University College London

Keith Stapylton provides a novel viewpoint on one of Britain’s traditional centres of historical excellence.

University College, London (UCL): is that the one on the Strand, next to Somerset House? No, that’s King College. Nor is it the Stalinist tower on Malet Street – that’s the London University Senate House, which houses the Institute of Historical Research (IHR) and the central university library. UCL is in Gower Street, Bloomsbury, with the fabulous classical revival portico.

Before coming to UCL, I had not appreciated how far the University of London had defederated. Its one-time constituent colleges now each have their own funding streams and award their own degrees. UCL has branded itself as London’s global university, and the mix of what is on offer – and the overall character of the students – is indeed diverse.

To continue reading this article you will need to purchase access to the online archive.

Buy Online Access  Buy Print & Archive Subscription

If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in.

Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems.