We’re taking a closer look at what makes Lancaster an ideal destination for students. Lancaster’s size is one of its greatest strengths for students. Unlike larger cities like Manchester, Lancaster offers a quieter, more focused environment where academic success can flourish without overwhelming distractions. Whether you’re a prospective student or already studying here, this guide will help you discover why Lancaster stands out as a premier student city.
Major Connections
Lancaster is situated on the West Coast Main Line, offering excellent rail connections to major cities across the UK. You can reach London in just 2.5 hours by direct train or head to Manchester in just over an hour—perfect for weekend trips or visits home during term breaks. Scotland is also easily accessible via train routes from Lancaster station. For international students, Manchester Airport is only about an hour away by direct train service, making global travel convenient despite Lancaster’s smaller size.
Lancaster Canal
The Lancaster Canal runs through the city centre and connects several towns and villages. Built in the 18th century, it was originally designed to transport coal from southern Lancashire to Preston and the northern farmlands. Today, the canal features charming canal boats and offers a scenic walking route from Garstang through meadows and dairy farms to Galgate. It crosses the River Lune on an impressive aqueduct before reaching Hest Bank and continues to Carnforth, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Lake District. The canal provides a gentle walking experience with beautiful wildlife and picturesque scenery.
The Coffee
Lancaster is home to a strong coffee culture vibe thanks to all its independent coffee houses dotted about the city, including the famous Atkinson & Co. coffee roasters. Established in 1837, the wonderful aroma of coffee from Atkinsons can be found floating down China Street. They supply coffee beans to many of the coffee houses in Lancaster and have two of their own cafes, The Hall and The Music Room, which are popular venues for students. You can also purchase a vast array of coffee beans and other coffee accessories (as well as some teas and hot chocolates) from the shop itself to enjoy at home.
Pubs and Bars
The city is full of independent pubs and bars, making for a vibrant nightlife. The Three Mariners, the oldest pub in Lancaster, dates back to the 15th century and sits inside a Grade II listed building. Or, for a more up-to-date experience, you can head to Tipple on King Street for a delicious cocktail. When it comes to a night out, there are so many places to choose from.
Arts and Culture
Lancaster boasts a vibrant arts scene with various cultural activities for students, including music and literature festivals. The Dukes, an independent theatre and cinema, features theatrical performances and independent films. Students can also enjoy two popular board game cafes, Board and Sword as well as Tabletop Republic, which are great for relaxing with friends after lectures. For those interested in pool or snooker, several halls in the city such as Squires offer competitive fun. Don’t miss term-time events like university traditions or local festivals such as Light Up Lancaster and Christmas markets in Dalton Square, providing memorable experiences with friends while exploring the city.
Cycleways
Lancaster is home to 50 miles of cycleways in and around the city, making for a fantastic place for people who love to get out and about. The Lancaster University campus has a cycle path that goes directly to the city centre, making getting from campus to town a breeze. The Lancaster to Morecambe promenade is just three miles away, or you can follow the River Lune from Glasson Dock to the Forest of Bowland.
Lancaster Market
If you want to experience authentic Lancashire produce like cheeses or potted shrimp from Morecambe Bay, look out for the weekly traditional market every Wednesday and Saturday in the centre of Lancaster. Here, you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables, homemade cakes, craft supplies, books, and flowers, or indulge in some street food from one of the many vendors.
Why Choose Lancaster?
Lancaster offers a unique blend of academic excellence, affordability, and community that makes it an ideal choice for students. Whether you’re looking for a focused academic environment, exciting recreational activities, or vibrant city life, Lancaster has something for everyone. With its excellent rail connections and proximity to natural beauty spots, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—academic success and personal fulfilment.
Ready to make your move? Explore our student accommodation in Lancaster today and discover why CityBlock is the perfect choice for students looking to thrive in this special student city!
