If you’re thinking of studying physics at uni, you’re definitely going to want to read on and learn about the best universities for physics in the UK.
Updated: 02 Jul 2026
We’ve used our sister site Complete University Guide’s physics and astronomy university rankings to bring you a list of the top physics universities in the UK. As different things are important to different people, we’ve pulled out the top performers in the different UK nations, as well as in different areas so you can make a decision based on what’s important to you.
Loughborough University
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 physics at the Loughborough University
University of Sheffield
The uni has developed a strong reputation since it was founded in 1828. The city is known historically for its role in industry, though these days it’s actually one of the UK’s greenest cities with over 2 million trees across the city. The city also has a lot of entertainment to offer students, from theatres to clubs, Sheffield has all the typical forms of live entertainment students can expect from their cities. The city also benefits from being centrally located within the UK, with strong transport connections to different cities across the UK.
NEXT: Read what students think of physics at the University of Sheffield.
University of Oxford
One of the UK’s oldest and most prestigious universities, the University of Oxford is internationally respected. Its long and rich history dates back as far as 1096, as evidence of teaching dates back this far. The picturesque city offers plenty of history and culture as well, with several museums in the local area, as well as lots of beautiful architecture. The city is also well-connected, located just over an hour’s train journey from London.
NEXT: Read what students think of physics at University of Oxford
University of Oxford
The top uni for physics courses in England is University of Oxford!
University of St Andrews
St Andrews is maybe most well-known today for being the meeting-place of Prince William and Kate Middleton, but its history actually dates back to 1413, making it one of the world’s oldest unis. The small town as well has its fair share of history, as well as some famous historical graduates including Benjamin Franklin and JM Barrie. As St Andrews is a seaside town, students are able to benefit from the proximity to the coast as well as everything the town has to offer. In the small town, you’ll find museums, a botanic garden and an aquarium, as well as golf courses and the typical student offerings: bars, pubs, restaurants and cafes.
NEXT: Read what students think of physics at the University of St Andrews.
Cardiff University
Dating back to 1833, Cardiff University has established itself as a well-respected institution. Currently, it has students from over 100 different countries enrolled, and is known for a welcoming and diverse community. The campus is situated in the heart of Cardiff, meaning you’ll be well-located, with everything you need within walking distance. The city is known for having lots of comedy clubs, theatres and music venues. It also has several pubs, bars and clubs, which contribute to a lively, student-friendly nightlife scene, enough to keep any student busy!
NEXT: Read what students think of physics at Cardiff University.
Queen's University Belfast
Founded in 1845, it’s internationally respected and centrally located in Belfast, Northern Ireland’s capital city. The city is easily explorable on foot, though there are local buses, and also trains for journeys further afield. Around the city, you’ll find a range of student-friendly museums, art galleries, theatres and music venues, as well as plenty of bars, cafes, pubs and clubs to choose from. Belfast also comes in as one of the cheapest UK cities to live in, so you’ll get more for your money.
University of Oxford
And the top university overall in the UK for physics in 2027 is the University of Oxford. Congratulations to the University of Oxford for achieving this top spot!
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