Nottingham is a popular destination for students, with two universities located in the city – the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University. Finding suitable student accommodation in Nottingham can feel overwhelming at first, but fear not as our handy guide is here to help! It’s designed to help you figure out the best Nottingham area for you, as well as on vs off campus accommodation and which letting agencies to turn to.
Where are the best areas to live in Nottingham for students?
The University of Nottingham is located on the south-west side of the city, and many students choose to live in the Lenton area, which is known for its student-friendly atmosphere and proximity to the university. Other popular areas include the city centre, which offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and nightlife, and West Bridgford, which is a bit more expensive but offers more upscale accommodation options.
Lenton
One of the main draws of Lenton is its proximity to the University of Nottingham, which is just a short walk or bike ride away. This makes it a convenient option for students who want to be close to campus while still having access to the amenities and social scene of a bustling neighbourhood.
Lenton is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide variety of pubs, bars, and clubs catering to students and young adults. There are also plenty of shops, supermarkets, and restaurants, making it easy to find everything you need.
Additionally, Lenton has a lot of green spaces, like the beautiful Arboretum Park, which is perfect for a peaceful stroll or picnic on a sunny day. Lenton is also home to the University of Nottingham Sport Centre which offers excellent facilities for fitness, swimming, and other sports.
Nottingham city centre
Nottingham city centre is a bustling and vibrant area located in the heart of the city. It is home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike.
One of the main attractions of the city centre is its proximity to both of Nottingham’s universities – the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University. Many students choose to live in the city centre as it offers easy access to the universities, while being in the heart of nightlife and amenities.
The city centre is also home to a number of historic and cultural attractions, such as the iconic Nottingham Castle and the Galleries of Justice Museum. The city centre also boasts of a rich shopping and dining scene, with a mix of high-end and budget-friendly options.
Additionally, the city centre is well-connected to the rest of the city and beyond via the city’s public transportation system, making it easy to get around and explore the surrounding areas.
West Bridgford
West Bridgford is a suburb of Nottingham located on the south side of the River Trent. It is known for its upscale atmosphere and high-end housing options, generally offering a more affluent living experience. The suburb is also known for its excellent schools and strong sense of community, making it a great option for students with families.
The area is also home to a number of shops, restaurants and cafes, and also offers plenty of green spaces, including the popular Trent Bridge cricket ground and the attractive Riverside Park. Football fans can also enjoy the close proximity to Nottingham Forest Football club grounds.
West Bridgford is located about four miles from the University of Nottingham, and about three miles from Nottingham Trent University. It is well connected to the city centre and universities via public transportation and also offers a good number of bike paths. The area offers a wide range of housing options, from luxury apartments to large houses. Many of the properties are detached or semi-detached houses, giving them a spacious feel.
For more options on where to live in Nottingham, check out our article on all the best areas in the city. If you’re a second or third year, read about our best areas for returning students to live in Nottingham.
Which type of student accommodation in Nottingham should I choose?
There are a variety of student accommodation options in Nottingham, whether you want to live on or off campus. Each student accommodation type has its own benefits, whether it’s rental costs, security, independence or proximity to university. Read on to discover more about different types of student accommodation in Nottingham.
Student halls
There are generally two types of student halls to choose from; private and university halls.
- University-owned halls of residence: These are managed by the universities themselves and are typically the most affordable option.
- Private halls: These are owned and operated by private companies and offer a more upscale living experience.
Halls of residence are popular among students looking for accommodation close to their university. These halls are typically owned and operated by the universities themselves, and offer a range of benefits to students. Many halls are located on or near campus, making it easy for students to attend classes and access other university facilities. This can save a lot of time and hassle, especially for students who have early morning classes. Most have common areas where students can interact, study, or relax. This can be a great way to meet other students and make new friends.
Student halls also offer a variety of room options, such as single, twin or shared rooms. Some halls also have en-suite bathrooms, while others have shared facilities. Many halls also have communal kitchens and dining areas.
You can read more and compare prices on the best student halls in Nottingham here.
Student houses
Student houses, also known as shared houses, are a popular option for students looking for accommodation in the private rental market. These houses are typically rented out by private landlords and offer a range of benefits to students.
One of the main advantages of student houses is the freedom and autonomy they offer. Unlike student halls, student houses allow students to live independently, with more private space. This can be a great option for students who value privacy and prefer a more traditional home setting. Student houses also offer a sense of community and social opportunities. Many students choose to live in shared houses with friends or other students, which can be a great way to make new friends and have a built-in social network.
You can choose houses with a variety of room options, such as single, twin or shared rooms. Some houses also have en-suite bathrooms, while others have shared facilities. Many houses also have communal kitchens and living areas, which can be a cost-effective way for students to cook.
In terms of cost, student houses can vary depending on the location, size, and amenities of the house. They’re generally more cost effective compared to student halls, but you’ll usually have to pay for additional costs such as bills, internet, and council tax.
Luxury student accommodation in Nottingham
These accommodations are typically more expensive than traditional student housing options but offer a more upscale and comfortable living experience. They often feature private bedrooms and bathrooms, modern kitchens and living spaces. You’ll also find a range of on-site amenities such as gyms, study rooms, and social spaces. Additionally, some luxury student accommodations offer additional services such as cleaning, laundry and even concierge service.
Luxury student accommodation is usually located close to universities making it a convenient option for students. They are also located in safe neighbourhoods, providing a high level of security to students. You can find luxury student accommodation in Nottingham by checking out Prestige Student Living Miura or Mansion Place.
How can I find student accommodation in Nottingham?
The best way to find student accommodation is by doing a bit of research and reaching out. If you’re thinking about living on campus, you can try contacting your university’s accommodation department (see below).
Alternatively, it’s useful to talk to letting agents who know the area. You can find some of the best letting agencies in Nottingham in our useful guide, such as Nottingham Student Lettings or Cunningham Lettings. You can also try various accommodation websites too.
What should I do if I can’t find any student accommodation?
The first point of call should be your university accommodation department, who can help you source last-minute accommodation. You can contact Nottingham Trent University on accommodation@ntu.ac.uk or +44 (0)115 848 2894. Or contact the University of Nottingham via their Live Chat between 9.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Thursday, and 9.30am and 4.00pm Friday.
