Discover the best UK universities for History in 2026. Explore top programs blending rich academic tradition with vibrant student life.
Best Universities for History: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Oxford | 95 | 82 |
| 2 Silver | University of Cambridge | 94 | 80 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Edinburgh | 91 | 79 |
| 4 | University of Manchester | 89 | 77 |
| 5 | University of Glasgow | 88 | 75 |
| 6 | University of York | 87 | 74 |
| 7 | Durham University | 87 | 72 |
| 8 | University of Nottingham | 85 | 73 |
| 9 | University of Sussex | 83 | 70 |
| 10 | University of Bristol | 82 | 75 |
1. University of Oxford Gold
2. University of Cambridge Silver
3. University of Edinburgh Bronze
4. University of Manchester
5. University of Glasgow
6. University of York
7. Durham University
8. University of Nottingham
9. University of Sussex
10. University of Bristol
How We Ranked These Universities
Our History rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, crime rate, student satisfaction, cost of a pint and Uber
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked History Universities in the UK
The UK is one of the most exciting places to study History, offering access to centuries of heritage, world-leading research, and historic archives. Our 2025 guide highlights the best universities for History in the UK, ranked for academic reputation, student satisfaction, and graduate outcomes. Whether you’re interested in ancient civilizations, modern politics, or cultural history, these universities provide an exceptional foundation for your studies.
University of Oxford
Oxford remains a global leader in historical research and teaching. Students benefit from access to world-class libraries, small-group tutorials, and specialist professors across every historical period. Its graduates are among the most employable in the UK.
University of Cambridge
Cambridge offers a rich and flexible history curriculum supported by expert supervision and access to centuries-old archives. Its tutorial-based approach develops critical thinking and independent research skills highly valued by employers.
University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh combines academic excellence with an interdisciplinary outlook, allowing students to explore global, social, and cultural histories. Its welcoming campus and historic surroundings make it one of the best cities in the UK to study History.
University of York
York’s History department is known for innovative teaching and diverse course options, covering everything from medieval history to modern politics. With high student satisfaction and strong career support, it’s a popular choice for history enthusiasts.
University of Glasgow
Glasgow offers a vibrant academic community and excellent teaching standards. Its focus on Scottish, European, and global histories, combined with affordable living, makes it one of the UK’s best value options for History students.
University of Manchester
Manchester provides dynamic history programs linking the past to modern issues such as politics, culture, and social change. Its lively campus and research-driven teaching attract students seeking both academic depth and community life.
University of Leeds
Leeds stands out for social, cultural, and modern historical studies. The department encourages collaboration, debate, and hands-on research projects, supported by active student societies and a great nightlife scene.
University of Bristol
Bristol’s history degrees focus on critical thinking, evidence analysis, and global awareness. With strong teaching quality and a student-friendly city, it’s ideal for those interested in combining intellectual rigour with an engaging social life.
Durham University
Durham offers one of the most picturesque academic settings in the UK, with courses specialising in medieval, early modern, and global history. Its close-knit college system supports a strong sense of community and academic engagement.
King’s College London
King’s combines historic prestige with access to London’s cultural institutions. Students gain direct access to archives, museums, and policy organisations, preparing them for diverse careers in history, heritage, and beyond.
Career Prospects After a History Degree
History graduates develop strong analytical, writing, and research skills that open doors to careers in education, heritage management, journalism, public policy, and law. Related degrees include Politics and Linguistics.
Entry Requirements for History Courses
Most History degrees require A-levels in History or related humanities subjects. UCAS entry points typically range from 120 to 160 depending on the university. Critical thinking and essay-writing skills are highly valued during admissions.
Most Affordable Cities to Study History in the UK
Glasgow, York, and Leeds combine affordable living costs with top-ranked History departments and rich cultural surroundings.
Best Universities for Nightlife and Social Life
Manchester, Leeds, and Edinburgh are known for their lively student life, museums, and cultural events — ideal for history students looking for balance between study and social experience.
Student Wellbeing and Academic Support
Universities such as Edinburgh, York, and Bristol are recognised for strong student wellbeing services, mentorship programs, and inclusive learning environments.
Considering Alternatives to History?
If you’re exploring related subjects, consider Archaeology, Politics, or Philosophy for overlapping skills and career pathways.
Summary: Which History University Is Right for You?
When choosing where to study History, consider course specialisms, research opportunities, city lifestyle, and graduate support. Oxford and Cambridge lead for tradition and prestige, while York, Edinburgh, and Glasgow shine for student experience and accessibility. Compare your options to find the perfect fit for your goals.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for History
Top UK universities for History include Oxford, Cambridge, University College London, and Durham, known for excellent teaching and rich research opportunities.
Oxford University consistently ranks highest for History, praised for its academic rigor, expert faculty, and student satisfaction.
A History degree offers critical thinking, research, and communication skills valued across sectors such as education, law, media, and public service.
Typical A-level requirements include History or English Literature, but many universities accept a broad range of subjects. Check individual course pages for specifics.
Graduates often work in education, heritage, journalism, law, public policy, and roles requiring strong analytical and writing skills.
Yes, employers value History graduates for their research and critical thinking abilities, especially in education, media, and public sectors.
Starting salaries range around £20,000 to £28,000, with potential growth in fields like law, media, and education.
Some History degrees focusing on intense research and original dissertation work can be challenging. Check course content and student reviews for insights.
Many work in education, heritage organisations, media, public service, and roles requiring strong communication and analytical skills.
Yes, History is widely respected, especially from top UK universities, valued for transferable skills and academic depth.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked