England, a country woven with threads of history, opportunity and perhaps a dash of cheeky humour, beckoned me to the crossroads of choosing my academic path. Having lived there for over ten years, the land was familiar, yet the prospect of choosing a university town unfolded a map full of exciting possibilities. The VayCay Couple’s journey was not a solitary quest, but an odyssey guided by mentors and friends, all with their own whispered wisdom about student paradises waiting to be discovered.
Oxford: Steeped in Scholarly Whispers
Oxford, wrapped in the whispers of ancient scholars, promised a baptism of ink in its ivy-filled libraries. I imagined myself strolling through Christ Church College, where the magical halls of Harry Potter come to life, or looking into the Bodleian Library, a treasure trove of forgotten knowledge.
A city buzzing with life
Oxford, shrouded in the whispers of ancient scholars, promises a baptism of ink in its ivy-filled libraries. But get past the academic glamor and discover a vibrant world that transcends the hushed tones of its libraries. The bustling street markets overflow with handmade delights and local produce, the air thick with the aroma of freshly baked bread and exotic spices. Pubs with creaking floorboards and roaring fireplaces wake up with beers and lively banter. Crossing the River Cherwell, sunlight dancing on the water, offers a glimpse of Oxford’s softer side, with willows weeping in the gentle current and ancient bridges adorned with weathered statues.
With London so close, living in Oxford is enhanced by proximity to the capital’s vibrant tapestry of history, culture and modern vibrancy, allowing one to seamlessly weave the scholarly calm of Oxford and the bustling, dynamic energy of London, where every street and horizon tells a story of centuries.
Economic Living in Oxford
Living in Oxford doesn’t have to break the bank. While the city holds its treasures dearly, with careful planning and a touch of ingenuity, it can be surprisingly affordable. Large college rooms, cozy apartments like the one pictured above, affordable restaurants and pubs catering to students offer a range of options to suit every pocket. Compared to other big cities, Oxford’s charm comes at a surprisingly affordable price.
Living expenses in Oxford
- Average monthly living costs in Oxford: £1,290 to £1,840 (from October 2023)
- Popular neighborhoods to stay in Oxford: Jericho, Cowley, Headington, Summertown
- Oxford transport options: bus, cycle, walk, punting on River Cherwell
Manchester: Throbbing heart of youthful energy
Manchester, bursting with youthful energy and cultural diversity, offered a taste of cosmopolitan mayhem. I envisioned taking in a concert at the legendary Manchester Arena, cheering on my team at Old Trafford or getting lost in the cutting-edge galleries of the Northern Quarter.
Living in Manchester as a student
Imagine yourself cheering on your team at the legendary Old Trafford, home of the mighty Manchester United! (Can you hear the crowd roar already?)
Or imagine yourself attending a peak concert at the iconic Manchester Arena, feeling the bass vibrate through your bones. (Goosebumps guaranteed!)
Then, after all that excitement, imagine finding your refuge in a cool and affordable student neighborhood. That’s the magic of Manchester – it allows you to balance academic hustle with vibrant leisure, all on a budget.
Cost of living as a student in Manchester
Compared to other UK student cities, Manchester offers a breath of fresh air for your wallet. Rent can range from around £350 to £500 per month depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Food, transportation and entertainment costs are also relatively affordable, with many student discounts and budget-friendly options.
The best places to live as a student in Manchester
Manchester’s student neighborhoods are as diverse as its residents. Here are some top picks:
- Fallowfield: This iconic student village is a stone’s throw from the University of Manchester, full of pubs, cafes and a strong sense of community.
- Rasholm: Another hotspot for students, Rusholme offers affordable housing options and a multicultural atmosphere, with restaurants serving cuisines from around the world.
- Northern district: If you’re an art lover and a hipster at heart, the Northern Quarter is your haven. Expect hip bars, independent shops and a cool, creative vibe.
- Withington: Are you longing for a greener space? Withington offers leafy streets, charming pubs and a slower pace of life, while still being well connected to the city centre.
So, are you ready to swap your textbooks for a Manchester student adventure? This city will welcome you with open arms, affordable rents and an endless supply of late-night currywurst. Just remember to pack your dancing shoes, study lamp and an open mind – Manchester is ready to show you a good time!
Bristol: Boho Spirit Embracing Nature
Bristol, with its bohemian spirit and embrace of nature, marked an unconventional charm. I dreamed of wandering the vibrant street art of Stokes Croft, picnicking in the verdant lap of Aston Court or catching a ferry to explore the rugged beauty of Clifton Downs.
Whispers beyond the ordinary path
But my exploration was not limited to these well-trodden paths. The friends, now facing the same daunting task for their children, painted a diverse canvas of other possibilities:
Newcastle: Friendly atmosphere and lively nightlife
Newcastle, excited, buzzes with a distinctly friendly atmosphere. I heard stories of intense nightlife, with students from Newcastle University and Northumbria University painting the town red while enjoying the relative affordability compared to the southern giants.
Sheffield: Emerald Haven of Tranquility
Nestled amongst emerald green spaces, Sheffield offered a haven of calm. The University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University beckoned with their varied courses, while the city itself promised a thriving music scene and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Nottingham: Sherwood Forest Echoes and Diverse Community
Nottingham, the birthplace of the legendary Robin Hood, whispered of rich cultural heritage. The University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University indicated a diverse student community, a vibrant nightlife scene and a promise to become my own Sherwood Forest hero.
Durham: Whispers of History on the River Wear
And then there was Durham, cloaked in medieval magic and perched on the banks of the River Wear. Durham University, with its famous reputation and stunning cathedral, resonated with a sense of tradition and academic excellence. I imagined myself wandering the cobbled streets, exploring the castle and soaking in the atmosphere of this historic city.
More than academic boxes
Each city unfolded like a chapter in a fairy tale. Oxford’s libraries rustled with the whispers of centuries, Manchester’s music venues vibrated with the pulse of the present and Bristol’s street art pulsed with urban vibrancy. However, it was in the north that I found a chord that resonated with my soul.
But ultimately, the choice wasn’t about ticking academic boxes or chasing the coolest night out. It was about finding a place that felt like home, a city that would be the canvas on which I would paint my own student life, a landscape that would shape my growth and forge lifelong memories.
