Student Accommodation near Durham University

Durham University, founded in 1832, is a collegiate public research university located in Durham in the northeast of England. Widely recognised as opening for over 600 years, it is considered the third oldest university in England, after Oxbridge and Cambridge. As a member of the Russell Group, Durham University is well-known for its profound history and academic excellence.

Rankings

Durham University ranked 6th in the Guardian University Guide 2025, and 94th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 (top 100 since 2010). 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 testament to its impact on academic, industrial and business partnerships, as well as further evidence of its innovative and impactful research and academic staff.

Teaching & Research

Durham University provides more than 200 undergraduate courses and 100 graduate courses, offered by 27 departments under 17 colleges. With 28 subjects ranked top 10 in the UK and 21 subjects ranked top 100 in the world, Durham will be your first choice to study Archaeology, Theology and Religion, and Classics and Ancient History. 83% of its research is regarded as world-leading, representing its excellence in teaching and academics. After graduation, more than 94.8% of the students will secure employment within 15 months, ranked 39th globally.

Student Life

As a collegiate university, it is made up of 17 colleges dotted across the city, and each features its unique personality. Living in one of the colleges is more than just living in university halls, but more about having a sense of belonging in a close-knit community. Each college offers its own teaching plans and student halls, and there is also a wide range of off-campus Durham student accommodation since on-campus dorms are limited. With over 20,000 students from all over the world, you will find a lot of peers from diverse backgrounds in this inclusive group. There are a host of societies and clubs to take part in, and the university also invested much in its learning and sports facilities, leading to a 90% student satisfaction rate. Durham has also been a top 3 BUSC table University since 2012, where over 75% if the students engaged in sport and physical activity.  In addition, there is also a Durham University Queen's Campus, located in the town of Stockton-on-Tees, home to the Wolfson Research Institute and the International Study Centre. 

Campus & Architecture

Durham University is famous for its unique high-walled buildings, castles, and churches, which are usually recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 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". The university was one of the key filming locations for the Harry Potter film, which was shot at Oxford University. On this scenic campus, you will find over 1000 student-led societies to join in and fulfil your extracurricular time.

For students seeking the best Durham University accommodation, popular options typically include Duresme Court, Houghall Court, and The Village at The Viaduct. They are known for their proximity to the university colleges, with a short walking or bus trip to make everyday commuting easy. With uhomes.com, students will also benefit from stylish and fully furnished rooms, along with all-inclusive bills covering all utilities. With exclusive access to on-site amenities, including a 24/7 gym, laundry facilities, high-speed WiFi, study rooms, games area, and communal lounge, students can make the most of their time here to enjoy and have fun. As for your security, there will be 24-hour CCTV, secure access, and even security staff and an on-site team, offering a secure, friendly, and engaging environment where you can thrive. Here is a list of the best student accommodations near Durham University:

1. Houghall Court

• Price: From £175/week
• Room Type: studio, en-suite
• Commute: 14 min walk to main campus
• Features: Study space, outdoor social space, printing, vending machine, onsite service team

2. Chapel Heights

• Price: From £266/week (exclusive offer)
• Room Type: studio
• Commute: 5 min walk from St Hild and St Bede College, 25 min walk to the main campus
• Features: TV and dishwasher in all rooms, double occupancy options, 24-hour gym

3. Elvet Studios

• Price: From £294/week
• Room Type: studio
• Commute: 14 min walk to St Chad's and St John's college, 15 min walk to main campus
• Features: Vending machine, bike storage, high-speed WiFi, security & maintenance team

4. Student Castle Durham

• Price: From £237/week
• Room Type: studio, en-suite
• Commute: 6 min walk to Hatfield College, 8 min walk to University College, 15 min walk to main campus
• Features: Gym, cafe area, game and study area, outdoor courtyard, cinema room

5. Duresme Court

• Price: From £239/week
• Room Type: studio
• Commute: 10 min walk to Ustinov College, 20 min bus to main campus
• Features: Private dining room, study room, cinema room, gym, courtyard, parking, electric car charging

