So, you want to know what the best universities for mechanical engineering the UK are? We’ve used mechanical engineering university rankings to put together a list of the best UK unis.
Updated: 02 Jul 2026
If you want to do a mechanical engineering degree, you’re probably wondering what the best universities for mechanical engineering are. Using our sister site Complete University Guide’s league tables, we’ve compiled a list of unis coming top in different areas for mechanical engineering.
Teesside University
With its vibrant campus located in the heart of Middlesbrough in North East England, Teesside University is a friendly, modern university offering a broad portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate courses spanning a wide range of subject areas. In recent years, the university has invested more than £280m in its town-centre campus, giving it a leading edge in digital innovation, forensic facilities, and sport and health sciences.
NEXT: Read what students think of mechanical engineering at Teesside University
Imperial College London
As one of the world’s most well-regarded universities, Imperial College London has built up its reputation by focusing solely on science, engineering, medicine and business. As a result, the uni can concentrate its research in these areas. It aims to produce the next generation of researchers, scientists and academics. Its central London location provides students with everything they could need and far more. The capital is well-known for its live entertainment, range of restaurants and bars and its many museums and art galleries. Local transport is available across the city in the form of buses and trains, allowing students to easily move across the city.
NEXT: Read what students think of mechanical engineering at Imperial College London.
University of Cambridge
One of the UK’s oldest and most respected unis, the University of Cambridge has a lot to offer its students. It places a high emphasis on research and teaching quality, and students will also find the city itself has a lot to offer. Cambridge is well known for its beauty, and has lots of green spaces and parks, as well as a picturesque river running through the city. In the summer, many students make the most of the boat trips on offer, and throughout the year there’s plenty of cultural things to do. There’s a range of galleries, museums, cinemas and theatres to occupy you when you’re not studying, and you also won’t be short of places to eat, drink or party.
Imperial College London
Making its second appearance on the list is the Imperial College London, which comes top for mechanical engineering in England, so congratulations to the Imperial College London.
The University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is situated in a prime location within what is often considered one of the most desirable cities to live in the UK. It’s the sixth oldest university in the UK and is organised around several campuses in Edinburgh. For centuries a hub of ideas and innovation, the inventors of the steam engine, the telephone, colour photography, and x-ray technology were all born in Edinburgh, and the university continues in its long tradition.
NEXT: Read what students think of mechanical engineering at University of Edinburgh
Cardiff University
With over 20,000 students and 100 different nationalities represented, Cardiff University is definitely a good choice if you’re looking for a large and diverse uni. Located in the capital city of Wales, the uni benefits from good transport connections via Cardiff Station as well as everything a capital city has to offer. The city is relatively compact, so you won’t have trouble finding what you need within walking distance. On your walks, you’ll find a wide range of bars, pubs and clubs to keep you busy at night as well as museums, galleries and cinemas to entertain you during the day.
NEXT: Read what students think of mechanical engineering at Cardiff University.
Queen's University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) was founded in 1845 and is now internationally respected. Centrally located in Belfast, Northern Ireland’s capital city, QUB offers students the chance to easily explore the city on foot, though there’s public transport available if you prefer buses and trains. Around Belfast, you’ll find theatres, music venues, galleries and museums for your dose of culture, plus plenty of cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs to keep you fed and watered. Belfast is also listed as one of the cheapest UK cities to live in, so you’ll get more for your money.
Imperial College London
The top university for mechanical engineering in the UK is the Imperial College London, so congratulations for taking the top spot this year!
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