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The complete student guide to Bath

8 min read·Last updated: 22 April 2026

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MS
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Misha Sharyy

City Guide Content Creators

Studying at University of Bath

8 min read

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One of the best things about being a student in Bath is the balance - it’s a small, friendly city where you quickly get to know your way around, but it still feels lively with loads going on. The architecture makes every walk feel special, and it’s surrounded by green space, which is great when you need a break from coursework. With both the University of Bath and Bath Spa bringing in students from everywhere, the student community feels welcoming and active. Whether you’re into nights out, culture, cosy cafés or exploring parks and canals, it never really feels boring.
“I love the history the most – I enjoy going to Bath’s restaurants, Roman baths, Christmas markets, and to the circus for a picnic.”
LWLeah WillcocksBath Spa University

Why study in Bath

  1. Quirky cafes

    Bath does cafés really well, and they’re a big part of student life here – perfect for studying or catching up with friends. Society Café is a favourite, always full of students working or chatting over flat whites. Colonna & Small’s is known for its coffee, and The Forum Coffee House is convenient and relaxed. Grabbing pastries and sitting in a park is a very Bath student tradition too, especially in spring.

  2. Great connections

    If you feel like exploring outside Bath, Bristol is just a quick train ride away and has a bigger nightlife and live-music scene. Bradford-on-Avon is ideal for a slower day by the river. You can do the cycle path to Bristol if you’re feeling active and adventurous. And when friends or family visit, you can impress them with a short trip to places like Wells, Lacock, or Stonehenge.

  3. Scenic and peaceful

    Bath is one of those places that feels peaceful without being dull. You can spend the morning studying in a café, take a walk along the river in the afternoon, and be out with friends in the evening without ever rushing across the city. It’s scenic, sociable, and easy to settle into – a really nice place to spend your student years. It is also filled with Roman history and beautiful architecture.

  4. Top universities

    Both universities in Bath have a good name for themselves. The University of Bath has a high reputation for subjects like engineering, business and the sciences. It is also consistently ranked high in UK league tables, especially for graduate employability. Whereas, Bath Spa University has a great name in the creative industries, humanities and education sectors. So, whatever aspect you wish to study – Bath has you covered.

Key facts about Bath

Student life in Bath

My favourite spot in Bath isn’t a big attraction - it’s the bridge overlooking the river right by LABS. It became a go-to place for me during my time at uni, especially on sunny afternoons or after a night out. You get such a calm view of the water, and I love standing there watching boats drift past and taking in the river and trees around it. It’s a peaceful little break from the busier parts of town, and one of those places that reminds you how pretty Bath really is. Bath’s nightlife may not be huge, but it has a fun student scene and you quickly find your favourite spots. Most nights out start at bars like Belushi’s, The Canon, or Bath Brew House, where drinks are affordable and there’s always student chatter about deadlines and weekend plans. Pryzm is the main student club - Wednesday student nights are always popular, especially in first year. Moles is perfect if you prefer live music and a more alternative crowd, and Komedia hosts comedy nights and themed events that are great for groups. And yes, there are good post-night-out food spots. Jason’s Kebabs and late-night chips on the way home have definitely helped many students survive the walk back. Bath has plenty of options for student budgets and bigger treat-yourself days. For quick and affordable meals, Chai Walla is a must-try - fast, filling, and loved by students. Mission Burrito is another staple, especially on busy days when you want something hearty without waiting long. For sit-down meals with friends, The Oven has great pizza, and Tapas Revolution is really good for sharing dishes. If you want something cosy, The Scallop Shell has some of the best fish and chips in the city. Whether it’s brunch after a late night or dinner to celebrate finishing an assignment, there’s always somewhere that fits the mood. Bath has plenty of spots that don’t get as much tourist attention but are really special. Alexandra Park is a bit of a walk uphill, but the panoramic view is worth it. Sydney Gardens is peaceful and perfect for reading or walking with a coffee. Green Park Station has weekend markets, food stalls and vintage finds. Mr B’s Emporium is a lovely independent bookshop to explore on slower days. These places are ideal when you want to step away from the busier streets and just relax. Bath is known for hills, but the scenery makes up for every step. Bath Skyline Walk offers open fields, woodland paths, and amazing views across the city. Kennet & Avon Canal path is quiet, flat and perfect for short evening strolls or long study-break walks. Prior Park has beautiful National Trust gardens and some cool picnic spots. They’re great ways to reset your mind after hours in the library or before exam stress hits.

