Study in Hartlepool

Hartlepool at a glance

Hartlepool is a historic coastal town in County Durham with a rich maritime heritage and a strong sense of community. Home to students attending local colleges and nearby universities, it offers an affordable and authentic place to experience life in the North East of England. 

For students seeking a more relaxed pace of life with easy access to larger cities like Newcastle and Middlesbrough, Hartlepool provides a welcoming and down-to-earth environment.

There's lots on the doorstep in Hartlepool, from the galleries and museums in town, to the Arc, Georgian Theatre in Stockton and more museums and galleries such as the Auxiliary and Pineapple Black in Middlesbrough. On top of that, we're surrounded by fantastic creative festivals such as Hartlepool Pride, Wintertide, SIRF, Middlesbrough Art Week and Festival of Thrift. The best thing about the festivals is students often get to exhibit or volunteer on the day, which has been really rewarding. (Student Union officer in Hartlepool)

City highlights

Hartlepool's historic Hartlepool Maritime Experience brings the town's seafaring past to life, while the HMS Trincomalee – one of the oldest warships still afloat – is a fascinating visit for history enthusiasts. The Hartlepool Art Gallery showcases local and regional talent, and the town's Victorian Headland area offers atmospheric walks with stunning coastal views. For outdoor space, Summerhill Visitor Centre and Country Park provides woodland trails and wildlife spotting. The revitalised Hartlepool Marina is a relaxed spot for waterfront dining and seasonal events.

Transport tips

Hartlepool is accessible by train with regular services to Middlesbrough, Durham, and Newcastle, connecting you to the wider North East. Local buses by Stagecoach serve the town and surrounding areas, with student discounts available. The town centre and marina area are compact and easily walkable, making it simple to get around on foot. Cycling is straightforward thanks to the town's flat terrain and growing network of cycle paths, particularly along the waterfront.

Accommodation

Hartlepool offers affordable living for students. Many choose to live in the town centre or in areas like the Headland and Owton Manor, with good access to local transport links. Accommodation costs are very low compared to larger cities, making it ideal for those on a tight budget. The town has a close-knit, friendly atmosphere, and while it's smaller and quieter than a big university city, this creates a more personal and grounded student experience with strong local community ties.

Accommodation advice

Where to eat

Hartlepool may be compact, but it punches above its weight for food. The marina is lined with cafés and restaurants offering everything from fish and chips to international cuisine. Try The Fisherman's Galley for classic seaside fare or Portofino for Italian dishes with a harbour view. The Navigation, a historic pub on the waterfront, is popular for hearty meals and local atmosphere. You'll find budget-friendly options like Wetherspoon's in the town centre, plus independent cafés such as Jackson's Wharf offering coffee and light bites with a relaxed vibe.

What to visit

Take a break from studying and explore what's nearby. Seaton Carew beach, just a short bus ride away, is perfect for seaside walks and fresh air year-round. The Town Moor and coastal paths offer scenic routes for runners and cyclists. Hartlepool hosts seasonal events at the marina, and you're within easy reach of the dramatic Durham coastline and the North York Moors for weekend adventures further afield. The town also has a growing arts scene with community theatre and local music venues.

On your doorstep

Hartlepool's coastal location makes it ideal for exploring the North East. Newcastle is just 40 minutes by train, offering shopping, nightlife, and cultural attractions. Middlesbrough is even closer for cinema, restaurants, and the Riverside Stadium. Durham, with its stunning cathedral and historic centre, is under 30 minutes away. 

The North York Moors and Yorkshire coast – including Whitby and Scarborough – are perfect for day trips, while the Northumberland coast offers wild beaches and castles within easy reach.