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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
