Top Student Accommodations to Live in Durham That’s Actually Worth It (2025)
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Let’s be real — picking the right student accommodation can make or break your uni life in Durham. You’re not just choosing a bed to crash on. You’re choosing where you’ll make friends, binge Netflix, prep for exams (last minute, obviously), and maybe even host the occasional movie night or pizza party.
So if you’re wondering where to live that’s actually worth the rent? You’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up the top student accommodations in Durham for 2025 that tick all the boxes — location, comfort, community, and value. Let’s dive in!
What are the Best Student Accommodations in Durham for 2025?
Honestly? If you’re heading to Durham in 2025, you’re in luck — there’s no shortage of awesome student accommodation options here. Whether you want a buzzing social vibe, a quiet luxury studio, or something in between, there’s a place to match your style (and budget). Here are some of the top picks that students are loving right now:
- The Village at The Viaduct – Perfect mix of studios and en-suites with a fab location near Durham nightlife and Newcastle trains.
- Regatta Place – Budget-friendly, packed with extras like a gym and cinema, plus EV parking (yep, it’s future-proof).
- Duresme Court – Luxe studio living with its own gym, cinema, and eco-friendly e-charging — ideal for independent living.
- Houghall Court – Great balance of campus and city life, modern en-suites and studios, plus chill-out social spaces.
- Student Castle – Boutique hotel vibes in a central location, with free bikes and loads of cool communal spaces.
- Chapel Heights – Stylish private studios just minutes from campus and city hotspots — dual occupancy available too!
Whether you’re after affordability, luxury, or location, these Durham student accommodations are totally worth checking out.
What are the Key Features of The Village at The Viaduct, Durham Student Accommodation?
Looking for a student spot that’s a little more than just four walls and a bed? The Village at The Viaduct might just do the trick. Located in Durham’s Ainsley Street, this place puts you within arm’s reach of pretty much everything that matters. Students love its mix of modern studios and en-suite rooms — and trust me, having your own bathroom can be a game-changer after a late night out or an early morning lecture.
You won’t be stuck for transport here either. The bus stop at Wharton Park is a 4-minute stroll, and the train station’s also walkable — meaning spontaneous weekends in Newcastle (just 15 minutes away by train!) are totally doable. Plus, they even throw in a CityBlock Card for extra student discounts — who doesn’t love a good deal? Following are the key details of The Village at The Viaduct:
Feature | Details |
Address | Ainsley Street, Durham DH1 4BJ |
Nearest Universities | Durham University – 10 min walk approx. |
Room Types | Self-contained studios, Silver En-suite, Gold En-suite, multiple en-suite options |
Starting Rent | From £175/week |
Stay Duration | Typically 51 weeks |
Facilities | Common lounge, garden/courtyard, social events, laundry, bicycle storage, storage space |
Entertainment | 47” Smart TV in common room, TV in units |
Amenities | Bike storage, visitor parking, wheelchair access, elevator |
Security | 24/7 CCTV, secure door-entry, key card access, 24/7 staff |
Bills Included | Wi-Fi, water, electricity, gas, heating, contents insurance |
Extras | Exclusive CityBlock Card with discounts; UL offers available (£1,709 max savings) |
Unique Perk | Quick access to both Durham nightlife and trains to Newcastle for weekend trips |
What are the Key Features of Regatta Place, Durham Student Accommodation?
If you’re looking for affordable student accommodation that doesn’t skimp on the good stuff — Regatta Place should be on your radar. Located on Front Street (yep, still within easy reach of the action), this place is a real favourite for students looking to balance budget and lifestyle. And trust me, it’s more than just “cheap and cheerful.”
