Living in the UK

The UK is quite an informal nation, but you may find that it requires a little effort to adjust to your new environment as there may be some cultural differences. You might find the following helpful:

• British people are generally relaxed. There are relatively few customs that have to be observed and many British people are willing to chat casually to someone they have only just met.
• You should, however, expect to find a queue when waiting for a bus or for a service in a shop, and you will find that "please" and "thank you" are widely used.
• It is important to be on time for all academic meetings - lectures, seminars and tutorials.
• If your culture does not allow you to drink alcohol, you may be worried if you are invited to go to a local pub (public house or bar). Pubs are popular social meeting places and soft drinks as well as alcohol are sold. Both men and women may visit pubs if they are over the age of 18. There is no waiter service and you pay for your drinks when you order them.
• You will find that in the UK men and women mix easily. British women are independent but although they mix freely with men, this does not imply a willingness to enter into sexual relationships.
• For information on a broad range of social and cultural aspects of life in the UK, see ukstudentlife.com

Tonbridge - in the heart of the Kent countryside

Tonbridge is a busy small town in the heart of the Kent countryside. There's plenty to do and places to go, with London only 40 minutes away by train. The area abounds with historic villages, country houses and gardens, as well as good pubs, clubs, markets and shops. The focal point of Tonbridge is the castle, which dates back to the Normans, and provides views of the town and countryside.

Within the grounds there is a lake and a heated swimming pool. It is also the venue for the College's graduation ceremonies.

Tunbridge Wells - shopping and social centre

Only a few miles from Tonbridge and on a frequent bus and train route is Tunbridge Wells, an excellent shopping centre with lively night life. The South Coast - Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings readily accessible by car, bus or train are the resorts and beaches of the south coast, only an hour away if you feel like getting away from it all.

Gatwick and Heathrow

These major airports are a short drive from Tonbridge on major routes (A21, M25 and M23) or via the rail system through London.

More information

For more information about the local area download the 'Students Guide'

Getting around London

Should you wish to go to London we would recommend that you buy an ‘A-Z of London' (street map) when you arrive. You can get a copy from bookshops and newsagents, and it will help you to find your way around.

Travelcards

You can make considerable savings on travel costs by buying a Travelcard, LT Card, Bus Pass, or student Oyster Photocard. There are discounts for full-time students. These are available at National Rail and Underground ('Tube') stations and at some newsagents. Tube and National Rail Services within Greater London are divided into six zones and the cost of your ticket depends on the number of zones your journey covers.

Useful telephone numbers and web sites

National Rail Enquiries
Tel. 08457 48 49 50
www.nationalrail.co.uk

London Travel (Buses and Underground)
Tel. 020 7222 1234
www.tfl.gov.uk

European rail travel
Tel. 020 7834 2345

Visit London (Official tourist information service)
Tel. 0870 156 6366
www.visitlondon.com