Student Accommodation near Durham University

Searching for Durham University accommodation? As England's third-oldest university and a top 100 global institution (94th in QS 2026), Durham University attracts over 20,000 students. Durham University halls of residence on campus come with rigid lease terms ranging from 38-40 weeks for undergraduates to 50 weeks for postgraduates. These shorter undergraduate contracts often exclude holiday periods or require moving out before the July graduation ceremonies, leaving more and more students having to find hotels to fill the gap or tend to off-campus Durham University private accommodation. At uhomes.com, we provide a superior alternative with continuous 51-week tenancies, ensuring you have a secure home through Christmas, Easter, and the entire summer without the hassle of temporary storage or relocation.

uhomes.com provides a wide selection of studios, en-suites, and 1B/2B apartments ideally situated near the Science Site, Business School, and Bailey colleges, saving you much time and effort on commute. Our student housing near Durham University features fully furnished rooms and all-inclusive bills as standard, protecting you from energy price hikes and hidden costs. Enjoy full control over your living environment, and also free access to premium amenities like on-site gyms, cinema rooms, and 24/7 security. Whether you are looking for a budget social flat-share or a quiet luxury studio, our Price Match Guarantee and various exclusive discounts ensure you get the best market rates.

As a Trustpilot 4.9/5 rated platform, uhomes.com simplifies the Durham "housing games" through 100% verified, strong filters, and a map function. From booking to finding roommates, airport pick-up, moving, and subletting, we offer a full suite of services to your hassle-free living. Looking for the easiest way to book? Tell our 24/7 free experts what matters, and we will do all the hard work and offer you the perfect apartment. Start your search today and secure your ideal home near Durham University for the 2026/27 academic year!

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 a 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 is 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.

The best Durham University accommodation typically includes popular options like Duresme Court, Houghall Court, and The Village at The Viaduct, known for their proximity to the university colleges and modern amenities. Book these top-rated housing options with uhomes.com, and students will also benefit from stylish and fully furnished rooms and all-inclusive bills to cover all utilities. With exclusive access to on-site amenities, including a 24/7 gym, laundry facilities, high-speed WiFi, study rooms, a games area, and a communal lounge, you can make the most of your 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:

Near The Bailey & City Centre (Best for Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences)

Ideal for students at Hatfield, St Chad’s, St John’s, and University Colleges.

Student Castle Durham

• Commute: 10-12 min walk to Hatfield College and University College; 15-18 min walk to the Science Site (uphill walk).
• Highlights: Modern studios/twin rooms/shared flats, 45-seat cinema, gym, outdoor courtyard.

Elvet Studios

• Commute: 5 min walk to Elvet Riverside; 12-15 min walk to Bailey Colleges (St Chad’s, Hatfield).
• Highlights: High-end studios with exceptional security and maintenance teams, 7-week and 15-week leases available.

Near The Hill & Science Site (Best for Science, Tech & Business)

Ideal for students at Collingwood, Grey, Mary’s, Van Mildert, and Ustinov Colleges.

Houghall Court

• Commute: 10-12 minute walk from the Science Site.
• Highlights: Bus service to all campuses, and excellent value for money.

Duresme Court

• Commute: 10 min walk to Ustinov College; 20 min bus to Science Site.
• Highlights: Luxury studio living with private dining rooms and electric car charging.

Near St Hild & St Bede (Best for Education & Healthcare)

Ideal for those studying at the riverside or commuting via the train station.

Chapel Heights

• Commute: 5 min walk to St Hild, St Bede College, and the School of Education.
• Highlights: TV and dishwasher in all rooms; free double occupancy available.

The Village at The Viaduct

• Commute: 10 min walk to St Hild and St Bede; 15-18 min walk to Elvet Riverside; 25 min bus to Science Site.
• Highlights: Private studios and shared apartments, vibrant student community, landscaped garden, between Viaduct social scene and Flass Vale nature reserve, and easy access to Durham train station.

Securing cheap student accommodation near Durham University is a tricky task since the rental market is premium and intense. uhomes.com will help you find the best-value private halls near your college with superior facilities compared to standard college dorms at more competitive prices. Our lowest-price guarantee ensures you get the most competitive market rate for a verified room near the college. Our Durham University accommodation prices are all-inclusive, including all utilities and WiFi,  unlike private shared houses (HMO) with unpredictable energy costs during winter. You can also save more by booking with us to enjoy exclusive offers and various discounts. Here are our best-value private accommodations near Durham University:

1. Regatta Place: from £184/week
2. The Village at The Viaduct: from £195/week
3. Houghall Court: from £230/week
4. Elvet Studios: from £235/week
5. Dun Holm House: from £255/week

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 lecture halls and local amenities, ensuring easy access to everything the city offers. Others focuses on a quieter and more residential atmosphere, with budget-friendly houses. Here is a detailed list of the best areas for Durham University student apartments:

The Viaduct

The Viaduct is one of the most popular student areas in Durham ,known for its high concentration of purpose-built student accommodations. It’s the heart of student social life, with the Durham Train Station and North Road’s Tesco Express just minutes away.

• Commute: A 10-15 min walk to the City Centre; 20-25 min to the Science Site.

Claypath

Claypath is located just below the Gilesgate roundabout, offering a prime, near-central location. Many popular bars like the Angel Inn, The Shakespeare Tavern, and Jimmy Allen’s are situated here, perfect for those who want to be close to Durham’s nightlife without the long trek home.

• Commute: A 5-8 min walk to the City Centre; 15-20 min walk to the Science Site.

Gilesgate

Gilesgate stands out for being both affordable and convenient, much more budget-friendly 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, making it the best area for saving on both rent and groceries.

• Commute: A 25-30 min walk to the Science Site. This area is situated uphill, so many students prefer a short bus ride or cycling.

Nevilles Cross

Nevilles Cross is the perfect choice for students who prefer a quieter, residential area, close to the Hill Colleges, such as Van Mildert and St. Mary’s, as well as the university’s science site, within a 10 to 15-minute walk. Although more suburban, there is also a few essential shops in the nearby Crossgate Moor, and the city centre is just a short walk or bus ride away.

• Commute: A strategic 10-15 min walk to the Science Site (Mountjoy) and the Bill Bryson Library.

Durham City Centre (The Peninsula & The Bailey)

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. Living here means being surrounded by UNESCO World Heritage sites. While rooms here are rare and premium-priced, you are at the absolute heart of Durham’s academic and social tradition.

• Commute: 0-5 min walk to the central university departments and Elvet Riverside.

Durham University student halls are offered privately by each college, offering students a variety of rooms within colleges and also 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 a 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: Catering charge will be £3,213.57 for 2026/27. Nine colleges provide catering as a standard part of the accommodation without a self-catering option, which means you will need to pay the full catering package if you are allocated to one of these colleges: Collingwood, Hatfield, Grey, St Aidan’s, St Chad’s, St John’s, St Mary’s, Trevelyan, and Van Mildert College.
• Room Type: Most of the rooms are single, standard, which means a single bed with a shared bathroom and toilet. 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: For undergraduates, 39 weeks for freshmen, 38 weeks for returner non-finalists, and 40 weeks for returner finalists; and 51 weeks for postgraduates. For some historic Bailey colleges (like University/Castle), students may be required to vacate their rooms during Christmas and Easter breaks.

Choosing off-campus Durham University private accommodation offers students more independence, modern facilities, and lease stability, while university halls offer a traditional start. Choosing off-campus housing through uhomes.com provides several strategic advantages over the collegiate system:

• Continuous 51-Week Tenancies (No Holiday Move-outs): Unlike many historic Bailey colleges that require students to vacate rooms during Christmas or Easter, our private accommodations offer uninterrupted occupancy. You can keep your belongings safe in your room all year round without the hassle of vacation storage or temporary relocation.
• Guaranteed Availability (Beat the Ballot): Durham’s college rooms are often allocated via a lottery or "ballot" system for returning students, leaving many without a bed. Private accommodation offers guaranteed booking, allowing you to secure your home for 2026/27 as early as November.
• Modern Ensuite & Studio Privacy: While over 60% of college rooms are "Standard" (shared bathrooms), our private halls like Student Castle and Elvet Studios offer 100% private en-suites and studios. You get your own bathroom and, in many cases, a private kitchen with high-end appliances like dishwashers and integrated ovens.
• All-Inclusive Financial Stability: With rising energy costs, the "all-inclusive" feature of our Durham University houses is a major safeguard. Your rent covers water, gas, electricity, and high-speed Wi-Fi, protecting you from the unpredictable utility bills often found in older private HMOs.
• Elite On-site Amenities: Private PBSAs offer facilities that most colleges can't match, including 24/7 on-site gyms, private cinemas, 200Mbps dedicated Wi-Fi, and soundproof study hubs. These are all included in your rent at no extra cost.
• "No Place, No Pay" & Visa Guarantees: For international students, booking private accommodation is stress-free. Many of our partner properties offer free cancellation if you fail to secure your grades (No Place) or if your UK Visa is refused, providing a safety net that private landlords rarely offer.
• Strategic Location Control: You choose exactly where you live. Whether you want to be 10 mins from the Science Site (avoiding the morning rush) or in the vibrant Viaduct area, private housing lets you bypass the "random allocation" of university housing and stay near your academic department.

The average cost of living for students at Durham University is usually between £1,200 and £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:

1. Bus
   Durham University Students can benefit from the Arriva discounted ticket scheme. For £1.50 (Durham Uni Zone) or £2.50 (Durham Uni Plus Zone), you can get unlimited day travel. Key stops include South Road Colleges (for Hill students) and the Science Site. During term time, the university often supports late-night bus services to ensure students get home safely from the City Centre to residential areas like Gilesgate and Neville’s Cross.
2. Bike
   Cycling is excellent for commuting between Gilesgate and the Science Site, provided you are ready for the incline. All Durham University colleges provide bicycle storage facilities, but parking permit is required. Most of our Durham University student flats also provides bike storage to ensure your commute is easy.
3. Walk
   Walking is also a great way if your Durham Uni accommodation is not very far. However, "Durham distance" is measured in effort, not just meters. Walking from the Viaduct to the Science Site takes about 20-25 minutes. Most students prefer walking when heading down to the Bailey for lectures but may opt for the bus when heading back up to the Hill Colleges.Train
4. Train
   Durham University is easily accessible by train and the East Coast Main Line runs through the heart of Durham City, connecting you to Newcastle (12 mins), York (45 mins), and London (3 hours). The 41 and 42 bus services connect the station directly to the Mount Oswald and South Road university locations. It’s a steep walk from the station to the City Centre, so the bus is highly recommended if you have luggage.
5. Durham Park & Ride
   For students who own a car and live outside the Durham City Centre, Durham Park & Ride service allows you to park you 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. The Howlands Park & Ride is particularly useful as it is located right next to the Josephine Butler and Stephenson Colleges, making it a strategic hub for students in the south of the city.

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:

• Durham Cathedral
• Durham Castle
• Durham University Botanic Garden 
• The Oriental Museum
• Wharton Park
• Chapels & Gardens
• Seaham Beach
• Ushaw Historic House
• Crook Hall Gardens
• 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)