When it comes to choosing the perfect city to pursue higher education, the charming city of Exeter stands out as an ideal destination. Nestled in the southwest of England, Exeter is known for its rich history, vibrant student life, and outstanding educational opportunities. As the home of the prestigious University of Exeter, this city offers much more than just academic excellence—it provides students with a unique experience that blends historical charm with modern amenities, all set in a beautiful and welcoming environment. Here’s why studying in Exeter is an experience you won’t want to miss.
1. A City Steeped in History and Culture
Exeter is a city with a deep historical legacy, dating back to Roman times. As the ancient capital of Devon, the city is rich in culture and heritage, offering students a fascinating blend of historical landmarks, museums, and architecture. Notable sites include the Exeter Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the Roman Baths, which give insight into the city’s ancient roots. For those interested in history, Exeter offers a wealth of learning opportunities beyond the classroom.
The city's proximity to Dartmoor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, allows for easy exploration of its natural beauty. Whether it's hiking, cycling, or simply soaking in the breathtaking landscapes, Exeter provides a perfect balance of city life and outdoor activities.
2. A Thriving Student Community
Exeter is often ranked among the best student cities in the UK, thanks in part to its vibrant and diverse student population. The University of Exeter attracts students from all over the world, contributing to the city's international atmosphere. With more than 20,000 students, the city is buzzing with student life, with a wide range of activities and events taking place throughout the year. From student-run festivals and cultural celebrations to live music performances and art exhibitions, there’s always something happening in Exeter.
The Students’ Guild is at the heart of student life in Exeter, organizing a variety of clubs, societies, and social events. Whether you’re interested in sports, drama, politics, or even starting your own business, there’s a society for everyone. This sense of community makes Exeter feel like a home away from home for students from all walks of life.
3. The Perfect Size for Students
Exeter is often praised for being the ideal size for university students. It’s large enough to offer a variety of services, shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, but small enough that students can easily navigate and feel a sense of familiarity. The city is pedestrian-friendly, with most places, including the University of Exeter's campuses, within walking distance of each other.
Exeter also boasts a low crime rate compared to other cities in the UK, contributing to a safe and comfortable environment for students. This sense of security and ease makes Exeter an attractive option for students looking for a peaceful place to focus on their studies while still enjoying a lively and engaging social scene.
4. A Hub for Innovation and Sustainability
Exeter is not only rich in history, but it also leads the way in sustainability and innovation. The city is home to the University of Exeter, which has long been committed to addressing global challenges such as climate change, health, and sustainability. The university’s Environmental and Sustainability Institute is renowned for its research on climate change and environmental protection, making Exeter a hub for forward-thinking initiatives.
The city itself is working towards becoming carbon neutral, with ambitious goals set by the local government to reduce carbon emissions and promote green energy. For students passionate about sustainability, Exeter is the perfect place to study and make a difference in addressing global environmental issues.
Exeter is also home to several tech startups, research institutions, and cutting-edge industries, particularly in fields like renewable energy, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence. If you’re studying in one of these fields, Exeter offers ample opportunities for networking, internships, and collaboration with like-minded innovators.
5. A High Quality of Life
One of the key reasons why Exeter is so appealing to students is the high quality of life it offers. The city’s relatively low cost of living, especially compared to London and other major UK cities, makes it an affordable choice for students. Housing options range from student accommodations to private rentals, with many located in close proximity to the university and the city centre. uhomes.com offers a wide range of affordable and quality
student accommodation in Exeter, which comes with all-inclusive bills and modern amenities to provide comfort and convenience.
Exeter also boasts a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, pubs, and shops, offering a diverse range of cuisines and experiences for students to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a casual coffee shop to study or a fine dining experience, Exeter has something for everyone. The city’s proximity to both the Devon coast and countryside means that students can easily escape to beautiful beaches, quaint villages, or stunning nature reserves for weekend getaways.
6. Excellent Transport Links
Exeter benefits from excellent transport links, making it easy for students to explore other parts of the UK and beyond. The city is served by Exeter St David’s Station, which offers fast train services to London, Bristol, and other major cities. Exeter also has a regional airport with direct flights to several European destinations, making it convenient for international students to travel home during breaks or explore the continent.
For those who prefer to drive, Exeter is well connected by road, with access to the M5 motorway and other key routes. Additionally, the city is surrounded by beautiful countryside, offering numerous opportunities for cycling, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
7. A Strong Focus on Well-being
Exeter takes student well-being seriously, offering a wide range of support services to ensure that students thrive both academically and personally. The Counselling and Wellbeing Service provides confidential support for mental health, stress management, and personal development, helping students navigate the challenges of university life.
The university also offers career services, academic tutoring, and personal development programs to help students achieve their full potential. With a focus on supporting students in all aspects of life, Exeter is a city that genuinely cares about its student population.
Conclusion
Exeter is a city that offers the perfect blend of history, modernity, and student-friendly living. With its welcoming atmosphere, excellent academic institutions, and vibrant student community, it’s no wonder that so many students choose to study here. Whether you’re drawn to its cultural heritage, stunning natural surroundings, or cutting-edge research opportunities, Exeter offers an unforgettable experience that combines the best of both worlds—a dynamic academic environment and a high quality of life. If you’re looking for a place to study that will provide both personal and academic growth, Exeter should be at the top of your list.