Top 10 universities in North West England 2025

Who comes out on top in North West England? 

Lancaster University is top of the region again in 2025 and it’s no move for Liverpool John Moores at eighth and University of Central Lancashire at number ten.  

Elsewhere, Salford jumps two to seventh spot and Chester, Manchester Metropolitan and Liverpool all move up one in the top half of the rankings.

Liverpool Hope slides two places to sixth and Manchester falls one place from second to third. 

To find out more about the top unis in the North West click on the links below:

1. 1. Lancaster University
2. 2. University of Liverpool
3. 3. University of Manchester
4. 4. Edge Hill University
5. 5. Manchester Metropolitan University
6. 5. University of Chester
7. 7. University of Salford
8. 8. Liverpool John Moores University
9. 9. Liverpool Hope University
10. 10. University of Central Lancashire

View the North West England league table

Studying in North West England 

The North West is perhaps best known for its friendly people, several world-famous football clubs and a rich musical heritage. So, if sport, community spirit and live events are your thing, you’ll be in the right place. Throw in some great food and culture with the likes of Tate art gallery, the Roman city of Chester and Blackpool pier and you’ve got a fun, eclectic place to live and learn.  

To find out more about studying in North West England check out our regional guide 

University cities and towns in North West England 

Manchester and Liverpool are the region’s biggest student cities with a multicultural feel and a diverse range of things to see and do. Lancaster is a smaller city and comes with its own castle. Lancaster University campus is situated on the outskirts while the University of Central Lancashire has its main campus in Preston. Chester has more to offer than a zoo, with lots of history and pubs, clubs, and quirky bars. Lastly, Ormskirk is a town close to Edge Hill university with a lively local scene and regular weekly market. To find out more about university cities and towns, check out our city guides.

Discover the top unis in other UK regions