclosure and Jamie xx. Other popular clubs include Ink and The Palais (formerly PRYZM).

Food and drink

In Nottingham you’ll find lots of unique and fun places to eat and drink. For example, there’s Jamcafe for craft beers, vegan food and DJs, Fat Hippo for a messy burger, and Zaap Thai for authentic Thai street food.

Coffee lovers can check out the many quirky cafes on offer. Cobden Place is a co-working space with a vintage shop and cafe. 

Outdoors

From parks and gardens to forests and bodies of water, you won’t struggle to find green attractions in and around Nottingham.

When needing a break from your studies, you can get some fresh air in The Arboretum, the city's oldest public park. Or head to Wollaton Park for a picnic while admiring Wollaton Hall. Last but by no means least, Sherwood Forest is a great place to cycle and walk around. It was also thought to be the home of Robin Hood! To get here, you can catch a bus for one hour or drive in 30 minutes.

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