Cost of living in Bath

Wondering how much it costs to live in Bath as a student? We’ve broken down typical monthly expenses and compared them to the national average, so you can plan your budget with confidence.

ExpenseBath averageNational averageDifference
Rent (monthly)£1244£891.63
£352.3740% more
Utilities (monthly)£103£112.25
£9.258% less
Bus pass (monthly)£83£61.13
£21.8736% more
Groceries£17.72£15.40
£2.3215% more
Gym pass (monthly)£34.50£34.59
£0.090% less
Takeaway coffee£3.75£3.54
£0.216% more

  • Rent (monthly)

    Bath average
    £1244
    National average
    £891.63
    Difference
    £352.3740% more

  • Utilities (monthly)

    Bath average
    £103
    National average
    £112.25
    Difference
    £9.258% less

  • Bus pass (monthly)

    Bath average
    £83
    National average
    £61.13
    Difference
    £21.8736% more

  • Groceries

    Bath average
    £17.72
    National average
    £15.40
    Difference
    £2.3215% more

  • Gym pass (monthly)

    Bath average
    £34.50
    National average
    £34.59
    Difference
    £0.090% less

  • Takeaway coffee

    Bath average
    £3.75
    National average
    £3.54
    Difference
    £0.216% more
Last updated January 2026 (Reviewed every 6 months)

Data sourced from Accommodation for Students, Fused, Numbeo and local transport providers.

Universities in Bath

A view outside of the Bath Spa University

Bath Spa University

Named after the Roman Baths, Bath Spa university offers a range of courses to students, and is known for being a large Teacher Training provider. Bt

Read guide  →
A view outside of the University of Bath

University of Bath

This wonderful university based in a famous city, known for its Georgian architecture, has educational roots that date back to 1595.

Read guide  →

Getting around Bath

Most attractions and key areas are within the centre and therefore, walking distance. However, for students at Bath Spa, you will be slightly further outside of the main city, but there are plenty of forms of transport to get you where you need to be.

Buses

The First Bus network (U1, U2, U3, U4, U5, 20) connects campuses and student neighbourhoods to the city centre.

Cycling

Cycling is popular to get to places faster than walking. Bike racks are spotted around on campus.

Walking

The city is quite compact and easily walkable.

Trains

The Bath Spa railway station is in the city centre, perfect for commuting from areas like Oldfield Park or visiting nearby areas.

Taxis/car

Most students avoid bringing a car as the city is a clear air zone and is therefore expensive to park or buy permits. Uber is available and often used instead though.

Life after uni

The universities in Bath are well-respected which bodes well in terms of employment for graduates from this city.  

Here are some key facts about employment prospects in Bath: 

  • High reputation

    University of Bath ranks in the top 10 UK Universities for career prospects, with about 90% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months.

  • Advantages for students

    Many students do well at Bath because lots of the courses offer sandwich or placement years. This helps students get experience for their CV on top of just the degree. There are also plenty of internships and networking opportunities here.

Some of Bath's biggest graduate employers

Accommodation for every student

Latest properties in Bath

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MS
Curated and written by

Misha Sharyy

City Guide Content Creators

Studying at University of Bath

Misha Sharyy is a 2nd year university student from University of Bath studying Politics, International Relations and French, he's also a content creator for Joint accommodation for students.

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