The Best London Art Colleges
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One of the world’s biggest and most exciting cities, there’s no wonder why so many creatives flock here to study at one of the top art colleges in London!
With a rich history and producing some of the world’s greatest artists, directors and fashion designers, there is an abundance of unique places to study that are known across the globe for excellent exhibitions in everything from fine art to fashion photography. So, what are you waiting for? Look at our list below and find the London art college that’s perfect for you!
15 London Art Schools to Discover
1. Central St. Martins
Situated right next to the famous Kings Cross Station, Central St. Martins is easily one of the best-known art colleges in London. This gigantic campus has large, modern, bright co-working spaces where students can meet, chat, and work. With around 18 courses ranging from undergraduate to short summer courses, this famous school is usually the number one choice for creative students across the country and the rest of the world.
1 Granary Square | Website
2. Royal College of Art
One of the oldest art colleges in the city, the Royal College of Art, was founded in 1837 and underwent many changes, including location up to the present day. Now, with three campuses stretched across the capital, this art college has seen many famous faces through its doors over time, including film director Ridley Scott and actor Alan Rickman, to name a few. With all that being said, this is a fantastic university.
1 Hester Rd | Website
3. Chelsea College of Art & Design
Situated on the banks of the River Thames, the Chelsea College of Art & Design is easily one of the capital's best art schools through its association with UAL. Founded in 1895, this university offers undergraduate, post-grad and short courses for UK and international students. This is a great art college and very well located in the heart of the city, right next door to Tate Britain and Vauxhall Bridge.
16 John Islip St | Website
4. Slade School of Fine Art
Right on the doorstep of Euston Station is the Slade School of Art, part of the UCL group of universities. Renowned for some of its famous alumni, you can take a range of courses here, including online learning, short courses, and the usual post & undergrad degrees. With a particular focus on contemporary art, this world-famous university is one of the best you can find.
UCL (Gower St) | Website
5. Goldsmiths University (UAL)
Part of the UAL network, Goldsmiths is one of the older colleges in the city, founded in 1891 as a technical institute. Since then, it has become world-famous for its exciting and prestigious courses, with over 10,000 students from across the UK and the rest of the world. Aside from disciplines such as Music and Anthropology, this university is noted mainly for its Art & Design courses. With notable alumni, including the Young British Artists collective and the likes of Damien Hirst, this is a fantastic place to study.
8 Lewisham Way | Website
6. London College of Fashion
Part of the UAL group of universities, the London College of Fashion is an exceptional place to study, drawing in students from around the world each year for its one-of-a-kind courses. Known for being one of the top places to study art in the capital, this excellent campus is right next to New Cross station and is extremely well-connected to the rest of this exciting city. With notable colleges like Cordwainers that have produced some of the most successful designers in Britain, this university isn’t one to overlook.
20 John Prince’s St | Website
7. The Courtauld
With one of the best and most varied art galleries in the UK, The Courtauld was founded by art collectors and philanthropists at the dawn of the 20th century. Since then, it has grown into one of the best places to study the arts and has had many famous alumni in its time, including names like Jimmy Choo and William Tempest. Situated on The Strand right next to Somerset House and Kings College, you couldn’t get more central to the City even if you tried!
The Strand | Website
8. Royal Academy of Music
Whilst it may not be the first school that comes to mind regarding creative universities, the Royal Academy of Music is noted as one of the world’s best music schools. Situated next to stunning Regents Park in the Marylebone area, this fantastic university offers courses across the musical board, from classical to contemporary. Being centrally located and just a short walk from some of the most iconic British landmarks, this college is a top choice for anybody who lives and breathes music!
Marylebone Rd | Website
9. City & Guilds of London Art School
Founded as the Lambeth School of Art, it isn’t strictly world-renowned but still earns a spot on our list because of its awesome courses. Focusing on providing excellent Fine Art and Art Histories courses, this college allows students to study abroad and take short courses, masterclasses, and summer schools. This London art college is an exceptional choice, located just across the River Thames and a short walk from Kennington tube station.
124 Kennington Park Rd | Website
10. Camberwell College of Arts
Further out of the city in the borough of Southwark is the outstanding Camberwell College of Arts. Last but certainly not least important on this list, this university is also part of the extensive UAL group of schools. Founded in 1898, students come to study a range of disciplines, from 3D design to Footwear.
1 Wilson Rd (Peckham) | Website
11. Ravensbourne University
Situated on the doorstep of the O2 Arena, Ravensbourne University is an exceptional place to study in the capital for those looking to pursue a career in creative and digital media. Whether you’re interested in fashion or photography, this fantastic college boasts an incredible campus on the Greenwich Peninsula, connecting this excellent university to the rest of the city via the tube network.
6 Penrose Way (Greenwich) | Website
12. University of Westminster
With courses from photography to fine art and animation, the University of Westminster is one of the best arts schools the capital offers. With various campus buildings situated around the Marylebone, Fitzrovia & SoHo areas, this is also one of the oldest universities in the city too. With undergrad and post-grad courses and distance learning opportunities, this college is a no-brainer.
309 Regent St | Website
13. London Metropolitan University
With an extensive and impressive campus next to the famous Emirates Stadium, this fantastic university is also one of the best for art, design, and architecture courses. With a great creative department and plenty of courses for you to explore and get your hands on, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t consider this excellent university for your studies.
166-220 Holloway Rd | Website
14. Middlesex University
With a large campus to the northwest of the city, this long-standing university is perfect for those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city. Located just a short walk from Hendon Central tube station, this art college is accessible no matter where you’re travelling from in the city. Middlesex University is a great option with an impressive art faculty featuring courses from product design to fine art.
The Burroughs (Hendon) | Website
15. The BRIT School
Known for producing some of the biggest and best-known British artists and performers this century, the BRIT School deserves a mention as one of the best for its track record, excellent facilities, and great location in Croydon. With alumni like Amy Winehouse and Adele, this school provides a creative education for those aged 14-19 and is a firm favourite for studying creative arts.
60 The Crescent | Website
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