Student Accommodation near Durham University

Durham University, founded in 1832, is a collegiate public research university located in the small city of Durham in northeast England. It is one of the member schools of the Russell Group of Universities. At the same time, the school is also the first batch of universities to open in England, after the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, which is the third oldest university in England with a long history. 

Durham University ranked 6th in the Guardian University Guide 2025 and joint 89th in the QS World University Rankings 2025. Its top performance came in the Sustainability category with a ranking of 19th in the world, and it also has a world-class reputation with employers, being ranked 65th. This success is a testament to its impact on academic, industrial and business partnerships, as well as further evidence of its innovative and impactful research and academic staff.

Durham University is famous for its unique high-walled buildings, castles and churches. Durham Cathedral is one of the most distinctive and typical Norman churches in the UK and one of the 'Top Ten Churches in the UK'. Durham University was one of the key filming locations for the Harry Potter film, which was shot at Oxford University. Durham, where Durham University is located, is a typical English town with a small area and beautiful scenery, and the whole city is composed of Durham University. Walking is almost always the preferred option for travelling within the city. Still, if you are travelling out of the city, the railway is also very convenient, and the neighbouring city of Newcastle is only a 10-minute train ride away. 

Choosing suitable Durham University student accommodation can significantly enhance your overall student experience. uhomes have narrowed down the best student accommodations, offering a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and community. A short bus trip for 10-25 minutes or a walk for 25 minutes will get you to campus, ensuring your daily commute is a breeze. These student accommodations near Durham University provide a secure, friendly, and engaging environment where you can thrive. Each option, from modern studios to shared apartments, is designed to cater to different needs, ensuring you feel at home while forging new friendships and creating unforgettable memories. Some of the best Durham University accommodation options are:

1. Houghall Court

2. Chapel Heights

3. Elvet Studios

4. Student Castle Durham

5. Duresme Court

6. St Giles Studios

7. Dun Holm House

8. The Village

uhomes.com offers a series of Durham Uni accommodation options starting from £130 per week, designed for students looking for affordability. Your utility bills are included in the rent, so there is no extra fee. Rooms are usually furnished with essentials, and you can move in directly. Also, we offer discounts for early booking, group booking, and re-booking, and we have exclusive listings and offers to help you save more money. Below are some of the top options for cheap Durham University accommodation:

1. Regatta Place

2. The Village

3. Houghall Court

4. St Giles Studios

5. Student Castle Durham

When looking for student accommodation near Durham University, choosing the right neighbourhood will not only benefit you from proximity to the university but also bring student community, a convenient environment, and more. Some of the most popular areas for students to find Durham University accommodation are The Viaduct, Claypath, Gilesgate, Nevilles Cross, and City Centre.

1. The Viaduct

The Viaduct is one of the most popular student areas in Durham and is known for its high concentration of purpose-built student accommodations. It’s just a short 10 to 15-minute walk to Durham University's main buildings and a larger Tesco Express located on North Road, just a few minutes away.

2. Claypath

Claypath is located east of the River Wear and is known for its variety of living options, from private flats to spacious student houses. The main university campus is a 15 to 20-minute walk, and it is also close to the city centre. Many popular bars like the Angel Inn, The Shakespeare Tavern, and Jimmy Allen's are situated here.

3. Gilesgate

Gilesgate stands out for being both affordable and convenient. It is within walking distance of around 20 to 30 minutes from the university, but it is more affordable than other popular areas. This area is also home to a variety of shops and supermarkets, including a large Aldi and a Sainsbury's Local.

4. Nevilles Cross

Nevilles Cross is the perfect choice for students who prefer a quieter and residential area, close to the Hill Colleges, such as Van Mildert and St. Mary's, as well as the university’s science site with a 10 to 15-minute walk. Although more suburban, there are also a few essential shops in the nearby Crossgate Moor, and the city centre is just a short walk or bus ride away.

5. City Centre

Durham City Centre is not only the heart of all but also where many of the central university colleges, such as University College (Castle) and Hatfield College, are located. Local amenities, from high street stores to independent retailers, are at your doorstep, and the nightlife is the best in Durham.

The living costs are typically much lower in the North of England than they are in the South, but it usually depends on your lifestyles and habits. The average cost of living in Durham is usually between £1,200-£1,500 per month, and covering the following aspects:

1. Durham University Accommodation

University-managed:  £730 - £1,100 per month

Private accommodation: £520 - £1,000 per month

2. Food and Groceries:

University-managed:  £300 per month

Private accommodation: £200 - £300 per month

3. Travel: £40 - £50 per month

4. Utilities: £80 to £150/month

5. Entertainment and others: £50 to £100/month

Getting to know how to navigate the city is also crucial for incoming students. Durham is a small but well-connected city covered by extensive bus routes and railways. For students who live around the campus, walking and biking are usually more popular. Some common transport ways for Durham University students include:

1. Bus

Durham University is easily accessible by bus, and the nearest bus stops include South Road Colleges and South College. Students can enjoy discounts, and the cost of an unlimited day ticket for each zone will be £1.50 within the Durham Uni Zone and £2.50 within the new Durham Uni Plus Zone.

2. Train

Durham University is easily accessible by train, and the East Coast Main Line runs through the heart of Durham City. Train services which call at Durham Railway Station include the London North Eastern Railway, TransPennine, Northern and Cross Country trains. The 42 Mount Oswald bus service or the 41 service will take you from the Railway Station to various University locations.

3. Bike

Cycling is a good way not only to travel to the University but also to explore Durham City and the surrounding area. Cycle storage is available across the University Estate as well as at many of our Durham University accommodation options.

4. Walk

Walking is also a great way to get around if your Durham Uni accommodation is not very far. Durham University spreads across the city, offering lots of opportunities to explore this historic area on foot. It also enables you to commute to the university from across the city.

5. Air

Durham is a 30-minute drive from Newcastle International Airport and about 40 minutes from Teesside International Airport, offering convenient access for international travel.

Durham University is a collegiate university where every student will become a member of a college and find a sense of community. There are 17 colleges in this distinctive system with over 200 student' Union societies. 85% of the students are involved in sports, music, theatre, volunteering, or student enterprise. Durham has been Britain's No.1 sports university since 2013, with over 700 college sports teams across 18 sports. Sports can be both competitive and friendly, and they often provide strong friendship networks and a sense of belonging.

Durham University spreads across the city, providing lots of opportunities to explore this historic area on foot and enabling you to commute to the university from across the city. Attractions like Durham Castle and Cathedral are the best to visit for being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For nature beauty, Chapels & Gardens, Seaham Beach, and Wharton Park are good choices for spending an afternoon with your friends. All these amenities, together with popular restaurants and bars, are located near your Durham University accommodation within walking or biking distance. Of course, you can also use your student discounts to get a day bus ticket for only £1.50.

Durham is renowned for its prestigious university and hosts an array of captivating tourist attractions that wonderfully capture its rich historical essence. Public transport is made easy from your Durham University accommodation to these popular attractions. Check the following top attractions in Durham, and you can find more things to do in Durham.

1. Durham Cathedral

2. Durham Castle

3. Durham University Botanic Garden 

4. The Oriental Museum

5. Wharton Park

6. Chapels & Gardens

7. Seaham Beach

8. Ushaw Historic House

9. Crook Hall Gardens

10. Beamish Museum

At Durham University, various courses have gained popularity due to their comprehensive curriculum and the university's commitment to academic excellence. Here are some of the most popular courses at Durham:

1. Physics

2. Economics

3. Law

4. Psychology

5. Geography