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    Study in York

    City guide

    With Roman beginnings and Viking heritage – York combines a maze of medieval architecture with vibrant entertainment, nightlife and independent shopping.

    York has a long and unique history. Its Roman and Viking heritage is celebrated with the annual Eboracum and Jorvik festivals, featuring craft stalls, street musicians, and battle reenactments. The small, twisting streets – The Shambles [is] a standout – and opportunity to walk along the walls make the city an exciting and interesting place to explore. Even as a third year, I'm always finding something new around every corner! It's a very small city centre, and can easily be walked end to end in about 15 minutes. (Third year student, University of York)

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    • Adam

      Coventry University
      Sports Coaching BSc
      Hi there👋, My name is Adam and I am currently a first year Sports Coaching student and a lifelong Coventry habitant. Sports has been a massive part of my life which has lead me to studying the Sports Coaching Bachelor Degree here at Coventry. I am looking to pursue a career within Sport Coaching as I look to teach and coach others the amazing thing that is sport🤩. Feel free to ask me questions about the Sports Coaching Course and elements of University life😃 ⚽️🏀🎾🏓🏏

    • Abbie

      Leeds Trinity University
      Primary Education (Early Years 3-7) with QTS BA (Hons)
      Hi I’m Abbie 🫶🏻. I am a primary education student here at Leeds trinity completing my first year currently. I live at home and commute in for my lectures. I am a course representative so look very closely into student feedback. I am also the mental health officer for Leeds trinity and look forward to building campaigns to help those at trinity! I was very nervous joining university but realised very quickly it’s like family where everyone is supportive and tries to help at any opportunity. The campus is beautiful and I love to study in lots of different spaces to change up the scenery every now and again! I have a dog walking business to satisfy my love of animals and am also a student ambassador for university. I work part time in a pub not far from the university and love to go running in my spare time to clear my mind! I came from sixth form to university and knew what course I wanted to do. I’m here to answer all of your questions about life at university hoping to give an insight on the student life and what to expect!

    • Abigail

      University of Lincoln
      Dance - BA (Hons)
      Hi, I'm Abi and I'm a third-year BA (Hons) Dance Student. I'm from Suffolk. I started dancing from the age of 3 in Ballet, Modern and Tap and then also started training in Contemporary, Irish and Ballroom & Latin dance before completing both GCSE & A-level Dance. I'm now continuing my passion here at UOL and hope to continue this into a professional career!

    • Abbey

      Leeds Trinity University
      Criminology with Police Studies BA Combined (Hons)
      I am looking at going into the police after university and doing their graduate detective program. I enjoy watching all sorts of true crime documentaries.

    • Abdullah

      Liverpool John Moores University
      Computer Science, BSc (Hons)
      Currently in my second year, I’m focused on making the most of my degree and building a strong foundation in my field. After completing my bachelor’s, my plan is to pursue a master’s in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. I’m passionate about using AI to tackle real-world challenges, and eventually, I’d love to work in a tech company that’s leading the way in innovation. My vision is to be part of projects that push the boundaries of what technology can achieve—I’m excited about what the future holds!

    • Aditya

      University of Glasgow
      Medicine [MBChB]
      Hello everyone, This is Aditya. I am a 2nd Year international medical student at the University of Glasgow. My aspiration is to become a cardiologist with a special interest in interventional cardiology and cardiac physics. I am open to any questions you guys might want to ask about the university, the medical school, or even the city and how it’s been adapting to a new culture as an international student :)

    • Advika

      University of Glasgow
      Common Law [LLB]
      Hey there ! I am Advika from India🇮🇳 and I am a third year Common Law student. I would be happy to answer all your questions about the university, studies, student life, or anything else. Please feel free to chat 😊

    • Aaliyah

      University of Hertfordshire
      Animation, film, games and creative media
      Hi, I'm Aaliyah! I am a final-year Games Art student and want to work hard to hone my skills and improve as a character artist! I am also a producer so if you want to talk about that specialism within Games and VFX then feel free to ask. You might be feeling a bit worried or uneasy about what there is and what the course entails but I am here to answer all your questions. No matter how big the question or how small :) Whilst I'm not in the other animation pathways (3D/VFX, 2D animation, Comic & Concept Art) I can always give my knowledge in those areas too. Just pop a message over! Very excited to talk about the courses with you :D

    • Adrianna

      University of the Arts London
      Public Relations
      ✨Public Relations student passionate about creative storytelling & making an impact through strategic marketing. 📈Obsessed with digital analytics, media research 🔍, and fostering real connections within the media world! 🤝 👩‍🎓Active as a Peer Mentor, Senior Student Ambassador, and Media School Rep – always here to help and share my journey! 🌟 💡 Let’s chat all things PR, media, and beyond!

