Introduction to Lincoln
Lincoln is a hidden gem for students---a city where medieval charm meets modern student life. Known for its iconic cathedral, affordable living, and welcoming community, Lincoln offers the perfect balance between academic excellence and an unforgettable student experience. Whether you're drawn to its historic streets, vibrant campus life, or budget-friendly lifestyle, Lincoln makes studying in the UK both enriching and accessible.
About Lincoln
Located in the heart of the East Midlands, Lincoln is a historic city that fuses old and new. Beyond its rich history, Lincoln is a vibrant, modern city perfectly suited to student life. The city enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers (avg. 20°C) and cool winters (avg. 4°C). Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, ideal for exploring the city's cobbled streets and waterfront.
Home to the University of Lincoln, students can enjoy everything the city offers within walking distance- from independent cafes and restaurants to high street shops and nightlife. Add to that the relatively low cost of living in Lincoln compared to other UK university cities, and with a wide range of student accommodation in Lincoln, it's no surprise that so many students choose to call Lincoln home.
Why Study in Lincoln?
Lincoln is home to the prestigious University of Lincoln. The university is known for its modern approach to teaching and an impressive campus. No matter what you are studying, you will have access to top-class facilities and teaching staff.
Living and studying in Lincoln also means a great quality of life. The city is compact and easy to explore, and the cost of living in Lincoln, for students, is lower than in many other UK cities which means students can enjoy more from less - whether it is housing, travel, or everyday expenses. To top it all, Lincoln has a welcoming and inclusive student community for international students and strong support communities to help you make it through the student life with flying colours.
Lincoln is a place where you study, enjoy student life, and genuinely feel supported every step of the way.
Best Lincoln Accommodation for Students
You'll find tons of amazing Lincoln accommodation options. This includes:
University Halls of Residence
These are university-managed student accommodations. Here are the best university managed Lincoln accommodation options:
- Cygnet Wharf (University of Lincoln student accommodation)
- Lincoln Courts (University of Lincoln student accommodation)
Private Student Accommodation
These are student accommodations managed by private accommodation providers. Here are the best student housing in Lincoln:
Hayes Wharf Pavilions
Shared Housing and Studio Apartments
These are rented apartments managed by individual landlords. These Lincoln accommodation options can be studio apartments or shared apartments with 1, 2, or 3 bedrooms. The best areas to look for shared student flats or studio apartments include:
- West End (near the University of Lincoln)
- Monks Road (Close to the city centre)
- High Street (close to shops and supermarkets)
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Lincoln
Lincoln has plenty of student-friendly neighbourhoods that are just a short walk or bus ride from the University and the City Centre. Whether you are looking for lively streets or something a bit more peaceful, Lincoln has it all. Here are some of the best areas for student housing in Lincoln:
- West End: One of the most popular areas for students, known for its classic terraced houses, and friendly and close-knit student community.
- Sincil Bank: A budget-friendly choice with easy access to campus and the city centre.
- Monks Road: Popular for its convenience, with easy access to the university, local shops, and green spaces right on your doorstep.
- High Street Area: Perfect for someone who wants to be in the middle of it all, with local shops, places to eat, and university being a short walk away.
- Bailgate/Uphill Lincoln: A quieter, more scenic part of the city, ideal for those looking for peaceful student accommodation in Lincoln.
- City Centre: Ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the action. If you want to stay minutes away from the best markets, restaurants and clubs in town, this is the place for you.
- Carholme: A quieter area with affordable housing options. Look for stuednt accommodation in Lincoln in this area to save money and share rooms with your friends.
Different Types of Lincoln Accommodation for Students
On-campus University Halls
These are on-campus and university-affiliated accommodation. They are managed by universities and provide students with shared and private rooms. These Lincoln accommodations in Lincoln are just seconds away from lecture halls and libraries making it convenient for students and helping them save time. It also gives students opportunities to socialize more on campus and make the most of their student lives. Rooms and flats in university halls are fully furnished and offer an all-inclusive rent.
