A big part of determining your university city is safety. The Purple Flag accreditation helps with this by granting this status to cities with excellence in night-time and evening economies, including social, economic, transport, and entertainment activities. Cities are required to have an after-hours policy, ensure wellbeing, safe movement, a range of night-time activities, and thriving day-time activities in order to gain this status. Here is a list (in no particular order) of university cities with this status for a safer evening!
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Bristol
Home to the University of Bristol and University of the West of England (UWE), the city boasts a bustling and safe environment, with dedicated initiatives like Bristol Nights and the Women’s Safety Charter. Students curious about the student experience can head over to this article to know more. -
Cambridge
The Cambridge Business Improvement District provided excellent service that helped the city gain Purple Flag status in 2019. Students at the University of Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin University can enjoy a range of leisure activities safely. -
Dublin
A city with multiple universities, including Trinity College, University College Dublin, and Dublin City University, the city council has policies and an official Night-Time Economy Advisor who helps maintain its safety standards. -
Belfast
Belfast’s two major universities include Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University. With multiple food and drink venues, live music, and other entertainment options, the Purple Flag status makes this an ideal university city. -
Leicester
Home of the University of Leicester and De Montfort University, Leicester’s night-time economy is a vibrant sector that is supported by the city council and various safety initiatives, making it ideal for a night-out or other evening activities. -
Liverpool
With three main universities – the University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University, and Liverpool Hope University- the city is a hub for students. With plenty of options, from hospitality venues to nights out, the city is committed to providing a safe experience for thousands of students. -
Sheffield
Students at the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University can enjoy safety at venues like nightclubs, bars, and music spaces through welfare schemes that the city is a part of. The Purple Flag accreditation is a testament to the city’s lively nature, seen more in this blog! -
Swansea
Swansea secured its Purple Flag status for the 12th consecutive time in 2026, proving the city’s commitment to ensuring safety and security for its many students. Swansea University and University of Wales Trinity Saint David students can enjoy a stress-free time in the city. -
Nottingham
A major hub for nightlife, Nottingham boasts Purple Flag status as well as active police partnerships that are ideal for students of the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University. Known for its night-time economy, the city is committed to ensuring this sector thrives alongside students’ safety. For more on the city’s student life, check out this guide! -
York
Known for hosting plenty of bars and pubs, students at multiple educational institutions in York, from the University of York to York College, can enjoy a great night out without compromising on safety.
Although the Purple Flag status is a sign of safety, it is important to be cautious no matter where you are, at all times of the day. This status, however, is a testament to how these cities are committed to ensuring that their vibrant and colourful night-time economies thrive alongside their students.
