Higher education normally takes place in universities, higher education colleges, and in some further education colleges. These are found in towns and cities across the country and many specialise in some subjects. So where you choose to study may be dependent on what you want to study. If you have family or work commitments and cannot relocate, distance learning (for example, the Open University) offers another route into higher education.
If you choose to attend an academic institution full time, you first need to make sure it's the right one for you as you'll be spending a lot of time there. If you have a family you'll need to make sure it's accessible and has the support facilities you'll need. Do your research by checking prospectuses and visiting universities on their open days.
UCAS - Universities and Colleges Admissions Service For information on all aspects of the applications process for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges.
HERO (Higher Education & Research Opportunities in the United Kingdom) HERO is the national website for Higher Education in the UK. (See link on the right.)