• Location: City

Student life

York is a vibrant, student-friendly city in the North of England, celebrated for its rich cultural history and recognised for its safety. Filled with cafés, shops and museums, it offers a city experience while being compact enough to walk or cycle around.

York is famed for its lively cultural events. The city hosts a diverse range of festivals, such as JORVIK Viking Festival, the largest of its kind in Europe; Aesthetica Short Film Festival, a celebration of independent film from around the world; and fiestas of food and drink, fireworks, music and more.

The University of York Students’ Union (YUSU) is run by students, for students, representing views on the university experience. YUSU hosts regular club nights in York city centre, and also runs major events such as Freshers’ Week and the Summer Ball. With over 200 sports and societies, YUSU provides opportunities for students to gain employability skills and try something new.

What's it like to live in Yorkshire and The Humber?
Check out our region guide

Yorkshire and the Humber has history and innovation in abundance. Famed for beautiful countryside, the region inspired a wealth of literary heritage, with links to Tolkien, Plath, Larkin, Brontë and beyond. Major cities – including Bradford, Hull, Leeds, Sheffield and York – boast a range of cultural accolades among them, including two recent UK City of Culture nods. Great nightlife, supportive communities and excellent transport routes make it the perfect hub for studying – no matter your interests or ambitions.

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What's it like to live in York?
Check out our city guide

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

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Campus and facilities

Close to the historic city centre, the University’s beautiful parkland campus is home to a rich variety of wildlife within its lake, wetlands, tree trail and bird sanctuary.  Everything is within walking or cycling distance. You can also use the fast and frequent bus service that runs between both parts of campus and on to the city centre and station, or hire an e-scooter or e-bike to whisk you into town.

Campus is packed with interesting and relaxing places to eat and drink, including supermarkets where you can pick up your groceries and essentials. Their award-winning sports facilities are recognised as some of the best in the region, helping you to unwind and stay healthy. Campus also offers a student-run theatre and cinema; a whole host of student societies dedicated to music, dance, drama and comedy; and a rich programme of free open lectures and inspirational events such, featuring hundreds of free events to educate, entertain and inspire.

Course locations

Main Site

Heslington, York, YO10 5DD

Main Site

Heslington, York, YO10 5DD