Here are 12 of the most picturesque universities in the UK. With origins dating back to the 11th century, these institutions continue to serve as centres for research, creativity, and education.
Established 436 years ago, the University of Edinburgh is the sixth oldest university in the English-speaking world. Renowned for its research endeavours, it ranked 30th in The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022. Notably, it was the site of groundbreaking experiments leading to the birth of Dolly the sheep, the first mammal cloned from an adult cell.
Scattered across the city, the University of Bristol boasts numerous architectural gems. The Victoria Rooms, designed by Charles Dyer in 1838, now house the university’s music department. Goldney Hall, a student residence in Clifton, showcases award-winning design by Michael Grice. Wills Memorial honours the university’s first chancellor and endured restoration following bomb damage during World War II.
Founded in 1451, the University of Glasgow is one of Scotland’s oldest institutions. Its impressive library, situated on Hillhead Street, features over three million books and journals. The university’s move to Gilmorehill in 1870 ushered in an era of Gothic revival architecture, culminating in the iconic bell tower designed by George Gilbert Scott and his son.
As the oldest university in the English-speaking world, the University of Oxford traces its roots to 1096. Recognised for its architectural splendour, the Bodleian Library houses 13 million printed items and served as a filming location for the Harry Potter series. Among its distinguished alumni are 28 British Prime Ministers, T.S. Eliot, and Lewis Carroll, and several world leaders.
Cardiff University is the only Welsh member of the Russell Group universities.
Formerly known as Thames Polytechnic and Woolwich Polytechnic, the University of Greenwich was founded in 1890. Its Greenwich Campus, situated on a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts the striking Old Royal Naval College designed by Sir Christopher Wren. The campus has served as a filming location for several movies, including Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.
Founded in 1825, the University of Birmingham began as a medical school and evolved into one of Britain’s largest medical institutions. Its campus, characterised by distinctive red brick buildings, houses notable artworks by Van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso.
Newcastle University, established in 1834, traces its origins to a school of medicine and surgery. Notable landmarks include the Armstrong building, which served as a military hospital during World War I, and a statue commemorating Martin Luther King Jr.’s honorary degree.
Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge ranks among the world’s top universities. Notable alumni include Sir Isaac Newton and 14 British Prime Ministers, and several world leaders and prominent celebrities.
Founded in 1832, Durham University’s majestic buildings include Durham Castle, a Norman fortress converted into student accommodations. The university established early international partnerships with institutions in Barbados and Sierra Leone.
Established in 1866 as an all-women college, Royal Holloway boasts a picturesque campus spanning over a hundred acres, and inspired by the Château de Chambord in France. Notable alumni include suffragette Emily Wilding Davison.
Founded in 1872, Aberystwyth University features Gothic-style buildings designed by George Jones. Its campus offers scenic views of the sea and is a testament to architectural grandeur.