Lively, busy and friendly are words that best describe the town of Gloucester. Being one of the UK’s most inland ports, it offers the students stunning waterfront locations along with the best of both city and country living. Vibrant, historic and beautiful, there are many reasons why Gloucester is rapidly turning into a student hub.
Learn more about what makes Gloucester such a great location for international students to pursue their higher education in the UK.
Life in Gloucestershire as an International Student
Picturesque Experience
Among one of the most affordable places to study in the UK, Gloucester gives its students the best big university experience with the warmth of a small town. It is located in a beautiful part of England, surrounded by picturesque countryside and close to the Cotswolds.
Gloucester has 2 of the 5 campuses of the University of Gloucestershire. There are several University Halls of Residences to choose from for an affordable stay; these usually come fully furnished with a host of amenities. The Docks, Longlevens, Linden and Kingsholm are a few popular areas for student accommodation because of their proximity to the city centre and the various University of Gloucestershire campuses
Gloucester has a vibrant and friendly Indian community that is always happy to welcome students and new residents. There are several Indian Community groups that are involved in cultural activities to support and empower the community by providing information, advice, and guidance on a range of issues, such as education, employment, and health.
Top Rated University
- University of Gloucestershire
This university has its origins in several institutions dating back to the mid-19th century, including the Cheltenham Training College and the Gloucestershire College of Arts and Technology. The University of Gloucestershire was formed in 2001 and now has two campuses in Gloucester: the Oxstalls campus and the Gloucester Campus.
With a strong focus on providing an excellent student experience and social responsibility, the university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a variety of subjects, including business, education, media, sport, and the creative arts.
It has a diverse student body and a strong emphasis on practical learning that offers opportunities for students to gain work experience through placements, internships, and projects with local businesses and organisations.
- Acceptance Rate: 27%
- Popular Courses: Business, Finance, Computer Science
Waterfront Delights
Exploring a new city is always exciting, especially for foodies. Whether you want an on-the-go quick lunch, catch up and chat for hours over a coffee or fancy dining experience, Gloucester has it all.
One of the most popular areas is Gloucester Quays. This shopping district is located on the waterfront and has a range of dining options featuring many international cuisines, including Italian, Indian, Thai, and Mexican. Westgate and Eastgate streets are also very popular with students. Students who want a taste of home won't be disappointed. Gloucester has a number of Indian restaurants and stores that will delight their taste buds. Aroma, Spice House and Polash are current favourites.
Gloucester’s growing street food scene offers a number of markets and events that feature food trucks and stalls serving up a variety of lip-smacking delights. The monthly Gloucester Farmers Market, held on the first Friday of each month, gives the students a chance to explore the local produce market.
Harry Potter and History
With a rich history and vibrant culture, you will have plenty of things to do in Gloucester, no matter what your interests are. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Gloucester is the Gloucester Cathedral. With its impressive Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass windows, it is sure to fascinate you. If you are a Harry Potter fan, you are sure to recognise the impressive corridors as they were filmed as a part of the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in many of the films.
Another popular place is the Gloucester Docks. These historic areas have been transformed into a bustling hub of restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment options. Gloucester has a number of charming, quaint streets and neighbourhoods, particularly in the city centre, that makes it a lovely place to wander and explore.
You could also visit The Folk of Gloucester which offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of Gloucester's past, with exhibits on everything from Victorian shops to a recreated Victorian classroom.
Whether you want to hire a boat and tour the canals or go on any of the numerous walking tours of the town, there is always something new to explore in Gloucester.
Sports and Fitness
It is very important for students to pencil in time for sports and fitness as a part of their daily routines. Gloucester makes it easy as the town has ample fun and affordable ways that will motivate you to move.
There are a number of major sporting events that take place in Gloucester throughout the year. The city hosts the Gloucester Rugby team, which plays in the English Premiership and attracts thousands of fans to its home games at Kingsholm Stadium. Other major sporting events in Gloucester include the Gloucester City Marathon, the Gloucester 10K run, and the Gloucester Quays Dragon Boat Regatta.
The university also offers a wide range of sports programs and activities for students. This includes team and individual sports such as athletics, badminton, squash, and tennis and also offers fitness classes and activities such as yoga, pilates etc. It also has a number of initiatives aimed at promoting health and wellbeing among students, including mental health support services.
Career Prospects
Gloucester has a vibrant energy that makes it an exciting place to be for students. Not just a hub of culture and creativity, the city is also home to a number of innovative businesses and organisations, including tech startups and cutting-edge research facilities. One of the key sectors in Gloucester is advanced manufacturing, with many companies in the aerospace, defence, and engineering industries operating in the area.
Some notable companies in this sector include Safran Landing Systems, Renishaw, Delphi Technologies, G-TEM and Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
Study in Gloucester
If you are interested in learning more about Gloucester or want to study at one of its top universities, then book a free consultation with SI-UK India today!
Living and Studying in Gloucestershire FAQ
Gloucester is a good option for students as it has many educational institutions, including the University of Gloucestershire. The city also offers rich cultural and recreational activities, such as museums, theatres, and parks, which can enhance the student experience.
Gloucester can be a good place to live, depending on individual preferences. The city is rich in history and culture and offers many amenities and services, including shopping centres, restaurants, and healthcare facilities.
Gloucester is an excellent place to study for many reasons. This city is home to the University of Gloucestershire, which offers a range of courses across various disciplines. One can also enjoy various cultural and recreational activities, including museums, theatres, and parks, enhancing the student experience.
The cost of living in Gloucester depends on individual lifestyles and choices. The cost of living in Gloucester is lower than other major UK cities such as London or Manchester.
Gloucester has a diverse economy with manufacturing, engineering, and retail industries. The city is mainly known for its aerospace and defence industries, with several major companies, such as Safran Landing Systems and Renishaw, having a presence in the area.