    • Abigail

      Bournemouth University
      BA (Hons) Film
      Hi, I'm Abigail and I'm a third-year Film student! I'd be very happy to answer anything about filmmaking and media related questions at Bournemouth University, and what it’s like to move out for the first time and settle into a new city! :))

    • Accalia

      University of Sussex
      Law with International Relations LLB (Hons)
      I would love to be engaged in various sectors specifically Media, Law and International Business, My end goal is to be an international consultant for Caribbean small businesses.

    • Abigail

      City St George's, University of London
      Politics BSc (Hons)
      Hi, my name is Abigail and I am a 2nd year Politics undergraduate, who wants to become a lawyer in common law. I am happy to answer questions regarding university, a career in law, etc! ❤️

    • Abigail

      University of Essex
      Criminology
      Hello! My name is Abi, and I'm currently in my third year doing Criminology with Counselling Skills. I aspire to go into the police force to be a detective! I love helping others and cooking. Alongside my degree, I am doing some content creation and photography as a fun hobby as I also have a passion for both of those things.

    • Abdul

      University of Lincoln
      Architecture - BA (Hons)
      “Hi! Feel free to ask me any questions about the courses here in Lincoln and also about the city itself. I am more than happy to help you with any questions you might have.”

    • Abdul Rashid

      University of Aberdeen
      Biotechnology, Bioinformatics and Bio-business MSc
      My current career plan is to delve deep into the core of bioinformatics and try as much as possible to make it easy for future prospects in that field of study.

    • Adrianna

      Bangor University
      Marine Biology
      Hi, I'm Adrianna. I'm from North West England. I decided I wanted to do marine biology, when someone did an online talk at my college all about the marine environment and biology. My main hobbies include sewing; gaming; watching films and series; and spending time with friends and family. Some of my favorite games are Animal Crossing; Slime Rancher; and Stardew Valley. Some of my favorite movies/series are: How to Train Your Dragon; Vampire Diaries; Grey's Anatomy; and Disney movies.

    • Aditi

      University College Birmingham
      Finance and Accounting
      I am Aditi Ghevade, from the city of Mumbai, India. Currently pursuing my postgraduate studies in Finance and Accounting, I find immense joy in delving into the intricacies of financial systems and exploring the world of numbers. Fluent in English, Hindi, Marathi, and even French, my multicultural and multilingual background has equipped me with a versatile skill set.

    • Abby

      Swansea University
      Sport and Exercise Science, BSc (Hons)
      I am a keen swimmer and am part of the University Swim team and have competed in the BUSL swim league as well as Welsh Varsity representing the university. The swim team is comprised of a range of abilities. I love what I study and am passionate about Sport Psychology and hope to pursue it as a Masters when I graduate. I am in my second year of the degree course and am loving it so far, so any questions about my course or the swim team are more than welcome.

    • Aayan

      City St George's, University of London
      Actuarial Science BSc (Hons)
      I did my Foundation year from INTO City, University of London. Currently doing BSc Data Analytics and Actuarial Science. I plan to work in Data / AI Field, I have strong interest in Trading and Content Creation 😊.

    • Adeola Priscillia

      Coventry University
      MSc International Business Management
      I am currently studying International Business Management and have a background in education. Although I’ve recently started as a student ambassador, I bring previous customer service experience, which has strengthened my communication and interpersonal skills. I’m passionate about pursuing a career in global business, combining my interests in education and international management.

    What York's famous for...

    Festivals

    From Shakespeare and Fringe theatre, to gardening and food, York has festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant city in every season.

