Skip navigation

    Study in Southampton

    City guide

    Sat on the coast, historical Southampton is the perfect combination of big town and small city.

    It’s a city run by students. I think it’s a great transition between home life and university. There’s plenty to do for nights out, or in the daytime as it’s by the sea. The New Forest isn’t that far away for days out. There are huge shopping centres, and a big high street, plus harbours with restaurants overlooking them. There’s a high street closer to the university which has more of a student vibe, with charity shops and smaller independent stores. Southampton Common provides all the large green space you need. (Third year student, University of Southampton)

    Chat to students powered by Unibuddy

    UCAS Media Service
    See all

    • William

      The University of Law
      MA Law (SQE 1)
      Hello! I am currently enrolled in the MA Law (SQE 1) online program. If you have any questions about life as an online student, please feel free to ask! My career goal is to become a solicitor in the field of contract law or tort law.

    • Maria

      The University of Law
      LLM Maritime Law
      Hey everyone, I’m Maria! 👋 I’m a Maritime Law master’s student at ULaw, working towards becoming a shipping solicitor in the near future. Growing up by the sea in Spain, surrounded by ports and ships, I’ve always been drawn to the world of international trade and navigation! 🌊⚓🚢 I’m also multilingual and absolutely love traveling, meeting new people, and experiencing different cultures. When I’m not immersed in legal studies, I enjoy exploring the fashion industry, balancing two very different but equally exciting worlds. ✨ I’d love to help students make the most out of their time at ULaw! So whether you're curious about maritime law, student life at ULaw and in London, or juggling multiple passions, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d love to chat and share my experience! 😊

    • Rashid

      The University of Law
      LLM Corporate Governance GradCG
      🌟 Hello Future Leaders! 🌟 I’m Rashid, a proud Student Ambassador at the University of Law! 🎓✨ My journey here has been nothing short of transformative, filled with challenges, growth, and countless opportunities to make a difference. As someone who’s navigated the exciting (and sometimes daunting) path of university life, I’m here to share my experiences and insights with you! Whether you have questions about courses, campus life, or how to unleash your potential, I’m all ears. Let’s connect and explore how the University of Law can help you achieve your dreams. Remember, every great journey starts with a single step so let's take that step together! 🚀💬 Don’t hesitate to reach out; I'm excited to help you on your journey!

    • Amelia

      The University of Law
      Law (LLB)
      Hi! I'm Amelia, I am from Bradford and I am an aspiring Barrister at ULaw. Outside of classes I participate in the Bar Society in which we run lots of events such as debates and mooting for all students to join, we include snacks and prizes for the students. My personal interests include lots of crocheting and reading, I love reading anything from Classical Literature to Manga and Manhwa.

    • Hadia

      The University of Law
      Law (LLB)
      Hi! I'm Hadia, a final year LLB student at the University of Law (Leeds) Campus. My career goal is to be a solicitor! I would be happy to answer all your questions about my studies, student life, or anything else. Just to note that this is not an instant messaging service, so please feel free to ask your question(s) now rather than waiting for my initial reply and I will respond to you as soon as possible (within 48 hours).

    • Daisy

      The University of Law
      Bar Practice Course (BPC)
      I have completed my LLB Undergraduate Law degree with The University of Law. I am currently studying the Bar Professional Course LLM and my career goal is to become a Barrister practicing International and European Law. This aspiration stemmed from growing up between England and Italy. I am also part of the Global Law Society where we have regular guest speakers and mooting competitions. Please feel free to ask me any questions about student life, studying or anything else!

    • Emma

      The University of Law
      Law (LLB)
      I juggle my studies around working part-time and parenting two children. I am also neurodiverse, am proud to have achieved high grades on the LLB to date despite leaving school with minimal GCSEs and no A levels. I also represent the Online Campus as Student Ambassador. My current area of interest is family law.

    • Esha

      The University of Law
      LLM International Business Law (Master of Laws)
      Hi! My name is Esha, and I’m from India, currently living in London while pursuing an LLM in International Business Law at the University of Law. I’m a qualified lawyer in India and aim to become a solicitor in the near future. I love to read and travel. If you have any questions about career paths, student life, being an international student, study modes, or anything else, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to help!

    • Anna

      The University of Law
      MA Law (SQE 1)
      In my career as a lawyer I am mostly interested in contract law, including negotiation of terms and advising on commercial/corporate deals. I’m also interested in litigation and dispute resolution.

    What Southampton's famous for...

    Titanic

    The legacy of the ship – which set off from Southampton – is closely tied to the city's history.

    The Titanic

    Southampton nightlife, according to students

    There are about five to six main [clubs], which are split between Portswood & the main city centre. There are many pubs and bars throughout the city, many of which are like clubs in the evening. From the SU pub on Highfield Campus, to the bars, pubs, and live music venues in Portswood – like The Hobbit (a Lord of the Rings themed pub, which has live music) and The Brook – to Bedford Place which has a Wetherspoons, Popworld, Revolutions, independent cocktail bars, and old pubs. (University of Southampton student)

    The port

    Expect a steady stream of fresh faces in town – around 1.5 million passengers pass through the port each year.

    Southampton port

    Southampton nightlife, according to students

    Switch or Jesters are usually the go-to places on a Friday. This is Switch’s student night, and Jesters do cheap drinks most nights. (Third year student, University of Southampton)

    New Forest

    Beautiful countryside views and ponies roaming freely, all on your doorstep.

    New Forest ponies

    Student life in Southampton

    Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.

    Treat yourself

    West Quay is the hub [for] shopping and places to eat, but for a treat you can head to Bedford Place where there are a bunch of quirky small restaurants and pubs. (Second year student, University of Southampton)

    Friday feeling

    Of course you have Jesters – you have to go at least once to call yourself a proper [University of Southampton] student. (Second year student, University of Southampton)

    Sunday chilling

    The Common is the perfect place to go for a long walk, bike ride, or have a picnic with a friend. It’s a big, beautiful green space. (Second year student, University of Southampton)

    When family visit

    There's the Titanic Museum, and a really nice pub called The Cowherds which is a bit pricier, but [does] good food. (Second year student, University of Southampton)

    Feeling cultural

    The Mayflower Theatre has a variety of shows, with many West End shows coming to perform. The Art House is a cafe that has poetry evenings, comedy nights, and other events. (Second year student, University of Southampton)

    Catch up with mates

    Trago Lounge = brunch. They have loads of board games, it's not too expensive, [and] it's also close to the university campus. (Second year student, University of Southampton)

    Low on cash

    Gordon Arms is a cheap pub to go to if you’re low on cash. They also do a pub quiz every Thursday, which is a lot of fun. (Third year student, University of Southampton)

    Grab a bite

    7 Bone Burger is the top burger place in Southampton. For most [University of Southampton] students, it's only ever a ten-minute walk, maximum. Such a good place for a catch-up, or a hangover treat. (University of Southampton students)

    Southampton in pictures

    Southampton Marina

    View from the Harbour Hotel. (Kelly, third year student at University of Southampton)

    Southampton Marina

    Living in Southampton, according to students

    Highfield – this area is great as it’s right next to uni, and it's quiet. It’s a safe area. It’s about a 20 - 25 minute walk to Portswood for your shopping. There is a small Tesco Express nearby though, for the smaller bits you might need. Again, it’s far away from the city centre, but you can hop on a bus and be there in 20 minutes. (Second year student, University of Southampton)

    Ocean Village

    Ocean Village Marina is great to go [to], and look at all the expensive boats. (Yasmin, third year student at Southampton Solent University)

    Ocean Village Marina

    City centre

    I took this photo while I walked around the city centre just before Christmas in my first year at uni. It's a special memory for me, as it was the first time I ever saw the city's decorations. (Victoria Crawshaw, second year student at University of Southampton)

    Southampton Christmas lights

    Living in Southampton, according to students

    We decided to live in Portswood, as it is known as the [University of Southampton] area. Solent University [students] tend to rent in the Polygon area by Bedford Place. The good thing is you’re never far from your friends. Portswood high street and Bevois Valley aren’t far either, and have all of your needs. Avenue and Highfield [campuses] are within walking distance. There is a massive hill to walk to Highfield – the dreaded hill! I’ve paid for a bus pass instead, because I’m always late if I have to walk. There are a lot of families in Portswood. (Third year student, University of Southampton)

    City centre

    The view from my kitchen. Lots of green space, even in the city centre. (Kamima, third year student at University of Southampton)

    Trees in Southampton city centre

    Living in Southampton

    Housing, travel, and budgeting tips.

    Where you'll find students

    • Portswood
    • Highfield
    • The Polygon

    Local transport

    • Unilink 90 day ticket – £125
    • Bus

    Student money tips

    The best place to live after halls is Portswood. It’s walking distance to campus, but also quite close to the clubs. There’s a Sainsbury’s, but if you go about 15-minutes down the road, there is an Aldi which is much cheaper. If you want to live on a road with free parking, go to Livingstone Road, Alma Road, Gordon Avenue, Avenue Road, Westridge Road, Tennyson Road, [and] Shakespeare Avenue. (Third year student, University of Southampton)

    The cost of living as a student soon adds up, us our budget calculator to find out roughly how much you'll need each month.

    ​Discover more savings on student life in Southampton with UCAS student discounts. Find the latest deals, from fashion brands and eating fresh, to big discounts on tech and travel.

    Study options

    Find courses and apprenticeships in the South West:

    Advertisements. Why the ads?