The South West of England is made up of seven counties, with rural areas surrounding key student cities – from Plymouth and Bournemouth up to Bath, Bristol and Cheltenham & Gloucester.
You'll find many a festival – including the world-famous Glastonbury. And if you're a cider or cheese buff, you'll have plenty to try in the South West. You can always walk it off in Dartmoor and Exmoor national parks, or beautiful countryside from the Cotswolds to Land's End.
Cornwall, Dorset, and Devon are big coastal favourites, with idyllic beaches and waves to test the bravest surfers.
Providers in the South West
Leaflet | © OpenStreetMap contributors
City guides
Chat to students
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UCAS Media Service
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Ella
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) MidwiferyHi! I am Ella, a 3rd year Midwifery Student. Alongside Midwifery my main passion is dance. I have danced all my life and I am part of BUDS (the dance society at uni!). I also enjoy spending time with my friends, especially at the beach! I am happy to answer any questions that you may have and will try my best to help :) -
Ed
University of PlymouthLLB (Hons) LawI am currently a third year Law student at the University of Plymouth! From my degree to student life I cannot recommend Plymouth University enough, I have loved every moment so far! -
Jack
UWE BristolBusiness ManagementI have spent the last three years learning about me and who I am in this world! In 2022, before university I spent around ten months in Wales enjoying the freedom of moving out of home, learning the value and importance of family! Late 2022/ 2023 I moved to Reading and picked up my first management role at Miller and carter (yes I know far too much about steak). In September I started year 1 of University, whilst this has come with its own challenges from learning I had some additional requirements with my studies, to finding the balance between working, studying and partying!! This next coming year I am looking forward to playing football and tennis, plus picking up a new language perhaps! The future looks exciting, my aim is to finish my degree with First class honours and enter into the finance sector before beginning my own business. My motto is "Dreams cannot be reality without Grit, Determination and Hard work" Look forward to seeing you on campus Jack -
Josh
University of PlymouthBSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation YearHi there My names Josh I'm a first year studying Computer science at the University of Plymouth. I'm an avid muscian with over 13 instruments under my belt. alongside that I love being outdoors and camping. additonally I really enjoy playing airsoft, a sport similar to paintballing. Whilst at Uni I ski and am part of the rock pool project. Im happy to answer any questions you have especially about computer science and robotics. -
Paul
Bournemouth UniversityBA (Hons) Business and ManagementHey, my name is Paul and I'm currently studying Business and Management. With a background in Customer Service and Learning and Development, I've developed a passion for managing business processes and empowering people. Looking forward to your questions. -
Diksha
University of PlymouthBMBS Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of SurgeryHi, I'm Diksha! I'll be happy to answer any of your questions about Medicine, student life, my studies, or anything else about life here at Plymouth. -
Jake
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise ScienceHi, my name is Jake and I am a second year studying sport and exercise science. I am a sports motivated person, that has played football for over 15 years. Studying sport and exercise science at uni has broadened my knowledge within sport, and fuelled my interest in various aspects of sport and I will hopefully be working within the professional industry in the near future. -
Uthsara
University of PlymouthBSc (Hons) Navigation and Maritime ScienceI hope to work in the maritime industry as a seafarer. To work on bulk cargo ships and containerships. Previously I completed my education to A-Level in Sri Lanka. -
kelsie
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Forensic InvestigationI'm a third year forensic investigation student from Leicestershire. My hobbies include crocheting, reading, scrapbooking and listening to music! I'm also part of the BU kpop society! -
Faith
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) PsychologyHello, my name's faith, I'm currently studying psychology at Bournemouth university which I would like to use to do a graduate entry into medicine and become a psychiatrist or I would like to do my master's and PhD and become a clinical psychologist -
Sacha
University of PlymouthBSc (Hons) Environmental Management and SustainabilityI am in the final year of my degree (BSc Environmental Management and Sustainability with a placement year)! After spending four years at university, my plan for after graduation is to volunteer abroad on projects contributing towards sustainable development. During my time at the university, I have been an active member of a sports club, a course rep and a subject-specific student ambassador. -