Private Student Halls
These are student accommodations in Lincoln, UK managed by private accommodation providers. These accommodations may or may not be located near the university campus. They're modern, luxurious, and fully furnished. They also offer premium amenities to students like cinema rooms, study lounges, gym etc. Private student accommodation in Lincoln offers different room types like en-suite, en-suite, and studio.
- En-suite: This accommodation type offers a private bedroom, and bathroom with a shared living area and kitchen.
- Studio: This accommodation has a private bedroom, bathroom, living area, and a kitchenette.
- Non-en-suite: This accommodation type has a shared bathroom, living area, and kitchen.
Shared Housing in Lincoln
These are managed by individual landlords. They can be much more affordable than on-campus accommodation and private student accommodation. Shared student houses in Lincoln can be 1, 2, or 3-bedroom apartments with shared bathrooms, living areas, and a kitchen. These may or may not be furnished and the rent is rarely all-inclusive. This means that students must pay the bills for electricity and Wi-Fi separately.
Cost of Living in Lincoln
Lincoln is a charming and brilliant city for students. With smart budgeting, you can enjoy everything Lincoln has to offer. Here is a breakdown of the cost of living in Lincoln:
Average Accommodation Costs
- University Halls (On-Campus): £400-£700/month (shared or en-suite options, all bills usually included).
- Private Student Accommodation: £550-£850/month (modern studios, social spaces, and some with gyms or cinema rooms)
- Shared Flats/Houses: £350-£600/month (bills may be extra)
Pro Tip: Accommodation in Uphill Lincoln or Brayford Wharf tends to be a little high-priced, look around Monks Road or High Street for better deals.
Food & Grocery Expenses
- Weekly Groceries: £25--£45 (Tesco, Aldi, Lidl)
- Eating Out: £7--£12 for a meal at Rising Café or Café Shanti.
- Meal Deals: £3--£4.50 (available at Co-op, Boots, and university cafés).
Transport & Commuting Costs
- Student Bus Pass (Stagecoach): £52/month (unlimited travel within Lincoln).
- Cycling: Free or cheap second-hand bikes available locally; some unis offer bike hire schemes.
- Train to Nottingham or Sheffield: £10--£18 return with a 16--25 Railcard.
Entertainment & Social Life
- Cinema Tickets: £6--£9 (Student discount at Odeon).
- Club Entry: £4--£8 (free or discounted early entry at Home or Moka).
- Pubs & Bars: £3--£4.50 pints (try The Mailbox or The Cardinal's Hat for special deals).
- Free Attractions: Lincoln Cathedral, Steep Hill walks, and seasonal markets.
Part-Time Jobs & Student Discounts
- Part-time wages: £9--£12/hour (retail, hospitality, campus jobs).
Student Discounts
- Unidays & Student Beans (20%+ off fashion, food & subscriptions).
- TOTUM (NUS Extra): Discounts on travel, entertainment and tech.
- Gym Memberships: £15-£25/month (University gyms are often cheapest)
Comparison with Other UK Cities
Lincoln is 30% cheaper than London and 15% more affordable than Manchester for students. Rent, groceries, and transport costs are significantly lower, leaving more room for socializing and savings.
Budgeting Tips for International Students
- Share housing to split bills.
- Shop at Aldi/Lidl for groceries.
- Use student discounts (Unidays, TOTUM).
- Cook at home---eating out adds up quickly!
Transportation in Lincoln
Getting around Lincoln is hassle-free and budget-friendly making it easy and accessible for students to commute to university, meet friends in town, or even plan a weekend escape. Here's everything you need to know:
Bus Travel
- Stagecoach operates the main bus routes in Lincoln, covering integral student areas like High Street, Monks Road, and the Brayford Campus.
- Student Monthly Ticket: £52 for unlimited travel across the city.
