Student Accommodation in Durham

Durham is a quintessential university town, with students accounting for over half of the population. Given the competitive market and limited capacity in university halls, securing the right private student accommodation in Durham is essential to a successful academic journey. At uhomes.com, we offer a curated selection of high-quality student lets in Durham, UK, strategically located near Durham University (QS 94th, 2026) and the city centre. Whether you belong to a Bailey college like Hatfield or a Hill college near the Science Site, our student homes ensure you are always within walking distance of your lectures and the city’s UNESCO World Heritage landmarks.

Modern Living with Premium Amenities

Our student houses in Durham are designed to provide greater independence and superior facilities than traditional university halls. From private studios and social en-suites to spacious 1/2 bedroom apartments, every room is fully furnished and ready for you to move in. To ensure a hassle-free lifestyle, we prioritise all-inclusive bills that cover water, electricity, heating, and high-speed internet. Beyond your room, you will have access to upscale communal spaces, including on-site gyms, cinema rooms, study hubs, and laundry facilities, all protected by CCTV or 24/7 security, ensuring you feel at home from day one.

uhomes.com Advantage: Simple, Secure, and Verified

We simplify your search for Durham student accommodation into three easy steps: Search, Select, and Book. Our platform features a robust filtering system, allowing you to find the perfect property based on location, budget, and specific amenities. Every listing on uhomes.com is 100% verified, featuring real photos, videos, and live streaming to ensure your decision is well-informed.

As a Trustpilot 4.9-rated platform, we go beyond the booking by offering one-on-one professional consultancy, Group Booking discounts, and an exclusive Price Match Guarantee. Looking for the best value? Explore our top-rated options like Chapel Heights, Student Castle Durham, and The Village. Secure your ideal Durham student accommodation today and enjoy a seamless transition to your new life in this historic city.

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.

Historic Heritage and UNESCO Sites

The history of Durham dates back to 995, when Anglo-Saxon monks sought refuge from Viking raids and settled the relics of St Cuthbert. This heritage remains palpable today; the original church was later replaced by Durham Cathedral, which, together with Durham Castle, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A Prestigious University City

Durham is also a famous university city with over half of its population being students. Durham University, ranked 94th in the latest QS World University Rankings 2026, contributes significantly 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: Culture and Lifestyle

Beyond academics, Durham also stands out with a perfect blend of small city life and a modern reflection of a historic town.

• Cultural Landmarks: Apart from the Castle and Cathedral, the Oriental Museum, featuring major civilisations of the East, is a popular attraction.
• Nature & Leisure: The University’s Botanic Gardens offer beautiful scenery, and a stroll along the River Wear provides peace of mind.
• Shopping & Events: The city boasts a vibrant shopping scene, from The Riverwalk complex to various outdoor markets. Popular festivals are held throughout the year, such as the Durham Brass Festival in July and the Lumiere light art festival in November.

At uhomes.com, we offer a curated selection of the best student accommodation in Durham, partnering with trusted providers like Student Castle, Student Roost, and Prestige Student Living. Every property is 100% verified to ensure a prime location within walking distance of the Science Site, Business School, or City Centre. Our fully furnished rooms offer more than just a place to sleep; you’ll enjoy luxury amenities including private gyms, cinema rooms, and dedicated study hubs. For your peace of mind, many student lettings feature comprehensive security such as 24/7 on-site staff, CCTV, and secure fob access. Whether you seek a social en-suite or a private studio, we provide a safe, convenient, and high-quality home tailored to your Durham University lifestyle. Here’s a list of our best student lets in Durham:

Chapel Heights – Best for Education & Healthcare Students

Chapel Heights is consistently a top-selling Durham off-campus housing due to its spacious studios, each uniquely equipped with a private dishwasher.

• Location Advantage: A mere 5-minute walk to the College of St Hild and St Bede, the School of Education, and a 10-minute walk to DSU and the Language School.
• Key Feature: Offers Dual Occupancy at no extra cost, making it the #1 choice for couples in Durham.

Duresme Court – Best for Luxury & Modern Amenities

Ranked as the best-rated student housing in Durham on StudentCrowd, Duresme Court defines high-end living.

