Student Accommodation near Heriot-Watt University

Situated on a 380-acre estate in Riccarton, Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University offers students easy access to Edinburgh city centre, the Pentland Hills, museums, cafes, libraries, coworking areas, and internship opportunities across Scotland's capital. Because of this, students usually desire student accommodation near Heriot-Watt University to reduce their commute time and travel expenses. Here you have access to a wide variety of accommodation close to the university because of its well-connected location in the city.

However, the demand for affordable student accommodation remains high since the area is shared among students from nearby universities such as the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Napier University, and Queen Margaret University.

University Living is an internationally trusted student accommodation platform which has assisted 12 million students, operates in over 640 cities and supports students across 5,500+ universities globally. Students can find verified Heriot-Watt University accommodation based on finances, room type, facilities, and location preferences. Accommodation costs in Edinburgh start at £150 per week and goes up to £350+ per week.

Being specialized for student accommodation in the UK, we ensure that every student flat is verified and student friendly. With this, ULInfinity platform also offers some additional support services to students like international money transfer assistance, airport pickup, SIM cards and other required support to make the student journey abroad easier and more comfortable.

Established in 1821, Heriot-Watt University is one of the UK's most prestigious public research universities and is located on a 380-acre estate in Riccarton, Edinburgh and major transport hubs. The university is one of the country's leading research institutions and a specialist campus known for science, engineering, business, and technology.

In the latest QS World University Rankings and subject rankings, Heriot-Watt University continues to gain recognition for research excellence, graduate employability, and student satisfaction. It is especially popular for engineering, business, computer science, mathematics, and architecture programs. Ranked in the top 300 universities globally (QS World University Rankings 2025), Heriot-Watt is highly research-driven and known for industry-focused programs and global research impact. It has strong links to employers, especially in engineering, construction, and business sectors.

The university provides a huge range of undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and professional programs designed to support full-time students and working professionals. It is home to thousands of international students from more than 100 countries, creating a diverse student community in Edinburgh. Heriot-Watt also offers international learning experiences through campuses in Dubai and Malaysia.

Here are some of the most popular courses at Heriot-Watt University:

• Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Chemical, Electrical)

• Business Management and International Business

• Computer Science and Data Analytics

• Mathematics and Actuarial Science

• Architecture and Built Environment

• Psychology

• Fashion and Textiles

• Energy and Environmental Engineering

Heriot-Watt University also welcomes applications from individuals with non-traditional qualifications.

One of the most essential parts of planning student life in Edinburgh is choosing the right Heriot-Watt University student accommodation nearby. Students prefer accommodation close to university to get quick access to campus, transport links, supermarkets, cafes, libraries, and social areas. With the help of our platform, students can compare various housing options in Edinburgh based on budget, room type, facilities, and location preferences. There are several student apartments located near the Heriot- Watt University including:

Vita Student Fountainbridge

• Address: Vita Student Fountainbridge, 125a Fountainbridge, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

• Distance from Heriot-Watt University: 4.96 miles, takes around 21 minutes by public transport

• Property highlights: International Guarantor Accepted, games room, gym, pool table, and premium amenities

• Best for: Students looking for premium student housing near Heriot-Watt University with luxury facilities

• Nearby attractions: Fountainbridge, Edinburgh city centre, Union Canal, and theatres

Gorgie

• Address: 543 Gorgie Rd, Edinburgh EH11 3AR, United Kingdom

• Distance from Heriot-Watt University: 2.99 miles, just 15 minutes' drive to campus

• Property highlights: International Guarantor Accepted, No Visa No Pay, bicycle storage, common area, and games facilities

• Best for: Students searching for affordable student apartments near Heriot-Watt University with excellent transport links

• Nearby attractions: Gorgie Road, Tynecastle Park, local shops and supermarkets

Westfield

• Address: 24 Westfield Rd, Gorgie, Edinburgh EH11 2QB, United Kingdom

• Distance from Heriot-Watt University: 3.65 miles, at 26 minutes travel by public transport

• Property highlights: No Visa No Pay, No University No Pay, bicycle storage, common area, games facilities

• Best for: Students seeking accommodation with flexible booking terms and good amenities

• Nearby attractions: Gorgie area, Edinburgh city centre, local cafes and parks

Murieston Crescent

• Address: 27 Murieston Pl, Dalry, Edinburgh EH11 2LN, United Kingdom

• Distance from Heriot-Watt University: 4.9 miles, just 11 minutes' drive to campus

• Property highlights: Convenient Dalry location with bills included

• Best for: Students seeking budget-friendly student housing Edinburgh with good transport links

• Nearby attractions: Dalry area, Haymarket Station, local shops

Haymarket Yards

• Address: 18 Haymarket Yards, Edinburgh, EH12 5BH, United Kingdom

• Distance from Heriot-Watt University: 4.54 miles, just 20 minutes commute by public transport

• Property highlights: Modern student housing and good transport links

• Best for: Students looking for well-connected Heriot-Watt University student accommodation

• Nearby attractions: Haymarket Station, Edinburgh city centre, and Murrayfield Stadium

Still confused about finding the best student accommodation Edinburgh? Explore, compare and book your verified accommodation with University Living.

If we talk about numbers, the cost of living for students near Heriot-Watt University is moderate to high as compared to other UK cities because of Edinburgh's status as Scotland's capital. On average, the Cost of Living in Edinburgh is around £1,100 to £1,600 per month.

Here is an estimate of average monthly expenses for Edinburgh students:

Still looking for better budget planning support? Use our Cost of Living Calculator for more accurate estimate of monthly expenses

Talking about the Tuition Fees at Heriot-Watt University, it depends on the choice of course, level of study, and residency status of the student. Here's a brief view of annual tuition fees for international students to look upon:

Students should also consider accommodation costs, transportation, groceries, entertainment, and study materials while planning the overall budget in Edinburgh.

Best areas for students near Heriot-Watt University are several vibrant and well-connected neighborhoods because of Heriot-Watt's location in Edinburgh. The area we opt to reside in is the main thing which affects our budget, daily travel, social life, and overall study experience.

Students studying at Heriot-Watt University can choose from both premium and affordable student areas depending on their lifestyle and budget. Here are some of the best areas near Heriot-Watt University:

1. Gorgie

Being home to many students from both Heriot-Watt and Napier, Gorgie is one of the most likeable areas in Edinburgh. This area is filled with cafes, shops, and excellent bus links. Student accommodation prices here are affordable, with student apartments ranging between £130 and £220 per week.

2. Fountainbridge

Because of its central location and trendy atmosphere, Fountainbridge has become one of Edinburgh's favorable student destinations. The area provides easy access to cafes, gyms, theatres, and transport links. student accommodation in Fountainbridge fall between £180 to £350 per week.

3. Bruntsfield

This area is highly admirable among students looking for affordable student accommodation with a student-friendly vibe. Bruntsfield gives better bus links to Heriot-Watt, making daily travel easier for students. Accommodation prices here are moderate, with weekly rents ranging between £160 to £280.

4. Dalry/ Haymarket

Dalry and Haymarket both are well-connected neighborhoods which are liked among students who seek good transport links, shops, and easy access to the city centre. Students can easily commute to Heriot-Watt through direct bus services. Affordable student accommodation in Dalry ranges between £140 to £250 per week.

Talking about transportation for students studying at Heriot-Watt University, the city has a well-connected transportation network. Here, students can easily commute across Edinburgh using buses, cycling, walking, and trains. Because Heriot-Watt's Edinburgh Campus is in Riccarton, students benefit from easy access to main transport hubs.

Buses

Buses are the most popular public transport options for students in Edinburgh. Lothian Buses operate routes to and from Heriot-Watt's Riccarton Campus, including routes 25, 34, and 45. These routes connect the campus with Gorgie, Fountainbridge, Bruntsfield, Dalry, Haymarket, and Edinburgh city centre.

Cycling

Cycling is a favorable means to commute for students in Edinburgh. The city has special bike lanes and paths, and many accommodations provide bike parking as well. Edinburgh is a cycle-friendly city, which makes this a quick, and eco-friendly option for students.

Walking

Walking is another convenient option for students living in Sighthill or other areas close to the Riccarton Campus to roam around. Some accommodations are close enough for daily walks to class.

Trains

Train is a better public transport option for students traveling home during breaks or exploring Scotland on weekends. Haymarket Station and Edinburgh Waverley Station provide rail connections to other parts of Edinburgh, Scotland, and the UK.

Abroad and full-time students in Edinburgh can apply for student travel discounts, which offers:

• Discounts on bus fares with a Ridacard or Student Ridacard

• Lower costs across Lothian Buses services

• Student railcard discounts on ScotRail and other services

Students can also purchase a 16-25 Railcard for £35/year, which gives up to 33% discounts on National Rail fares across the UK

Best Apps for Students to Travel

• Google Maps

• Lothian Buses App

• Trainline

• ScotRail App

• Transport for Edinburgh App

Average Transport Fares for Students in Edinburgh: