Exploring the UK: top travel tips for students

While travelling abroad is ✨the dream✨ for many students, it’s not always practical when managing your studies and finances. But your dreams of beaut destinations and adventures are still poss! The UK offers some easily accessible and affordable travel opportunities for you to tick off your winter or summer bucket list.

Strike the perfect balance between education and travel with our top UK travel tips for students.

UK travel destinations for students

No matter where you’re based at uni, you’re only ever a short distance from some of the best travel destinations in the country. We’ve picked out five places in the UK to give you some inspo. Each offers plenty to do, easy accessibility, and cheap student holidays. Win-win!

The Lake District

If you’re in your outdoorsy era, exploring the Lake District is a perfect way to spend your long summer break. With over 885 square miles of stunning scenery, quaint little towns and tons of village pubs along any route you take, it’s got everything.

For the more adventurous, the Lake District is home to several activities for thrill seekers. From mountain biking and zip lining to kayaking and white water rafting, it’s the ideal place for adrenaline junkies!

Cornwall

Seeking beautiful beaches, a world-renowned surf scene, and buzzing nightlife? Cornwall is the place to be. There are plenty of towns to choose from, no matter what type of trip you’re looking for. For clubs and student nights, it has to be Newquay. For a taste of Europe in the UK, St Ives should be your choice.

Just be mindful that Cornwall is a tourist hotspot so try to avoid visiting in the middle of summer. If you’re located down south for uni already, you’re in a prime position to benefit from cheaper prices at off-peak times—yes plz.

Edinburgh

Regardless of your usual base, Edinburgh is an easily accessible destination for students. Plus, it’s a bustling city with plenty to offer all year round. Visit in August for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, or take a winter city break to visit one of the UK’s best, vibeyChristmas markets.

No matter what time of year it is, Scotland’s capital delivers on the nightlife scene. Edinburgh’s infamous Cowgate is a long stretch of bars and clubs promising cheap drinks and a good old-fashioned Scottish night out.

Brighton

London-based but seeking some beach time? Brighton is just 47 miles from the capital and offers lots for students. Whether you choose a weekend or longer, you can guarantee a fun-packed trip in the vibrant seaside capital of the south.

With vast food and drink options, a world-renowned pier, and annual events, Brighton is perfect for students. If you can travel in May, catch the Brighton Fringe Festival for quirky performances. Or opt for any one of the several music festivals hosted there each summer.

Liverpool

With endless art, music, and creativity, it’s no wonder so many of Liverpool’s students stay in the city after graduation. Renowned worldwide for music, football, and culture, Liverpool is a hub of activity at any time of year.

Book a long weekend and experience everything the city has to offer. From exploring Albert Docks and the Cavern Club to shopping, museums and of course, big and glam nightlife.

Best way to travel around the UK

With an extensive rail network spanning the length and breadth of the UK, getting to your holiday destination is easy. Plus, the train is often the quickest way to travel, so you can make the most of your time on holiday.

If your trip is only a short distance from uni, train travel is both convenient and cost-effective. Short distances usually offer the best value. If you’re travelling further, you can save money with railcards and advance bookings. You’ll just have to ensure you plan effectively to get the most savings.

For those who use the train regularly, applying for a student railcard could be worthwhile.

Student railcard discounts from National Rail can cut up to ⅓ off rail travel across the UK. For just £30, the student railcard is worth considering if you’re planning to make a few trips around the country.

For those headed to Scotland, train services are fast and efficient. However, if you’re planning in advance, you might want to check flight prices too. Sometimes, it can work out cheaper or more convenient to fly rather than use the train.

Slightly less common but still appealing for students is the prospect of a coach trip. We know what you’re thinking, but coach trips have come a long way in recent times! Think about it, you could visit some of the best destinations in the UK, conveniently and affordably, without having to drive yourself or stress over train times.

UNiDAYS members can benefit from discounts on coach bookings via National Express, which can be a real help.

Booking accommodation in the UK

Once you’ve decided on your destination, booking accommodation is the fun part. While you may be able to find a hotel with student discount, this isn’t your only option for a fun and affordable break in the UK.

Holiday rentals like Airbnb are a great choice if you’re travelling with friends, and hostels can be a fun way to make new friends or travel buddies.

Just like researching your destination and travel options, you should defo put your time into finding the perfect accommodation too. Be sure to shop around to find a good deal, and try to book in advance to lock in a good price if you can.

For hotels, UNiDAYS can help you with generous Expedia, Hostelworld, and Hotels.com student discounts.