Think private gym, cinema room, and a chill-out lounge with pool tables and table football — all for prices starting around £180/week. Not bad, eh? Location-wise, you’re covered. Durham Uni’s main colleges are all under 3 miles away — with College of St. Hild and St. Bede just 0.9 miles away. Plus, you’re close to local gems like Dragon Park for morning walks and Coffee @ Chesneys for your caffeine fix. And oh, they’ve got car parking and EV charging too — kinda rare for student spots. Following are the key details of Regatta Place:
Feature | Details |
Address | 1-63 Regatta Place, Front St, Durham DH1 2GS |
Nearest Universities | College of St. Hild and St. Bede (0.9 miles), St Chad’s (1.6 miles), Durham Uni main campus (1.8 miles), Ustinov College (2.7 miles) |
Transport Links | Moorlands bus stop (0.2 miles), Dragon Lane End (0.3 miles), Sunderland Road (0.3 miles), Dragon Lane near Tesco (0.4 miles) |
Room Types | Classic Plus En-suite, Large Classic En-suite, studio options |
Stay Duration | 46 or 51 weeks available |
Facilities | Chill-out lounge, private gym, aerobics studio, cinema room, private & group study areas, laundry |
Kitchen Setup | Fully fitted kitchen (studios with microwave/oven), shared kitchen in en-suites |
Security | 24/7 CCTV, secure door entry, 24/7 on-site support |
Bills Included | Gas, water, electricity, heating, Wi-Fi, contents insurance |
Nearby Hotspots | Domino’s Pizza (0.4 miles), Studio Sly Art Gallery (1.2 miles) |
What are the Key Features of Duresme Court, Durham Student Accommodation?
If you’re after a bit of everyday luxury with your student life — Duresme Court delivers. Located in Nevilles Cross on Newcastle Road, this place is all about giving students their own space — literally. The property is packed with high-end studios that are perfect if you’re the kind of person who loves having your own kitchen and bathroom (honestly, who doesn’t?).
It’s not just the rooms either — you’ll find a cinema room, gym, private dining area, and even an e-charging station for your car. Yep, they’ve thought of everything. Getting to lectures? Durham University is just 18 mins away by bus, and if you fancy a nature break, Botanic Garden is a short wander away. The train station is about 20 mins on foot, perfect for those spontaneous city breaks. Following are the key details of Duresme Court:
Feature | Details |
Address | Duresme Court, Newcastle Rd, Nevilles Cross, Durham DH1 4FA |
Room Types | Duresme Studio Ground Floor, Duresme Studio (multiple luxury studio options) |
Starting Rent | From £205/week |
Stay Duration | 51 weeks |
Facilities | Gym, cinema room, private dining area, study rooms, games room, laundry, garden/courtyard |
Kitchen Setup | Private kitchenette in each studio (hob, microwave, oven, fridge, freezer, breakfast bar) |
Extras | Electric car charging station, parking |
Security | CCTV, secure door-entry |
Bills Included | Water, electricity, gas, heating, Wi-Fi, contents insurance |
Nearby Hotspots | Botanic Garden, Bill Bryson Library, Durham Castle, Durham Museum & Heritage Centre |
Unique Perk | Fully private luxury studios + on-site gym + e-charging for eco-friendly living |
What are the Key Features of Houghall Court, Durham Student Accommodation?
If you’re after a spot that’s got the best of both worlds — close to campus and city life — Houghall Court hits the mark. Set within East Durham College’s Houghall campus, this place puts you about a 20-min walk from Durham University and just 15 mins from the city centre. So, whether you’ve got a morning lecture or a spontaneous night out planned, you’re sorted.
