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Best of the best 2025

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Halls and student accommodation 2025 - South West England

Your university halls will be your home for at least a year, and living somewhere you don't like can really be disappointing. However, living somewhere that you love can greatly improve the whole uni experience. Here are the Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCAs) top picks for unis with wonderful halls...

8th

University of Bath

star rating 4.4

SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

The University of Bath was given plenty of praise by reviewers for its high-quality facilities, and the supportive academic environment with knowledgeable lecturers. The university's commitment to sustainability also resonated with the student body. Plus, the scenic campus in Bath makes for an excellent environment to study in.

Review breakdown
5 star
46%
4 star
45%
3 star
9%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%

What students love most

  • Facilities
  • Sports
  • Location
  • Accommodation
  • Practical Courses

25th

University of Exeter

star rating 4.2

SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

The University of Exeter has a welcoming campus close to the city, and it offers up a variety of top sports facilities, study spaces, and cafes. The small class sizes provide excellent learning experiences, and the university's support services, including well-being and career assistance, are highly regarded for their usefulness and accessibility.

What students love most

  • Facilities
  • Safety
  • Teaching Quality
  • Student Support
  • Campus

34th

University of the West of England

star rating 4.1

SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

Students like the vibrant and multicultural student community at the University of the West of England (UWE). The campus offers state-of-the-art facilities, and the university puts a lot of focus on practical skills to prepare graduates for their professional journeys. Additionally, UWE Bristol's strong connection with industry professionals provides valuable opportunities for internships, placements, and networking events.

What students love most

  • Student Support
  • Staff
  • Practical Courses
  • Campus
  • Community

38th

University of Plymouth

star rating 4.2

SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

Students at the University of Plymouth love the combination of studying in the heart of a bustling city centre, while at the same time having great access to the beach. There are lots of student accommodation options close to campus, and the university SU runs a busy schedule of social events. Other frequently mentioned benefits include friendly teachers and lots of student support - especially when it comes to careers and employment.

What students love most

  • Location
  • Student Support
  • Opportunities
  • Blended Learning
  • Courses

52nd

Arts University Bournemouth

star rating 4.3

SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

Student reviewers love the creative and supportive environment at Arts University Bournemouth (AUB), highlighting the specialised courses, experienced faculty, and strong industry connections. They also enjoyed the dynamic and inclusive campus culture, which helped to grow a sense of collaboration and community. Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment is also praised, enabling students to explore their creativity and develop their skills in arts and design.

What students love most

  • Specialisations
  • Lecturers
  • Community
  • Industry Connections
  • Creativity

53rd

Bournemouth University

star rating 4.3

SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

Bournemouth University students were big fans of its welcoming atmosphere, supportive faculty, and modern facilities. The university's location offers up a mixture of coastal and city life, making for a great backdrop to studying. The courses were praised for their practical applications and industry connections, helping to prepare students for their future careers. Students felt like part of a community at the uni, and its range of extracurricular opportunities helped to build a sense of personal growth and a supportive learning environment.

What students love most

  • Diversity
  • University Staff
  • Facilities
  • Location
  • Students' Union

63rd

University of Gloucestershire

star rating 4.2

SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

Facilities at the University of Gloucester are modern and well equipped, with a focus on sustainable design. Supportive and friendly staff and guest lecturers lead diverse and interesting courses, many with placement opportunities and connections to industry. Wellbeing is important here, and students enjoy beautiful and convenient campuses with plenty of green spaces.

What students love most

  • Location
  • Staff
  • Practical Courses
  • Diversity
  • Facilities

68th

University of Bristol

star rating 4.1

SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

The great city location, welcoming environment, and rich academic resources at the University of Bristol were loved by reviewers. The campus is situated between Clifton Triangle and the City Center, making it convenient for student life and social activities. The university offers well-structured lessons, a variety of study spaces, and extensive online resources.

What students love most

  • Community
  • Course Content
  • City Location
  • Student Services
  • Facilities

73rd

Hartpury University

star rating 4.3

SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

As a specialist university in a rural location, it's unsurprising that one of the most often mentioned reasons why students love Hartpury is the world-class facilities. In particular, their equine and sports facilities are praised as being of exceptional quality, and a major factor of the student experience. Additionally, the university's idyllic surroundings provide some of the best countryside scenery to be found anywhere in the UK.

What students love most

  • Practical Courses
  • Lecturers
  • Campus
  • Student Support
  • Industry Placements

79th

Plymouth Marjon University

star rating 4.3

SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

Plymouth Marjon University is known for its small size and welcoming environment. Students here develop close relationships with lecturers, who are experienced, knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects. Many courses offer placements and employability skills, supporting life after graduation. The uni also has a green andbeautiful campus, with great facilities and opportunities for sports, clubs and societies.

What students love most

  • Small Campus
  • Friendly
  • Teaching Quality
  • Placement Opportunities
  • Staff
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