Explore the Best Universities in England with Interactive Maps

There are 295 institutions of higher education in the UK and 130 universities. You’ll find the vast majority (106, plus 5 university colleges) in England alone. That makes England a challenging place to find the perfect university experience. Would-be students here are spoiled for choice. This map of universities in England helps you see categories of universities and their locations around the country.

Not sure how to go about getting a degree in England? We’ve got you covered on applying, work visas, costs, and educational differences.

Click through to visit our review pages for each university where available. You’ll get the ratings for international students and can leave your own. And remember:

• Some schools defy classification, ending up in our “unclassified” category — or even more quirkily, on multiple maps.
• While we’re not mapping them here, some categories contain even more university options outside of England — in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and even the Republic of Ireland (where you can find “ancient university” Trinity College Dublin (ranking, guide).

All Universities in England Map

Russell Group Universities: Map

The Russell Group represents the crème de la crème of British higher education. Comprising 24 of the UK’s leading public research universities, this prestigious coalition is known for its world-class research, outstanding teaching, and extensive impact on global society.

Often compared to the Ivy League in the United States, Russell Group universities are powerhouses of innovation and scholarship. They are magnets for ambitious students and top-tier faculty from around the globe, driving forward cutting-edge research while nurturing the next generation of thought leaders. Whether exploring the mysteries of the universe, advancing medical breakthroughs, or shaping public policy, the Russell Group stands at the forefront of academic excellence and real-world impact.

Red Brick Universities of England: Map

Red Brick universities serve as storied pillars of British academia, harking back to the dawn of modern education in the bustling industrial cities of England. Born in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these institutions emerged as beacons of learning amidst the red-bricked Victorian and Edwardian architectures that inspired their name.

They are not just relics of the past, though; Red Bricks blend rich traditions with modern innovations, continuously evolving to meet contemporary challenges. Nestled within vibrant urban landscapes, these universities have become melting pots of culture, thought, and diversity, providing fertile ground for intellectuals, artists, and trailblazers. They represent a harmonious blend of historic grandeur and cutting-edge academia, making them some of England’s most cherished educational establishments.

Plate Glass Universities of England: Map

Plate Glass universities, a distinct chapter in England’s academic tapestry, sprung to life in the optimistic 1960s, embodying the spirit of modernity and progress. Distancing themselves from the venerable cloisters and historic lecture halls of their predecessors, these institutions stood proud with sleek, contemporary designs, often featuring expanses of glass that lent them their name.

Situated against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world, Plate Glass universities became symbols of forward-thinking and inclusivity. They broke the mold, offering a fresh approach to higher education, focused on interdisciplinary collaboration and ground-breaking research. Today, these institutions remain at the forefront of innovation, exemplifying a blend of modern architecture, diverse student communities, and a commitment to shaping the future.

Post-1992 Universities: Map

The Post-1992 universities in England ushered in a new era of higher education, championing accessibility and adaptability. Born from the transformation of polytechnics and colleges after the pivotal Further and Higher Education Act of 1992, these institutions are beacons of opportunity, breaking down traditional barriers and embracing a more diverse, dynamic student body.

With a strong emphasis on vocational courses, they intertwine academia with the practical skills needed for the modern workforce. Set against a backdrop of rapid technological and societal changes, these universities have become catalysts for innovation, fostering close ties with industries and communities. In essence, Post-1992 universities represent the spirit of modern England – resilient, inclusive, and ever-evolving.

Ancient Universities of England: Map

The ancient universities of the UK are hallowed bastions of tradition, scholarship, and enduring legacy. Established centuries ago, they’ve woven themselves into the very fabric of British history, standing as testimonies to the inexhaustible quest for knowledge. Walking their storied corridors and age-old halls, one feels the weight of countless intellects that have shaped the course of academia and beyond. They are not just institutions but living legacies, where rituals of the past seamlessly blend with cutting-edge research of the present. From the world-renowned spires of Oxford and Cambridge to institutions outside of England, these universities have been, and continue to be, the gold standard of education, nurturing luminaries, pioneers, and leaders for generations.

Unclassified Universities: Mapping the Schools that Aren’t Typically Listed in Other Categories

With some universities perched between eras and philosophies, or just neglected on lists where it feels they ought to be, these universities often defy classification. That doesn’t mean they’re less prestigious or established. Many are conservatories, art schools, medical institutions, or otherwise specialist universities. Some are just a mishmash of the other categories.

Put your University on the Map

If you’re already attending an English uni, why don’t you review it so others can learn from your wisdom? Click through to your school and leave a review. And if you’re not there yet, learn about the differences between English and Scottish universities so you know the significant differences that can make or break your future. Finally, check out the best universities in England for international students based on our stats.