The studios and en-suites here are modern and comfy, perfect if you like having your own space (and a fully setup kitchen if you go for a studio). Fancy a chilled night? The common area has a pool table, and there are social spaces to catch up with mates. And yep, there’s excellent public transport outside too. Following are the key details of Houghall Court:
Feature | Details |
Address | Campus, East Durham College Houghall, Durham DH1 3SG |
Transport Links | Nearest bus stop steps away; short walk to Durham Train Station |
Room Types | Classic Ensuite, Premium Range 1 Studio |
Starting Rent | From £219/week |
Stay Duration | 15 or 51 weeks available |
Facilities | Common area, pool table, study room, social spaces, laundry, bicycle storage |
Kitchen Setup | Classic Ensuite – shared kitchen; Premium Studio – private kitchen with hob, fridge, freezer |
Security | 24/7 assistance, CCTV, secure door-entry, onsite management, fire system |
Bills Included | Wi-Fi, water, electricity, gas, heating, broadband, contents insurance |
Nearby Hotspots | Oriental Museum, Botanic Garden, Durham Castle, city centre pubs & restaurants |
Unique Perk | On-campus living with quick access to both uni and city life |
What are the Key Features of Student Castle, Durham Student Accommodation?
Want to live somewhere that feels less like a dorm and more like a boutique hotel? Student Castle Durham just might be your vibe. Located in Claypath, this place offers modern studios and twin rooms that are perfect for anyone who likes to blend comfort, style, and social life. The interiors here are next-level — think bright study spaces, big wardrobes, and private kitchens in most rooms.
Durham University is just a 10–15 min walk away, so you can hit that snooze button guilt-free. And when you’re done with classes? The Gala Theatre, Durham Cathedral, and River Wear are all right around the corner. The property also gives you free bikes — yep, free to use bikes to cruise around the city (love that little perk!). Following are the key details of Student Castle:
Feature | Details |
Address | 20 Claypath, Durham DH1 1RH |
Nearest Universities | Durham University (~10–15 min walk), New College Durham (~20 min by public transport) |
Transport Links | Walkable city centre, close to bus stops and train station |
Room Types | Atkinson Twin, Robson Twin, various studio and ensuite options |
Starting Rent | From £238/week |
Stay Duration | 51 weeks |
Facilities | On-site gym, games room, study room, common areas, meeting room, café, cinema, outdoor courtyard |
Kitchen Setup | Private kitchen in studio/twin; fully equipped shared kitchens |
Extras | Free to use bikes, secure bike storage |
Security | 24/7 security, CCTV, secure door-entry |
Bills Included | Electricity, water, Wi-Fi, gas, heating, contents insurance |
Nearby Hotspots | Durham Cathedral, Gala Theatre, River Wear, Prince Bishops Shopping Centre |
Unique Perk | Prime city centre location + free bikes + luxe social spaces |
What are the Key Features of Chapel Heights, Durham Student Accommodation?
If living right in the middle of it all sounds like your vibe — Chapel Heights could be your new home. Located in Durham DH1 1SJ, this modern student pad is seriously well placed. You’re less than 10 mins from several Durham Uni colleges and just a short stroll from the city centre’s shops, cafés, and buzzing nightlife. Whether you’re heading for a lecture or grabbing a flat white at Cafédral Durham, it’s all right there.
The rooms? All studios — meaning privacy is king here. Each one’s fully furnished with modern furniture, a private kitchen, and a stylish en-suite. You can go solo or choose dual occupancy if you want to split with a mate. There’s also a 24-hour gym, bike storage, and a buzzing social space to help you unwind. Following are the key details of Chapel Heights:
Feature | Details |
Nearest Universities | College of St. Hild and St. Bede (0.3 miles), Hatfield College (0.7 miles), University College (0.8 miles), Durham University (1.1 miles) |
Transport Links | The Chains—Woodman bus stop nearby; Durham Train Station ~1 mile |
Room Types | Studio Bronze, Studio Bronze Plus, various studio options |
Starting Rent | From £275/week |
Stay Duration | 44 or 51 weeks available |
Facilities | Gym (24-hour), social space, cinema, communal kitchen, BBQ area, outdoor space, pool table |
Kitchen Setup | Private kitchen in all studios (hob, oven, microwave, toaster, kettle, dishwasher) |
Extras | Bike storage, free dual occupancy available |
Security | 24-hour on-call staff, CCTV, secure door-entry, night patrol |
Bills Included | Electricity, gas, heating, water, Wi-Fi, TV license, contents insurance |
Nearby Hotspots | Durham Castle, Dragon Park, Cafédral Durham, Elysium Theatre Company |
Unique Perk | Fully private studios with dual occupancy + prime city centre location |
How to Book Top Student Accommodations in Durham Through University Living?