Patience
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Adult NursingI look forward to completing my degree course with excellent result. The fulfilment and sense of purpose I would gain in practice is ultimately my longterm goal -
Andrew
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Forensic Computing and SecurityI'm Andrew, a 19 year old undergraduate student, with a keen interest in anything related to computers! I love to do programming in my spare time, as well as a bit of gaming. In the future, I would like to be a penetration tester/ethical hacker, as well as doing some digital forensics :) -
Mayokun Sarah
Bournemouth UniversityMSc International Finance and Economics🎓 Accountant from Nigeria currently immersed in Bournemouth's Finance and Economics program Experienced student aid, thrilled about new experiences, showcasing adaptability and resilience. Eager to help as a Student Ambassador, bringing diverse background and strong interpersonal skills to foster a sense of community. 🌟🎓 -
Oscar
University of PlymouthBA (Hons) ArchitectureHi, I'm Oscar. I'm looking to pursue a career in Architecture through my strong passion for Art and Design. I had previously lived in Hong Kong at a young age, and so love to travel and engage in new experiences. Having joined the University through clearing, Plymouth was not my initial destination. However, now being well into my third year of study it is fair to say I have never looked back. I'm here to answer any of your questions regarding Architecture and/or general life as a Uni student! -
Fares
UWE BristolEngineeringHi! I'm Fares Elgamal, a 21-year-old from Egypt. I've been living in the UK for 4 years now and I'm currently in my third year of studying Mechanical Engineering at UWE Bristol. I'm passionate about my field and love sharing my experiences with upcoming students. Looking forward to connecting and helping you with any questions you may have! -
Maria
UWE BristolArtFor me, everything started when I was in kindergarten. My days would be spent singing, dancing, painting, making bread and climbing every tree in the garden. After kindergarten, I went to the Music Conservatory where I graduated after 11 years of playing the flute. However, that was not enough so I continued to explore what art could mean and how many forms it could have. So, at 18 I decided to have my first ballet class. It was then that I discovered my passion for dance and performance and decided to dedicated myself intensively to the dance world until COVID-19 hit. It was during lockdown that I became interested in learning how to sew so I could create costumes to empower my performances. I started making my own video dances and films. Now, I am not only a musician and a performer, but I am also a costume-maker and set designer. -
Harvey
Bournemouth UniversityBA (Hons) HistoryHi, Harvey here! I am a Second Year History student. I’ve come from a relatively disadvantaged background, so coming to university was a big step for me. I’d love to answer your questions on uni life, courses, or anything regarding higher education. No question is a stupid/dumb question :) -
Q
Bournemouth UniversityBA (Hons) Media ProductionHi, my name is Q and I am a Media Production Student. I have always loved the visual arts and management, so have spent a vast amount of my time dancing, managing my film and photography and also volunteering at my local prestigious museum. At Uni I have wanted to keep that up, so joined Dance Society and I also take part in Nerve Radio which is so much fun, but I am also gaining experience as I am considering working in radio in the future, and to produce my own films. -
Hannah
Bournemouth UniversityMA Multimedia JournalismHi I'm Hannah and I've just graduated from BA (Hons) TV Production at Bournemouth Uni. I am now a Masters student studying Multimedia Journalism with aspirations to be a music and entertainment reporter/presenter. I love music and radio and have been a presenter at Nerve for the last three years, and I was also Head of Music on the committee for two years. I've also been a Student Ambassador for about a year and a half, happy to help with any questions or concerns you may have!
Bristol
Tucked between Somerset and Gloucestershire, many forget that Bristol is both a city – known for its alternative and creative culture – and its own county.
Well connected to Wales, Cornwall, London and Birmingham, Bristol combines plenty of styles, architecture and music – plus the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge over Avon Gorge.
Cornwall
With over 300 miles of coastline, you'll be dazzled by Cornwall’s magnificent beaches, dramatic cliffs, winding roads and Bronze Age remains.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite on the waves or in the hills, there are plenty of tasty local treats too – from Cornish pasties, to fudge and ice cream.
Devon
Life moves at a gentle pace in most of these parts, with small seaside towns scattered across its two delightful coastlines.
Meanwhile, its two biggest cities, Plymouth and Exeter, have all the bustle, nightlife and shopping you could want.
Dorset
Just under half of Dorset is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, while the captivating Jurassic Coast is England’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretching almost 100 miles.
It’s no wonder Dorset has inspired authors, filmmakers, and tourists alike – with Bournemouth a popular destination for students and beach enthusiasts.
Gloucestershire
Many consider Gloucestershire to offer the quintessential English experience. You'll find Cheltenham’s rows of white regency architecture, Gloucester's splendid Cathedral and docks, and many a cute village in The Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
A big festival county – including Cheltenham's world-famous Literature, Science and Jazz Festivals – Gloucestershire's also home to the intelligence agency, GCHQ.
Somerset
Largely rural, with a small population for its size, Somerset’s main centre is Bath – a popular student city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its preserved Roman baths and Georgian architecture.
Plus, many believe Cadbury Castle to be the fabled Camelot of King Arthur.
Wiltshire
Rural Wiltshire has some intriguing landmarks, most notably the incredible Stonehenge. Attracting over a million visitors every year, the prehistoric monument has baffled experts.
Lesser known are Wiltshire’s White Horses, carved in the rolling hills across the county.
Chat to students
powered by
UCAS Media Service
-
Ella
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) MidwiferyHi! I am Ella, a 3rd year Midwifery Student. Alongside Midwifery my main passion is dance. I have danced all my life and I am part of BUDS (the dance society at uni!). I also enjoy spending time with my friends, especially at the beach! I am happy to answer any questions that you may have and will try my best to help :) -
Ed
University of PlymouthLLB (Hons) LawI am currently a third year Law student at the University of Plymouth! From my degree to student life I cannot recommend Plymouth University enough, I have loved every moment so far! -
Jack
UWE BristolBusiness ManagementI have spent the last three years learning about me and who I am in this world! In 2022, before university I spent around ten months in Wales enjoying the freedom of moving out of home, learning the value and importance of family! Late 2022/ 2023 I moved to Reading and picked up my first management role at Miller and carter (yes I know far too much about steak). In September I started year 1 of University, whilst this has come with its own challenges from learning I had some additional requirements with my studies, to finding the balance between working, studying and partying!! This next coming year I am looking forward to playing football and tennis, plus picking up a new language perhaps! The future looks exciting, my aim is to finish my degree with First class honours and enter into the finance sector before beginning my own business. My motto is "Dreams cannot be reality without Grit, Determination and Hard work" Look forward to seeing you on campus Jack -
Josh
University of PlymouthBSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation YearHi there My names Josh I'm a first year studying Computer science at the University of Plymouth. I'm an avid muscian with over 13 instruments under my belt. alongside that I love being outdoors and camping. additonally I really enjoy playing airsoft, a sport similar to paintballing. Whilst at Uni I ski and am part of the rock pool project. Im happy to answer any questions you have especially about computer science and robotics. -
Paul
Bournemouth UniversityBA (Hons) Business and ManagementHey, my name is Paul and I'm currently studying Business and Management. With a background in Customer Service and Learning and Development, I've developed a passion for managing business processes and empowering people. Looking forward to your questions. -
Diksha
University of PlymouthBMBS Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of SurgeryHi, I'm Diksha! I'll be happy to answer any of your questions about Medicine, student life, my studies, or anything else about life here at Plymouth. -
Jake
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise ScienceHi, my name is Jake and I am a second year studying sport and exercise science. I am a sports motivated person, that has played football for over 15 years. Studying sport and exercise science at uni has broadened my knowledge within sport, and fuelled my interest in various aspects of sport and I will hopefully be working within the professional industry in the near future. -
Uthsara
University of PlymouthBSc (Hons) Navigation and Maritime ScienceI hope to work in the maritime industry as a seafarer. To work on bulk cargo ships and containerships. Previously I completed my education to A-Level in Sri Lanka. -
kelsie
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Forensic InvestigationI'm a third year forensic investigation student from Leicestershire. My hobbies include crocheting, reading, scrapbooking and listening to music! I'm also part of the BU kpop society! -