6. The Village at The Viaduct

• Price: From £199/week
• Room Type: studio, en-suite
• Commute: 7 min walk to College of St. Hild and St. Bede, 25 min bus to main campus
• Features: 24/7 onsite team, outdoor courtyard & garden, free WiFi up to 200mb, lifts to all floors

uhomes.com offers a series of cheap student accommodation near Durham University, starting from £139 per week, designed for students looking for affordability. Your utility bills are included in the rent, so there will be no extra hidden fees. Rooms are usually furnished with essentials, and you can move in directly. Also, we offer discounts for early booking, group booking, and re-bookings, as well as exclusive listings and offers to help you save more money. Not just budget-friendly, your comfort is also ensured with a wide range of amenities on-site. Below are the top options for cheap Durham University accommodation:

1. St Giles Close: from £139/week
2. Hawthorn Terrace: from £140/week
3. Highgate: from £145/week
4. Gilesgate: from £149/week
5. Regatta Place: from £179/week
6. The Village: from £199/week
7. Student Castle Durham: from £237/week
8. Duresme Court: from £239/week

Tips to Find Affordable Durham University Accommodation:

• Start Early: Promotions are usually the best in October or November when booking for the new academic year starts. Start your search early will not only bring you more options to choose from, but also much better deals than in the next year.
• Consider Shared Accommodation: Living in shared accommodation will cost much less than in a studio or 1-bedroom apartment. En-suite rooms with a private bathroom are usually the perfect choice for most students with enough privacy, and shared rooms are the most affordable ones.
• Choose Location: Staying slightly outside the city centre and away from campus can be significantly cheaper. As long as there is convenient access to public transport links, attending lectures will not be a problem in Durham.
• Use Student Discounts: uhomes.com provides exclusive offers with professional student rental platforms like Unite Students, iQ Student Accommodation, and Student Castle. There are also various other discounts and gifts to help you save more.

For Durham University students, the best areas to find student accommodation include The Viaduct, Claypath, Gilesgate, Nevilles Cross, and the city centre. Most of them offer a balance of proximity to campus and local amenities, ensuring easy access to everything the city offers. Others focus on a quieter and more residential atmosphere, with budget-friendly houses. Here is a detailed list of the best areas for Durham University accommodation:

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.

Factors to Consider:

• Proximity to Campus: Whether it is easy for students to attend lectures is always the first consideration. For Durham University students, it is essential to check the distance from the college you're going to.
• Local Amenities: For daily life, amenities such as supermarkets, eateries, pharmacy stores, and banks are essential to have nearby.
• Transport Links: With easy access to public transport like bus stops and train stations, you will gain more opportunities to navigate the city and travel to nearby areas after class.
• Community Atmosphere: Durham City Centre will be buzzing and vibrant, while Neville's Cross will be more residential. Make it clear what atmosphere you want.
• Safety: Durham is the second safest medium-sized town in County Durham, with safer and more dangerous areas also present. Ensure your area is safe enough, or that your Durham University housing has security measures.

Durham University student halls are offered privately by each college, providing students with a range of accommodation options within colleges and in the city. Both catered and self-catered options are available, and an additional fee will be charged. Most first-year undergraduate students will choose to live in College accommodation, while second-year students will live in off-campus private student accommodation near Durham University.

• Guarantee: Mostly for first-year students, and few for returning students.
• Cost: £183.23 per week for a standard room, £200.03 per week for an en-suite room, £229.95 per week for a studio room, and £274.58 per week for a single mezzanine studio or a super studio room at University College. Catering charge will be around £3,000,000 for 2025/26.
• Room Type: Most rooms are single, standard, featuring a single bed and shared bathroom and toilet facilities. En-suite rooms and shared rooms with two single beds are also common.
• Furnished Rooms: All bedrooms are fitted with a bed, bin, storage facilities, a desk and chair, and most have a sink. Students just need to bring your own bedding.
• What's Included: WiFi, cleaning during vacations, utilities (gas, electricity, water), and laundry facilities are usually included in the cost. Some also offer fully catered accommodation during the undergraduate term, but meals are not provided during vacations.
• Lease term: 39 weeks for a fresher, 38 weeks for a returner non-finalist, and 40 weeks for a returner finalist.

