A guide to living in Lancaster 

A popular city in England, United Kingdom, Lancaster is a leading student hub. Home to some excellent and prestigious academic institutes, the city is ideal for students who wish to study abroad and experience an exciting student life. The thriving economy and vibrant cultural scene are a cherry on top for students.  

Since the city is home to many international students, it is rich in culture and welcoming towards all students. The best part about Lancaster is that it is not just a student city, but for everyone. Whether you are a student, working professional, an older adult or a tourist, there is something fun for everyone in this historic city. 

Things to do in Lancaster

Lancaster is a city where you will never get bored, because there is so much to see every day. Given below is a list of different things for students to experience when they are in Lancaster. Find your interest! 

Historic Attractions: An important center for the textile industry, the city has been rich in history ever since the Roman Times. If you like exploring places that are rich in history, then you can visit the following places: 

• Lancaster Castle 

• Lancaster Museum 

• Ashton Memorial 

Arts & Culture: Also rich in art and culture, Lancaster is a true hub for people who love exploring different representations of art and culture around the world. Some top art & culture attractions in the city are given below: 

• The Dukes Theatre 

• The Storey Gallery 

• Lancaster City Art Gallery 

Music & Festivals: The city hosts many festivals and events that every student must experience. Get your dancing shoes on, and head to the following events that will make your groove, sing and have an experience of a lifetime. 

• Lancaster Castle’s Medieval Festival (July) 

• Roman Festival (August) 

• Lancaster Maritime Festival (June) 

Student Accommodation in Lancaster 

International students studying at Lancaster University, University of Central Lancashire, or any other, can find a plethora of accommodation options in the city. To ensure students’ safety and comfort, different types of accommodation in Lancaster are available. Given below are the different off-campus housing options for students to choose from. 

• Student Housing: These properties are built especially to cater to students’ accommodation needs. Located near the universities, students choose this type of accommodation for their affordability and amenities. Students who choose to stay in student housing get access to various luxurious amenities at a very affordable price, such as gym, wardrobe, lounge area, games room, and more. Students can choose from a variety of student housing options, such as suites, ensuites, studio rooms and student apartments.

• Private Apartments: If you have always dreamed of living all by yourself, without any rules and restrictions, then these private apartments are for you. Also referred to as residential apartments, these properties are available for anyone and everyone to rent. This means that your neighbor could be a family of four, a working adult or a student. Staying in private apartments means not having to compromise on your privacy or personal space, since you get a whole apartment to yourself in Lancaster.

• Home Stays: Since moving away from home is not easy, Lancaster city brings a feeling of home to you. Home Stays are houses in Lancaster that are hosted by local families living there. In these homes, you get a personal room and bathroom and get a chance to live with the family whose house it is. These are very affordable stay options in Lancaster, moreover you get the chance to get to know the local people, the city and tips to live there as a student.  

Cost of Living in Lancaster 

Living in Lancaster as an international student is not very expensive but not cheap either. The cost of living matches the national average of the United Kingdom. However, it is less than other major cities in the UK, such as London.  

Whether the cost of living in Lancaster is affordable or not will depend on the lifestyle the student chooses to live. For example, if a student chooses to travel every day to their university by taxi instead of bus, then they are bound to have higher expenses in the city. Students can expect the average cost of living in Lancaster to be $1,532 per month. 

Transport Options in Lancaster

Traveling in Lancaster is an absolute delight, thanks to the various transport options available in the city. Given below are the different options for students to choose from: 

• Public Transport: If you are looking for transport that is easily accessible and affordable, then Buses (Stagecoach, National Express, and Megabus operate in Lancaster), Train (Lancaster Railway Station connects to major cities like Manchester, Liverpool, and London), and Canal Boat (Lancaster Canal offers scenic boat trips).  

• Taxi Services: If you are looking for Car Sharing & Taxi Services in Lancaster, then Liftshare (Car Sharing scheme for students), Uber (Ride-Hailing Service) and Lancaster taxis. 

• Cycling: Many students choose to cycle their way to/from their university and nearby spots. Students can hire bikes or purchase them at great discounts from Lancaster University Cycling Hub. 

Conclusion 

Living in Lancaster as an international student is rewarding, fulfilling and a transformative journey. The above given guide highlights all that you need to know about living in Lancaster as an international student. So, make your notes and get ready to enjoy your student life the way you deserve to!