The Top Boarding Schools UK (and how to get in!)
The UK is world-renowned for its outstanding boarding schools. When England comes to mind, it is easy to picture the historic school buildings and vast grounds of prestigious schools like Eton and Harrow but the UK is home to a diverse range of top boarding schools, each offering unique traditions and forward-thinking approaches to education. From iconic campuses spanning hundreds of acres to an array of extracurricular activities quite literally on students’ doorsteps, these schools provide an environment where learning extends far beyond the classroom. Boarding life fosters strong bonds between students, cultivating a sense of community, independence, and resilience. With their ability to holistically support students—bridging the gap between school and home—UK boarding schools inspire a lifelong love of learning and equip pupils with the skills and connections to thrive in an ever-changing world.
This blog will introduce you to the top boarding schools (UK), mentioning some of the top boarding schools in England for international students. In order to help you make decisions about which of these top boarding schools is the right fit for your child, we’ve listed some key features for comparison (such as size, fees, location) and linked useful guides and resources to help you better understand the application process, and to ensure your child excels in it.
Eton
Eton College, located in the picturesque town of Windsor, Berkshire, is one of the most prestigious boarding schools in England, known for its rich history and exceptional educational offerings. Established in 1440, the school emphasises academic excellence supported by cutting-edge facilities, including its renowned libraries and the Tony Little Centre for Innovation and Research in Learning. On its 400 acre campus, the school also has vast playing fields and high tech theatres and art studios allowing students to thrive in extracurricular pursuits, alongside academics. The school has around 1,350 boys and offers options for both A Levels and the Cambridge Pre-U at Sixth Form.
Eton’s values are deeply rooted in fostering individuality, creativity, and empathy, aiming to prepare students for impactful, fulfilling lives. Its co-curricular program is diverse, featuring options like music, drama, the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), and environmental education. The school prioritises leadership, kindness, and community engagement, encouraging students to push boundaries while embracing responsibility.
Location: Windsor (South East England)
Fees: £21,099 per term (from 2025)
Number of pupils: over 1,350
Boys or girls?: Boys
Main entry points: 13+ and 16+
Sixth form qualification: A Level or Pre-U
Scholarships: Academic, Music and DramaIf you’d like some in-depth advice on how to excel in the Eton List Test, the entrance exam for Eton, check out our comprehensive guide.
Sevenoaks
Founded in 1432, Sevenoaks School is one of the oldest boarding schools in England, set in 100-acre grounds in Kent. It is renowned for its academic excellence and international outlook as a leading International Baccalaureate (IB) school. In 2023, 86% of GCSE grades were 9-7, and the average IB score was an impressive 39. These results, combined with a strong emphasis on pastoral care and extracurricular activities, prepare students for success at top universities, including Oxbridge, Russell Group institutions, and leading schools in the US and Canada.
Sevenoaks’ state-of-the-art facilities and outstanding extracurricular offerings—ranging from sports to performing arts—complement its rigorous academics. As one of the most selective boarding schools in the UK for international and domestic students, it receives around 1,500 applications annually for just 240 places. With such fierce competition, expert guidance can make all the difference. [link to blogs and offering support]
Location: Kent (South-east England)
Fees: Day: £9,709–£11,026 per term. Boarding: £15,595–£16,919 per term
Number of pupils: over 1,200
Boys or girls?: Boys and girls
Main entry points: 11+, 13+ and 16+
Sixth form qualification: IB
Scholarships: academic, art, drama, music and sport (but no financial reward)
More tips for applying, or see our guide to the Sevenoaks 16+ entrance exam
3. Westminster
Westminster School, located in central London, is one of the UK’s most historic and top boarding schools, nestled near Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. In fact, it is the only historic boarding school to remain on its original site near the centre of London.
It is also one of the more popular boarding schools in England for international students, particularly at sixth form. With approximately 750 students, it admits pupils at ages 13 and 16, offering both day and boarding options. Most of the students who join the school at 13+ join as day pupils. Westminster then offers more extensive boarding options at sixth form; however, this is still only a quarter of students who are boarders. The school encourages students to push beyond the boundaries of exam syllabuses and encourages curiosity in its students, both in the classroom and beyond. Westminster offers exceptional extra-curricular opportunities (and facilities to go with them!) including arts, drama, and sports, along with unique activities such as bookbinding, carpentry, and robotics.
We’ve made a whole guide on the ins and outs of the Westminster 16+ application process to help you secure a place at this top boarding school. Read it here.
Location: Central London, Westminster
Fees: Day: £11,433–£12,495 per term Boarding: £16,506 per term
Number of pupils: over 750
Boys or girls?: Boys until sixth form where girls join the school
Main entry points: 13+ and 16+
Sixth form qualification: A Level or Pre-U
Scholarships: academic and music
More tips for applying for Westminster 16
Need help choosing between these top boarding schools?
If you're finding the decision-making process challenging, our experienced educational consultants are here to help. They specialise in guiding students through applications to top boarding schools and can provide personalised advice to ensure you find the best fit for your child, as well as offer coaching throughout the competitive admissions process.
4. Wycombe Abbey
Wycombe Abbey is widely regarded as one of the UK’s top boarding schools for girls, renowned for its academic excellence, innovative teaching, and holistic approach to education. Each year, approximately one-third of its students secure places at Oxbridge, a testament to the school’s rigorous academic standards. Situated on an expansive 170-acre campus, the school offers a blend of historic charm and cutting-edge facilities, creating an inspiring environment for learning and personal growth. Beyond academics, Wycombe Abbey places a strong emphasis on fostering confidence, leadership, and resilience, preparing its pupils to excel in all areas of life while forming lifelong friendships within its close-knit community.
Location: Buckinghamshire (South-east England)
Fees: Day: 12,000 per term. Boarding: £15,900 per term
Number of pupils: Over 650
Boys or girls?: Girls
Main entry points: 11+, 13+ and 16+
Sixth form qualification: A Level
Scholarships: academic and music (but no financial reward)More tips for applying to Wycombe Abbey.
5. Dulwich
Dulwich College, situated on a historic 70-acre campus in South London, is one of the UK’s top boarding schools for boys, renowned for its academic achievement and vibrant co-curricular life. The Senior School (11-18) follows on from the Junior School (7-11), from which 55 boys join at 11+ each year. Dulwich has a community of 140 boarders, consisting of both weekly and termly boarders and representing 20 different nationalities.
Dulwich consistently produces excellent A-Level results, with many pupils securing places at leading universities in the UK, including Oxbridge and Russell Group institutions, as well as prestigious international universities. The campus features a blend of historic and modern facilities, including a world-class science block, a performing arts centre, extensive sports fields, a theatre, and a library steeped in tradition. Dulwich College offers a dynamic education, encouraging boys to excel academically while nurturing creativity, leadership, and resilience through a broad range of activities in music, drama, sports, and community engagement.
Location: Dulwich, South East London
Fees: Day: £9,739 per term. Boarding: £20,441 per term
Number of pupils: around 1,550 (including the junior school)
Boys or girls?: Boys
Main entry points: 7+, 9+ 11+ 13+ and 16+
Sixth form qualification: A Level
Scholarships: Music, Art and Sports ScholarshipsMore tips for applying to Dulwich.
6. Wellington
Wellington College, set on a breathtaking 400-acre campus, is a leading co-educational boarding school renowned for its forward-thinking approach and broad opportunities for academic and personal growth. The school provides great support for students aiming to study in the US, with around 20 pupils securing places at Ivy Leagues and top US universities each year, alongside its strong record in UK university placements. Combining historic architecture with state-of-the-art facilities, Wellington fosters a dynamic and inclusive environment where students are encouraged to pursue excellence across academics, sports, the arts, and leadership. Its commitment to innovation and global perspectives makes it a standout choice for families seeking a well-rounded education.
Location: Berkshire (South-east England)
Fees: Day: 11,920 per term. Boarding: £16,310 per term
Number of pupils: Over 1,100
Boys or girls?: Boys and girls
Main entry points: 13+, 14+ and 16+
Sixth form qualification: A Level
Scholarships: academic, art, drama, music and sportMore tips for applying to Wellington 13+
7. Tonbridge
Tonbridge School, located in the heart of the Kent countryside, is one of the UK’s leading boarding schools for boys, celebrated for its academic excellence and dedication to character development. The school consistently achieves outstanding A-Level results, with the majority of pupils progressing to Russell Group universities, including Oxbridge and other prestigious institutions worldwide. Set on a picturesque 150-acre campus, Tonbridge offers an impressive array of facilities, including a state-of-the-art science centre, modern sports complex with an indoor pool, a theatre, an art school, and extensive playing fields. Beyond academics, the school provides a wealth of co-curricular opportunities, from elite sports programs to music ensembles, drama productions, and community service initiatives. Tonbridge prides itself on fostering a supportive and inspiring environment where boys are encouraged to excel academically, develop their passions, and cultivate leadership skills for life beyond school.
