University of Bath is a highly ranked, campus-based university on Claverton Down with a strong focus on research, sport, and placements, while Bath Spa University offers creative, arts, and education courses on a scenic parkland campus at Newton Park.
Oldfield Park is the classic student neighbourhood with terraced houses and easy bus links to campus, while Twerton and Southdown offer slightly better value. The city centre suits students who want to be close to shops, cafés, and nightlife.
Bath has a mix of student nights in city centre clubs and bars, lively gigs and comedy at venues like Komedia, and plenty of cosy pubs. Campus bars at both universities add extra options for cheap drinks and themed nights during term time.
Many first years live in university-managed halls on the University of Bath campus at Claverton Down or at Bath Spa's Newton Park. After that, most students move into shared houses or flats in Oldfield Park, Twerton, Southdown, or closer to the city centre, depending on budget and commute.
Bath is compact and very walkable, with regular bus services linking the city centre to both campuses. Bath Spa station has direct trains to Bristol and London, and students often use buses or trains to explore nearby cities like Bristol, Bristol Parkway, and Cardiff.
Royal Victoria Park is a popular spot for picnics, walks, and revision in the sun, while Alexandra Park and the Bath Skyline walk offer amazing city views. The River Avon and nearby canal paths are perfect for relaxed walks or runs between lectures.
Bath is on the pricier side for rent and going out, so budgeting matters. Many students save by living slightly further from the centre, cooking at home, and making the most of student deals in supermarkets, chain restaurants, and on bus travel.
Explore the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey, walk through the Royal Crescent and Circus, and relax at Thermae Bath Spa. Add in a sunset walk along the canal or Skyline route for a classic Bath student experience.
Two universities in a compact, historic student city
Lively campus life with a close knit feel
Linked into a wider South West student hub
Are the universities in Bath good?
Yes - the University of Bath is widely regarded as one of the stronger universities in the UK for teaching quality, research, and student experience. It is especially known for delivering career focused degrees with strong placement and internship opportunities, particularly in subjects like engineering, science, business, and sport. Bath Spa University is also well respected, especially for creative arts, education, and humanities, giving the city a varied and supportive academic environment overall.
What is the University of Bath known for?
The University of Bath is best known for its strengths in engineering, architecture, maths, computer science, business, and sports science, along with its strong emphasis on placements and practical experience. Its campus on Claverton Down has modern teaching spaces, labs, and one of the leading university sports facilities in the country. Bath Spa University is known for creative subjects such as art, design, writing, performance, and teacher training, taught on a scenic parkland campus with specialist studios and arts facilities.
Is Bath a good city for students?
Bath is an excellent city for students if you like a compact, historic setting with plenty of character. The city centre is walkable, with cafés, pubs, independent shops, and green spaces all close by, and there is a strong student presence from both universities. Nightlife is smaller than in nearby Bristol but still offers a good mix of bars, clubs, and live events. The main downside is that living costs and rent can be higher than in some other student towns, but many students feel the quality of life, scenery, and friendly atmosphere make it worth it.
How hard is it to get into the University of Bath?
The University of Bath is fairly selective, with many courses asking for higher A-level grades, especially in competitive subjects like engineering, maths, and some business and science degrees. Typical offers can range from around ABB up to A*AA depending on the course. Bath Spa University tends to have slightly more accessible entry requirements, often focusing on portfolios, auditions, or creative work for arts based subjects. In both cases, admissions teams look at your personal statement, enthusiasm for the subject, and overall potential, not just your predicted grades.
Typical weekly and monthly student costs. Switch between accommodation types to see how much you might spend.
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Click on the icons on the map below to explore each of Bath’s top student areas to live in.
Explore different housing options and providers to find the right student accommodation in Bath for you.
Central student accommodation in Bath, iQ Twerton Mill offers a range of en suite student rooms, private studios and on-site facilities for students at Bath Spa University and the University of Bath.
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Unite Students offers independent student halls, private studio accommodation in Bath, and the option to rent an entire flat with friends.
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Stylish rooms and studios within walking distance of campus, featuring high-speed Wi-Fi and inclusive bills.
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A local, independent letting and managing agent, established in Bath for over 40 years, and specialising in student lettings.
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Discover quality student accommodation in the historic City of Bath with Bath Student Rentals, who are a family-owned business dedicated to providing housing to students from around the world..
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Specialist letting agents offering student accommodation in Bath and Bristol.
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Discover different student hotspots in the city by using the toggles and cards in our interactive explorer.
Bath's classic student hub with terraced houses, easy access to town and a lively student feel.
Historic streets, Georgian crescents and quick access to bars, cafés and buses up to campus.
Leafy streets just over the river, with local pubs and an easy walk to both town and the station.
Further out with cheaper rent and a more residential feel, well served by buses into the centre.
Village style area on the hill with great views, quieter streets and good bus links to campus.
Various spaces to dance, sing, and listen to music in the centre of Bath.
Cocktail bar and late night spot with happy hour deals and a popular heated terrace.
Student favourite for cheap drinks, sport on screens and a busy beer garden near the river.
Stylish bar that's known for cocktails and dress up nights.
Big beer garden, own brewed pints and student friendly food deals near the station.
Independent vegetarian café serving brunch, coffee and cakes right by the Abbey.
Mix and match pizza doughs and toppings, ideal for group dinners before a night out.
Cosy brunch spot tucked away in the centre, popular for stacks of pancakes and relaxed study time.
Light filled café at Kingsmead Square, great coffee and plenty of laptop friendly tables.
Big central park behind the Royal Crescent with lawns, walks and space for summer picnics.
Iconic Georgian crescent overlooking the park, great for photos, walks and showing family around.
World famous ancient baths and museum in the centre, a must do if you are new to the city.
National Trust trail above the city with big views, woodland paths and sunset photo spots.
Classic Bath view with the weir, arches and riverside paths ideal for quick study breaks.
Central campus library with quiet floors, bookable group rooms and long opening hours in exam season.
Modern spaces at Newton Park for group projects, solo revision and creative course work.
From Society Café to Wild Café, Bath has plenty of independents with Wi Fi, plugs and chilled vibes.
Public library in the Podium with free Wi Fi and plenty of desks for quiet off campus revision.
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