Study in Bradford

Bradford at a glance

Bradford is a vibrant city in West Yorkshire with a long-standing reputation for culture, creativity, and community. It’s home to the University of Bradford and one of the youngest populations in the UK, making it a dynamic place to study. The city is affordable, diverse, and full of opportunities – especially in health, technology, and the creative industries. For international students, Bradford offers a supportive and inclusive environment with a global outlook.

Bradford is very culturally diverse, and there are lots of different cultural activities that you can get involved in. Famous most of all for its curry, you will not need to go far to find a decent restaurant/takeaway offering South Asian cuisine. I would say that the most underrated reason to choose Bradford, is the amazing countryside. You are a stone's throw from some amazing places, such as Saltaire, Ilkley Moor, Haworth (Home of the Bronte Sisters), [plus] steam railways, historical sites, and of course, the fantastic Yorkshire Dales. Even without your own transport, these places are very accessible via public transport. (Third year student, University of Bradford)

City highlights

Bradford is a UNESCO City of Film and home to the National Science and Media Museum – a must-visit for film buffs and tech fans alike. The Alhambra Theatre hosts major productions and student discounts are widely available. Centenary Square is a lively social hub, especially during cultural festivals and seasonal markets. For peaceful green space, head to Lister Park or explore the Victorian architecture around Little Germany.

Bradford Town Hall and Centenary Square

Transport tips

Bradford is well-connected by train and bus, with two main stations: Bradford Interchange and Forster Square. Frequent services run to Leeds, Manchester, and other northern cities. First Bus and Arriva provide reliable local transport, and student passes help cut costs. The city is walkable in parts, and cycling infrastructure is improving, especially around the university area.

Accommodation

Bradford offers great value for student housing. Many live in the city centre or in the Manningham and Great Horton areas, all within walking distance of the University of Bradford. Accommodation costs are among the lowest in the UK, and plenty of housing options suit a range of budgets. The city is considered safe and student-friendly, with lots of support and community events to help you settle in quickly.

Accommodation advice

Where to eat

Known as the ‘Curry Capital of Britain’, Bradford has a legendary food scene. Try MyLahore or Akbar’s for delicious South Asian dishes or head to The Record Café for a mix of music, food, and craft beer. For lighter bites, Waterstones Café and Café W are great student spots. You’ll also find vegetarian, vegan, and halal options across the city, and many restaurants offer generous student discounts.

The grandest Waterstones: This isn’t your average Waterstones. Located in Bradford’s Gothic Wool Exchange, this listed building is the perfect place for book browsing or a coffee date.

What to visit

Take a break from studying and explore some of Bradford’s unique attractions. The Bradford Industrial Museum showcases the city’s textile heritage, while Cartwright Hall displays works by local and international artists. The nearby village of Saltaire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers shops, galleries, and canal-side walks. Film screenings, theatre, and music events take place year-round at venues across the city.

Cartwright Hall

On your doorstep

Bradford’s central location makes it a great base for exploring Yorkshire and beyond. The Yorkshire Dales and Ilkley Moor are close by for nature walks and scenic views. Leeds is just 20 minutes away by train, perfect for shopping, nightlife, or a cultural day out. For bigger trips, Manchester and Sheffield are both under 90 minutes away, and connections to London are available via Leeds.

The Yorkshire Dales

Basic safety

It’s important to adhere to basic safety practices when studying and living in any city. Being aware of your surroundings is always wise, especially in busy and populated areas.

Some basic advice from the Metropolitan Police will help to ensure you stay as free from crime as possible:

• Keep your valuables hidden and don’t carry large amount of cash.
• Beware of scams, such as street hustlers, unlicensed taxis, and non-official sellers.
• Keep your belongings, shopping, and luggage close to you at all times.
• Don’t leave your drinks unattended or accept them from strangers.
• Travel as a group and always make sure you tell your friends you got home safely, and vice versa.
• Double check all taxis have a visible and valid licence before using them.