    Festival

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    York nightlife, according to students

    The Lowther and Stone Roses are student favourites for a cheap pint and some good chat. But, if you want to get adventurous and try some cocktails, head down to quirky Evil Eye, take a trip from old York to New York in Manahatta, or head to the riverside and go to Revolution before dancing the night away there on Sunday. (Third year student, University of York)

    Walls

    Majestic medieval walls enclose the city's spider web of streets.

    Wall in York

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    York nightlife, according to students

    If you’re not into drinking, York’s fantastic live music scene is surely right for you. Boasting everything from grime to indie rock, live music venues offer some of the biggest names in music, performing intimate gigs all year round. In York, there is something for everyone. (Third year student, University of York)

    The Shambles

    In the heart of the city is one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe. It's the bustling home of York’s largest group of independent traders.

    Shambles York

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    Student life in York

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

    Low on cash

    I love just walking around the city. Explore the city walls, and the world-famous Shambles before getting into the Minster for free with your student card. (Second year student, University of York)

    Friday feeling

    Club Salvation, or ‘Salvos’ as you will come to know it, is the place to be if you’re looking for a night out. (Second year student, University of York)

    Sunday chilling

    The Museum Gardens are always lovely to walk around. Gatehouse Coffee is a cafe on the historic wall, with a really nice view from the outdoor seating area. (Third year student, York St John University)

    When family visit

    Betty's Café Tea Rooms is quite famous, and does really nice cakes and other food. The JORVIK Viking Centre and The York Dungeon are also really good to visit. (University of York student)

    Grab a bite

    The York Roast Co is a favourite among locals, students, and tourists, as home to the Yorkshire Pudding wrap. (Second year student, University of York)

    Feeling cultural

    One of the most haunted cities in Europe, you can take the York Ghost Tour. On a lighter [note], there are experiences such as the York's Chocolate Story, and the National Railway Museum is a beautiful place to visit and learn from. (Second year student, University of York)

    Treat yourself

    Evil Eye! The bar is set up in a three-storey Tudor house. The owner would travel around places in India and China, buying objects from local markets, and shipping them to his bar. (Second year student, York St John University)

    Catch up with mates

    Bison Coffee House and Brew & Brownie are both fantastic! Make sure you get to Brew & Brownie before lunchtime though, especially on the weekend as there will be queues. (Second year student, University of York)

    York in pictures

    York Minster

    A view of York Minster on a sunny day, and the photo that makes me miss York when I'm not there. (Second year student at York St John University)

    York Minster on a sunny day

    Living in York, according to students

    My flatmates and I go for walks together on an almost-daily basis. It’s the perfect way to take a break from my studies and enjoy some nature. There are beautiful trails and paths close to uni, but if nature’s not your thing, you can always walk into town (to enjoy the beautiful city centre) or around it on the historic walls! (First year student, University of York)

    Stone Roses Bar

    The best bar in York, with great music and cheap student drinks. (Leah, York St John University)

    Stone Roses Bar, York

    Living in York, according to students

    Hull Road – lots of students live here. It's close to both [University of York] campuses – a 15-minute walk to either Campus East or West. There are a couple of pubs on Hull Road, but neither is particularly nice or friendly. Houses are nice, and a good price, but [have] no character – especially for one of Britain's oldest cities. Would recommend living in the Wellington Street/Wallis Street area [instead]. [It’s] only [a] five-minute walk from [the] city centre, and 15-minute walk to Campus West. Lots of buses going to Campus East as well (free for students). (Third year student, University of York)

    Travelling around York

    Lots of York students use bikes – there are plenty of cycle paths and bike lanes, and not many hills. You can rent an e-scooter or e-bike, take the bus to the Yorkshire countryside, or even explore York by river!

    River Ouse in York

    Where you'll find students

    • Hull Road
    • Heslington Road
    • Fulford

    Local transport

    • £15 a week
    • York FirstWeek
    • Bus

    Student money tips

    If you go to the University of York, buy First Bus' student saver singles. They will be a lifesaver. It's £2 for a single anywhere around York. (Second year student, University of York)

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

    ​Discover more savings on student life in York 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 Yorkshire and the Humber:

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