Life in Staffordshire

Staffordshire, 'the Creative County' has a unique heritage and a strong cultural presence worth celebrating. It has something for everyone whether you’re a lover of the great outdoors, a history buff or a thrill seeker, there's plenty of ways to relax and have fun.

Why choose University of Staffordshire?

Well connected

We are ideally located near a mainline railway links making it easy to travel around

Fusion of urban living and countryside

Enjoy the convenience of city life while being a stone's throw away from tranquil green spaces

Student budget

Staffordshire is one of the most affordable places to live and study in the UK

Life at Staffordshire feels more than an education, it’s a community filled with inspiration, encouragement, and creativity

Nunika Khungar

BA (Hons) Fashion

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Where are we located?

The main campus is in the heart of Stoke-on-Trent where you'll experience the buzz and convenience of city life without needing to go far to party, shop or unwind in green spaces. Our Centre of Health Innovation campus is in Stafford, a country town that's steeped in heritage and culture, with a modern edge and eclectic mix of shops, bars, restaurants and places to relax.

Both campuses are surrounded by picturesque towns and beautiful countryside with plenty of attractions for you to enjoy your time here as a student.

Explore iconic places

The bottle kilns and vintage ceramics buildings in Stoke-on-Trent

Stoke-on-Trent

Our main campus based in Stoke-on-Trent, is a diverse city woven with history, modern culture, contemporary experiences. Also known as 'The Potteries', Stoke-on-Trent is a unique city made up of six distinct towns which have a rich heritage of ceramics and industrial art. There's plenty of places to explore, party, shop and dine. 

Visit Stoke tourism site
Scenic view of Stafford Castle surrounded by grass on a cloudy day

Stafford

If you’re studying at our Stafford campus, you’re a short distance away from the county town which has an historic high street, an abundance of shops, eateries, coffee lounges, and a great selection of bars. Stafford is an haven of heritage with it’s very own castle and lots to explore.

Visit Stafford Borough tourism site
A group of six students sitting in a lounge chatting with a selection of beverages

Newcastle-under-Lyme

Close to both campuses is student-friendly town Newcastle-under-Lyme. Great for student nights out whether you're seeking a movie and cosy cocktail lounge, or lively happy hour bars with games and activities. There's a wide selection of restaurants, including world cuisines and your favourite chains, and a high-street with shops and supermarkets.

Visit Newcastle-under-Lyme tourism site
trentham

Wider Staffordshire

There's so much to enjoy in historic Staffordshire. From exploring charming countrysides and national parks, strolling through picturesque towns, to riding some of the world's best rollercoasters - there's plenty of activities to keep you busy outside of lectures.

Visit Enjoy Staffordshire tourism site

Beyond Staffordshire

Both our campuses are in ideal locations and have mainline railways offering direct links to major cities, making it easy to travel around the UK or have a day out further afield. 

Train travel day trip ideas 
  • Manchester - less than an hour
  • Birmingham - less than an hour
  • London - approximately 90 minutes
  • Liverpool - approximately 90 minutes
  • Chester - approximately 90 minutes
A night time shot of Manchester's historic library lit up, with cherry blossom trees outside and heritage buildings in the distance

Attractions & activities

Ready to explore Staffordshire and make the most of student life? We've selected some of the best things to do and see for all interests.

For adventure, head to the VR experiences or Ninja Warrior. There are also peaceful activities like Trentham Gardens & Potteries Museum

Nokwanda Siyunyi

Aeronautical Engineering Student

Days out

Staffordshire has lots to offer if you're in need of a day away. If you love strolling, hiking, or biking, you'll wind up in national parks, picturesque gardens, countryside, and green spaces. For thrill seekers, we have the country's best theme parks and water parks. For retail enthusiasts, there's an abundance of shops in the city and hidden retail gems tucked away in market towns.

