Why Preston Is a Great City for University Students

Discover why Preston is a popular choice for university students. From affordable living and excellent transport links to vibrant social scenes, green spaces, and diverse dining options, Preston offers the perfect balance of academic opportunities, community spirit, and student-friendly city living.

Over time, Preston has become one of the most popular places to study in the UK. It's a great mix of fantastic education, affordable living and a lively social scene, all centred on the University of Lancashire. Preston students love calling this place home and here's a closer look at why.

Why Preston is a great city for university students

Preston is a great academic city, but at a much lower price than the big UK cities. The advantages of studying and living in Preston range from affordable daily costs to a strong sense of community for students. 

• Low Cost of Living: In Preston, you will find that rent, transport and everyday meals are much cheaper than the national average, meaning you can make your student loan go further. 
• World-class University Facilities: The University has modern lecture theatres, a £60 million Student Centre and a 24-hour-a-day, 7-days-a-week library during term time.
• A Very Walkable City: Lecture halls, supermarkets, etc., are all within a 10-20 minute walk of your accommodation.
• Great Travel Links: Preston station is on the West Coast Main Line with fast, direct links to Manchester, Liverpool and London.

Benefits of studying and living in Preston for students

Preston is a great choice if you're considering your university options, thanks to its unique mix of city life and natural spaces. Here are some of the best reasons to consider Preston as a UK student city:

• Beautiful Green Spaces: Just a 12-minute walk from campus, you'll find the likes of Avenham and Miller parks, with lovely walks along the river, cute cafés and the 21-mile Guild Wheel loop.
• A Friendly, Cosy Environment: All the upsides of city living, none of the crush of a massive metropolis.
• Active Student Life: Student life in Preston includes year-round events, active university societies and a diverse community of students from over 100 countries.

Preston's Unbeatable Student Social & Food Scene

Student social life at Preston University is busy, varied and very cheap. After lectures, there's always something happening, from casual spots for studying to buzzing night venues.

• Daytime Student Activities: Townhome Coffee and Brew Bar is a local favourite for speciality coffee and brunch just off campus. Level brings together the fun of crazy golf, bowling and laser tag all under one roof.
• Iconic Nightlife: Students love heading to Warehouse for three floors of music and entertainment or chilled-out spots like Turtle Bay and Baker Street for drinks with friends.
• Student-Friendly Food Choices: Legendary Jerk Chicken Wraps are available in local staples like Coco's Soul Food on Friargate. Jaffa has some amazing Middle Eastern food and the Students' Union Lampworks restaurant is good for a quick bite.
• Culturally Relevant Dining: Preston has an incredible selection of international cuisines. For international flavours, the options are endless, with African, Indian and Korean cuisines serving up the very best in international dishes and colourful street food.

Urban Hub: Your Route to University Success

Urban Hub is here to take the burden off your shoulders and make your university experience easy. We provide modern student accommodation at affordable prices to make your university time even more budget-friendly. You also get speedy Wi-Fi, a friendly community and a quiet study space. We are located close to the University of Lancashire and other key locations in the city. We take the daily grind off your shoulders, giving you a chance to focus on your studies, time management and achieving higher marks throughout your degree. 

Best reasons to choose Preston as a student city in the UK

Preston is a great city for university students because of three main things: affordability, convenience and community. Preston has a world-class university, a vibrant local culture and great social places to enjoy - all the ingredients for a successful academic journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Preston an affordable city for students? 

Yes, Preston is among the most affordable cities in the UK for students. It is relatively cheaper for everyday socialising, dining and living expenses. 

2. What’s the distance between the university campus and the city centre?

It is easy for students to walk around the city, as it takes five to ten minutes to walk from the university to the nearest high street shops. 

3. Where is the best place to study near the University of Lancashire?

One of the most popular and accessible places near the university for walking, sitting and reading is Avenham and Miller parks. They are around a 12-minute walk from Preston city centre, next to the River Ribble.

4. Are there any popular foreign restaurants that students like to go to?

Preston boasts plenty of casual places for lunch, from African and Caribbean to Middle Eastern, Korean and Indian eateries. They are all close to Friargate.

5. If I want to travel to other cities, how easy is it to get to other cities?

From Preston train station, you can get good connections to other cities. There are regular direct trains to Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool and London.