Transport in the UK

Transport in the UK might be a little different to what you’re used to at home.

• Student railcards
• Cycling in the UK
• Driving in the UK

Student railcards

As a student, you're eligible for a 16-25 Railcard from National Rail. If you're over 25 but studying with us full-time, you’re still eligible.

The 16-25 Railcard costs £30 per year, or £70 for three years, and gives you 1/3 off rail travel in England, Scotland and Wales.

Applying for a railcard online

You can apply online for a 16-25 Railcard, or using the mature student application form if you’re over 26 or older.

Applying for a railcard by post

If you don’t want to apply online, application forms are available at all train stations.

If you’re a mature student (26 or older), the Global Office can validate your application for a railcard. Take your application form to the Global Office in University House to ask for your form to be stamped, along with your Student ID and a passport-sized photograph. 

Cycling in the UK

Cycling is a great way to get around Portsmouth, and explore the local areas.

Bicycle safety

Cycling is a safe way to travel as long as you take care. If you decide to cycle:

• Cycling helmets are voluntary but recommended
• Make sure your bicycle (bike) has working lights on the front and back

Roads in Portsmouth can be very busy during rush hour, which is from 8.00am to 9.15am and 5.00pm to 6.00pm, Monday to Friday. There are some cycle lanes in Portsmouth – please use them, but be aware of traffic and pedestrians.

Things you should know before cycling

Here are some things to bear in mind when you are cycling in Portsmouth:

• You can be fined for riding your bike on the pavement
• You can be fined for not using lights on your bike at night
• You can purchase bike lights for as little as £10 a set
• Learn the road signs, you need to know where you can and cannot cycle
• Always follow the Highway Code and obey traffic signals
• Red means stop
• Don't cycle on the pavement, on pedestrian walkways or in crowded shopping centres. Get off and push your bicycle
• Show respect for pedestrians, especially elderly people and children
• Don't cycle against the flow of traffic on one-way streets or on roundabouts
• Always indicate with your arms before turning left or right into another street. You must show other road users what you intend to do
• When using shared cycle/walkways always keep to the correct side of the path and use your bell to warn others of your approach
• Buy a very strong bicycle lock and never leave your bike unlocked – bicycle theft is very common, find out more about bicycle storage at Portsmouth.

Driving in the UK

Driving rules in the UK may differ from the rules in your country. Familiarise yourself with British driving rules to make sure you are safe and secure.

Remember:

• You must drive in the left-hand lane
• Speeding is an offence and speed cameras are in operation throughout the UK – you must obey the speed limit signs
• The speed limit on British motorways is 70 mph (112 kmph)
• It is illegal to drink alcohol and drive and the penalties are severe
• It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone at all times when driving and fines can be up to £1000 if the matter goes to court
• The wearing of seatbelts is compulsory
• More information about driving in the UK and licence information can be found on the UKCISA website.