• Location Advantage: Situated in a peaceful area with a short 5-minute drive or bus ride to Durham University.
• Key Feature: Features a premium "Cookhouse" and cinema lounge, perfect for students who value a sophisticated social life.

The Village at The Viaduct – Best for Commuters & Viaduct Lifestyle

Located in the heart of the popular Viaduct area, The Village offers the perfect balance of city excitement and academic focus.

• Location Advantage: Unbeatable access to the Durham Train Station and the vibrant North Road.
• Key Feature: A wide range of all-inclusive en-suite rooms with beautiful outdoor gardens for summer relaxation.

Student Castle Durham – Best for Science & Business Site Access

Managed by the renowned Student Castle, this student letting is iconic for its breathtaking design and massive social spaces.

• Location Advantage: Perfectly positioned for quick access to the City Centre and the Science Site via a short walk.
• Key Feature: Boasts a spectacular 45-seat cinema and extensive study zones designed for serious academic focus.

Dun Holm House – Best for City Centre Social Life

If you want to be where the action is, Dun Holm House is your best bet. It combines historic surroundings with ultra-modern interiors.

• Location Advantage: An 18-minute walk to the university and 6 minutes to the station, putting all of Durham’s nightlife at your doorstep.
• Key Feature: Exceptional social areas, including a private dining room and a fully equipped gym.

Elvet Studios – Best for Library Access & Quiet Study

Elvet Studios is the go-to for students who spend time at the Bill Bryson Library, which is only a 15-minute walk away.

• Location Advantage: Located in a quieter part of the city, yet remains within a 20-minute walk of the main university campus.
• Key Feature: Exclusively self-contained studios, ensuring zero distractions during peak exam seasons.

Finding cheap student accommodation in Durham, UK, doesn’t mean compromising on quality. At uhomes.com, we offer a wide selection of affordable student flats in Durham, starting at £130 per week. By choosing our managed PBSAs, you avoid the hidden costs often found with private landlords. Our "Cheap" options are defined by transparency and total value, ensuring your living is comfortable, safe, and financially predictable.

How We Help You Save More:

• All-Inclusive Bills: Every room features fixed-price utilities covering gas, water, electricity, and high-speed internet. This protects you from rising energy costs throughout the winter.
• Price Match Guarantee: We ensure you receive the lowest available rate. If you find the same room cheaper elsewhere, we’ll match it.
• Exclusive Multi-layered Discounts: Maximise your savings by taking advantage of our Early Bird offers, Group Booking discounts (perfect for friends), and Refer-a-Friend bonuses.
• Exclusive Offer at Chapel Heights: Through our strategic partnership with Student Roost, we offer exclusive deals on Chapel Heights. While it is a premium residence, booking through uhomes.com gives you access to exclusive rates and incentives you won't find elsewhere.

Cheap Student Accommodation in Durham:

1. Ernest Place: Starting from £130/week – Best for Budget-conscious students.
2. Regatta Place: Starting from £184/week – Great value en-suite options.
3. The Village: Starting from £192/week – Premium location at an affordable entry price.
4. Houghall Court: Starting from £230/week – Excellent amenities with flexible short-term options.

The best areas for Durham student accommodation include The Viaduct, Claypath, Gilesgate, Nevilles Cross, and the city centre. These neighbourhoods are strategically categorised into two main hubs: The Bailey, located in the heart of the city near historic colleges, and The Hill, situated south of the river closer to the Bill Bryson Library and the main Science Site. While The Viaduct is famous for large shared houses near the train station, Gilesgate and Claypath offer modern purpose-built apartments with excellent university links. Here is a more detailed breakdown of where students live in Durham:

1. The Viaduct

The Viaduct is a vibrant and historic student hub located west of the city centre. Known for its iconic Victorian railway arches, this area is the heart of Durham's student social life and house-sharing culture. 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.

• Best for: Students at St Cuthbert's Society and those who prioritise transport links.
• Key Landmarks: Durham Train Station, North Road shopping area.
• Proximity: 10-15 mins walk to the City Centre and Main Library.
• Popular Property Types: Large 4-6 bedroom shared houses (HMOs) and PBSAs like The Village.

