Studying in Hampshire

Hampshire is a vibrant, exciting place to study with four excellent universities offering a range of courses. Whether you are a UK or international student, there's lots to explore in Hampshire's cities and their surrounding areas.

We've outlined some key highlights for people thinking about studying in the county. 
 

Studing in Southampton

The city of Southampton is home to around 40,000 students and two universities, Southampton Solent University and the University of Southampton. Both are fairly centrally located and campuses are linked via good bus services.

Southampton has a large shopping centre (West Quay) covering 800,000 square feet with 150 restaurants and high street shops. It also has three cinema complexes, a theatre staging West End shows and a marina. Its transport links are second to none with a central train station, ferries and an airport.

Students love the vibrant night life made available to them in this maritime city. From the student quarter of Bedford Place with its student pubs and affordable restaurants to bustling Bevois Valley's nightclubs, live music venues and late night bars, there are so many ways to spend an evening. To find out more please visit our Southampton.
 

Studying in Portsmouth

The naval city of Portsmouth is lively, modern and exciting. With a thriving live music scene, an abundance of bars, pubs and restaurants and top tourist attractions, there's lots to tantalise student interest.

The University of Portsmouth sits at the heart of the city, offering a range of courses such as Business, Psychology and Art and Design. Portsmouth's coast is a great place to spend time, whether its shopping at Gunwharf Quays, admiring the views from the Spinnaker Tower or exploring the city's Historic Dockyard. It regularly welcomes Wight Link and Brittany Ferries, perfect for anyone wanting to explore further afield.

The city comes alive in the evening. At Gunwharf Quays visitors can dance the night away at one of the nightclubs or sample a range of mouth watering cuisine. In the city centre the Guildhall serves as a popular live music venue, whilst Guildhall Walk has row upon row of pubs and bars to explore at leisure. To find out more please visit our Portsmouth page.  
 

Studing in Winchester

Students at the University of Winchester can enjoy a city full of culture, history and art. With its intricate network of cobbled streets, medieval buildings and pretty walks, Winchester is a truly special place to study. The university benefits from an ultra modern design, with a buzzing Students' Union and easy access to the city centre.

Winchester is known for its arts a cultural background. The Theatre Royal regularly showcases modern, quirky plays, dance and comedy whilst the Discovery Centre has a programme of regular exhibitions. There are also live music venues such as The Railway, which has bands playing on a regular basis. Food and drink are a theme throughout the city with unique cafes, fine dining restaurants and trendy bars around every corner.

Anyone wishing to explore the city cannot miss two of Britain's important historical landmarks - Winchester Cathedral and the Great Hall. There are also a series of walking trails which allow you to get to know more about this fascinating area. To find out more please visit our Winchester page.
 

Hampshire Events

Find out what exciting events take place throughout the year via our What's On page. From the Southampton Boat Show and Cowes Week to food festivals, regular markets and country shows, we've got lots to keep you entertained.
 

Exploring Further Afield

Hampshire's coastal location means it's easy to explore areas outside of the county. Just a forty five minute drive from Southampton, students can explore the seaside town of Bournemouth, famed for its sandy beaches, good shopping and seaside atmosphere. Discover more of what's near to Hampshire

Explore rural Hampshire with a visit to the New Forest or South Downs National Parks. With excellent cycle routes, bridleways and paths, our National Parks will allow you to escape city life for a day. Whether you want to see the flat heathland and wild ponies of the New Forest or the rolling green hills and chocolate-box villages of the South Downs, it's all easily accessible from Hampshire's cities.

Step aboard a ferry from Southampton, Lymington or Portsmouth and you can explore our neighbour the Isle of Wight. Take a bus trip or cycle across the island soaking up the coastal towns and pretty harbours which include Cowes and Yarmouth.  

Just a 90 minute drive from Portsmouth is the lively city of Brighton, nicknamed London by the sea. With its eclectic mix of shops, eateries and nightlife, there's plenty to keep visitors busy. In the summer why not explore the famous 'Lanes' of Brighton or stroll along the seafront with its superb views and iconic pier.

Hop on a train from Winchester and you can be at London's Waterloo station in one hour. Explore England's capital at your leisure, all just a short trip away.