Looking for a university surrounded by green spaces, coastlines, or national parks? Some UK campuses are perfect for nature lovers — offering breathtaking backdrops for studying, relaxing, or exploring the outdoors. From the University of Nottingham’s 300-acre parkland to Bangor’s coastal access to Snowdonia, these institutions combine academic excellence with natural beauty. Whether you want weekend hikes, eco-focused degrees, or sustainability-driven campuses, this guide highlights where to find the UK’s most scenic student experiences. For more on eco-conscious choices, you might also like our ranking of the Best Universities for Sustainability. The UK is full of lush green countryside, rolling hills, and farms that go on for ages. And if you’re someone who loves all of that, you may well be looking for a university surrounded by the great outdoors. So here are the best UK universities for nature lovers.

1. University of Nottingham

University of Nottingham
Source: Canva
One of the city of Nottingham’s claims to fame is the legend of Robin Hood, all of which is set in the lush greenery of Sherwood Forest. But aside from the great surroundings of the city, the campus itself has a fair amount of nature itself. The 300-acre University Park campus has literally won awards for its eco-friendly spaces with its gardens, trees, and even water features! Check out our list of the best outdoor activities in Nottingham, for more inspiration.

2. University of Reading

 
University of Reading
Source: University of Reading Instagram
Reading sits within the country of Berkshire, which is known for its quaint rural villages and charming English countryside. The town itself sits just outside of the Wessex Downs, which is an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are also great national parks like Beale Park, Wellington Country Park, and easy access to Kennet & Avon Canal. It’s no surprise that it is one of the best universities for nature lovers.

3. Ulster University

Over in Northern Ireland, Ulster University is not only an excellent academic institution, but it has amazing access to nature. Based in Coleraine, the university sits on the wild Northern Irish coast. There are two beaches mere minutes away from the campus and the Giant’s Causeway is not too far away either.

4. Bangor University

Bangor University
Source; Bangor University Instagram
Set in Wales’ oldest city, Bangor University is surrounded by the lush landscape of Gwynedd, with the Irish sea on one side. You have great access to the North Wales Path which will take you along the coastline all the way to Prestatyn. You can also travel to nearby Snowdonia!

5. University of the Highlands and Islands

University of the Highlands and Islands
Source: UHI Instagram
It should come as no surprise that the highlands have some amazing nature. The university is right on the coast in Inverness and has a huge cathedral, a Victorian Market and is merely 30 minutes away from Loch Ness. Pair that with the gorgeous scenery of the highlands, and it’s the perfect university for any nature lover.

6. Keele University 

Keele University 
Source: Keele University Instagram
In Staffordshire, Keele University’s campus is actually recognised as one of the most beautiful campuses in the UK. It’s up on a gorgeous hill that overlooks Newcastle-under-Lyme and is completely self-contained in the countryside on a 620-acre campus. If you feel the need to get away, the Peak District is just under an hour away.

7. University of Central Lancashire

 
University of Central Lancashire
Source: University of Central Lancashire Instagram
Lancashire is home to the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, North Pennines and has lots of links to Scotland. The nature there is so gorgeous that it inspired Jane Austen, William Wordsworth and Emily Bronte!

8. University of Exeter

University of Exeter
Source: University of Exeter Instagram
Exmoor and Dartmoor are both close to the University of Exeter. The former consists of the highest sea cliffs in England with great walks and picturesque wilderness, and the latter has challenging hikes and beautiful scenery. Plus, the university is one of the top in the country!

9. University of Brighton or Sussex

University of Brighton or Sussex
Source: University of Brighton Instagram
If you’re a lover of the sea, the countryside and the hubbub of a city, then the University of Brighton or Sussex are great choices. You have the seaside on your doorstep, with a beautiful shingle beach which stretches all the way from Eastbourne to Worthing, as well as the South Downs a short bus ride away, and then there’s Hove Park, Devil’s Dyke and the Seven Sisters! What’s more, the city is great for student nightlife so you really do have the best of both worlds. Check out our 10 of the best bars in Brighton list.
Aminah Barnes
Aminah Barnes – Manchester Metropolitan University
Topic expertise: University & Degree choice, Applications, Travel and Student life

FAQs on the Best Nature-Focused UK Universities

Top picks include the University of Nottingham (with its 300-acre green campus), University of Reading (near the Wessex Downs), Ulster University (close to beaches and the Giant’s Causeway), Bangor University (by Snowdonia and the coast), and the University of the Highlands and Islands (deep in the Scottish Highlands).

Yes. Keele University is near the Peak District, Exeter borders Dartmoor and Exmoor, and the University of Central Lancashire offers access to the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales—ideal for students who love rural landscapes.

The University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent are consistently rated among the UK’s greenest universities. UCL, Imperial College London, and the University of Edinburgh also rank highly for sustainability-focused education and campus practices.

Absolutely. Universities like Nottingham, Exeter, and Reading are well-regarded for environmental sciences, geography, and earth studies—often with fieldwork opportunities built into their degree programmes.

Yes. Universities like Brighton and Sussex give students the best of both worlds—with buzzing nightlife and culture, plus nearby access to the South Downs and iconic coastal walks like the Seven Sisters.

Authors

  • Aminah is a dedicated content expert and writer at Unifresher, bringing a unique blend of creativity and precision to her work. Her passion for crafting engaging content is complemented by a love for travelling, cooking, and exploring languages. With years spent living in cultural hubs like Barcelona, Sicily, and Rome, Aminah has gained a wealth of experiences that enrich her perspective. Now based back in her hometown of Manchester, she continues to immerse herself in the city's vibrant atmosphere. An enthusiastic Manchester United supporter, Aminah also enjoys delving into psychology and true crime in her spare time.

    View all posts