2. Claypath

Claypath is a centrally located street offering a mix of historic charm and modern student living. Positioned just east of the Market Square, it provides immediate access to the city’s nightlife (bars such as The Angel Inn and The Shakespeare Tavern) and academic departments.

• Best for: Students attending The Bailey colleges (Hatfield, Castle) and those near Elvet Riverside.
• Key Landmarks: Elvet Riverside lecture rooms, Durham Market Hall.
• Proximity: 5 mins walk to City Centre; 10-15 mins to the Science Site.
• Popular Property Types: High-end studios and apartments, notably Student Castle Durham.

3. Gilesgate

Gilesgate is a popular residential area known for offering the best value student apartments in Durham. Located northeast of the city centre, it has become the go-to destination for modern, amenity-rich student complexes.

• Best for: Students at the Business School, Education Department, or Hild Bede.
• Key Landmarks: Aldi, Sainsbury's Local, and the Dragonville Retail Park.
• Proximity: 20-25 mins walk to the centre; excellent bus links via Gilesgate Bank.
• Popular Property Types: Modern PBSAs with gyms and cinemas, such as Ernest Place and Chapel Heights.

4. Neville's Cross

Neville's Cross is a peaceful, leafy neighbourhood situated southwest of the city centre. It offers a quieter study environment and is highly popular with senior students and postgraduates.

• Best for: Students at The Hill colleges (Collingwood, Grey, St Aidan's, Van Mildert).
• Key Landmarks: Bill Bryson Library, Mountjoy Science Site.
• Proximity: 15-20 mins walk to the Science Site; 10 mins to Hill Colleges.
• Popular Property Types: Quiet residential houses and luxury studios like Duresme Court.

5. Durham City Centre

Durham City Centre is the historic and commercial heart of the city, surrounding the peninsula. Living here puts you at the centre of Durham's world-heritage atmosphere with shops and cafes at your doorstep.

• Best for: Students at University College, Hatfield, and St John’s.
• Key Landmarks: Durham Cathedral, The Palatine Centre, Prince Bishops Place.
• Proximity: 0-5 mins walk to Bailey colleges; 15 mins to the Hill.
• Popular Property Types: Historic converted flats and premium halls like Dun Holm House.

Private student accommodation in Durham offers more independence and flexibility than university-managed student halls. From modern Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) to traditional Private House-shares (HMOs), hotels, and B&Bs in Durham city, students can choose a living environment that best suits their lifestyle. Unlike university colleges, private options often provide all-inclusive bills and 24/7 onsite management, ensuring a stress-free experience. Here is a more detailed breakdown of the type, value, and factors to consider about private Durham student accommodation:

Types of Private Student Accommodation in Durham

• Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA): Managed by professional providers like Student Castle and Unite Students, these are designed exclusively for students. They are the most popular choice for international students due to their proximity to campus and luxury amenities (gyms, cinemas, and study hubs).
• Private House-Shares (HMOs): Common in areas like The Viaduct, these are traditional terraced houses for groups of 4-10 friends. While they offer a "classic" student experience, students are often responsible for their own utility bills and maintenance.
• Build-to-Rent Apartments (BTRs): High-quality flats that cater to both professionals and students seeking a quieter, more residential environment in the City Centre.

Cost & Value Comparison: PBSA vs. University Halls vs. Private Landlords

In Durham, while the weekly rent for university halls or private HMOs might appear lower at first glance, Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) often provides the best overall value when considering hidden costs or fees and lifestyle quality.

• PBSA (Private Apartments) vs. University Halls: Most Durham University college rooms (especially on The Bailey) are historic but lack modern amenities like on-site gyms, cinemas, and high-speed fibre Wi-Fi. Furthermore, many college contracts (29–35 weeks) require you to move out during Christmas and Easter. In contrast, our private apartments offer 44–51 week continuous stays with superior facilities and 24/7 professional management.
• PBSA vs. Local Private Landlords (HMOs): Traditional terraced houses in areas like The Viaduct often have poor energy efficiency (low EPC ratings), leading to unexpectedly high heating bills during Durham’s cold winters. Private landlords also rarely provide 24/7 security or maintenance. By booking a PBSA through uhomes.com, you benefit from fixed, all-inclusive bills, meaning zero stress about rising energy prices or broken boilers.
• Hidden Costs to Watch: When comparing prices, always check if Contents Insurance, Wi-Fi, and Gym memberships are included. Our PBSA partners (like Student Castle and Unite Students) typically include these as standard, saving you an estimated £20–£40 per week in additional expenses.

Top Factors to Consider (Durham Market Insight):

• The "College vs. Campus" Location: Ensure your student accommodation in Durham city is on the right side of the river. If you are at The Hill colleges, focus on Neville's Cross; if you are at The Bailey, look at City Centre or Claypath.
• Bill Management: With rising energy costs in the UK, choosing all-inclusive PBSAs through uhomes.com offers greater financial certainty than private shared accommodation in Durham.
• Security & Safety: For peace of mind, prioritise properties with CCTV, secure fob entry, and 24/7 staff. All PBSAs listed on our platform are 100% verified to ensure the highest safety standards.
• Booking Window: Durham has a fast-moving market. We recommend starting your search early to secure our Price Match Guarantee and early-bird cashback offers.

Student accommodation in Durham offers a wide range 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 offers self-catered options (B&B in Durham city is also available). uhomes.com offers a variety of room types for diverse lifestyles in popular areas like The Viaduct and Gilesgate, and includes all-inclusive bills and amenities such as gyms, social areas, and study rooms. Here are the most popular room types of student lets in Durham, UK:

En-suite Rooms

En-suite rooms offer a perfect blend of social community and personal privacy. You will have a private bathroom attached to your bedroom while sharing a kitchen and living area with flatmates.

• Best for: Students who enjoy socialising but want their own bathroom.
• Price Range: Usually starts from £200 - £260 per week.
• Top Picks: Houghall Court and The Village offer high-quality en-suite options.
• Expert Tip: If you want to book as a group or prefer a single-gender flat, our consultants can arrange this for you at no extra cost.

Studios

Student studio flats in Durham are self-contained units with a private bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette.

• Best for: Students who prioritise independence, quiet study time, and private cooking facilities.
• Price Range: Typically £250 - £310 per week.
• Top Picks: Student Castle Durham and St Giles Studios are highly sought-after for their modern design and central locations.
• PBSA Advantage: Unlike private landlord studios, these usually include CCTV, 24/7 security and access to social hubs.

Non-en-suite Rooms

Non-en-suite rooms are the most affordable options, where you have a private bedroom but share the bathroom and kitchen facilities with others.

• Best for: Budget-conscious students and those who enjoy a "house-share" feel.
• Price Range: Generally £150 - £200 per week.
• Note: This is the most common room type in university-owned halls and traditional Durham terraced houses (HMOs).

1-Bedroom & 2-Bedroom Flats (1B/2B)

These are premium apartments with separate living rooms and bedrooms, offering a true "home away from home" experience.

• 1B: 1-bedroom flats in Durham feature a separate bedroom and living area. More spacious than a studio. Price: £400+ per week.
• 2B: 2-bedroom flats in Durham include two separate bedrooms, a shared kitchen, and a living room. Price: £800+ per week.
• Best for: Couples, families, or two friends who want a high-end, private residential experience.

The lease term for Durham student housing typically runs for a fixed term, usually 44 or 51 weeks, to align with the academic year. However, the unique collegiate system and diverse student needs in Durham mean lease lengths can vary significantly. Here is a breakdown of common options and who they are best for:

51 Weeks (Full-Year Lease)

• Duration: September to the following September.
• Best for: Postgraduate (Master’s/PhD) students who need to remain in Durham over the summer to complete their dissertations, and international students who prefer a permanent base.
• Advantage: Covers the full 12 months; no need to move out during the summer.

