Student Accommodation in Durham

Durham is a quaint city  in northeast England, UK, known for its profound history, rich cultural heritage, and a world-class university. Located just south of Newcastle (just a 12-minute train) and next to Sunderland and Middlesbrough, Durham sits amidst a bunch of vibrant northern cities. It is also well-connected with a direct train line to London and Edinburgh, offering easy access to explore major UK cities. The history of Durham dates back as early as 995 when Anglo-Saxon monks came to find a safe haven from Viking raids and settled the relics of St Cuthbert. The church was later replaced by the present Durham Cathedral and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with Durham Castle.

Durham is also a renowned university city, with over half of its population comprising students. Durham University, ranked 94th in the latest QS World University Rankings 2026, makes a significant contribution to the vibrant student scene in the city. Due to the collegiate system, its 17 colleges are spread across the city, offering university facilities, communities, and events at every corner. There is also a wide range of student accommodation in Durham city, located everywhere so students can always be close to class.

Beyond academics, Durham also stands out with a perfect blend of small city life and a modern reflection of a historic town. Apart from Durham Castle and Cathedral, the Oriental Museum, featuring major civilisations of the East, is also a landmark and popular attraction. The University's botanical gardens offer beautiful scenery, and a stroll along the River Wear provides a serene experience. Of course, there is also a vibrant shopping scene in Durham, from the River Walk shopping complex to various outdoor markets. Popular festivals will be held throughout the year, such as the Durham Brass Festival in July and the Lumiere light art festival in November.

uhomes.com offers the best Durham student accommodation with upscale amenities and convenient locations. Ideally situated close to Durham University and the city centre, students can expect a short walking distance to everything you need. From en-suites and non en-suites to studios and 1/2 bedroom flats, our student properties in Durham ensure every student can find the perfect room to suit their lifestyle. Every room is fully furnished, along with luxury communal areas including gyms, study rooms, social spaces, cinema rooms, laundry facilities, courtyards, and more. Security measures, including CCTV, secure access, and 24/7 security staff, are also on-site to provide a safe and secure environment where you can feel at home. Here's a list of our best student accommodation in Durham:

1. Chapel Heights

Chapel Heights is the top Durham student accommodation on our must-stay list, featuring spacious studios with a dishwasher in every room. Dual occupancy options are available, perfect for couples to stay together. This Durham accommodation is just a 5-minute walk to the College of St Hild and St Bede, and the School of Education, and a 10-minute walk to DSU and the Language School.

2. Duresme Court

Duresme Court is the best-rated Durham student housing on StudentCrowd, boasting high-end private studios with amenities such as an on-site gym, study rooms, gaming areas, a cinema lounge, and a cookhouse. This property is situated near popular nightlife spots and is just a 5-minute drive from Durham University.

3. The Village at The Viaduct

The Village at The Viaduct is also one of the best student accommodations in Durham in the popular Viaduct area. Its location offers vibrant city life and peaceful green spaces,  bus and train stations are just a short walk away, and Durham University is a 25-minute walk. You can choose from a range of all-inclusive en-suite rooms and studios, with amenities including a spacious communal lounge and outdoor gardens.

4. Dun Holm House

Dun Holm House is another popular Durham accommodation for students, just an 18-minute walk from Durham University, a 6-minute walk to Durham Station, and a short walk to the city centre. This apartment offers both studio and en-suite rooms, along with impressive social areas including a games room, gym, cinema room, TV lounge, communal kitchen, and private dining facilities.

5. Student Castle Durham

Student Castle Durham is located a few minutes' walk from the city centre. This accommodation in Durham offers shared flats, private studios, and twin rooms, featuring spacious study areas, a breathtaking 45-seat cinema, a TV room, a fully equipped gym, a café area, and more.

6. Elvet Studios

Elvet Studios is just a 15-minute walk from the Bill Bryson Library and the city centre, and a 20-minute walk away from the main Durham University campus. This student accommodation in Durham city provides all self-contained studios, with a bright common room on the ground floor, with sofas and a TV, board games, and a space for study.

uhomes.com offers a wide selection of cheap Durham student accommodations, starting from only £130 per week. We will help you save more money by offering all-inclusive bills to cover your gas, water, electricity, and internet. Every room at our student housing in Durham also comes fully furnished bedroom and fitted kitchen, so you will save a lot on furnishings and appliances. In additions, do not forget to enjoy our various discounts and exclusive offers when booking. Although cheap in price, these student lets in Durham UK are luxury in quality with a wide range of amenities and security measures in place, ensuring your living is comfortable and safe while affordable. Here is our list of cheap student accommodation in Durham:

1. Ernest Place: from £130/week

2. St Giles Studios: from £225/week

3. Regatta Place: from £179/week

4. The Village at The Viaduct: from £199/week

5. Houghall Court: from £219/week

The best areas for Durham student accommodation include The Viaduct, Claypath, Gilesgate, Nevilles Cross, and the city centre. The Viaduct is located near the train station, with numerous large shared houses in the area. Claypath enjoys a central location near the city centre and lecture halls. Gilesgate is situated just outside the main hub and boasts excellent transport links. Neville's Cross gives a more residential feel, and the city centre is the heart of all. Here is a more detailed breakdown of where students live in Durham:

1. The Viaduct

The Viaduct is one of the most popular student hubs in Durham. It is close to the train station and also just a short 10 to 15-minute walk to the main buildings of Durham University. This is a vibrant neighbourhood with many large shared houses, which fosters a strong sense of community. Tesco Express is located on North Road, with just a few minutes' walk, popular bars like Klute and Fabio's are also within walking distance.

2. Claypath

Claypath is just east of the River Wear and next to the city centre. The area is slightly further from the Durham main university campus, but it remains within a manageable 15 to 20-minute walk, making it also a top contender for private student accommodation in Durham. Home to some of Durham's best nightlife spots, bars such as The Angel Inn and The Shakespeare Tavern are popular with both students and locals. It is also easy to find Claypath Delicatessen, Tesco, Waitrose, Bimbi's and Pizza King right on your student accommodation in Durham.

3. Gilesgate

Gilesgate is a popular area if you're looking for cheap student accommodation in Durham. Located just outside the city's heart, it is a walking distance of around 20 to 30 minutes to Durham University, perfect for students looking for a quieter lifestyle. There are also frequent bus services connecting this area with the city centre and the university, making your commute more convenient. Supermarkets like Aldi and Sainsbury's Local in this area make it easy to shop for daily necessities.

4. Neville's Cross

Neville's Cross is also a peaceful residential area of south-west Durham with green spaces, bringing a quiet study environment away from the city centre. It is just a 10 to 15-minute walk from Durham University College, ideal for students to enjoy the peace of suburban living while staying close enough to class. From purpose-built student accommodation to detached houses and terraced properties, students will find a wide selection of different accommodation types here.

5. Durham City Centre

Durham City Centre is ideal for those who enjoy the hustle and bustle of urban life with easy access to shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Many Durham University colleges, like Hatfield College and University College, are located here, so students can get to class within several minutes of getting out of bed. The city centre boasts a wide range of student halls, apartments, and converted historic buildings; however, Durham student accommodation prices can also be higher than in other areas.

Private student accommodation in Durham offers more independence and flexibility than university-managed student halls. There is not only private shared houses, build-to-rent apartments and flats, but also a variety of purpose-built student accommodation located near each college. Students can enjoy the freedom to choose your own rooms and the same convenience and affordability as living in university student halls. Here is a more detailed breakdown of the type, cost, and factors to consider about private Durham student accommodation:

Types of Private Student Accommodation Durham

• Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA): Designed for students only, always located close to campus, managed by professional student property providers like Student Roost, Student Castle, and Unite Students. The rooms they provide typically come with a wide range of amenities like study areas, social spaces, gym, cinema, laundry, bike storage, and more.
• Build-to-rent apartments (BTRs): Designed usually for working professionals but also suitable for students who prefer a quieter environment. Always centrally located and of high quality for convenience, but amenities might be limited.
• Private house-shares (HMOs): Private houses provided by private landlords or managed through a letting agency stand for houses of multiple occupancy. They usually accommodate 4-10 students, and are usually affordable. It is a popular choice among second and third-year students who have a group of friends to live with.

Cost of Private Student Accommodation Durham

Durham student accommodation fees vary according to location, room type, and amenities. For different room types, the costs are:

• En-suite rooms: £200 - £260 per week
• Studios: £250 - £300 per week
• Non en-suite: £150 - £200 per week
• 1B: Over £400 per week
• 2B: Over £800 per week

Factors to Consider When Choosing:

• Location: Proximity to your university college, city centre, or other popular student areas like The Viaduct, Claypath, Gilesgate, and Nevilles Cross with convenient public links and easy access to local amenities.
• Budget: The Durham student accommodation prices can vary greatly, so it is better to decide your budget according to your financial situation.
• Room Type: Choose from en-suites, studios, or shared flats based on your preferences.
• Amenities: Figure out what matters to you, such as gyms, study rooms, social areas, laundry facilities, or others.
• Security: Ensure your living space is safe and secure with CCTV, secure entry, or 24/7 security staff.
• Lease Term: Most student properties in Durham have fixed lease terms for 44 or 51 weeks; some of our housing options also provide short-term terms. Verify whether the contract length aligns with your needs.

Student accommodation in Durham offers a wide array of room types, including studios, en-suites, and shared flats. Durham University student halls usually provide only en-suite (private bathroom) and standard (shared bathroom) rooms, a few colleges offer shared rooms with two single beds and studio apartments for private living. Some colleges also offer catered accommodation with meals provided, and most private accommodation provides self-catered options (b and b in Durham city is also available). uhomes.com boasts a variety of room types for diverse lifestyles in popular areas like The Viaduct and Gilesgate, and comes with all-inclusive bills and amenities like gyms, social areas, and study rooms. Here are the most popular room types of student accommodation in Durham:

• En-suite Rooms: En-suite rooms offer a blend of community living and sufficient privacy, featuring a private bathroom attached to the bedroom, typically located within cluster flats or apartments that share a kitchen and living area. The price of en-suite rooms is typically around £200-£260 per week. Houghhall Court and The Village at The Viaduct have affordable and high-quality en-suite rooms for around £200 to £220 per week. If you want to book with friends or live with the same gender, please let our friendly consultant know, and we will help arrange accommodations for you.
• Studios: Student studio flats in Durham offer a self-contained living area with a bedroom, a bathroom, and a kitchenette, providing a complete independent living environment for students who do not want to socialise. Student studio in Durham costs typically about £250 - £300 per week, budget-friendly options like Student Castle Durham and St Giles Studios are always hot among students.
• Non en-suite Rooms: Non en-suite rooms provide only a bedroom, and you need to share a bathroom, kitchen, and living areas with several flatmates. This room type is also called 'standard rooms' when talking about university-owned student halls, which is the most common room type universities offer. Non en-suite is more affordable with a fee from £150 - £200 per week, perfect for students who enjoy living within a group.
• 1B: 1 bedroom flats in Durham bring students a more spacious place to live compared with studios. Unlike studios, you will enjoy a separate bathroom but not a self-contained one. 1B is also expensive and can cost over £400 per week.
• 2B: 2 bedroom flats in Durham include two separate bedrooms, a kitchen, a living area and usually a bathroom. This kind of housing in Durham can be more expensive than 1B with a price over £800 per week, usually suitable for two friends or a family to share together.

The lease term for Durham student housing typically runs for a fixed term, usually 44 or 51 weeks, to align with the academic year. Short-term student accommodation in Durham is also available for internships, language classes, summer stays, or just a holiday. The common lease lengths are:

• 51 weeks: From September to the next September, covering the whole semester and extending through the summer. Suitable for postgraduate students.
• 44 weeks: From September to the following July, aligns greatly with the academic schedule and is suitable for most students.
• 38-40 weeks: Durham University colleges provides typically a lease term from 38-40 weeks.
• 29-35 weeks: A small number of Durham University colleges, including University, Collingwood, and Grey, will offer lease terms of 29-35 weeks, as the halls will be used for commercial trading during the Christmas and Easter vacation periods.
• Short-term student accommodation in Durham: To cater to the diverse needs of students, we offer short-term stays like Houghall Court (10 weeks) and Elvet Studios (2/10/15 weeks). Of course, you can also opt for social apartments or hotels in Durham city with more flexibility.

The cost of living in Durham is around £1,200 to 1,500 per month, slightly lower than the UK national average and much more affordable than in the South, like London and Bristol. However, it is also essential to thoroughly understand the cost of living in Durham to manage your budget more effectively before you move in. Apart from tuition fees, the most significant expense will be your Durham student accommodation, and that's why you should carefully choose your home with a reliable partner, uhomes.com. Typically, all-inclusive bills, furnished rooms, and our various discounts will help you save a significant amount of money on parties and travel. Here is an estimated breakdown of the costs you may encounter:

Total: £1,200-£1,500 per month

• Durham student accommodation: £800- £1000/month

The Durham accommodation costs contribute to the most significant part of your expenses. To save more money, you can consider shared flats or live slightly outside the city centre. To help you further, all our student apartments in Durham are all-inclusive, with no hidden costs, and also offer various discounts for booking.

• Utilities: £80 to £150/month

Utility fees can be a trouble, especially when you're on a limited budget or splitting the bills with others. To take all the stress out of your living, we provide all-inclusive student houses in Durham, covering your fees for water, gas, electricity, and internet.

• Food and Grocery: £200 to £300/month

The spending on eating greatly depends on personal habits. Cooking in our well-equipped kitchen will help save a significant amount, with an estimated monthly cost of about £145 on groceries. For eating out in Durham, the average cost of a meal in an inexpensive restaurant is £14, with cheaper options typically costing around £7.

• Transport: £50 to £100/month

The bus service in Durham costs just £1.50 a day for students. Getting around on foot or by bike will be more affordable and eco-friendly if your Durham student accom enjoys a convenient location. For visiting nearby cities, booking early or with a 16-25 Railcard will allow you to travel at a lower cost.

• Others: £50 to £100/month

As a student in Durham, there are also numerous expenses, including clothing, course materials, and various entertainment options. For example, a cinema ticket at the Gala Theatre costs from £5, and laundry costs approximately £20 per month.

Durham is easy to navigate with a variety of transportation options, including buses, trains, taxis, cycling, and walking. With comprehensive bus routes and the East Coast Mainline, navigating Durham city or exploring other major UK cities is made convenient. Many of our student properties in Durham are conveniently located near bus stops and railway stations, designed to provide students with a convenient commuting experience. Whether you're getting to school, exploring this historic city, or travelling to nearby areas, you'll find it easy and hassle-free.

1. Bus: Durham City is easy to navigate by bus, with numerous bus routes provided by operators such as Arriva North East and Go North East. Bus routes and timetables can be found on the County Durham public transport timetables. Single journey tickets typically cost between £1 and £2, day tickets cost £5, and weekly tickets cost £20. Durham University students can enjoy the Arriva discounted bus ticket scheme, which also allows them to travel to Durham from further destinations, including Newcastle, Sunderland, Hartlepool, and more, at a daily discount price of £2.50.

2. Train: Durham is well-connected with the East Coast Main Line running through. Train services are available through LNER Trains (to Scotland and London Kings Cross), Cross Country Trains (to the Midlands and South West), TransPennine Express (to Manchester airport, Edinburgh, and Liverpool), and Northern Rail (to Seaham, Bishop Auckland, etc.). Getting to Newcastle only takes 12 minutes at a cost from £2. Students can apply for a railcard, which enables you to get a third off most standard and first class rail travel.

3. Cycling: Durham city offers a variety of cycle paths, ranging from short and family-friendly routes to more challenging trails, making it easy to get around or have fun. There are several bike-sharing schemes, such as Mobike and Lime, that offer low-cost, short-term rentals for those who prefer cycling. Many of our student accommodation options in Durham city also offer bike storage services to ensure the safety of your property.

4. Walking: Walking is a viable commuting option since many private student accommodations in Durham are located within a short walking distance from the university colleges. Take a stroll along the River Wear or along popular routes like the Durham and Hett Circular, which are also great ways to explore the city or enjoy as a pastime.

5. Taxis: Getting around by taxi is also popular when you've just finished a late class or party. Fonacab and Dial Cabbies Durham are the primary taxi service providers in Durham. Uber is also available for ride-sharing.

Student life in Durham is sure to be vibrant, with a profound history, beautiful scenery, and modern amenities that the city has to offer. There are plenty of places to visit and things to do in Durham, offering you multiple choices to spend time after class.

• Landmark & Attractions

Durham is a historic and beautiful city with many ancient architectural sites and stunning natural views. The famous Durham Cathedral, together with the Cathedral, which is also designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has witnessed the fluctuations of this city for thousands of years. They are also the most popular attractions and should be on your list of best things to do in Durham. For natural beauty, stroll along the River Wear or head to the University’s botanical gardens. Additional options, such as Crook Hall Gardens, Ushaw Historic House, Chapels & Gardens, Seaham Beach, and Wharton Park, will offer you different and wonderful experiences.

• Food & Nightlife

As for food, Durham is an inclusive city with some of the best cuisines from all over the world. The Rabbit Hole is suitable for Cantonese fusion, Zen for Thai food, Rio Brazilian Steakhouse for authentic Brazilian churrasco, and Riverview Kitchen for a lovely cup of coffee right on the River Wear. If you want a taste of the urban, Durham is only ten minutes away from Newcastle by train, with a regular rail service linking the cities. Of course, Durham is also famous for its buzzing nightlife, with popular bars and pubs found next to your Durham student accommodation. Klute is a top choice for students, offering affordable drinks and a lively party atmosphere. To enjoy music, head to Loft to explore its music-led events venue and student nights. If you're looking for a local taste, Alley Twenty Six and Caonniption Bar & Lounge are renowned for their cocktails and refined atmosphere.

• Shopping & Festivals

Durham is also a haven for shopping enthusiasts, hosting a variety of high street favourites and independent retailers. Dalton Park Outlet is the biggest outlet shopping centre in the North East with over 65 stores, 10 cafes and restaurants and a 7-screen cinema. At the same time, Prince Bishops Place is the number one retail destination in Durham City, featuring an eclectic mix of popular high street stores, independent shops, and eateries. Looking for a place you can shop while enjoying spectacular heritage sites, the new Riverwalk complex on the banks of the River Wear will be your destination. There are also many outdoor markets where you can experience the most of local life. Another remarkable cultural scene in Durham is its diverse array of festivals throughout the year, including key events such as the Durham Miners' Gala, the Durham Brass Festival, and the Bishop Auckland Food Festival.

• Living Experience

With over half of the population being students, Durham is truly a university city that is inclusive and welcoming. Due to Durham University's collegiate system, students are spread throughout the city, as well as in a variety of student homes in Durham. It is always easy to live with your pals or make new friends, whether you choose to live on campus or opt for off-campus private student accommodation in Durham. The cost of living in Durham will also be slightly lower than the UK national average level, offering both affordability and a city life experience. Living in Durham as a student will bring you the most unforgettable memories of your life.

In Durham, many tourist attractions showcase the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Here are some must-visit places near your student housing in Durham:

1. Durham Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this iconic cathedral is renowned for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Many people learn about Durham Cathedral from Harry Potter. It was here that Mrs McGonagall taught the Hogwarts students to turn animals into goblets, and it was filmed here. It's where the commencement and graduation ceremonies for Durham University students are held.

2. Durham Castle: Adjacent to the cathedral, this Norman castle offers guided tours providing insights into its medieval past. Durham Castle, which is nearly 1,000 years old, is one of the student residences of University College, which is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in the world certified to be used as a university residence.

3. Raby Castle, Park and Gardens: Raby Castle is one of England's finest medieval castles and within the magnificent castle walls there is much to enjoy and explore in the 200 acres of deer park and medieval walled gardens.Deer park in Raby Castle is set in 200 acres of lush parkland, featuring ancient trees and one of England's finest medieval castles. Flora and fauna, wild birds and recreational deer can be seen grazing just metres away.

4. River Wear: Enjoy a scenic walk along the riverbanks, offering picturesque views of the city and opportunities for relaxation. You will find some of our student houses in Durham are situated nearby.

5. Beamish Museum: The Beamish Museum is a world-famous open-air museum located in the beautiful county of Durham in the North East of England. The museum is a life-size recreation of what life was like for people in the North East of England from the 18th to the early 20th century.

Durham is well-known for its prestigious universities, the oldest and most renowned of which is Durham University, and there is also a famous further education college, New College Durham. These two institutions are perfectly located and surrounded by some quality Durham student accommodation options.

1. Durham University

Durham University is the third-oldest university in England, after the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, and is also a member of the Russell Group. It has long been ranked among the top 100 in the world, and according to the latest QS ranking, it is currently 94th. The university offers over 300 undergraduate and postgraduate courses in science, social sciences, humanities, and business. Durham University is a collegiate university ,and every student is a member of a college, which brings a sense of community and belonging. For students looking for private student accommodation in Durham, remember to find your home near the college you're attending. Most popular student lets in Durham, located near this university, are Houghall Court and Elvet Studios.

2. New College Durham

New College Durham, a further education college offering a range of vocational and academic courses to students, is also situated in Durham city. The college has served the local community with education for over 30 years and has a strong reputation for its dedication to student success. New College Durham ranked 4th in the GFE college nationally, with 94% of adults achieving their qualification, and ranked 2nd highest in the North East region. Its campus is located slightly outside the city's heart, in a vast green landscape at Framwellgate Moor. The Village at The Viaduct, Dun Holm House, and Student Castle Durham are popular Durham student housing near this college.