Like most universities, the University of Edinburgh offers all-inclusive and self-catering accommodations, modern student accommodation, and traditional on-campus student accommodation. But do you think that’s all there is to it?
The students at the University of Edinburgh are characteristically spread out! There are about 30 areas of on-campus accommodation for new undergraduate students. The University spreads across many campuses, and accordingly, the on-campus accommodation is distributed throughout. Compared to the 7 campuses, these dormitories cover the whole city of Edinburgh, and the distribution points vary from campus to campus for different majors. For students, choosing a hall of residence can be complicated, considering the distance to classes as the primary consideration.
But don’t worry. You may need to know which dormitory to choose initially, but you can follow specific steps to select the right one. Generally speaking, after you receive the acceptance letter, it will determine the campus and location of your classes, so you at least get the positioning information. You can get twice the result with half the effort by picking a nearby dormitory based on distance. George Square Campus, which is south of the centre, and Kings Buildings Campus, which is south of the city, are usually the busiest, so if you want to have more activities after school, you can pay attention to them.
It is worth noting that in addition to confirming the location, you should also pay attention to the price. Prices vary according to proximity to the city centre and the campus. Besides, modern flats are more expensive than traditional ones, and all-inclusive accommodation is more expensive than self-catering. Having a good idea of your budget before choosing is also essential.
Catered Accommodation
The University of Edinburgh provides eight catered accommodation, and they are all in one place. This is the Pollock Halls dormitory, which is located on the Pollock Halls campus.
In terms of location, the environment of this dormitory area is pretty. It takes 18 minutes to walk to George Square and half an hour to Kings Buildings. The nearest supermarket is about 9 minutes away, but if you want to go shopping, you must take a bus to Prince Street. There is also The Salisbury Arms, a cost-effective Chinese restaurant across the street.
In terms of facilities, the dormitory rooms have basic furnishings, and for those who are touched, the school provides Bedding Packs! There are essential bedding packs a complete set of quilts and pillows, and you can buy them through the school website before you move in. However, this option is not mandatory so you can buy it at the supermarket. Most of the dormitories are shared bathrooms. Students who need independent bathrooms must be confirmed when applying.
The key is to eat! Generally speaking, dormitories that take care of food will be more expensive. It offers breakfast and dinner from Monday to Friday and brunch and dinner on weekends.
John Burnett House
The majestic Arthur’s Seat stands tall, overlooking John Burnett House at Pollock Halls. This renowned Edinburgh landmark inspires locals to hike and do outdoor exercise. There is a standard room and patio for socialising. The accommodation offers easy access to Edinburgh’s central area and has convenient transport access to the city centre. The rent is around £6,661-£11,418 per year.
Chancellor’s Court
Pollock Halls has a perfect location. The accommodation offers easy access to Edinburgh’s central area. It is within 25 minutes walking distance of both the George Square and King’s Buildings university campuses. All rooms are en-suite, and residents have access to shared pantries across all floors, the newly developed Absorb standard room and a computer lab, all situated within Chancellor’s Court. The rent is around £5,919-£10,133 per year, including all bills.
Holland House
Holland House is at the base of the impressive Arthur’s Seat. It offers 353 bedrooms with private en-suite bathrooms and one large standard room with shared television and lounge areas. Situated within Pollock Halls, the accommodation provides easy access to Edinburgh’s central area and has convenient transport access to the city centre. The rent is £6,342-£10,305 per year. It includes all utility bills except personal TV Licences.
Self-catered Accommodation
There are more self-catering dormitories, about 22 of them. There are two types of residences: The residences and the flats. The former is the old style of university dormitories with bedrooms lined up along the corridors, and usually, 10 to 12 students share a kitchen. The latter are the newer type of flats, non-mixed dormitories with 3-6 students in a flat, but with single rooms. What’s unique about the facilities is that there is one more kitchen than in the dormitory, so you must take care of your meals.
Sciennes
Sciennes has 212 single-study bedrooms in flats of 3-6 rooms sharing kitchen and bathroom facilities. A large standard room for all residents to use for social and study purposes was added in 2013. Pronounced ‘Sheens’, it lies just on the edge of the Meadows, Edinburgh’s most enjoyed park. It’s a short walk to George Square for those studying in the central area, and the shuttle bus to King’s Buildings stops across just the road. The locality can be described as peaceful while thriving at the same time, with a good range of pubs, restaurants and antique shops, as well as a multi-purpose arts and cultural venue which occupies the old veterinary school. The rent is around £4,386-£5,247 per year. All utility bills included – there is an average electricity allowance, but overuse can result in additional charges.
Kincaid’s Court
Kincaid’s Court is the University’s largest self-catered residence with 253 single and 2 twinned study bedrooms; most with 4-5 rooms per flat but with some 12-person flats. There is a large standard room on site with TV, table football and table tennis, plus a decked seating area outside. Less than 10 minutes’ walk from George Square and the University’s central area. It’s also close to incredible music venues and convenient for everything Edinburgh offers. The rent is £5,247 per year.
Robertson’s Close
With 210 single and a couple of twinned study bedrooms, typically in 4-6 roomed flats, each sharing kitchen and bathroom facilities, Robertson’s Close is ideally situated in the heart of the city’s vibrant Cowgate area, with a range of entertainment venues and cultural attractions within easy walking distance. It’s also ideally suited for access to the University’s central area and the fantastic Centre for Sport and Exercise. The rent is around £4,386-£5,711 per year.
FAQ
1. Can I trust the safety measures implemented in Edinburgh University’s student accommodations?
Absolutely! Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. We have stringent security measures, including 24/7 onsite staff, CCTV surveillance, and secure keycard access. We constantly review and update these measures to ensure a safe, trustworthy living environment.
2. How can I apply for student accommodation at Edinburgh University for the 2024 Fall term?
Applying for accommodation is a straightforward process. Visit Edinburgh University’s official website, navigate the accommodation section, and follow the step-by-step guide.
3.What amenities are available in Edinburgh University’s student accommodation?
Edinburgh University accommodations offer many amenities designed to enhance your university experience. These include high-speed Wi-Fi, study spaces, communal areas for socializing, laundry facilities, and more. The university strives to provide a comfortable environment supporting your academic and personal growth.