44 Weeks (Academic Year Lease)

• Duration: September to July.
• Best for: Undergraduate students who plan to return home or travel during the summer holidays.
• Advantage: Aligns perfectly with standard teaching weeks, helping you save 7 weeks of rent compared to a full-year contract.

29 - 40 Weeks (University College Terms)

• Duration: Varies by College (e.g., University, Collingwood, Grey).
• Best for: Students who prioritise the traditional collegiate experience and don't mind moving out during vacations.
• Note: Many college rooms must be vacated during Christmas and Easter for commercial trading. If you need a continuous stay, we recommend opting for a private PBSA (Purpose-Built Student Accommodation).

Short-term Student Accommodation Durham (Flexible)

• Duration: Ranges from 2 to 15 weeks.
• Best for: Students attending Pre-sessional English courses, summer internships, or visiting researchers.
• Top Picks: We offer rare flexible stays at our student flats like Elvet Studios (20 weeks) and hotels like Durham Riverside Apartments (2 weeks).

Expert Booking Tip: Durham is a high-demand market where the best value student rooms are secured early. Whether you need a short stay or a full year, booking through uhomes.com ensures you get the Price Match Guarantee and access to exclusive group booking discounts.

Durham is home to world-class education, centred around the prestigious Durham University and the highly-regarded New College Durham. Choosing the right accommodation depends heavily on which institution and, more importantly, which specific campus or college you belong to.

Durham University

As the third-oldest university in England and a member of the Russell Group, Durham University is consistently ranked among the QS Top 100 globally. It operates on a unique collegiate system, where every student belongs to one of 17 colleges.

• The Bailey Colleges: (e.g., University, Hatfield, St John’s). These are located in the historic city centre. Students here often prefer centrally located student apartments like Dun Holm House.
• The Hill Colleges: (e.g., Collingwood, Grey, South College) Located south of the river, these are closer to the Science Site and Bill Bryson Library. Duresme Court and Elvet Studios are excellent nearby choices.
• Top Accommodation Picks: For quick access to lectures, Houghall Court and Student Castle Durham are highly recommended for their proximity to the main academic hubs.

New College Durham

New College Durham is a leading further education provider, ranked among the top 5 GFE colleges nationally. Unlike the main university, its primary campus is located at Framwellgate Moor, slightly north of the city centre.

• Strategic Living: While the campus is in a quieter green area, many students choose to live closer to the city’s amenities and commute via the frequent bus services.
• Top Accommodation Picks: The Village and Student Castle Durham provide the perfect balance of proximity to both the college campus and the vibrant City Centre.

Choosing uhomes.com means more than just finding a room; it’s about joining a trusted global community and securing a stress-free living experience in Durham’s high-pressure rental market.

Official Endorsement & High Trust

We are a Trustpilot-rated "Excellent" platform (4.9/5), reflecting the satisfaction of over 2 million students. Our credibility is further solidified by official partnerships with leading institutions such as the University of Birmingham (UoB), bringing university-level professional standards to the Durham rental market.

Verified Durham Portfolios & Quality Assurance

Durham is filled with historic but often outdated houses. We prioritise 100% verified properties and professional PBSA providers. Every listing is screened to ensure it meets our rigorous standards for safety and comfort, sparing you from the maintenance issues common with independent private landlords.

One-Stop "Life-Cycle" Service (Pre-arrival to Post-tenancy)

We provide a seamless transition to the UK. Beyond booking, we offer a comprehensive service suite, including Airport Pickups, to help you navigate Durham’s hills upon arrival. Unique to our platform, we also offer Re-letting Support, if your plans change, our massive traffic and dedicated consultants will help you find a replacement tenant quickly.

Seamless Group Bookings & Cashback 

Durham students love living in groups, but managing multiple contracts is hard. We specialise in coordinated Group Bookings, ensuring you and your friends stay together with high cashback offers. Plus, our various discounts, early-bird rewards, and referral bonuses mean you save hundreds of pounds that you won't get by booking directly.

Expert Navigation of the Collegiate System

Our local consultants understand the "Bailey vs. Hill" college divide. We help you find rooms that minimise your uphill commute to the Science Site or keep you steps away from the Business School, tailoring your home to your academic college.

Transparency with Price Match Guarantee

We guarantee the most competitive rates in Durham. With our Price Match Guarantee, you can book with confidence, knowing you are getting the absolute best price available, backed by all-inclusive billing to protect you from rising energy costs.

The cost of living in Durham is around £1,200 to 1,700 per month. While Durham is significantly more affordable than southern cities like London or Bristol, strategic budgeting is key. At uhomes.com, we help you minimise these expenses through all-inclusive bills, exclusive cashback, and Price Match Guarantee, ensuring your biggest expense, Durham accommodation costs, remain predictable and value-driven. 

Detailed Monthly Expense Breakdown:

• Accommodation & Utilities: £800 – £1,100
  Housing is your largest expenditure. To take the stress out of budgeting, all Durham student houses on our platform include water, gas, electricity, and internet. You pay one fixed price, with no hidden costs or shared bill disputes with flatmates.
• Food and Groceries: £250 – £350
  Eating out in Durham costs around £14 per meal at inexpensive restaurants. However, all uhomes.com student lets feature modern, well-fitted kitchens, allowing you to save significantly by shopping at local supermarkets like Aldi or Tesco.
• Transportation: £0 – £80
  Durham is a compact city. By choosing a student apartment in central areas like The Viaduct or near the Science Site through uhomes.com, you can potentially reduce your commute cost to zero. For travel to Newcastle or London, we recommend using a 16-25 Railcard for a 33% discount.
• Personal & Entertainment: £100 – £200
  This covers laundry, course materials, and leisure. Many of our top-rated rentals, such as Student Castle and Duresme Court, include on-site cinemas and social zones, saving you an additional £30–£50 monthly on entertainment memberships.

Money-Saving Tip: Always look for the "Exclusive Offer" tag on uhomes.com to get the best-value luxury student accommodation in Durham . Booking early not only secures our Price Match Guarantee but also unlocks early-bird cashback and group booking discounts, making your Durham experience even more affordable.

Quick Budget Comparison: Why Choose uhomes.com?

Durham is easy to get around with transportation options from buses, trains, and taxis to cycle and walk. With comprehensive bus routes and the East Coast Main Line, navigating Durham city or exploring other major UK cities is made convenient. Many of our student properties in Durham are conveniently located close to bus stops and railway stations, designed to offer students a convenient commuting experience. Whether you are getting to school, exploring this historic city, or travelling to nearby areas, you will find it is easy and hassle-free.

1. Bus Services (The Student Lifeline)

Durham is well-served by Arriva North East and Go North East.

• Student Discounts: Durham University students can access the Arriva discounted bus ticket scheme.
• Regional Travel: A special £2.50 day ticket allows students to travel from further destinations like Newcastle, Sunderland, and Hartlepool.
• Estimated Costs: Single tickets are roughly £1–£2, with weekly passes around £20.

2. Rail Travel (Connection to Major Cities)

Durham Railway Station is a key stop on the East Coast Main Line, making it one of the best-connected small cities in the UK.

• Newcastle in 12 Mins: Frequent trains run to Newcastle (starting from £2), making it perfect for weekend trips.
• National Links: Direct services via LNER and CrossCountry connect you to London Kings Cross (3 hours), Edinburgh, and Manchester.
• Top Tip: Always apply for a 16-25 Railcard to save 1/3 on all rail fares.

3. Walking & Cycling (The Local Choice)

Most of our student homes in Durham are strategically located within walking distance of the main colleges and the Science Site.

• Walking: Be prepared for Durham’s famous hills! Walking is the most popular way to get between The Bailey and The Hill.
• Cycling: Durham offers scenic cycle paths along the River Wear. Note: Due to the city's hilly terrain, many students prefer choosing our PBSAs (like Student Castle or Ernest Place), which offer secure, free bike storage as a standard amenity.

4. Taxis & Ride-sharing

For late-night returns or heavy shopping trips, local taxi firms and Uber operate throughout the city. Most student areas like The Viaduct and Gilesgate are within a 5-10 minute drive of the city centre.

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.