Booking student accommodation in Durham doesn’t have to be a hassle — not when you’ve got University Living in your corner. Here’s how it works:
- Browse & Compare: Head over to University Living and search for student accommodation in Durham. You’ll find a wide range of verified options — from budget en-suites to luxury studios.
- Filter Your Faves: Use filters like price, distance to uni, amenities, or room type to narrow down what works for you.
- Check Details: Each property listing comes with super detailed info (yep, like the ones you’ve just read here). Check rent inclusions, security features, nearby hotspots — the lot.
- Get Support: If you’re unsure about anything — room types, booking terms, visa issues, whatever — University Living’s expert team is ready to help you out 24/7.
- Book Online (It’s Quick!): Once you’re happy, you can secure your room directly through the platform — easy peasy. Plus, there are exclusive UL discounts and cashback offers to sweeten the deal.
- Move In Stress-Free: With UL, you can also opt for extras like bedding packs, dual occupancy, or even no-deposit options — so your move-in day is all smooth sailing.
Bottom line? University Living makes booking student accommodation in Durham simple, transparent, and safe — so you can focus on settling into your new uni life.
Conclusion
So there you have it — the student accommodation in Durham that are genuinely worth every penny. Whether you fancy the buzzing social life at Regatta Place, the luxe privacy of Duresme Court, the all-about-location vibe of Student Castle, or any of the other fab options we’ve covered — there’s something here for everyone.
And honestly? The best part is that with University Living, booking your perfect place is as easy as scrolling, clicking, and securing your spot. Just pick the room that fits your vibe and get ready for an unforgettable student experience in one of the UK’s most charming uni towns. Trust me — Durham’s calling. Now go grab your place before someone else does.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do most students live in Durham?
Some of the most popular areas for students in Durham include Gilesgate, Elvet, Neville’s Cross, and Framwellgate Moor. These neighbourhoods are close to the university and offer a good mix of affordable housing and student-friendly amenities — making them great places to live during your time in the city.
How much does student housing cost in Durham?
Student accommodation in Durham generally starts at around £90 per week. If you’re looking for more premium options, the rent can go up to £300+ per week — depending on the type of room and location.
What part of Durham is the best to live in?
If you’re looking for the best neighbourhoods in Durham (including the wider area of Durham, NC), here are some top picks:
1. Hope Valley Farms
2. Northgate Park
3. Parkwood
4. Southpoint
5. Treyburn
6. Trinity Park
7. Woodcroft
8. Woodlake
For university students in Durham, UK, the areas of Gilesgate, Neville’s Cross, Elvet, and Framwellgate Moor remain among the most convenient and student-friendly choices.
Does Durham guarantee accommodation for students?
Yes — if you’re a first-year undergraduate student at Durham University, you are guaranteed an offer of university accommodation. So, you can settle in and feel at home from day one.
Is it expensive to live in Durham?
Durham is generally considered a budget-friendly city for students, especially when compared to places in southern England. However, compared to other northern cities, Durham can be a little more expensive — mainly because it is a popular university town.
How many international students are at Durham University?
Durham University currently has over 22,000 students — with around 5,000 international students from all over the world. It’s a very diverse and welcoming place to study.
What are the safest areas in Durham?
Here are some of the safest areas to live in Durham (based on recent data for 2024):
1. Durham South — 21 crimes per 1,000 people
2. Neville’s Cross — 33 crimes per 1,000 people
3. Framwellgate & Newton Hall — 57 crimes per 1,000 people
These areas tend to offer a safe and student-friendly environment for those moving to the city.