Location: Kent (South-east England)
Fees: Day: 12,490 per term. Boarding: 16,648 per term
Number of pupils: over 800
Boys or girls?: Boys
Main entry points: 13+ and 16+
Sixth form qualification: A Level
Scholarships: Academic, Sport, Drama, Music, Art, and Design, Technology and Engineering (makes students eligible for means-tested support of up to 100% of fees)
More tips for applying to Tonbridge 13+8. Harrow
Harrow School, set on a picturesque 300-acre estate, is renowned for its rich traditions and unique character. From the iconic Harrovian dress and the carving of pupils’ names in the Houses to its distinctive form of football, quirky slang, and the cherished Harrow Songs, the school is steeped in heritage. The sprawling campus resembles a self-contained village, containing six conservation areas, a nine-hole golf course, and a working farm, as well as building of notable architectural and historical significance. This blend of history and community makes Harrow an exceptional boarding school experience and a space where all boys can excel.
Location: Harrow, Greater London
Fees: £17,850 (boarding only)
Number of pupils: Around 840
Boys or girls?: Boys
Main entry points: 13+ and 16+
Sixth form qualification: A Level
Scholarships: Academic, Sport, Drama, Music, Art and Design and Technology (5% fee reduction)
How to Choose the Right Boarding School for your Child
Deciding which of these top boarding schools to send your child to is a difficult choice. Your child will spend 5 or 7 years in that environment, learning but also growing and developing as a person, so you need it to be a space that reflects their interests and that you trust will support them in the right ways. Here are some factors to think about when comparing top boarding schools in England and making your decision.
Academics: Look at the school’s academic reputation, results, and the range of subjects offered to ensure it aligns with your child’s strengths and ambitions. Would your child prefer A Levels or IB, for example?
Extracurriculars: Consider the breadth of activities available—sports, music, drama, and clubs—that can enrich your child’s school life and help them explore their interests. They’ll have lots of time at boarding school to spend on these activities that are on their doorstep so make sure there are activities on offer that they’re excited to engage in.
Location: Whether you prefer a school close to home or one with a scenic rural campus, location is an important factor to consider. If you’d like your child to board weekly, you may want to consider a school closer to home to make the back and forth pick ups easier. Or perhaps you’d like a school situated closely to the cultural activities London has on offer. Bear this in mind.
Size: Different students may thrive in a smaller, close-knit environment or a larger school with broader opportunities. Think about which may suit your child better, and ask about how much individual support each boarding school is able to provide.
Boarding Options: Determine whether weekly, termly, or full-time boarding suits your family’s needs and lifestyle.
Single-Sex or Co-Ed: Reflect on whether a single-sex or co-educational environment would best support your child’s academic and social development. Some schools are single-sex up until sixth form, offering a bit more balance.
Pastoral Care: Strong pastoral support is a really important part of ensuring your child feels happy, safe, and supported. Going away to boarding school is no small deal so it’s important they are supported in a way that allows them to thrive and make the most of their school experience.
Ethos: A school’s values, culture, and teaching approach should resonate with your child and your family. It’s important to feel like a school prioritises the holistic growth of your child, not just their academic output.
We strongly recommend visiting the open days of these top boarding schools to get a feel for the atmosphere and to have the opportunity to ask your questions. If you’re still struggling with decision making, our educational consultants have lots of experience supporting students in their applications to these top boarding schools and can advise you to help you find the right fit for your child, as well as coach them through the competitive admissions process.
Our team of expert tutors are graduates from Oxbridge and other top UK universities and are often alumni from these top boarding schools. They are well-placed to support your child through the whole boarding school admissions process, from answering questions about different schools to tailored entrance exam and interview prep.
Get in touch by booking a free initial consultation to find out more about how our team of educational consultants and tutors can support you on your journey to receiving a place at these top boarding schools.