What Are the Best Room Types Near Manchester Universities?

If you’re new to Manchester, such as a first year or international student, it can be beneficial to live as close as possible to your university campus. The main universities are the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), both of which offer halls of residence varying in room size and types.

To suit various needs, preferences, and budgets, they offer diverse choices, with each room type providing distinct advantages and potential drawbacks.

Below is a breakdown of the most popular room types in Manchester university halls to consider:

Ensuite Rooms

Often offering more space, these rooms come with a private bathroom for added independence. These rooms usually include a shared kitchen with flatmates and other communal spaces. 

Examples in Manchester:

·       University of Manchester: Denmark Road, located near the main university campus, consists of modern ensuite rooms.

·       MMU: Cambridge Halls, where all rooms have ensuites and shared kitchens.

One potential drawback of an ensuite is that they are often more expensive than standard or non-ensuite rooms.

For more advice, read our guide on whether an ensuite is worth it here.

Standard Rooms (Shared Bathroom)

A non-ensuite room is the standard among most university halls of residence and certain private options. Potential tenants should expect to share a bathroom and kitchen with their flatmates, and their own private bedroom (which is lockable).

Examples in Manchester:

·       University of Manchester: Whitworth Park, social halls with shared bathrooms and kitchens.

·       MMU: Archway Halls, a short walk from the All-Saints Campus, offers a strong community feel.

This room type is a budget-friendly option and perfect for enhancing your social life during the tenancy stay. It helps build adult skills and strengthen a support network, particularly beneficial for those new to Manchester.

Our Moss Court student accommodation – find out more here!

One downside of a non-ensuite is that sharing spaces may lead to certain disputes and hygiene frustrations, especially if you and your flatmates have different standards for cleanliness. 

Studio Flats

For complete independence and space, students may want to consider a studio flat, a self-contained accommodation that features a private bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen.

Examples in Manchester:

·       University of Manchester: Burkhardt House, located near Victoria Park, has studios available for first-year students.

·       MMU: New Medlock House, located in the Manchester Student Village on the main campus, offers private options with all-inclusive bills.

These room types near Manchester universities offer maximum privacy and independence, making them a suitable choice for mature and international students. However, for some, it may become isolating and impact feelings of loneliness during the university year.

University halls of residence are often populated with first year undergraduate students. They are incredibly beneficial, as they provide a supportive environment and a way to make instant friends within the first few weeks of living there. But, for other types of students, other options may be more suitable.

Let’s take a look at the other types of student accommodation in Manchester, and common room types to expect:

Shared Houses or Flats

Shared student housing is typically rented through private landlords or letting agents and is popular among second- and third-year students or those concerned about their budget.

Common room types in shared housing:

·       Standard private bedroom in a house share

·       Large double room or “attic room”

·       Ensuites (less common)

Though shared houses and flats often come at a lower cost, you may find certain room types vary in their size and modernity. If repairs are required, tenants must go through their landlord, and maintenance will depend on their landlord’s responsiveness.

Private Student Accommodation 

Private Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) is a popular option for many students, both UK-based and international. It offers a nice balance between independent living and a support network, with modern facilities in a conveniently placed location.

Common room types in private student accommodation:

·       Non-ensuites

·       Ensuites

·       Studio flats

·       One-bedroom apartments

·       Deluxe studios

One drawback is that private student accommodation is often more expensive than other options in Manchester. This is particularly true for room types such as one-bedroom apartments and studios. If you want modern and luxurious features, consider non-ensuite rooms at private student accommodation.

At Mansion Student, we provide purpose-built student accommodation across the UK, including cities such as Leeds, Durham, and Manchester. Depending on the property, we offer a range of room types.

Our Manchester student accommodations offer spacious non-ensuite rooms designed to foster a strong community feel within cluster flats. Get excellent value for money with all-inclusive bills, as well as added extras like contents insurance, high-speed WiFi, secure entry, and parking access. 

Both our Manchester properties are within walking distance of the main universities and city centre amenities.

Interested? Take a look for yourself and arrange a viewing at one of our Manchester student accommodations here!

Let’s explore some helpful tips and considerations to make when selecting the best room type for your needs:

Privacy vs Social Life

Depending on the room type chosen, you may find that your social interactions or level of independence fluctuates. If privacy is your primary concern, consider room types like studios, which offer self-contained living spaces.

To get the most out of your student experience, consider shared and cluster flats, which encourage social interactions. Sharing a bathroom and kitchen helps you make friends very quickly, making them perfect for those new to the area who are looking to create a support network.

Study Rooms and Needs

Your academic goals may influence your choice of room type in student accommodation. First year students may not prioritise dedicated study spaces compared to older students working towards final exams or dissertations.

Often, larger room sizes come with in-room study spaces, especially at private student accommodation.

If your student accommodation does not come with a study space, you may want to consider the location of the property and whether university resources (such as a library) are within walking distance.

Consider other features that may impact room type and size, such as access to laundry facilities, internet connection and available social spaces.

Mansion Student manages two private student accommodation properties in Manchester. Students looking to live close to Oxford Road and city centre amenities should consider our City Edge: a modern and spacious building close to university resources and popular nightlife spots.

Our City Edge student accommodation – find out more here!

Each of our Manchester properties features a range of room sizes, perfect for creating a community feel among cluster flats. Located in the quieter area of Ardwick, our Moss Court also has stylish facilities and a sizable space for creating new memories with flatmates and friends.

These accommodations have onsite hospitality teams to help throughout the tenancy year with any issues that may arise, from mental health support to fixing maintenance problems.

For more information contact the Mansion Student team today!

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