Aberystwyth University

The most remarkable feature of Aberystwyth, University of Wales, is its beautiful setting overlooking the Irish Sea. However, the Irish Sea is a long way from many other British towns and cities, making Aberystwyth a long bus or train ride away (3 hours west from Birmingham).

For many at Aber, though, this remoteness is its major selling point. On campus there’s a very friendly vibe, aided in part by the presence of a large and active arts centre that keeps the students culturally up to date. Ten minutes away by bus is the Llanbadarn Campus, home to Rural Studies and Further Education, while down on the sea front is the Old College, now housing Theology.

Recent alumni include Bridget Jones’ Diary director Sharon Maguire and businessman Tom Singh.

"I was a student at Aber for six years, which means I had longer, rather than higher education. Not that academic studies were my priority - I spent most of my time politicking. I stood unsuccessfully several times in Union elections and made my first political mistakes. Canvassing in Neuadd Rendel, I stumbled on a group meeting in a study-bedroom and urged them 'put your cross in the box' on polling day. Possibly a diplomatic error - it was a Christian Union prayer meeting. At Aber I was a big fish in a small pond. This gave me opportunities I might not have had at, say, Oxford or Cambridge, where I subsequently studied for my third degree. I became Chairman of the Aber Conservatives straightaway - largely because there weren't any others! Although, immediately afterwards I went out into the wide world, Aber was right for me at the time and I shall always think of it fondly." Neil Hamilton, Aberystwyth