As one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United Kingdom, Durham University and the city itself has a lot to offer potential students. With its rich history and various cultural features, thousands of students enrol at the university each year, requiring student accommodation throughout the term time.
Although Durham is much smaller compared to cities such as Manchester and Newcastle, this only means that all amenities are close by and student friendly. There are certain property types and areas which are frequently occupied by students from all years. Check out this helpful guide on the biggest student areas in Durham and where you should live during your time at the university.
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What are popular locations for students to live in Durham?
Choosing where you live during your time at university is one of the biggest challenges. For first years, you might need to choose a place that is closely located near the university, whilst postgraduates may want to spend time further away from the city centre in quieter neighbourhoods.
It’s important to consider certain factors when finding the right location. In Durham, various areas are popular for students and frequently populated by them every year. Before comparing the locations listed below, think about what you are looking for and the necessities you require as a student:
- Are you wanting an area close to the university? Or the specific campus you will be using.
- Are you looking to live with other students that are in a similar position to you?
- What about your time outside of university? Do you want accommodation close to the nightlife, places of culture and/or supermarkets?
Claypath
Situated close to Durham University, the Old Elvet and Elvet Riverside lecture rooms, Claypath is in a great location for both the university and nightlife. Adjacent to the marketplace, Claypath has various student housing at competitive rates and is close to places such as the Gala Theatre and supermarkets Tesco and Waitrose.
Neville’s Cross
Neville’s Cross is situated close to Durham’s city centre and a fifteen-minute walk to the Science site. Yet, although it is within walking distance of the university, local amenities such as the closest supermarket is an uphill twenty-minute walk and can be a noisy area due to the main roads.
In addition, Neville’s Cross has an affordable price range thanks to the vast area size. The area is a short taxi ride from The Viaduct for students to still enjoy the nightlife at discounted rent rates.
The Viaduct
Another popular location for students, The Viaduct is full of house shares, conveniently placed near the train station. The area is situated between Durham’s city centre and Neville’s Cross, populated with various shops and a short fifteen-minute walk from the science site.
The Viaduct is one of the busier areas in Durham, popular with student events and hosting an energetic nightlife. However, if you are not looking for a noisy neighbourhood and require a quieter place to live, alternative areas should be considered.
Gilesgate
Gilesgate, located just outside of Durham’s city centre, is still a part of the main hub and close to various amenities. However, there is also a sense of togetherness within Gilesgate and is a community in its own right.
Placed at the end of Claypath, the price of private accommodation is typically much lower in Gilesgate than in areas closer to the city centre. Gilesgate is vastly popular with students due to its close proximity to Durham University and other essentials, such as two supermarkets and two retail parks.
What type of accommodation in Durham should you choose?
Durham offers a range of accommodation types to suit your needs and requirements, influencing your preferred location.
Halls of residence
Typically, university halls of residence are often occupied by first-year and international students. This is because it is an ideal way to connect with other students in a similar situation, whilst also remaining close to the university.
Private accommodation
After the first year, students tend to not live in student halls, as they prefer to choose whom they live with. Though it can be exciting not knowing who you will be living with in the first year, once you make friends, private accommodation allows students to make more decisions and have assurances.
Is Gilesgate the best place to live as a student?
Although Gilesgate is located further away from the centre than other places, this also creates ample opportunities for students. Gilesgate’s local atmosphere is culturally diverse and has some affordable yet luxurious student accommodations available.
Ernest Place, Renny’s Lane
Located in Gilesgate, Ernest Place has various amenities featured in the accommodation block for all tenants to utilise whenever they want. This includes a sauna, gym, sky lounge, social rooms, rooftop terrace and cinema room.
At Mansion Student, we want to make our tenants’ lives as convenient as possible. For all Durham students at Ernest Place, we offer a free bus pass to make travelling to and from the city centre simple. For more information on Ernest Place, Read more more information on Ernest Place.
Frequently asked questions
Does Durham University have accommodation?
Yes. Durham University provides different accommodation blocks on its campus, including within the Durham Castle walls.
How much is student housing in Durham?
This all depends on the type of accommodation and the location. Typically, halls of residence start at £149 per week, compared to the much lower rates of shared houses. To keep down the costs, consider living outside of the city centre.
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