7 Things You Have to Do Whilst Studying Abroad in the UK

A big part of any study abroad experience in the UK is exploring and making the most of the opportunity to see awesome new things. But where do you start? We’re here to help with our top 7 things we think you have to do during your time in the UK.

1. Explore Loch Ness

We’re sure you’ve heard the stories of the Loch Ness Monster, and of course this remains one of the main draws to the Loch. However, putting ‘Nessie’ aside for now; Loch Ness is a stunning place to visit. Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, the Loch is surrounded by spectacular natural surroundings and amazing historical buildings like the Urquhart Castle. All this is backed up by some fantastic eateries and accommodation, meaning a trip to Loch Ness should be right at the top of every visitor to the UK’s list of things to do.

2. Marvel at Stonehenge

One of the wonders of the world and the best-known prehistoric monument in Europe, do you need any more reason to visit? Okay, we’ll give you it. Believed to have been built at some time between 3000 BC and 2000 BC, Stonehenge was once likely an historical burial ground, and has become a place of huge cultural significance. How it was created thousands of years ago is still of huge debate, and many myths and creative tales have sprung up to explain the mystery. Now, a site of global tourism and seasonal gatherings (in particular the summer solstice), there’s little places more worthy of a visit.

3. Go To The Making of Harry Potter

From the historically significant Stonehenge to the literary wonder that is Harry Potter; there’s little that’s come out of the UK that has made as much global impact as JK Rowling’s wizarding world in recent years. A visit to the studios that the films were masterfully recreated in is a must for anyone visiting the UK. A short train from London means it’s easily accessible and from the opening of the doors into the great hall, to sampling Butterbeer and seeing the gigantic replica of the Hogwarts campus; you’ll never forget your day in the world of Harry Potter.

4. See the View from the Shard

A trip to the top of the tallest building in Western Europe is huge must for those spending any time in the UK. Standing at just over 300 metres, it’s truly a fascinating work of architecture with simply unrivalled views across London. However, for those looking to save a few pounds, why not book into a cheap hotel and visit the Aqua Shard (a cocktail bar about halfway up) where you’ll be able to experience some breathtaking views with a drink or two in your hand and make a night of it. Although, speaking from experience, feeling the wind in your hair whilst stood right at the top of the open-roofed top floor is unrivalled.

5. Take a day trip to Paris

Okay, so we’re strictly cheating a bit here, but with flights to Paris taking just over an hour and costing so little, you’d be mad not to take the opportunity to visit France’s capital city. If you enjoyed your trip to The Shard, then the Eiffel Tower is a huge must to get similar views across Paris. However, for a change of pace Le Louvre is a stunning place to visit (particularly when you take advantage of it being free on the first Sunday of every month). From there, it’s a short walk to the Cathédrale de Notre Dame de Paris and the Champs-Élysées. Finish your day with a stroll amongst the rich and beautiful in Paris’ luxury shopping district and you’ll remember your day of Parisian exploration forever.

6. Visit the Home of the Beatles – Liverpool

Follow in the footsteps of one of the world’s greatest ever bands; the Beatles, and explore Liverpool. Start your day with a visit to The Beatles Story museum and discover how Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison and Ringo Starr became the legends they are today. From there a visit to Albert Dock to understand the history of this fascinating area can’t be overlooked. Learn how the Dock revolutionised the way ships were loaded and unloaded across the world and how it was ultimately requisitioned and played a huge role in World War Two. A truly awesome place to visit, with so much history and fascinating stories behind it.

7. Explore Richmond Park

One of London and the UK’s most renowned parks, Richmond Park is home to 630 Red and Fallow deer that have roamed freely since 1529. At around 2,360 acres, it’s one of the largest urban parks in the world and is a stunning place to visit on a warm day. Often the home of people cycling, running or simply wandering and exploring, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. You can hire bikes and explore yourself, play golf on the Richmond Park Golf course, trail run up to 7.2 miles or settle down for a coffee and watch the world go past. The perfect place for a relaxing, cheap afternoon.

That’s it – 7 things you have to do whilst studying abroad in the UK. A visit to any of these 7 places will leave you with amazing memories that you’ll want to share and tell everyone about when you get home.

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