With students making up roughly a quarter of the population, Loughborough’s a lively place.
Pretty much anywhere in Loughborough town centre is walking distance from campus (about 20-40 minutes depending on which side of campus you're on), and it's always felt very safe, even when I've been walking back at night. There are some fun street art pieces around which makes it nice and colourful, and Queen's Park is really nice for a walk – there's also a bunch of tropical birds in the aviary to go look at! You're really spoilt for choice for pubs, which makes for some brilliant pub crawls. There's plenty of nice food and drink places dotted around. (Second year student, Loughborough University)
What Loughborough's famous for...
Big bells
Going back to the mid-19th century, John Taylor & Co. is the country's last remaining bell foundry. Their most famous piece of work is ‘Great Paul’, in St Paul’s Cathedral.
Loughborough nightlife, according to students
There's a ridiculous number of pubs to choose from, but The Amber Rooms (one of the Wetherspoons) is a definite favourite – cheap and spacious! The biggest club (I think) is Echos, which has several different rooms with different music (club, cheesy tunes, drum and bass, etc). Firefly is smaller, but has a cool decking area which can be booked out for events. Since everything in town is close together, it's easy to move between different clubs and to go get food. (Second year student, Loughborough University)
Get steamy
A retro date idea or family activity, Loughborough has the only double track, mainline steam railway in the UK. Ride in carriages from the 1950s, passing through three restored stations.
Loughborough nightlife, according to students
[Loughborough] is only a short way away from Leicester and Nottingham, therefore you get the best of both worlds. However, the biggest mistake is to underestimate Loughborough – most of us are more than content with the Students' Union, but also there are bars like Echos, Revs, and Firefly that provide a refreshing change. (Second year student, Loughborough University)
Beautiful outdoors
Escape the art deco town centre, into the 330-acre country park that cradles Beacon Hill. On a clear day, you can see Lincoln Cathedral at the top. There’s wildlife too, including cattle and alpacas.
Student life in Loughborough
Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.
Low on cash
There is a forest nearby that holds an annual art exhibition near summer time, that is free. The artwork is scattered around the forest, and there are maps that show you where all the exhibitions are. (Second year student, Loughborough University)
Treat yourself
The Basin is our favourite place to go to splash out on sushi and Thai food. It’s slightly more expensive. but so delicious. Heavenly Desserts is also such a treat! (Second year student, Loughborough University)
Friday night out
Friday nights are known for the Students' Union. It’s where everyone goes. They sometimes host different themed nights, such as foam parties. (Second year student, Loughborough University)
Sunday chilling
Beacon Hill Country Park is perfect to relax and clear your mind from university work. If you are looking for somewhere not far from the uni, Queen’s Park is the perfect spot. (Loughborough University student)
When family visit
We have an escape room located in the town centre. I recommend completing ‘The Sands of Time’, as that had us climbing into multiple, different-sized rooms. It’s a lot of fun. (Second year student, Loughborough University)
Feeling cultural
There's a student cinema called Flix, which shows student films, and tickets are very cheap. (Second year student, Loughborough University)
Catch up with mates
The Griffin is the best place to go with your friends. The drinks are reasonably priced, and you can sit outside or play board games inside. There are also loads of nice coffee shops. (Third year student, Loughborough University)
Grab a bite
Bom Bom Patisserie – they do great smoothie bowls and waffles at the weekends, as well as a great selection of vegan and gluten-free desserts, such as their famous cookies. (Loughborough University student)
Loughborough in pictures
Town centre
(Aayush Shah, second year student, Loughborough University)
Living in Loughborough, according to students
The Golden Triangle – this is a hotspot area for students, and is fairly reasonable in price depending on which letting agency you go through. Lidl recently opened, which is a five-minute walk. Places like Bom Bom café are a short walk too. It's about ten minutes to town, and ten minutes in the opposite direction to campus, depending on how quickly you walk. There are bus stops close by, to get the free campus shuttle bus or to head to the train station. (Second year student, Loughborough University)
Living in Loughborough, according to students
Ashby Road – the spot I’m in is good. Anywhere around Ashby road and you’re set. A bike is not a bad idea. No shifty behaviour so far. (Third year student, Loughborough University)
Living in Loughborough
Housing, travel, and budgeting tips. You can also check our accommodation site if you're looking for student accommodation in Loughborough.
Where you'll find students
- The Golden Triangle
- Kingfisher
- Forest Road
Local transport
- Free student shuttle bus
- Public buses
Find student accommodation
Halls on campus, student housing in town, or your own private living space? Discover which accommodation is right for you.
Student money tips
Everyone said town was unbearably far. In reality, a 15 to 20-minute walk is nothing from the heart of campus accommodation, and by second year you'll be even closer. Don't waste money on buses. Coaching to Leicester and Notts is super cheap! They pick you up right from outside the uni. (Second year student, Loughborough University)
The cost of living as a student soon adds up, us our budget calculator to find out roughly how much you'll need each month.
Discover more savings on student life in Loughborough with UCAS student discounts. Find the latest deals, from fashion brands and eating fresh, to big discounts on tech and travel.
Study options
Find courses and apprenticeships in the East Midlands: