Student halls of residence in Durham

Staying in a student residence in Durham is one of the most practical and popular options for those planning an exchange or studies in this English city. These residences offer comfort, access to modern facilities and an environment designed for student life. In this article, you’ll find useful information about halls of residence in this city, including their advantages and disadvantages, as well as details about private and university options. We’ll also tell you where to look for affordable alternatives and answer frequently asked questions about this type of accommodation. Welcome to Durham!

Advantages and disadvantages of living in a residence in Durham

Below we mention the most notable pros and cons of living in this type of housing:

Pros of living in student residences in Durham

Common areas, such as shared kitchens and courtyards, are perfect for meeting other students and making friends when you arrive in Durham.
Utility and internet bills are usually included in the rental price. This is very important in a city where winters require constant heating—remember that Durham's minimum temperatures can be below 0°C!
Many residences offer flexible options such as "No Visa, No Pay," suitable for those facing uncertainties when moving to Durham from abroad.
For those who prefer a little privacy, there are private studio flats or single rooms with en suite bathrooms.
The residences are located in neighbourhoods such as New Durham and Claypath, providing quick access to the universities. In addition, it’s also easy to reach the city centre from there, allowing you to enjoy the local history and culture.
The study rooms offer a space where you can study in the company of other residents, which can be motivating on days when you feel a bit lazy about studying.

Cons of living in student residences in Durham

Most university residences are divided according to the field of study of each college. Because of this, it’s common for all residents to be studying similar degrees, which means that the environment is not particularly diverse.
Some options with modern facilities such as gyms and cinemas can be expensive.
At the start of the academic year, demand may exceed supply, especially in central areas such as Claypath.
Shared accommodation options may not be ideal for those who prefer quieter spaces.
Social areas, such as games rooms or shared kitchens, can be noisy and affect rest or study.
Some require contracts for the entire academic year, which isn’t an option for students who only need accommodation for specific periods.

Private student residences in Durham

In this English city, private student residences are usually located in neighbourhoods with good access to universities and the city centre. Some of these neighbourhoods are New Durham, Claypath and Gilesgate.

The types of accommodation available in these residences usually include single rooms with private bathrooms and private studio flats. In addition, something that isn’t so common in the UK, in private residences in Durham you’ll also find the option of shared rooms for two people. This alternative is more economical than a single room, but you must bear in mind that it involves sharing all the accommodation spaces with at least one other person.

The common rooms and facilities in these residences are usually of high quality, offering spaces such as gyms, cinema rooms, study areas, games rooms with billiards and table football, lounge areas with televisions, and outdoor patios. Some residences also have cafeterias and communal kitchens.

The included services generally cover internet connection, all utility bills (water, electricity, heating), contents insurance, and access to the facilities mentioned above. In addition, some residences offer services such as bicycle storage and security systems with video surveillance.

An important fact to bear in mind is that many of these private residences in Durham offer flexible cancellation policies, such as "No Visa, No Pay" or "No Place, No Pay", which allow you to cancel your booking without penalty if you don’t obtain a visa or aren’t accepted by the university.

University halls of residence in Durham

Another type of accommodation you can consider in this English city is that managed by the universities themselves. These university residences are usually located in different parts of the city, which can be both the historic centre and the surrounding neighbourhoods. Their locations are usually arranged according to the different university campuses.

As for the types of accommodation offered by university residences in Durham, the most common are: single rooms with shared bathrooms, single rooms with private bathrooms (en-suite), and individual studio flats with their own bathroom and kitchen. Some residences also have studio flats called "mezzanine" or "super studio", which offer more space and some additional amenities.

Among the common facilities usually found in university residences are: study rooms, libraries, gyms, lounges and dining rooms. In addition, many residences have gardens or outdoor spaces to enjoy when the weather is nice.

The services included in the accommodation vary depending on the type of residence. Generally, the rent covers the costs of water, electricity, heating, and internet access throughout the building. In catered residences , meals are provided during the week, while in self-catered options, there’s access to equipped kitchens.

Student Residences of Durham University

This institution has a wide variety of university residences available to students. The allocation of places depends on each college. In other words, each residence usually belongs to a specific college, so residents tend to be studying the same subject.

Rent cheap student residences in Durham

On our Erasmus Play comparison site, you can explore a variety of verified private residences available in Durham. The platform allows you to filter by characteristics such as price, location and services included, making it easy to find the ideal option for you. What's more, you can make your booking completely online and securely. This leaves you more time to plan other exciting activities, such as discovering the city's historical sites and enjoying the iconic Durham Cathedral.

FAQ about student residences in Durham

What are the requirements for applying for a place in a student residence at Durham?

You must be enrolled at a local university, such as Durham University. It’s also important to check the specific deadlines and procedures for each residence, as they may require deposits or advance payments to confirm your booking.

Which is cheaper, an apartment or a student residence in Durham?

Generally speaking, renting a room in a shared flat is usually cheaper than staying in university accommodation. Rooms in shared flats typically cost between £350 and £900 per month, depending on the location and features of the accommodation. In contrast, university halls of residence offer annual prices which, when calculated on a monthly basis, are usually higher. For example, a room with a shared bathroom can cost around £7,432 per academic year, which equates to approximately £825 per month.

Are there male and female dormitories in Durham?

In Durham, university halls of residence are mostly mixed, accommodating both male and female students. However, some halls may offer areas or floors designated exclusively for one gender, although this isn’t the general norm.

What services do student residences in Durham usually include?

They usually include services such as internet connection, all utility bills (water, electricity, heating), contents insurance and access to common facilities such as gyms, study rooms, cinemas and games areas. Some also offer additional services such as secure bicycle storage and security systems. It’s important to check with each residence what specific services are included and which ones may incur additional charges.

How to find an affordable student residency in Durham?

You can use Erasmus Play, a platform that compares various verified accommodation options. On our website, you can filter by price, type of accommodation and services included, making it easier to find a residence that suits your budget and needs. In addition, Erasmus Play provides detailed information about each accommodation, including location and features, allowing you to make an informed decision. You’ll also be able to make reservations securely and efficiently.