The University of Bristol’s student accommodation is spread across the city in three ‘villages’. North, East and West (alongside the Langford Campus located in Bristol Veterinary School). These villages are located in three main areas of the city – Stoke Bishop, City Centre and Clifton. Since each area is so difference, it can be tricky to know which one to go for. To help you out, we’ve put together a guide to Bristol’s accommodation. All prices listed are for the 24/25 academic year, as next year’s prices haven’t yet been released.
North Village/Stoke Bishop
North Village is located in Stoke Bishop and is right on the Clifton Downs. It’s home to the following residences:
- Hiatt Baker Hall
- University Hall
- Badock Hall
- Wills Hall
- Churchill Hall
- Durdham Hall
Wills Hall and Churchill Hall are both catered accommodations and Badock Hall is mixed. Since all the halls are really close together, North Village has a more campus-y feel. With the Clifton Downs a stone’s throw away and the university’s Botanic Garden next door, it’s especially nice in the summer. Whiteladies Road and the Henleaze area are fairly near, and (most importantly) Scott Cinema is only a short walk away. However, the Stoke Bishop Residences are around 2 miles from the main university campus, which is a 15 minute bus ride. The U1 bus service runs throughout term time, and takes students to campus and to the city centre. The U2 bus also runs, taking vet students to the Langford campus. A bus pass is included in the accommodation fee, but the distance is definitely something to think about if you know you want to be really close to campus. Since it’s further away from the shops, the nightclubs and the city centre, it might not be for you if you know that you want to be close to everything.
West Village/Clifton
West Village is situated largely in Clifton and is home to the following residences:
- Northwell House
- Manor Hall
- Hillside Woodside
- Clifton Hill House
- Goldney Hall
- Queen’s Road
- Unite House
- Winkworth House
- Richmond Terrace
- Brunel House
- Orchard Heights – undergrad
- Culver House – Postgrad only
- Deans Court – Postgrad only
- Harbour Court – Postgrad only
- Woodland Court – Postgrad only
Clifton Hill House is the only catered accommodation in the West Village. Compared to North Village, West Village is a lot more spread out and residences are found in a variety of places. Brunel and Unite House are near Park Street and the city centre (close to campus), Winkworth House is nearer the Harbourside and Millenium Square. Park Street is full of great shops, cafes and even Banksy’s street art, whilst the Harbourside is a lively area with bars, restaurants and a number of attractions. Hillside Woodside is on the other side of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, near Ashton Court Estate, which is home to herds of deer and is an ideal place for a Sunday walk. Some of the other residences (such as Goldney Hall, Clifton Hill House and Manor Hall) are situated in Clifton Village, a quiet and picturesque place filled with independent shops and cosy cafes and pubs. The main campus is generally walking distance away. Since some are further out than others I’d recommend checking the uni’s website for more details!
East Village
East Village is located in the city centre and is home to the following residences:
- Campus Houses
- Riverside
- Accommodation at 33
- New Bridewell
- The Courtrooms
- Campbell House
- Print Hall
- St Thomas Street
- Redland Road- Postgrad only
- Old Vicarage- Postgrad only
- Chantry Court- Postgrad only
- Redcliff Street- Postgrad only
- St Nicholas Street- Postgrad only
- Dean Street Works- Postgrad only
- Marlborough House- Postgrad only
Since these accommodations are in the centre, there’s a lot more going on around them. Many of the city’s iconic attractions, such as Cabot Circus shopping centre and St Nicholas Market are located right on their doorstep. East Villaeg accommodations are also closer to clubs such as SWX and a number of pubs. Bristol Temple Meads train station is also very close (not to mention Lidl). If you want to be at the centre of things, and a short walk away from venues and attractions, take a look at East Village. The downside is that it’s busier and louder, so if that’s not your thing, you might want to choose something different. Many of the city centre accommodations are walking distance from the university’s main campus, but students can also take the U1 and U2 buses which stop in the centre.
That concludes our guide to the three main accommodation areas. There are so many other factors that go into choosing university accommodation – price, room type, services etc. so make sure to consider those when making a decision. For more information on residences, room types, prices and the application process, head to Bristol’s uni’s student accommodation page here.
FAQs about University of Bristol residential villages
The university groups its halls into village-style communities, each with multiple residences, shared social spaces and dedicated support teams. Some villages feel green and campus-like, while others are close to the city centre. Consider your commute, rent budget and social vibe when ranking choices.
Start by deciding on key features such as en-suite or shared bathrooms, catered or self-catered meals and whether you want a quieter or more social space. Compare rent, travel time to your faculty, and extras like bike storage or laundry. Virtual tours and student forums can help you sense the atmosphere.
Yes. Most villages are connected by regular bus routes, and many students cycle or walk. Check journey times during peak hours and include the cost of a student bus pass when planning your budget.
Yes. Villages host welcome activities, welfare meet-ups and social events throughout the year. Combining these with society taster sessions and student union events is one of the best ways to meet people quickly.
Your rent usually covers utilities, Wi-Fi and pastoral support. You can report maintenance problems through the university’s online portal. It’s best to log issues early so shared spaces stay safe and comfortable for everyone.
The West Village, including popular halls like Unite House and Orchard Heights, is within easy walking distance of the city centre and main university buildings. It suits students who want quick access to nightlife, shopping and cafes.
North Residential Village, home to Stoke Bishop halls like Badock and Durdham, is known for green surroundings and a calmer vibe. It is ideal if you prefer a campus-like setting while still having bus links to teaching spaces.
No. Catered options are mostly found in North Residential Village halls like Churchill and Wills Hall. Other villages are primarily self-catered, so check your preferences before applying.
It’s sometimes possible to transfer rooms if spaces are available, but this depends on demand. Contact the accommodation office early if you are struggling to settle so they can advise on options.
Yes. Most students in residential villages are first-years, which makes it easier to make friends and join in social events. Some halls also have returning students or postgraduate flats, but these are fewer.
Last Updated on October 5, 2025
Published on February 23, 2025