Choosing off-campus Durham University private accommodation offers students several benefits, including more room types, better amenities, flexible lease term options, and more social opportunities. Students will enjoy more freedom and independence compared to when applying for university halls, as they usually do not have to share living spaces and facilities with others. Here is a more detailed look at the benefits of choosing Durham University private accommodation:

• Room Type: Compared to on-campus dorms, students can choose from more room types, from studios and en-suites to shared rooms and several-bedroom apartments, which allows you to tailor your future living environment according to personal needs.
• All-inclusive Bills: Many private flats near Durham University will include all fees in the rent, covering utilities (water, gas, electricity), internet, and exclusive access to on-site amenities. There will be no more hidden costs to bother students.
• Furnished Rooms: Private Durham University apartments, especially purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), will usually be furnished with a cosy bed, study desk and chair, wardrobe, and ample storage. The kitchen is also fitted with a microwave, oven, hob, fridge freezer and more.
• Modern Amenities: One of the most prominent advantages of private accommodation near Durham University is the wide selection of amenities, which usually include an on-site gym, high-speed WiFi, social areas, study rooms, laundry facilities, a cinema room, a courtyard, bike storage, CCTV, and much more.
• Flexible Lease Terms: Unlike student halls on campus, Durham University private accommodations will offer short stays for added flexibility. From one night to several weeks, from hotels and B&Bs to serviced apartments, there will be options to suit your needs.
• Easy to Cancel: Private accommodation is also the first choice for students who have not received a confirmed offer but want to get a perfect room first. Many PBSAs are free to cancel if you failed to get the place or Visa.
• Social Opportunities: Many accommodations near Durham University will organise regular social events, from movie nights to charity activities. Students will have more opportunities to meet different people and explore the local community.
• Central Location: If your college is situated far from the heart of Durham, opting for private housing to stay in the city centre or popular student areas like The Viaduct will bring more convenient access to shops, restaurants, bars, and other entertainment options.

The average cost of living for students at Durham University is usually between £1,200-£1,500 per month, covering student halls, food, transport, utilities, travel, and others. The living costs are typically much lower in the North of England than they are in the South, but it usually depends on your lifestyle and habits. Detailed aspects are listed below to give some insights:

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

Durham University is easily accessible by bus, cycling, and walking. The Railway Station is closely connected by 42 Mount Oswald and 41 bus services, and there are also three Park and Ride sites on the key routes into the city. 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:

• Bus: Durham University is easily accessible by bus, and the nearest bus stops include South Road College and South College. Students can enjoy discounts, with the cost of an unlimited day ticket for each zone being £1.50 within the Durham Uni Zone and £2.50 within the new Durham Uni Plus Zone.
• Bike: Cycling is a great way to travel to the University and explore Durham City and its surrounding area. Cycle storage is available across the University Estate as well as at many of our Durham University accommodation options.
• 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.
• 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.
• Durham Park & Ride: For students who own a car and live outside the Durham City Centre, the Durham Park & Ride service allows you to park your car at three sites (Belmont, Sniperley and Howlands) and take a direct bus to the city centre. Bus runs every 10 minutes and operates from Monday to Saturday, 7.00am - 7.00pm.

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 Students' 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.

The Students' Union at Durham University offers over 300 clubs and societies to join. From academic and political to cultural and interests, they provide something for everyone to engage in. Join the 93% Club Durham for charity events, handle mental issues at Active Minds, enjoy reading at the Book Club, or try something new for fun at the Bridge Club. The University has its own museums, a 175-seat Assembly Rooms Theatre, and a botanic garden, all free for students to visit.  Each college will provide its own student halls on or near academic buildings, enabling students to live within a close-knit community. The city also provides plenty of Durham University private accommodation options, coming with more room types and better amenities.

Durham University spans the city, offering numerous opportunities to explore its historic areas on foot and facilitating easy commutes from any part of the city. Attractions like Durham Castle and Cathedral are the best to visit because they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For natural 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

According to QS World Rankings by Subject 2025, Durham University has 3 subjects in the top 10, 8 subjects in the top 50, and 21 subjects in the top 100, proving Durham is especially strong in Arts and Humanities. Some of the best and most popular courses at Durham University include:

• Archaeology (6)
• Theology and Religion (6)
• Classics and Ancient History (9)
• Geography (11)
• Anthropology (29)
• Philosophy (31)
• English Studies (33)
• History (36)