Alton Towers

Unleash the Power of The Towers and share massive giggles, mega-thrills and major glee with your friends and family at Britain's Greatest Escape! Read more

Find out more: https://www.altontowers.com/

Waterworld

Open all year round, Waterworld Aqua Park is an epic adventure for the whole family to enjoy, with over 30 different rides and attractions. Read more

There’s also the outdoor pool for those looking to enjoy some sunshine in the summer months! Waterworld is also home to Adventure Mini Golf with two 18-hole, tiki-themed mini golf courses. Find out more: https://www.waterworld.co.uk 

Monkey Forest

Spend an afternoon walking, talking, and snapping selfies with over 140 free-roaming Barbary Macaques in a beautiful woodland setting.  Read more

Find out more: https://monkey-forest.com/

Trentham Estate

Make a day of exploring the stunning Italian gardens and spoil yourself with shopping and dining at bistros at the Trentham Estate. Read more

Explore the stunning Italian gardens and shop at the timber lodge outlets and boutiques. Find out more: https://trentham.co.uk/

Peak District

Walk, cycle, and wander around the renowned National Park. We're honoured to have such breathtaking views and stunning sights so near to us. Read more

Find out more: https://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/home

Cannock Chase

Go exploring or on a guided horse trek through area of outstanding natural beauty, of Cannock Chase national landscape. Read more

Find out more: https://www.cannock-chase.co.uk/

Intu Potteries

The opposite of your local vintage shop, intu Potteries is a shopping powerhouse. Boasting 90 stores including Primark and H&M, restaurants including Nando's and a Cineworld cinema all under one roof. Read more

Find out more: https://potteriescentre.co.uk/

Art & culture

Stoke-on-Trent is known as 'the World Capital of Ceramics' and this rich and diverse heritage is weaved into our identity. In the city, you'll find unique museums and galleries with fascinating collections where you can unravel Stoke-on-Trent's remarkable story. Embark on heritage tours and admire the bottle kilns where some of the world's finest bone china was created, or get hands-on and create your own piece of pottery art. The city has excellent entertainment venues whether you love legendary musicals, quirky variety acts, or laugh out loud comedy.

Potteries Museum and Art Gallery

Home to almost one million objects, the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery is the perfect place to while away a couple of hours.  Read more

Find out more: https://www.stokemuseums.org.uk

Regent Theatre

Be captivated every month with jaw-dropping touring shows like Thriller Live. Originally opened as a Super Cinema in 1929, they've been putting on world-class performances ever since. Read more

Find out more: https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/regent-theatre/

World of Wedgwood

Looking for inspiration? Celebrate 260 years of the finest British craftsmanship. Experience the V&A Collection at the museum, tour the factory, throw a pot or design your own unique piece, check out the contemporary tea room, restaurant, flagship store and factory outlet.   Read more

Find out more: https://www.worldofwedgwood.com/

Brampton Museum

Through a series of fascinating collections, Brampton Museum tells the story of Newcastle-under-Lyme and its people from the Roman invasion onward.  Read more

Find out more: https://www.newcastle-staffs.gov.uk/museum

LoveClay

LoveClay is a studio that offers a fascinating experience in the world of pottery for complete beginners to experienced potters. Read more

Whether you’re a budding artist seeking to unleash your creative spirit or an admirer or craftsmanship, they offer courses and events for all. Find out more: https://www.loveclay.co.uk/

Middleport Pottery

Located in Burslem, Middleport Pottery has been the home of Burleigh since 1889. Take a guided tour, snap up some bargains at the factory shop or relax in the cafe, the choice is yours.  Read more

Find out more: https://www.burleigh.co.uk/pages/visit-middleport-pottery

Gatehouse Theatre

Gatehouse Theatre offers a range of touring shows and in-house productions, covering big name acts and top touring companies to home-grown talent and popular summer school shows. Read more

Find out more: https://www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk/

Nightlife & music

Party hard and dance the night away at Staffordshire's memorable nightlife venues. Stoke-on-Trent has a thriving music scene where you can soak up the electrifying energy of live music and discover breakthrough bands, or perhaps you prefer to get nostalgic at throwback nights. The local area has got you covered if you're looking for cosy spots to enjoy beers or cocktails.

