Discover the libraries, study zones, and cutting-edge resources that make studying in Canterbury and Medway world-class.
Perched gracefully on a hill overlooking the historic, cathedral city of Canterbury, the main campus of the University of Kent offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban utility. Spanning over 300 acres of lush parkland, Kent is designed to function as a self-contained, vibrant student village. A sister campus at Medway, situated in the historic Chatham Maritime dockyards, offers a brilliantly contrasting industrial-chic vibe. Together, these locations provide an unparalleled environment for learning, collaborating, and growing.
As a newcomer, understanding the layout and maximizing your use of the outstanding University of Kent campus facilities is key to thriving academically and socially. From expansive libraries to state-of-the-art computer labs, let's explore everything this exceptional institution has to offer.
| Campus | Key Facility Hub | Primary Uses & Features | Accessibility Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canterbury | Templeman Library | Silent study, group rooms, cafe, archives, IT support | Fully accessible, lifts to all floors, 24/7 term-time access |
| Canterbury | Kent Sport Centre | Fitness suite, indoor climbing wall, sports halls, outdoor pitches | Accessible changing rooms, adaptive gym equipment |
| Medway | Drill Hall Library | Longest library in Europe, study zones, computer access | Ground floor access, lift to mezzanine, quiet zones |
| Canterbury | Sibson Building | Business & Mathematics hub, modern lecture theatres, cafe | Highly modern, level access throughout, spacious lobbies |
For most students, academic life centers around the Templeman Library on the Canterbury campus. This architectural marvel recently underwent a multi-million-pound redevelopment, transforming it into a beacon of modern learning. Whether you are prepping for a seminar, writing your dissertation, or just looking for a cozy corner to read, Templeman has you covered.
Not everyone studies the same way. That is why the library is split into distinct zones designed to accommodate different learning styles. The library offers quiet study areas where you can focus in absolute peace, group study rooms equipped with interactive screens for collaborative projects, and silent study zones where even the rustle of a crisp packet is discouraged.
For those who prefer a more relaxed environment, the library cafe on the ground floor provides a bustling atmosphere where you can work with a coffee in hand. Throughout the building, you will find comfortable armchairs, traditional desks, and sit-stand desks to keep your posture in check during long study sessions.
The Templeman Library operates on a highly flexible schedule designed to cater to both early birds and night owls. During the main teaching terms, library hours extend to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This means you have access to physical books, printing facilities, and study spaces whenever inspiration strikes.
"During my third-year exam block, the Templeman Library was literally my home. Having 24/7 access meant I could study at 3 AM when my mind was freshest, and the safety team was always around to make me feel secure." - Liam O'Connor, History StudentStaying connected and having access to high-performance hardware is a necessity for modern degrees. The University of Kent provides an extensive network of computer labs across both the Canterbury and Medway campuses. These spaces are equipped with high-spec PCs and Macs loaded with specialized software, ranging from Adobe Creative Cloud to advanced programming environments like Python, R, and MATLAB.
While the Templeman Library houses a massive number of public computers, you can also find dedicated IT suites in the following buildings:
The University of Kent also offers a virtual PC service, allowing you to securely access campus-specific software from the comfort of your own laptop in your student accommodation.
Getting lost is a rite of passage for any university freshman, but the University of Kent makes navigation remarkably simple. The campus layout is thoughtfully structured, but because it is set across a sprawling hillside, having a reliable campus map handy is highly recommended.
If you are walking around campus, look out for the clear physical signage posted at major junctions. The university is committed to accessibility, offering step-free step maps and sensory routes designed specifically for students with mobility or sensory needs.
University life is about much more than just attending lectures. The University of Kent offers an extensive network of student resources designed to support your physical, mental, and professional wellbeing.
Located on the Canterbury campus, the Kent Sport Centre is a premier hub for health and fitness. It features an expansive, air-conditioned fitness suite with state-of-the-art cardio and resistance machines, a dedicated free-weights area, and an indoor climbing wall. The centre also hosts dozens of weekly fitness classes, ranging from high-intensity spin to relaxing yoga, catering to all fitness levels.
Located in the Templeman Library (and with dedicated offices in Medway), the SSW team is your go-to resource for any personal, emotional, or accessibility support you might need. They offer confidential counseling services, support for students with long-term disabilities or learning difficulties, and financial wellbeing advice.
Positioned centrally in the award-winning Sibson building, the Careers Service provides mock interviews, CV workshops, and networking events with top-tier UK and global employers. They also assist students in finding part-time work on campus, ensuring you can earn while you learn without compromising your studies.
A great university experience requires plenty of downtime. The Canterbury campus boasts an array of social hubs, bars, and dining facilities. From "Woody’s" in Park Wood (famous for its student quiz nights and cheap eats) to the sophisticated dining options at Mungo's and K-Bar, there is a venue for every mood.
For entertainment, the campus features the Gulbenkian Arts Centre, which includes a professional cinema and theatre hosting touring comedians, indie films, and student productions. Additionally, the Colyer-Fergusson Music Building provides a stunning acoustic space for student musicians and performers.
With such a rich array of environments, your time outside of lectures will be just as enriching as your time inside them. Embrace the campus, utilize the state-of-the-art facilities, and make the most of your journey at the University of Kent!