Chelmsford is a lively and flourishing city that's forward-looking and increasingly cosmopolitan. It is home to 8,500 students and is situated in the county of Essex, close to London. It has frequent, fast and direct accessibility to the east of England, London. International destinations are also within easy reach, with Stansted Airport just 25 minutes away.

Theatres offer a range of drama, music, dance, comedy and film. There is a multi-screen cinema, and art exhibitions can be viewed at Chelmsford museum. Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre is a 10 minute walk from the campus and offers an ice hockey rink, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, plus a host of other recreational facilities. Chelmsford is the home of Essex County Cricket Club, alongside golf, rugby, football and hockey clubs.

Numerous parks and green spaces offer places to relax, and being situated on the River Can and River Chelmer, you can enjoy the countryside from the water. There are plenty of bars, clubs and live music venues for a great nightlife and a variety of places to eat, including Chinese, French, Italian and Spanish restaurants.

Chelmsford originated as a market town, and this 800-year-old tradition continues every Friday and Saturday in the town centre. The market includes over 100 stalls and kiosks, as well as hosting events and activities. In addition, the Gourmet Food Fair is a specialist food market offering shoppers local and international treats and fresh produce. Two shopping centres - the Meadows and High Chelmer - are crammed with well known high street names, while independent boutiques and specialist stores can be found on side streets.

In 2010, Chelmsford was the first town in the UK to be selected as an 'International Safe Community' by the World Health Organisation, reflected by the town's low crime rate and delivery of a number of community safety projects. This was a UK first, with Chelmsford joining a network of 190 other safe communities based on 26 countries.

Chelmsford was awarded city status in March 2012 as part of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

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