Set in the North West of England, Preston is a place that blends old-school character with modern ambition. It’s not loud. It’s not trendy for the sake of it. But it shows up where it counts, strong university scene, easy lifestyle, stunning local nature, and surprisingly good coffee.
Preston is the proud home to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), a campus that stretches across the city centre, merging academic life with urban convenience. The vibe here? Friendly and functional. You can walk from your lecture hall to the city market, gym, or pub in 10 minutes flat.
Well-connected by rail, it sits between Liverpool and Manchester, and just a short trip to the Lake District. That means day trips, internships, and weekend escapes are never far away.
And unlike bigger UK cities, Preston won’t eat your student budget alive. You get safety, opportunity, and convenience, all for way less than you might expect.
🌍 Why International Students Are Choosing to Study in Preston
If you’re considering studying in the UK but want to avoid crowds, high prices, and overstimulation, Preston is your perfect balance. Here’s why thousands of international students are calling it home.
1. UCLan: Global Reputation, Personal Focus
The University of Central Lancashire is one of the UK’s largest universities and consistently ranks in the top 7% worldwide (CWUR). It offers over 400 undergraduate and postgraduate programs, and is deeply international, with students from over 100 countries.
2. Affordable City Living
Let’s talk money. Student rent in Preston averages around £100–£140 per week, way below national student housing averages. Daily expenses like groceries, transport, and gym memberships? Also student-budget friendly.
3. Diverse and Supportive Environment
There’s no “outsider” energy here. Preston is inclusive to the core. The UCLan International Society and Students’ Union host regular cultural nights, workshops, and trips. No matter where you’re from, you’ll find your people fast.
4. Easy to Explore the UK
Located on the West Coast Main Line, Preston is one of the most connected cities in the UK. Quick rail access takes you to London, Glasgow, Manchester, Liverpool, and Birmingham with ease.
5. Green Spaces for That Study-Life Balance
From Avenham and Miller Parks to the scenic Guild Wheel cycling route, the outdoorsy lifestyle is real here.
To study in Preston means academic opportunity, personal development, and a much smoother adjustment into UK life. It’s university without the overwhelm.
🎓 Top 10 Universities and Colleges in and Around Preston
Preston may not be flooded with universities, but its main institution punches well above its weight. Here’s your top 10 for higher education in the city and nearby areas:
1. University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)
Ranked among the top UK unis for student support and career outcomes. Strong in disciplines like nursing, business, engineering, journalism, fashion design, and law. Excellent facilities with recent investments topping £200 million, including the brand new Student Centre.
2. Myerscough College
Located just outside Preston. Specialises in agriculture, animal science, sports, and horticulture. Great if you’re looking for hands-on, career-focused courses.
3. Preston’s College
One of the largest FE colleges in England. Offers a blend of technical qualifications, apprenticeships, and access-to-HE programs.
4. Runshaw College
Around 20 minutes from Preston by train. Known for its university foundation programs, A-levels, and professional diplomas.
5. Blackburn College (University Centre)
About 25 minutes away. Offers full undergraduate degrees in partnership with UK universities. Lower costs, strong academic support.
6. University of Cumbria (Lancaster Campus)
Nearby campus offering teaching, nursing, policing, and social work degrees. Has close-knit classes perfect for international students.
7. Lancaster University
A short train away. Russell Group-level research and high-ranked globally. Some UCLan students pursue postgrad programs here.
8. B&FC University Centre at Blackpool
Provides university-level courses in hospitality, engineering, and computing. Often offers more flexible schedules.
9. Edge Hill University (Ormskirk)
A bit further out (approx. 45 mins), but popular with Preston students seeking education/teacher training degrees.
10. West Lancashire College
Vocational college offering business, engineering, and health sciences pathways into UCLan and other unis.
🏠 Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Preston
Finding a good student pad? Easy here. These are Preston’s top-rated and most convenient accommodations:
- Foundry Court – Managed by Sanctuary Students
- iQ Kopa – Just a short walk to campus
- The Tramshed – Bustling, modern, and social
- Ribble Brook House – Quiet and green
- Leighton Hall – Studios and en-suites
- Moor Lane Halls – Close to campus and nightlife
- Urban Hub – Sleek design and coworking spaces
- Walker Street Flats – Ideal for UCLan med students
- Brunel Court – Great for budgets
- Larkhall House – Ideal for postgrads or mature students
🧭 Top 10 Student Areas in Preston – Where Students Actually Live
Preston is compact. That’s a major plus. You’re never more than a 15-minute walk from class, a café, or the city park. Here are the top student-living zones and what makes them great.
1. City Centre
- Nearby: UCLan, train station, shops
- Properties: Tramshed, iQ Kopa, Foundry Court
- Why It Works: Everything’s close. Vibrant, social, and perfect if you love being in the thick of it.
2. University Area / Adelphi Quarter
- Nearby: UCLan main campus
- Properties: Moor Lane Halls, Urban Hub, Walker Street Flats
- Why It Works: Live across the street from campus buildings. Great mix of modern flats and student houses.
3. Ashton-on-Ribble
- Nearby: 15 mins from UCLan
- Properties: Private lets, share houses
- Why It Works: Quieter, near Preston Marina (ideal for sunset walks). A little more grown-up.
4. Deepdale
- Nearby: City centre and UCLan
- Properties: Low-cost shared student housing
- Why It Works: Budget friendly and culturally diverse. Plus it’s got Deepdale Retail Park = student shopping gold.
5. Plungington
- Nearby: 10 mins walk from campus
- Properties: Private lets, co-living houses
- Why It Works: Very student-heavy. Affordable with strong student community energy.
6. Fulwood
- Nearby: 20 mins to campus
- Properties: Suits medical/nursing postgrads; Walker Street is nearby
- Why It Works: Near Royal Preston Hospital and quieter spaces for study. Better for mature students.
7. Broadgate
- Nearby: Near UCLan’s sports facilities + riverside
- Properties: Share houses and studio flats
- Why It Works: Great balance of peace and access. Ideal for joggers, introverts, or riverwalk fans.
8. Ingol
- Nearby: Bus ride from UCLan
- Properties: Affordable private rentals
- Why It Works: Suburban feel. Ideal if you’re looking for space or planning on driving.
9. Bamber Bridge
- Nearby: 15-minute train to campus
- Properties: Private studio and shared flats
- Why It Works: Better for South Asian students with proximity to cultural centres and international groceries.
10. Penwortham
- Nearby: Cycling or quick bus to city
- Properties: Independent housing or flats
- Why It Works: Higher-end living, quieter environment. Think yoga and arts students.
📝 Final Thoughts: What Makes Preston a Great Study Abroad Destination?
Here’s the verdict. Preston ticks a lot of boxes, quietly and confidently.
You don’t just come here to study. You come to live smarter. A great university, affordable rent, friendly locals, and amazing UK connections make it a top choice for students who want value without sacrifice.
Whether you’re joining UCLan, starting a pathway course, or doing your master’s, to study in Preston is to be part of a growing, supportive community that actually cares about student life.
Add in parks, pubs, a world-class uni library, and a train station that gets you pretty much anywhere?
Well, Preston just might be the most underestimated student city in the UK.
