Canterbury, located in the county of Kent in southeast England, is one of those rare places that manages to feel both ancient and alive. This is the town that inspired The Canterbury Tales, after all, but don’t let the medieval vibe fool you.
Cobblestone streets connect modern cafés, buzzing high streets, and sleek university buildings. The River Stour winds romantically through the city. Tourists pour in for the history. But students? They stay for the lifestyle.
With a population just over 55,000, Canterbury is compact, walkable, and cozy, without being boring. It’s only 90 minutes to London by train, making weekend city escapes effortless.
And the cherry on top: it’s a student city through and through. Nearly 30% of the population is made up of students. So, you’re not a random face in the crowd here. You’re part of it.
If you’re looking to study in Canterbury and want history, community, and world-class education without the big-city overwhelm, you’re in the right place.
🌍 Why International Students Are Falling in Love With Canterbury
Canterbury doesn’t shout like London or Manchester. But it whispers everything students want: community, calm, and quality.
1. Home to World-Ranked Universities
One of the main draws is the University of Kent, consistently ranked among the best in the UK for its teaching, research, and international student support. Also here? Canterbury Christ Church University, which excels in education, health sciences, and the arts.
2. High-Quality Living That Won’t Break the Bank
While UK living costs can be daunting, Canterbury is way more affordable than most southern cities. Rent is reasonable, public transport isn’t even necessary for most students, and coffee shops have loyalty cards that actually matter.
3. A Safe, Student-Focused Environment
Canterbury often ranks as one of the UK’s safest university cities. And because students form such a big part of the population, the city is geared toward your lifestyle, from study cafés and libraries to group-friendly hangouts and night pubs.
4. Experience English Culture at Its Best
Want to understand Britain beyond the clichés? This is it. Canterbury blends timeless British charm with a multicultural energy. Expect Sunday roasts, historic landmarks, and indie film nights, all in one week.
5. Location, Location, Location
Not only is London just a train ride away, but you’re also near Dover, the coast, France (via ferry), and some of England’s most picturesque countryside.
When it comes to studying abroad, to study in Canterbury is to choose comfort, character, and cultural depth, with a side of strong academic support.
🎓 Top 10 Universities & Colleges in Canterbury
Small city, big brains. Canterbury brings a well-rounded academic scene with something for everyone.
1. University of Kent
The city’s academic powerhouse. Strong in international relations, law, psychology, computer science, and arts. Gorgeous campus with modern facilities, award-winning support services, and a vibrant student society scene.
2. Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU)
Another key academic hub. Focuses on health sciences (particularly nursing and childhood education), music, humanities, and sports-related courses. Friendly, inclusive, and known for hands-on teaching.
3. University for the Creative Arts (UCA Canterbury)
Perfect for future artists, architects, and designers. Known for architecture, fine art, graphic design, and illustration. Students thrive here in a creative, collaborative environment.
4. EKC Group – Canterbury College
Offers pathways to university and apprenticeships. Especially helpful for international students needing foundation courses or vocational qualifications.
5. Kent Business School (University of Kent)
Top-ranked among UK business departments. Offers undergrad and postgraduate degrees in management, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
6. Kent Law School (University of Kent)
Renowned for its critical approach to law and social justice. Internationally ranked and highly regarded by employers.
7. Academy FM Training Centre
Local media training centre offering radio production, media apprenticeships, and broadcasting certifications.
8. Christ Church Business School (CCCU)
Business, accounting, tourism, and economics with strong industry links and real-world learning built-in.
9. UCA Creative Writing & Illustration School
For students wanting to explore storytelling in art and fiction. Small classes, strong mentorship.
10. UK College of Commerce (Canterbury Campus)
Focus on business, marketing, and hospitality for international students. Offers flexible, career-focused programs.
🏠 Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Canterbury
Ready to settle in? These are Canterbury’s most popular student housing options, for all budgets and vibes:
- Turing College – University of Kent campus
- Parham Student Village – Close to CCCU
- Old Dover Road Residences
- Canterbury Student Manor – Stylish studio living
- Behn Hall – UCA nearby and city central
- Palamon Court – En-suite rooms and great for socials
- Riverside Studio Apartments – Central and cozy
- Holmes Hall – Budget-friendly with great reviews
- Parkwood Houses – Social houses on Kent campus
- Verdant House – Affordable and central with modern rooms
🗺️ Student Hotspots: The Best Student Areas in Canterbury (And Why You’ll Love Them)
What makes a neighbourhood ideal for students? Distance to uni, local vibes, value, and, let’s be real, takeaway options. Here’s where students love to live in Canterbury:
1. University of Kent Campus / Parkwood
Nearby: UoK, Turing College, Library
Properties: Parkwood, Turing College, Tyler Court
Why It Works: On-campus convenience paired with green space and buzzing student hubs.
2. St. Dunstans
Nearby: University of Kent
Properties: Shared student houses
Why It Works: Quick walk to campus + more local pubs, restaurants, and independent stores than you’ll be able to visit in a year.
3. Canterbury City Centre
Nearby: CCCU, UCA, shops, bus links
Properties: Palamon Court, Riverside Studios
Why It Works: You’re in the heart of everything. Best for those who want culture, nightlife, and campus all within walking distance.
4. Old Dover Road
Nearby: CCCU and UCA
Properties: Private flats, Old Dover Residences
Why It Works: Leafy, chilled, and under 15 mins from pretty much everything.
5. North Holmes Road / CCCU Campus
Nearby: Canterbury Christ Church University
Properties: Parham Village, Holmes Hall
Why It Works: You’re basically living on or right next to campus. Great for nursing or education students with early placements.
6. Hales Place
Nearby: University of Kent
Properties: Shared houses and Kent student rentals
Why It Works: Residential, quiet, perfect if you’re looking for balance between social life and solid sleep.
7. Wincheap
Nearby: City and CCCU
Properties: Affordable HMOs and shared flats
Why It Works: Affordable and known for its large student population. Cheap takeaway + solid bus links.
8. Broad Street / Northgate
Nearby: UCA and CCCU
Properties: Private studios, Riverside area
Why It Works: Creative energy, central location, and great for arts and design students who want city vibes.
9. South Canterbury
Nearby: CCCU (mostly)
Properties: Holmes Hall, Parham area
Why It Works: Quiet and academic. Preferred by postgrads or those working part-time in schools or hospitals.
10. Barton Mill Road
Nearby: City Centre & All Campuses
Properties: Modern builds, Riverside Studios
Why It Works: Peaceful riverside setting with short walks to class and cafés galore.
✍️ Final Thoughts: Why Study in Canterbury Just Makes Sense
Let’s keep it simple: if you’re looking for life, learning, and community in one place, Canterbury delivers.
Whether you’re exploring medieval cathedrals in between classes, grabbing coffee along the canal, or walking to uni past centuries-old streets, your student life here will feel equal parts peaceful and inspiring.
And with top universities, affordable housing, and weekend trips to London or Paris just a train ride away? You’ll get the perfect blend of cozy hometown vibes and global exposure.
So if you’re ready to study in Canterbury, prepare for unforgettable years in a city that feels like home, even if it’s a world away from where you started.
