Durham
Durham: Key facts at a glance
Main university
Durham University — collegiate, research intensive, compact city campus with colleges spread across the river and city.
Student areas
Viaduct for a lively student scene, Gilesgate for value, Neville’s Cross for quieter streets near departments.
Nightlife snapshot
College bars and student nights are central. City favourites include Klute, Jimmy’s and chilled pubs by the river.
Housing quick take
First years usually live in college. After that many choose Viaduct, Gilesgate or Neville’s Cross. Look early in term one for the best choice.
Getting around
Walkable but hilly. Regular buses link colleges, city centre and Gilesgate. Fast trains to Newcastle and York for nights out and day trips.
Green spaces
Riverside paths, the Botanic Garden and Observatory Hill sunsets. Easy countryside escapes across County Durham.
Budget hint
Smaller city costs help with nights out and food shops. Look for student deals at college bars, cafés and travel passes.
Must do
Cathedral and Castle, row on the river, Lumiere when it runs, indie cafés around the Market Place and Elvet.
Studying in Durham
Durham University
Collegiate, research intensive, historic city setting
- Colleges provide accommodation, community and social life across the city
- Teaching strengths across humanities, social sciences and STEM with strong graduate outcomes
- City layout compact and walkable with departments spread around the river and cathedral
- Student support via colleges, departments and central services
Durham colleges explained
Community, accommodation and events
- Living many first years live in college with catered and self-catered options
- Belonging each college has common rooms, sports and societies
- Location colleges sit in different parts of the city, so check commute times to your department
Nearby universities
Easy rail links for collaborations and events
- Newcastle quick train ride for libraries, events and nights out
- Northumbria additional societies and joint projects in the region
- York reachable for conferences and day trips
Is Durham University part of the Russell Group?
Yes — Durham University is a member of the Russell Group, which represents 24 leading research-intensive universities in the UK. This means students benefit from high-quality teaching, world-class research, and excellent graduate prospects. Durham consistently ranks among the top UK universities for academic reputation, making it a strong choice for those seeking a traditional yet high-achieving university experience.
What is Durham University best known for?
Durham is best known for its collegiate system, historic setting, and strong academic reputation across subjects like Law, English, History, Geography, and Business. The university also has a vibrant student community with 17 colleges, each offering a unique social and support network. It’s particularly recognised for its beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site campus, traditional college rivalries, and a strong sense of community — often compared to Oxbridge in style and atmosphere.
Is Durham a good city for students?
Yes — Durham is one of the UK’s best student cities, offering a close-knit feel, beautiful scenery, and a great balance between academic focus and social life. The compact city centre makes it easy to get around on foot, and there are plenty of cafés, pubs, and green spaces to enjoy. While smaller than cities like Manchester or Leeds, Durham’s community spirit and safety make it ideal for students who prefer a quieter, more picturesque environment.
How hard is it to get into Durham University?
Durham is one of the most selective universities in the UK, with entry requirements typically ranging from A*AA to AAB depending on the course. Competitive subjects like Law, PPE, and English Literature tend to have higher grade expectations. Successful applicants usually have strong personal statements, excellent academic records, and active engagement in extracurricular or subject-related activities. The university’s collegiate system also means that personality and fit can play a role in the admissions process.
Living in Durham
The cost of living in Durham for students
Typical spend by category. Toggle to view weekly or monthly, and choose your accommodation type.
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£122 per week
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£20 per week
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£60 per week
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£8 per week
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£10 per week
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£30 per week
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£250 per week
Student insights
What is it like to live in Durham? Find out what local students have to say.
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Durham student neighbourhoods
Click on the icons on the map below to explore each of Durham’s top student areas to live in.
Student accommodation in Durham
Explore different housing options and providers to find the right student accommodation in Durham for you.
Fresh Student Living
Modern student rooms with social spaces and on-site support — all bills included.
View properties
iQ Student Accommodation
Central Durham halls with ensuite rooms, private studios, and student events.
Explore iQ Durham
Unite Students
Trusted national provider with halls like Rushford Court — all-inclusive and secure.
View Unite rooms
Bill Free Homes
Student houses with bills included, responsive maintenance, and central locations.
Browse student houses
J.L. Property Durham
Letting specialists for student homes in Viaduct, Gilesgate, and Neville’s Cross.
See student listings
Morgan Douglas
Durham-based letting agency offering premium student and professional lets.
View student letsLocal student accommodation or letting agency? Reach out to Unifresher to be featured in this section.
Explore Durham hotspots
Discover different student hotspots in the city by using the toggles and cards in our interactive explorer.
Viaduct
Lively student area with quick walks to the centre. Busy during term, great for house shares.
Viaduct
Lively student area with quick walks to the centre. Busy during term, great for house shares.
Viaduct
Lively student area with quick walks to the centre. Busy during term, great for house shares.
Gilesgate
Good value houses, big supermarkets nearby, frequent buses into the centre and departments.
Klute
Legendary student club with themed nights and playlists. Go early on peak days.
Indie cafes
Student friendly brunch and coffee spots around Elvet and the Market Place.
Riverside loop
Scenic paths around the Wear with views of the Cathedral. Great for runs or study breaks.
Quiet study spots
Mix of libraries and calm cafes with Wi Fi and sockets for long sessions.
Durham city guides
Use the filters below to find inspirations on all the best things to do in Durham for students.
- All
- Entertainment and nightlife
- Food and drink around the city
- Local activities and attractions
- Shopping and services