- Day Passes: Around £4.50, great if you are just hopping on and off for errands.
- Late night and Weekend buses (convenient to get home after socials or late library sessions)
Trains for Weekend Trips
Lincoln Central Station connects you easily to nearby cities
- Typical return fares (with a 16--25 Railcard):
- Nottingham: £10
- Sheffield: £15
- London: £25--£40
- Railcard Perks: Save 1/3 on all rail journeys for just £30 a year.
Cycling & Walking
- Cycling: The city has a good network of bike lanes with scenic routes along the waterfront. Pre-owned bikes are readily available via uni noticeboards local listings or bike shops
- Walking: Lincoln is an easy city to get around on foot. Most student accommodation, shops, and university are all within 15--20-minute walk.
Student Discounts on Transport
- 16--25 Railcard: Ideal for weekend getaways---save on every trip.
- Student Bus Passes: Cheaper travel across town all month long.
- TOTUM Card: May offer additional savings on public transport and travel services.
Universities in Lincoln
Lincoln blends the charm of the historic city with the energy of a thriving student hub. The city is home to prestigious universities that offer degrees in all major programs like science, art, engineering, and healthcare. Here are the top universities in Lincoln:
University of Lincoln
The University of Lincoln is located on the scenic Brayford Waterfront and is known for the modern design of its campus. This university is one of the fastest-growing institutions in the UK and has some very strong industry connections. With cutting-edge facilities like the Isaac Newton Building for STEM students, the university offers career-focused degrees across Media, Business, Engineering, Life Sciences, and more. Students benefit from strong employer partnerships with major organizations such as Siemens, the BBC, and the NHS. With over 100 student-run societies and sports clubs, and a city-centre campus where everything is within walking distance, Lincoln strikes the perfect balance between academic excellence and vibrant student life---all set against the backdrop of a scenic riverside location.
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU)
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU), located just a short walk from the iconic Lincoln Cathedral, is a smaller university with a close-knit, welcoming community. Known for its strengths in Education, Theology, Psychology, and the Social Sciences, BGU offers small class sizes and personalized teaching that foster a more tailored learning experience. The university puts a strong focus on creativity, community, and well-being and is highly preferred by students looking for programs in teaching, public sectors, and arts.
Student Life in Lincoln
Lincoln might be a smaller city, but it holds its own. From cozy coffee spots to live music venues, the city has much to offer. Here's how to make the most of your time here:
Top Cafes, Restaurants & Pubs for Students
- Best Cafes to Study or Chill: Coffee aroma, 200 Degrees, Stokes High Bridge Cafe
- Budget-Friendly Eats: Bunty's Tearoom, Kaspas Desserts, The Cheese Society Cafe
- Student Pubs & Bars: The Mailbox (pool tables, and quiz nights), The Swan (on-campus pub with food & open mic nights), The Cardinal's Hat (cozy vibes)
Shopping Destinations
- High Street & Cornhill Quarter: Lincoln's main shopping stretch, is packed with high-street favourites like H&M, TK Maxx, and Superdrug and a handful of quirky boutiques and independent shops.
- Waterside Shopping Centre: A compact mall with everything from fashion to tech.
- Steep Hill: One of the city's most iconic streets, filled with vintage shops, indie bookshops, and handmade goods.
- Lincoln Central Market: For fresh produce, sweet treats, and the occasional pop-up stalls.
Nightlife & Music
Lincoln may be a historic city, but its student nightlife is anything but sleepy. Here's more about nightlife and music in Lincoln.
Best Clubs
- Home Lincoln (The city's biggest nightclub).
- Moka & Shack (Affordable mid-week events).
- Scene Lincoln (A welcoming, inclusive club).
Live Music Venues:
- The Engine Shed (music & entertainment).
- The Drill (live gig & events venue).
Student Nights
- Tuesday: Moka (student discounts and cheesy anthems).
- Thursday: Scene (Drag shows, themed nights).