Faith
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) PsychologyHello, my name's faith, I'm currently studying psychology at Bournemouth university which I would like to use to do a graduate entry into medicine and become a psychiatrist or I would like to do my master's and PhD and become a clinical psychologist -
Sacha
University of PlymouthBSc (Hons) Environmental Management and SustainabilityI am in the final year of my degree (BSc Environmental Management and Sustainability with a placement year)! After spending four years at university, my plan for after graduation is to volunteer abroad on projects contributing towards sustainable development. During my time at the university, I have been an active member of a sports club, a course rep and a subject-specific student ambassador. -
Patience
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Adult NursingI look forward to completing my degree course with excellent result. The fulfilment and sense of purpose I would gain in practice is ultimately my longterm goal -
Andrew
Bournemouth UniversityBSc (Hons) Forensic Computing and SecurityI'm Andrew, a 19 year old undergraduate student, with a keen interest in anything related to computers! I love to do programming in my spare time, as well as a bit of gaming. In the future, I would like to be a penetration tester/ethical hacker, as well as doing some digital forensics :) -
Mayokun Sarah
Bournemouth UniversityMSc International Finance and Economics🎓 Accountant from Nigeria currently immersed in Bournemouth's Finance and Economics program Experienced student aid, thrilled about new experiences, showcasing adaptability and resilience. Eager to help as a Student Ambassador, bringing diverse background and strong interpersonal skills to foster a sense of community. 🌟🎓 -
Oscar
University of PlymouthBA (Hons) ArchitectureHi, I'm Oscar. I'm looking to pursue a career in Architecture through my strong passion for Art and Design. I had previously lived in Hong Kong at a young age, and so love to travel and engage in new experiences. Having joined the University through clearing, Plymouth was not my initial destination. However, now being well into my third year of study it is fair to say I have never looked back. I'm here to answer any of your questions regarding Architecture and/or general life as a Uni student! -
Fares
UWE BristolEngineeringHi! I'm Fares Elgamal, a 21-year-old from Egypt. I've been living in the UK for 4 years now and I'm currently in my third year of studying Mechanical Engineering at UWE Bristol. I'm passionate about my field and love sharing my experiences with upcoming students. Looking forward to connecting and helping you with any questions you may have! -
Maria
UWE BristolArtFor me, everything started when I was in kindergarten. My days would be spent singing, dancing, painting, making bread and climbing every tree in the garden. After kindergarten, I went to the Music Conservatory where I graduated after 11 years of playing the flute. However, that was not enough so I continued to explore what art could mean and how many forms it could have. So, at 18 I decided to have my first ballet class. It was then that I discovered my passion for dance and performance and decided to dedicated myself intensively to the dance world until COVID-19 hit. It was during lockdown that I became interested in learning how to sew so I could create costumes to empower my performances. I started making my own video dances and films. Now, I am not only a musician and a performer, but I am also a costume-maker and set designer. -
Harvey
Bournemouth UniversityBA (Hons) HistoryHi, Harvey here! I am a Second Year History student. I’ve come from a relatively disadvantaged background, so coming to university was a big step for me. I’d love to answer your questions on uni life, courses, or anything regarding higher education. No question is a stupid/dumb question :) -
Q
Bournemouth UniversityBA (Hons) Media ProductionHi, my name is Q and I am a Media Production Student. I have always loved the visual arts and management, so have spent a vast amount of my time dancing, managing my film and photography and also volunteering at my local prestigious museum. At Uni I have wanted to keep that up, so joined Dance Society and I also take part in Nerve Radio which is so much fun, but I am also gaining experience as I am considering working in radio in the future, and to produce my own films. -
Hannah
Bournemouth UniversityMA Multimedia JournalismHi I'm Hannah and I've just graduated from BA (Hons) TV Production at Bournemouth Uni. I am now a Masters student studying Multimedia Journalism with aspirations to be a music and entertainment reporter/presenter. I love music and radio and have been a presenter at Nerve for the last three years, and I was also Head of Music on the committee for two years. I've also been a Student Ambassador for about a year and a half, happy to help with any questions or concerns you may have!
