While London is the top choice for many working travellers visiting the UK, it is by no means the only option when it comes to work, rest, and play! Many places outside of London offer more affordable living, better housing standards, and more employment opportunities (depending on your line of work).
There are of course many factors to consider when thinking about living outside of London, much the same as the considerations of being a working traveller in the capital. Generally, you should think about:
Is there a demand for your work in that area?
Are there any other working travellers in that area?
Do you have any friends or family in or around the area?
What is the social scene or entertainment like in the area?
How is the transport system in the area?
What is the general cost of living in the area compared to expected earnings?
If you’re planning on travelling outside the UK, what are the links to airports/ports/train stations like?
Deciding whether to base yourself in or outside of London really comes down to the kind of lifestyle you want as a working traveller in the UK. If you’re into Antipodean parties and pubs, celeb spotting and clubs, traffic, and tourist sights, then London is most definitely your bag baby! But if you want to see your money go further and don’t want to follow the rest of the ex-pat crowd, life outside of London could be for you.
Some popular places for working travellers outside of London are:
Newcastle
Now a busy student city, Newcastle has shed its mining town past and transformed into a cosmopolitan town of hotels, bars and restaurants, while still retaining its charm. Adventurous Antipodeans ready to go north (and who don’t mind the accent!) should have no problems fitting in here.
Manchester
Just 2 ½ hours from London by train, Greater Manchester, which takes in ten boroughs including the city itself, is home to over 2 million people. The 2.6 million Nearly 600,000 residents that live in Manchester City enjoy a vibrant nightlife, exciting live music scene and of course football (soccer to those who haven’t quite grasped the concept of the round ball).
With a significant financial sector, Manchester is a good destination for those looking for work in finance.
Additionally, after the pandemic, tourism is thriving and the hotel market is rapidly expanding making it the largest outside of London by room count, meaning hospitality work is plentiful.
As one of Europe’s fastest-growing cities and the third most visited destination in the UK for both domestic and international visitors, Manchester is on the rise. Economic forecasts suggest that the city will continue to grow over the next decade, with an expected addition of 65,000 jobs, bringing total city centre employment to 315,000 by 2040.
Bristol
The city has been described as ‘alive and kicking like a can-can girl’, and with its European-style licensing laws (clubs stay open till 6 am) and one of the best club scenes in Britain, it's no exaggeration!
Another bustling student city, Bristol is very popular with tourists and working travellers alike. The city is a hub for manufacturing, business and new technology. A thriving animation industry and a range of TV production and digital media companies make this a good spot for working travellers seeking a creative career.
Birmingham
With more square miles of open space than any other UK city, and booming financial, manufacturing and engineering industries, this student city is a great destination for working travellers. There is a plethora of pubs, clubs, live music venues and sporting attractions, so you won’t be bored, but if for some reason you need to head to the capital London is only approximately a 90-minute train ride away.
Of course, there is the option of living outside of London while working in the capital. This however, can be costly and time-consuming, so think carefully about the cost (not to mention long travel times) involved in commuting, and also make sure the area you are based in has efficient transport links to the capital.
Wherever you decide to live, whether it be in central London or rural Britain, remember the reason why you decided to come to the UK in the first place. Being a working traveller is all about challenges and adventures, so make the most of your time wherever you decide to call home!
Table of Contents
Master the Art of Job Hunting in the UK
Your Essential Guide to Navigating and Succeeding in the Competitive UK Job Market
Unlock the secrets to landing your dream job. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned professional, or an international job seeker, this book provides the tools you need to craft standout applications, ace interviews, and secure the perfect position. Don’t let the competitive job market hold you back—equip yourself with the knowledge and confidence to succeed with this indispensable resource.
