Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Visiting the Most Beautiful Universities Across the UK.
The UK is home to some truly world-class universities. The best of them are impressive not just for their academic standards and the achievements of their alumni; they’re also made up of beautiful buildings.
Let’s take a look at a few of the more notable of these iconic sites.
Visiting the Most Beautiful Universities Across the UK
1. University of Cambridge
The Cambridge University campus encompasses thirty-one colleges, some of which can trace their roots right back to the 13th century, when a group of scholars from Oxford founded their own University on the banks of the Cam. There are eight museums and a botanical garden to explore here, too.
The University of Cambridge is my personal favourite as I studied at Queens’ College, one of the (and in my opinion the most beautiful) Cambridge colleges. The above photos are based on a recent visit back there as my graduation photos date from before digital cameras were in mainstream use.
Whilst Queens’ College is my particular favourite, King’s College Chapel, with its towering spires and magnificent stained glass windows, is a true architectural masterpiece that never fails to leave visitors in awe.
And just like Venice, Cambridge has its own Bridge of Sighs, which was built in 1831 and crosses the River Cam linking St John’s College Third Court and New Court.
The surrounding town has considerable appeal, too, offering, among other things, the chance to go punting along the famous river. You can reach Cambridge from London via a short train ride, which makes it an excellent choice for Londoners looking for a weekend destination.
2. University of Edinburgh
While this University doesn’t enjoy quite the same reputation as the two ‘ancient’ universities of England, it’s undoubtedly an elite institution, with architectural splendour to match its academic achievements.
The Georgian Old College, and its incredible dome, is one of the most spectacular sights anywhere in the city. From here, you’ll be able to enjoy some truly amazing views of the surrounding city. This, alone, makes it worth a visit.
3. Royal Holloway
You’ll find Royal Hollaway in the middle of Surrey, in a small town called Egham, midway between Heathrow and Windsor. It’s part of the University of London, and offers a sprawling estate and an incredible collection of Victorian-era paintings
The grounds have more in common with a National Trust attraction than they do with those of many modern universities; they’re often favoured by Hollywood location scouts in need of a suitably grand-looking estate.
4. University of Oxford
Known as the “City of Dreaming Spires,” Oxford is home to one of the most visually stunning university campuses in the world.
Founded way back in 1096, Oxford is the oldest University anywhere in the English-speaking world, and the second-oldest overall behind the University of Bologna. Among the sights to see here is the Radcliffe Camera, which forms part of the Bodleian Library complex.
This iconic building is synonymous with the University, and with elite education more broadly. It deserves to be seen in person!
5. Durham University
Among the more recent arrivals on the UK’s education scene, Durham was founded in 1832. The twist is that one of the University’s colleges is based inside the local castle, where around a hundred students have the privilege of living and studying.
But that’s not the extent of what’s on offer: there are eighty-three listed buildings on the grounds, each of them beautiful and worthwhile in their own right. The grounds are packed with absolutely incredible buildings, and are a draw for students and tourists alike.
Final words on Visiting the Most Beautiful Universities Across the UK
The United Kingdom is home to some of the most stunning university campuses in the world, where architectural beauty and natural surroundings intertwine harmoniously. From the sprawling grounds of Royal Holloway to the grandeur of Cambridge, these five universities offer a visual feast that inspires and captivates all who visit. Whether you are a student, an academic, or a passionate traveler, exploring these campuses is an experience that should not be missed.
I hope you enjoyed this feature about Visiting the Most Beautiful Universities Across the UK and you can also have a look more of our travel features.
I will be back soon with more style, lifestyle and travel inspiration and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog below to make sure you never miss a post,
With love,
December 5, 2023 at 9:02 pmI love the styles of these universities. The design alone is stunning and definitely makes for a great environment. https://www.bauchlefashion.com/2023/12/5-ways-to-wear-olive-oil-green-colour.html
January 26, 2024 at 3:16 pmThanks Heather. I feel so lucky to have had the chance to study at Cambridge as an undergraduate (although I didn’t really appreciate it at the time 😂)
December 5, 2023 at 1:12 pmWhat a cool way to experience the UK!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
January 26, 2024 at 3:06 pmThanks Kathrine. I feel so lucky to have been able to attend one of these universities as an undergraduate.