Belfast is in the safest region in the UK (UK Crime Surveys 2022/23), so your parents can sleep tight.

STUDENT BLOG: Navigating Belfast's Nightlife: A Guide to Safe Fun

2. Life here won't break the bank (of mum and dad)

Belfast is the UK’s most affordable student city (Natwest Student Living Index 2024) and it is £174 per month cheaper for student living costs in Northern Ireland compared to the UK average (Save the Student National Student Money Survey 2023).

Check out student Radhika's tips for budgeting and saving money 

3. It's one of the friendliest cities in the UK

Belfast was voted in the top 10 friendliest cities in the UK (Condé Nast Traveller, Readers' Choice Awards 2024), so you are guaranteed a warm welcome.

Find out what Kathryn loves most about being a Queen's student

4. You'll be closer to home than you think

All major UK cities are within an hour's flying time and London is just 50 minutes by air. What’s more, there are 94 cross channel sailings each week and direct flights from NI to 58 destinations (sources: Belfast International Airport, Belfast City Airport, P&O Ferries and StenaLine).

STUDENT BLOG: Fuss Free Flights to Belfast!

5. If you're a foodie, you're in for a treat...

Belfast is among the seven best UK cities for food and drink (Which?, 2023).

 STUDENT BLOG: 8 Must-Visit Restaurants and Cafes in Belfast!

6. You'll have plenty of opportunities to make new friends

With over 220 clubs and societies (including the likes of the KPop Society, Walkie Talkie Girlies Society and the Cyber Security Society), our students have ample opportunities to enhance their skills or start a new hobby. Including rubber-duck spotting!

Check out our full list of Clubs and Societies

7. You will have a strong support network

From wellbeing and disability services, to cost of living resources like The Pantry, Queen's will equip you with the mental, physical and financial support that you need throughout your student journey.

STUDENT BLOG: A Guide to Support Services at Queen’s

8. You can explore the world with Belfast as your base

Through our Global Opportunities department within Careers, Employability and Skills, you can apply for study/work abroad programmes, exchange programmes and volunteering opportunities.

BLOG: From Belfast to the World: My Queen’s Experience

9. Belfast is a big city with a village feel

No need for scary tubes, you can walk from campus to city centre in 15 minutes. 

STUDENT BLOG: Exploring Belfast on a Sunny Day – 5 Free Things To Do!

Find out more

8 Reasons Why You Should Study in Belfast

Unmissable Events in Northern Ireland

5 Things You Can Do in Belfast That You Can’t Do Anywhere Else!

Where to Take Your Family When They Visit Queen's and Belfast