- Sunday: The Swan (On-campus open mic or quiz night pub)
Sports & Fitness Options
Gyms
- PureGym (flexible membership, 24/7 access, £20/month).
- The Gym Group (Budget-friendly).
- University Sports Centres (Exclusive discounts for students).
Outdoor & Team Sports
- South Common & West Common (Jogging, football).
- Yarborough Leisure Centre (Affordable swimming, sports hall & workout classes).
- University Sports Clubs (Competitive sports).
Student Societies, Events & Festivals
Student Societies (Join via your university)
Anime and Manga Society, Debating Club, Harry Potter Society, LGBTQ+ Society
International Students Group
Quizzes, Open Mics, Game Nights, Career Networking Events
Annual Events
- Lincoln Sausage Festival (October -- Food and music)
- Lincoln Christmas Market (December - one of the biggest in Europe)
- Steampunk Festival (August - cosplay, parades, and vintage vibes)
Free Cultural Spots
- The Collection Museum (Free entry).
- Usher Gallery (Premier Art Gallery) (Always free).
Safety Tips for International Students
- Use well-lit paths at night (e.g., Brayford Pathway).
- Register with SafeZone (app provided by Uni of Lincoln).
- Keep emergency contacts saved: Campus security (01522 886062), police (101/999).
Tourist Attractions in and Around Lincoln
- Lincoln Cathedral: One of Europe's finest Gothic buildings and the crown jewel of the city.
- Lincoln Castle: Built by William the Conqueror, the castle has over 1000 years of history and houses one of the original Magna Carta copies.
- Steep Hill: A historic cobbled street lined with bookshops, cafes, and boutiques.
- Brayford Waterfront: A scenic spot by the marina with sunset views and packed with bars, restaurants, and cinemas.
- The Collection & Usher Gallery: Lincoln's main art and archaeology museum featuring everything from ancient Roman artifacts to contemporary exhibitions.
Tips for International Students in Lincoln
Moving to a new country can be overwhelming---but in Lincoln, you'll quickly feel at home thanks to its friendly community and strong university support. Here are some key tips to help you settle in:
Visa & Immigration Essentials
Student Visa (Tier 4/Student Route)
- Apply in advance and check up-to-date requirements on the UK Government website.
- BRP Collection: Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) soon after arrival---usually at your university or a local post office.
- Police Registration: Only required for certain nationalities---your visa letter will say if this applies to you.
Pro Tip: Always keep digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, BRP, and offer letter in a safe place.
Opening a UK Bank Account
- Required Documents: Passport, BRP, proof of address (e.g., tenancy agreement), and letter from your university confirming your student status.
- Choose a Student-Friendly Bank: Popular options are HSBC, Lloyds, Barclays, NatWest, and Santander---these banks offer accounts tailored for students with perks like railcards or interest-free overdrafts.
Pro Tip: It's often quicker to book an appointment ahead---banks get busy during orientation week!
Healthcare & NHS Registration
- NHS Access: Free healthcare for students on a visa for more than 6 months.
- Register with a GP: Visit a local clinic (e.g., University of Lincoln Health Centre) with your BRP, student ID, and proof of address.
- Prescriptions & Dental:
- Prescriptions: £9.65 per item in England.
- Dental: Register with an NHS dentist (check www.nhs.uk).
- Emergency Numbers: 111 (non-emergency) or 999 (ambulance/police).
Part-Time Job Opportunities
- Work Rights: Tier 4 visa holders can work 20 hours/week during the term.
- Where to Find Jobs:
- On-campus: Uni libraries, student unions, cafes, or admin offices.
- Retail/Hospitality: Primark, Tesco, Costa and Starbucks.
- Job Portals: Indeed, StudentJob UK, your uni's career hub, or job board.
Pro Tip: Get a National Insurance Number (NINo) to work legally (apply via gov.uk).
Cultural Adaptation & Support Services
- Beat Culture Shock: Join the International Students' Society or buddy programs at your university to meet people from all over the world.
- Free English Support: Both BGU and The University of Lincoln offer English language workshops.
- Faith & Community: Lincoln is home to a mosque, churches, and various interfaith groups that offer spaces for worship and community events.
- Feeling Homesick? Lincoln University and BGU provide free counseling services -- book a session anytime when you need someone to talk to.
Safety & Well-Being Resources
- Campus Security: the University of Lincoln, has 24/7 on-campus security and emergency contact numbers.
- Safe Nights Out: Stick with friends, use well-lit paths and look out for SafeZone or similar safety apps offered by your university.
- Mental Health Support: Free counselling and well-being services are available through student support teams.
- Local Police: In case of any issues, you can contact Lincolnshire Police for help or advice.
- Helplines & Support:
- Nightline -- student-run, anonymous listening service (nightline.ac.uk)
- Samaritans -- call 116 123, 24/7 for mental health support.
- University Health Centre -- for physical or mental health support.
Student Support Services in Lincoln
As an international student, it is important for you to have access to resources that will help you thrive in this new city. Don't be afraid of asking for help when needed! Here are all the resources you should save right away:
Academic Support
Writing & Research Help
- Free workshops on essay writing, referencing (APA/Harvard), and dissertation planning.
- One-on-one tutoring at the University of Lincoln's Learning Development Hub.
Library Resources
- 24/7 access to the Great Central Warehouse Library (STEM focus) and Lawress Hall (humanities).
- Free inter-library loans for rare books.
Mental Health & Wellbeing
Confidential Counselling
- Book free sessions via your uni's Wellbeing Centre (in-person/online).
- Arabic-speaking counsellors available upon request.
Peer Support Groups
- Join "Lincoln International Friends" for cultural adjustment.
- Weekly mindfulness sessions at the Brayford Pool Campus.
Career & Employability
Job Workshops
- CV clinics, mock interviews, and LinkedIn profile reviews.
- Exclusive internships with local employers like Siemens and BBC Lincoln.
Visa Guidance
Post-study work visa (PSW) seminars for international students.
Financial Aid
Hardship Funds
Emergency grants for students facing unexpected financial crises.
Part-Time Job Board
Curated listings for on-campus roles (max 20hrs/week for visa holders).
Faith & Community
Prayer Spaces
Multi-faith rooms at both universities + Lincoln Central Mosque (10-min walk from campus).
Halal Food
Pre-paid meal plans with halal options at university cafés.
Events and Festivals in Lincoln
Lincoln offers some vibrant and exciting events and festivals that you can attend with your friends. Most of them are free for students or offer student discounts. Check them out here:
Must-Attend Annual Events
Lincoln Christmas Market (Dec)
Europe's largest festive market---mulled wine, handmade gifts, and carols at the Cathedral.
Steampunk Festival (Aug)
Think Victorian sci-fi costumes, parades, and quirky workshops.
Lincoln Sausage Festival (Oct)
Sample award-winning bangers (vegetarian options available).
Student-Only Highlights
Freshers' Week (Sept)
Free gigs (past acts: Rudimental, local indie bands), club nights, and a Brayford Boat Party.
Global Food Fair (Monthly)
Hosted by the International Society---bring a dish from your country!
Free Cultural Experiences
Museum of Lincolnshire Life
Explore WWII exhibits and vintage tractors (free entry).
Usher Gallery Lates
Evening art viewings with live music (first Thursday of the month).
Seasonal Tips for Students
- Winter: Ice-skating at Castle Square (£5 student discount).
- Summer: Picnics at Hartsholme Country Park (bus #1 from city centre).
Lincoln is an ideal city for students. It has the perfect blend of academic excellence, affordable housing, and an inclusive student community. If you're looking to move to Lincoln soon to study, this is the time to book your student accommodation! Book your student accommodation in Lincoln with Alphaway and find your new home away from home!