Sugarmill

If it's good enough for Miles Kane and The 1975, it's good enough for us. This nationally acclaimed live venue will have you rubbing shoulders with some of the best in the British music industry. Read more

Find out more: https://www.thesugarmill.co.uk/

The Underground

If you're looking for breakthrough bands, look no further. Cheap drinks and admissions mean you can spend a little, and have a big night out. Read more

Check out what's on: https://www.undergroundstoke.co.uk/

The Rigger

Independent live music venue and arts space hosting live entertainment from all over the world. Read more

Check out what's on: https://www.theriggervenue.co.uk/

Clubs and bars

The local area has an abundance of nightclubs, bars, and pubs to suit all moods and occasions, whether you want to party and dance, or relax and chat. Read more

Explore top-picks from our students for a fun night out in the Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme area - Reflex, Gossip, Pink, The Backyard, Captain's Bar, Bottlecraft, Slug & Lettuce, Hogarth's 

Hotspots in Stafford - Casa, RIVA, Redrum, The Liquor Tank, The Treehouse, The Yard.

If pubs are more your thing, then Staffordshire is home to an abundance of traditional and modern pubs where you can enjoy a pint or watch sports. 

Sport & leisure

If you love getting active, trying new hobbies, or socialising then Staffordshire has something for everyone. There's a wide selection of activities to stimulate your mind and physical state, whether you prefer the exhiliration of a workout or having a cosy movie night at the cinema. 

Long Rest Boardgame Bar + Cafe

A cosy board game space where you can relax and play a selection of over 500 games, eat and drink. Read more

Find out more: https://longrest.co.uk/

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Clubhouse

The Clubhouse is packed full of fun activities including indoor crazy golf, table tennis, beer pong, interactive darts, and retro gaming. Read more

Find out more: https://www.theclubhousestoke.com/

GameGrid

Grab your mates, shoot zombies, fight epic battles and face your fears! Team up and play together at West Midland's largest VR & Esports gaming hub. Read more

Find out more: https://www.gamegrid.gg/

SnowDome

Have an action-packed day out at SnowDome, from skiing and snowboarding, to ice skating and swimming. Read more

Find out more: https://www.snowdome.co.uk/

Laser Tag

Team up and zap your enemies, experience laser tag in an immersive 4D environment. Read more

Find out more: 

Bowling

Get ready and team up for fun bowling with fantastic lighting effects where you can also play arcade games and pool. Read more

Top bowling venues:

Ninja Warrior UK Adventure Park

Do you have what it takes to be a Ninja Warrior? Unleash your inner ninja, and tackle the huge selection of obstacle courses for people of all abilities. Read more

Find out more: https://ninjawarrioruk.co.uk/stoke-on-trent/

Stoke Ski Centre

You don't have to travel to the Alps to hit the slopes, the centre has an excellent standard of skiing and snowboarding instruction.  Read more

Find out more: https://stokeskicentre.com/

Stoke City FC

We proudly sponsor Stoke City FC, and this is their home. If football isn't your game, it's worth going just to see the mascots - 'Pottermus' and 'Pottermiss'. Read more

Find out more: https://www.stokecityfc.com/

Life on campus

Living on a student budget can be challenging and you may not want to travel far from campus to take a breather from studying. We have plenty of facilities and spaces on campus where you can exercise, socialise and party, while being in a safe and welcoming environment. You can also get food and drink, and attend students events at cheap rates!

On campus, you'll find the Students Union where you can join a range of clubs and societies, check out exciting events, and you can explore our social spaces where you can meet like-minded people and learn new skills.

Visit Students' Union
sports-teams-600x325

Sport at University of Staffordshire

Keep your mind and body fit with our gym and sports centre, high performance academy, and social sports programmes
A group of male students crafting with materials and tools in the Smart Zone

The Smart Zone

No matter what your specialism, bring your ideas to life using the latest technologies in our engineering and maker spaces

Campuses and facilities

Explore things to see and do at our Stoke, Stafford and London campuses

Manage your student money

Advice for balancing your finances and living on a budget

Connect with University of Staffordshire

See what students are up to in the local area and how they're making the most of student life. 

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

Top 5 for Social Inclusion

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025

for First Generation Students

The Mail University Guide 2025

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021