Where is Nottingham? A Student’s Guide to the Heart of England

If you’re thinking about moving to Nottingham for uni but have no idea where it is, you’re in the right place. This place is the highlight of the East Midlands - a vibrant city that blends rich history with student life. In this blog, we’ll give you the lowdown on the jewel of the East Midlands.
So, where's Nottingham?
Nottingham is nestled in the East Midlands region of England - some might say right on the north-south divide! Geographically speaking, it's about 128 miles north of London, 45 miles from Birmingham, and 30 miles south of Sheffield. It’s very accessible, ideal for students that want a well-connected city without the chaos of London. The River Trent flows through the southern part of the city, with some great spots to relax between lectures.
A city built for students
Nottingham is one of the best places in the UK to be a student. Fact. Thanks to the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, there’s a buzzing student population which means there’s tons of opportunities for socialising, networking and making memories. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee in Hockley, exploring the indie shops of the Lace Market, or hitting up the nightlife - there’s always something going on.

Easy to get around
One of the biggest perks of Nottingham? The transport links! If you need to head home for the weekend or just fancy a day trip, Nottingham Railway station can get you directly to UK cities like London, Manchester and Birmingham. If you drive, the M1 motorway is nearby, and if you fancy flying, East Midlands Airport has some great budget-friendly flights around Europe.
Robin Hood, history and culture
Your first thought when you think of Nottingham is likely the king of thieves, Robin Hood - the legendary outlaw that stole from the rich to give to the poor. There’s loads to fill your historical cup here, including Nottingham Castle and Sherwood Forest. But it isn’t all about the past; Nottingham is a cultural hotspot with theatres, live music and events - the Goose Fair is a personal favourite of ours. For more activities in Nottingham, read our blog: Fun Things to Do in Nottingham for Students

Why choose Nottingham?
If you’re looking for a city that’s well-connected, student-friendly and packed with things to do, Nottingham is the place to be. From its iconic history to its lively nightlife and top universities, it’s no wonder thousands of students choose this as their place to live.
Next steps? You’ll need to sort out where you’re living! That’s where true student comes in. Our student accommodation offers stylish, modern living spaces in the heart of the city, designed with students in mind. Whether you want to chill in our social spaces, stay productive in study areas, or hit the gym, we’ve got you covered in the heart of the UK. Find out more about our accommodation and reserve a room today: true student Nottingham