League tables can be overwhelming, let us make it simple for you! We’ve compiled a list of the best universities for architecture in the UK.
Updated: 24 Sept 2025
If you’re interested in doing a degree in architecture, you’re probably also interested in the best universities for architecture, but did you know there’s more to the top architecture universities than just the overall winners? We've put together a list of the unis that came top in different criteria according to the Complete University Guide's 2026 league tables, so you can look at what's important to you.
Queen’s University Belfast is a well-respected and renowned institution. Located in Belfast, Northern Ireland’s capital city, the uni is in close proximity to the compact town centre, which students can easily explore by foot or on bike, though the city also has a strong local transport network for those who would prefer to take a bus. Across the city, you’ll find plenty of nightlife, entertainment and culture to keep you busy when you’re not studying, and you’re also close to spots of natural beauty such as Giant’s Causeway.
NEXT: Read what students think about architecture at Queen's University, Belfast.
Just an hour’s train ride from London in the beautiful city of Cambridge, you’ll find the University of Cambridge. The uni’s buildings are spread across the city centre. The city itself is packed with green space, perfect for picnics and outdoor study sessions. One popular way to pass afternoons when you’re not studying is to make use of the boat trips available along the River Cam. If this doesn’t take your fancy, there’s plenty of other cultural things to do as well. The city has a range of galleries, museums, cinemas and theatres to occupy you, and you also won’t be short of places to eat, drink or party.
Loughborough University is a campus university situated in central England, and is consistently ranked as one of the best universities in the UK. It has a global reputation for its sporting education and facilities, but also excels in a number of other fields, particularly in engineering and technology.
NEXT: Read what students think of architecture at Loughborough University
Students in England have great options for studying architecture, but the Loughborough University is one of the best. In fact, it came top in the whole of England!
The UK’s sixth oldest uni, the University of Edinburgh has a rich history and offers its students loads of benefits. Not only is it located in one of the UK’s most desirable cities to live in, but the city also has many parks to offer, and the university is well-known for its high-quality research. Edinburgh is also famous for its local landmarks, architecture and shopping. The uni also has several famous alumni including Alexander Graham Bell, JM Barrie and Charles Darwin.
Cardiff University dates back to 1833 and today has a student body representing over 100 different countries. The uni’s campus is situated in the heart of Cardiff, Wales’s capital city, meaning students are well-located, with everything you need just a short distance away. Around Cardiff, you’ll find a lively, student-friendly nightlife scene thanks to the many bars, pubs and clubs. There’s also enough comedy clubs, theatres and music venues to keep any student busy!
NEXT: Read what students think of architecture at Cardiff University.
Queen’s University Belfast is a well-respected and renowned institution. Located in Belfast, Northern Ireland’s capital city, the uni is in close proximity to the compact town centre, which students can easily explore by foot or on bike, though the city also has a strong local transport network for those who would prefer to take a bus. Across the city, you’ll find plenty of nightlife, entertainment and culture to keep you busy when you’re not studying, and you’re also close to spots of natural beauty such as Giant’s Causeway.
NEXT: Read what students think about architecture at Queen's University, Belfast.
And the award for best university in the whole of the UK for architecture goes to the Loughborough University!