The UK’s sunniest region, South East England, is a place full of many things to enjoy. And it’s just a short journey from London. Think countryside, vibrant cities, royal castles, medieval towns, sandy beaches, coastal villages and a lot of history and culture to explore. The region is home to some of the best universities in the world, including the University of Oxford. They teach challenging and rewarding courses that prepare you for the competitive graduate job market.
What is South East England like?
Location and demographics
South East England is one of the largest regions in the country (19,095 square kilometres), and it has the biggest population (8.6 million people). The region is at the bottom-right side of the UK, going from Dorset in the west to the eastern part of Kent. It’s the closest part of the country to France (20 miles).
Culture and history
Because of its proximity to Europe, the South East has a long ancient and medieval history. For example, you can find Britain’s oldest road, Iron Age settlements, and where William the Conquerer from Normandy landed to invade in 1066.
In more modern times, the region was an important location during World War I and II. The port town of Dover played a crucial role. It was one of the main points for troops to go to and from France and it faced almost daily shelling from German guns on the French coast.
Often regarded as England’s Creative Coast, the South East is also well known for its lively arts and culture scene – Brighton hosts the biggest Pride celebrations in the UK. Not to mention its maritime heritage and seafood; you can enjoy all fishy delights here, from oysters to lobsters.
Notable people from the South East include:
● Victorian-era writer Charles Dickens
● Wartime politician William Churchill
● Musician Kate Bush
● Novelist Ian McEwan
● Supermodel Kate Moss
● Comedian Ricky Gervais.
Discover what makes studying in the UK unique.
What cities in South East England?
The region has eight counties. These include Surrey, Oxfordshire, Surrey, and Kent. It also has seven vibrant cities:
● Brighton – situated along a pebbly beach with a pier, it's a colourful and inclusive city, full of independent shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars,
● Canterbury – home to medieval architecture, such as one of the country’s oldest cathedrals. It’s a university city and is famous for Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales.
● Chichester – a charming city which mixes historical Roman remains and modern, urban attractions.
● Oxford – where the oldest university in the UK is based. The city is full of beautiful architecture, galleries, gardens, and parks.
● Portsmouth – known as ‘the Great Waterfront City’, Portsmouth has countless things to do, from military museums to sailing experiences. It’s the UK’s only island city and is where you can get a ferry to the Isle of Wight.
● Southampton – this historic waterfront city is where many cruise ships leave from. It has a lively nightlife, great shopping options, various leisure facilities and a year-round programme of exciting events.
● Winchester – another cathedral city, Winchester is the ancient capital of England and the former seat of King Alfred the Great.
Explore some of the best student cities in the UK.
How much does it cost to live in South East England?
As it’s close to London, the region tends to be more expensive than others. For example, Oxford and Brighton are generally some of the most expensive cities in the UK. However, places such as Southampton and Surrey tend to have lower living costs and are some of the cheapest student locations in the UK. If you live in the region you would need to budget on average GBP 150 to GBP 160 per week for locations closer to London, and between GBP and GBP 120 further out.
What services are there for students?
It’s easy to get around the South East and other parts of the UK. There’s an excellent transport network, connecting people via car, train, bus, boat, or plane. Cities and towns are usually cycle-friendly too. Gatwick Airport is the second busiest in the UK, where you can fly to destinations worldwide. Heathrow isn’t too far either. The English Channel also offers ferry travel to mainland Europe.
What are the post-study options?
South East England has the second-largest economy of any region in the UK, after London. As it’s so close to the capital, many global businesses choose to base their headquarters there. This has boosted the region’s economy and provided many job opportunities. Universities in the South East often offer high graduate prospects. For example, the University of Southampton has a 96 per cent rate of graduate employment or students in further study.
Find out what is required to apply for a student visa and a post-study visa in the UK.
What universities are in South East England?
You have many choices of excellent universities in this region. There are several institutions known all over the world for their academic excellence. These include:
University of Oxford
One of the best-known universities in the world, the University of Oxford is a global leader in teaching and research. It’s the oldest English-speaking university and often tops university league tables. In 2023, it places first in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide.
University of Sussex
Based on the outskirts of Brighton, Sussex was established in the 1960s. It ranks 41st in the UK in the Complete University Guide League Tables ranking for 2023.
University of Southampton
The research-intensive university was a founding member of the Russell Group. On the QS World University Rankings 2023, it’s a global top 80 university.
Royal Holloway, University of London
Founded in 1879 as two colleges for women’s education, Royal Holloway has an international reputation for excellent teaching. It offers a traditional British study experience. This is especially true of its main building, an example of beautiful red brick Victorian architecture.
Other universities in the region include:
- Oxford Brookes University
- University of Reading
- University of Kent
- University of Portsmouth
- Buckinghamshire New University
- University of Greenwich
Read more on the top universities in the UK and how to apply to study in the UK.
What are the main attractions in South East England?
South East England has three million acres of stunning natural landscapes. There are two national parks (the South Downs and the New Forest) and nine areas of outstanding natural beauty. Activities you can enjoy include hiking, archery, canoeing, kayaking, and cycling.
If the urban environment is more your vibe, South East England’s towns and cities offer many award-winning restaurants, theatre performances, manor houses, museums, sports events, galleries and many other fun experiences.
What must you see?
Cultural attractions and impressive places include Windsor Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, the Turner Contemporary gallery and Brighton’s Royal Pavillion. For festivals and events, make sure to attend either the Pride parade or the country’s biggest arts festival, both in Brighton. Other internationally renowned events include Henley Royal Regatta, Royal Ascot, and Royal Horse Show.
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