Living in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ
A modern city with a rich history
The historic cathedral city of 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ is home to two of our campuses: Streatham, located on the edge of the city, and St Luke’s in the centre. Set in the heart of the beautiful Devon countryside, 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ is consistently rated as one of the best places to live, work, and study in the UK.
Where is 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ?
51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ is in the South West of England. It is the capital of Devon and is located on the River Exe. 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ is approximately 170 miles from London and is connected via a direct 2 hour train from London Paddington to 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ St Davids.
Images of 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ and the surrounding area
Everything you need right on your doorstep
51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ is a lively place with a strong independent sector. Shopping in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ balances boutique shops alongside high street stores, and quirky cafes peppered amongst independent restaurants using locally sourced produce. A safe and walkable city, you can find everything you need right on your doorstep.
Historic 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ
- Stepcote Hill is one of the oldest streets in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ
Take in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ’s rich history with a walk around the which explores the 2000-year-old Roman wall that once surrounded the city. In 1068, Rougemont Castle was founded within the walls for William the Conqueror. The Castle’s strategic position on the top of a hill allowed its occupants to see across the city. Today the Castle is a hub of art, music, food and drink and hosts a number of events throughout the year.
51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Cathedral with its impressive vaulted ceiling, astronomical clock and stunning stained-glass windows is another must-see. The beautiful Cathedral Green is also a popular meeting spot with students. Running beneath the cathedral and across the city are the medieval . Dating from the 14th century, the passages were built to bring clean drinking water into 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ. Today you can take a guided tour of these narrow passages in an experience unique to 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ.
Many of the city centre’s ancient buildings were destroyed during World War II as part of the so-called Baedeker Blitz, in which targets were chosen for their cultural and historical value. This has created an intriguing mix of ancient and modern architecture across the city, making the areas that survived all the more special and interesting to visit.
Eating out in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ
From small independent eateries to chain restaurants, there is something for everyone to enjoy here.
Eat your way around the world without leaving the city by exploring 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ’s international cuisine. Thai, Japanese, Greek, Mexican and Lebanese restaurants are just a few on offer. However, if you fancy traditional British pub grub, then 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ is also home to many gastropubs.
A student favourite, especially in the summertime, are the restaurants and cafes at 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ’s historic . What could be better than enjoying a pizza al fresco while overlooking the beautiful River Exe? Foodies will also want to check out . Home to several delicious restaurants and rooftop bars, it is the perfect location in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ to wine and dine.
You’ll also find a range of supermarkets represented in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ including Aldi, Tesco, Morrisons and Sainsbury’s. Many of them are located in or close to the centre making it easy for students without a car to go food shopping. There’s also a good range of international supermarkets catering for Asian, Indian, African, European and religious cuisines. However, if local produce is what you’re looking for, you can find some excellent options at delicatessens, bakeries, butchers and greengrocers across the city. Vegetarians and vegans also have good choice both on and off campus at supermarkets and plant-based restaurants in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ such as and .
Sport in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ
The University's and caters for everyone from complete beginners to elite athletes.
In addition to the University’s award-winning sports teams, we are fortunate to live in a city which is home to several other high-achieving teams. 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ was a Rugby World Cup host in 2015 and our Premiership Rugby club, the , play their home games at Sandy Park, located on the outskirts of the city. Football fans can also be entertained by supporting our League One football team, , who play at St James' Park in the centre of the city.
Nightlife in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ
With a high proportion of students, 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ has a lively nightlife despite the relatively small size of the city’s population. A number of independent local breweries feed the city’s varied pub culture, which stretches from big chain venues to curio pubs tucked away on side streets.
A culture of outdoor events offers lots of variety, and a range of underground music venues ensure there’s plenty of choice for a great night out.
Arts and culture
There are several great theatres in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ, including the located right on our Streatham Campus. In the city centre, you will also find two multiplex cinemas ( and ) plus a pair of smaller independent cinema venues ( and ) should you prefer world cinema, arthouse and independent films as well as mainstream movies.
The is one of the largest multi-purpose venues in the city. Catch a concert here or laugh out loud at one of their frequent comedy shows. There is also an award-winning museum of national importance in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ, the (RAMM), and you can find right on our Streatham Campus too.
Coastline and countryside
Beyond 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ, there are lots of diverse and exciting places to explore. Discover the deep wooded valleys, flowing rivers and rugged wide-open spaces of the and National Parks. Just a quick train ride away, a trip to the stunning Devon coastline is another popular activity with students. Try your hand at some water sports in , marvel at the beauty of the or explore the incredible geology of the .
If you are in need of some retail therapy, the quaint town of with its vibrant mix of boutiques, galleries, gift shops and gastropubs is a great place to visit. A short journey away is the South Hams region, much of which is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Take a day trip and explore the popular coastal spots of and or venture to , a town full of character and charm.
Living in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ: beyond the city
51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ’s is just a 10-minute walk from the city centre and has a fascinating history, beautiful architecture, lively pubs and restaurants, and a cluster of antique shops. A multitude of events happen on the River Exe throughout the summer, including dragon boat racing, open air concerts, markets, street food, charity events and art exhibitions. The Quay is also a launchpad for accessing National Cycle Route 2 which stretches down both sides of the Exe Estuary, to Exmouth and Dawlish beaches.
Many people hire bikes or kayaks to explore 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ’s historic Ship Canal. Enjoy the calm waters and beautiful scenery before taking a pitstop at the or the , two student-friendly pubs, for a drink or bite to eat. If you don’t fancy paddling yourself, you can take a scenic boat cruise with . Cruises normally take place at weekends between Easter and September, and daily from mid-July to August
As one of the UK’s official Cycling Demonstration Cities, 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ has miles of safe cycle paths making it perfect to explore on two wheels.
Student blogs
“Living in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ has been an easy and enjoyable experience. During my first year I lived in Holland Hall, a wonderful community with beautiful amenities. Now, my friends and I rent a house near campus, which is perfect for exploring more of the city. Some of my favourite places are the quiet 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Quay and The Old Firehouse, a local pub known for its amazing pizza and lively atmosphere.?"
Joel
Data Science