Liverpool City Guide
Liverpool is a vibrant city in Merseyside, in the Northwest of England. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and its iconic musical history, famously known as the home of the Beatles. It is home to two prominent universities: the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University.
Aside from being a hub for education, it offers an exceptional environment for student living as it is a welcoming community that embraces diversity. It is a great city for students as it has a safe and welcoming environment. It is also easily accessible to major cities like Manchester and London.
Universities
The University of Liverpool was founded in 1881 and is known as the original redbrick university. QS world rankings 2025 placed the university at number 165 in the world, number 20 in the Russell Group list and number 23 in the United Kingdom. Another prominent university in Liverpool is the Liverpool John Moores University which is ranked 801 – 850 in the world. The university excels in Sports Sciences, Art and Design and Business Studies. Liverpool Hope University is another notable mention.
Student Areas and Accommodation
The popular student areas in Liverpool include Smithdown Road, which is known for its lively atmosphere and affordable housing. Kensington which is closer to the universities, and the City Centre, which is in the heart of the action.
Several first-year students opt to stay in the university-managed or private student halls. After the first year, many students move into shared houses or studios as these options cost less than the university halls.
Getting around
It is quite easy to get around Liverpool as there is an extensive bus network which makes commuting around the city convenient and affordable. There are various train stations around the city with the major one being Liverpool Lime Street. This offers connections to major cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and London. Coaches are also available.
The Liverpool John Lennon Airport is only a short drive offering domestic and international flights. Manchester Airport is also easily accessible by train or coach.
Food and drink
As Liverpool is a diverse city, there are various spots for food from different countries. Bold Street is a hotspot for many of these restaurants and bars and are always offering student prices. The Renshaw food market is also a great spot for mostly Asian food, with so many great options to pick from at very affordable prices. The Baltic Market is always great for a day out in the summer as it boasts a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of choices.
Many of these restaurants offer student deals and discounts to make it more affordable. Leaf on Bold Street is a café by day and a bar at night and it is known for its extensive tea selection and delicious meals. Zenn is also a wonderful place to check out, a restaurant and a bar with a gorgeous rooftop terrace if you are not up for eating inside especially when the weather is lovely.
Nightlife
The nightlife is one for the books and one everyone must experience whenever they are in Liverpool. There is a wide range of clubs and bars where you could always have fun and dance the night away. Concert Square is the go-to area for nightlife and always the starting point for a great night. Distinct options with good music include Fusion, Electrik Warehouse, Ink Bar, Heebies and so much more.
There are always events happening everyday which shows that there is no dull moment for the nightlife in Liverpool. Both universities have an active student union which provides support services to the students and organises events to promote student participation.
Study spots and local amenities
In addition to the university libraries, there are cosy cafes around the city with reliable Wi-Fi connections.
Supermarkets like Tesco and Lidl are conveniently situated near the student areas and are always offering affordable prices. Liverpool One and the Liverpool Shopping Park also offer a wide range of shops with so many options to pick from.
Both universities offer gym facilities to their students and there is also the option of joining a local gym like pure gym or the gym group. They also have health centres and there are various NHS clinics around the city offering health services.
Insider tips
Liverpool is a dynamic and diverse environment for students as it combines academic excellence with a vibrant social scene and comprehensive amenities. No matter what it is you are doing there, Liverpool will always have something for you.
