Student accommodation areas are neighborhoods chosen by students for safe, affordable housing close to their university campuses. Selecting a suitable area enhances academic productivity, daily convenience, and overall safety. A good student area is identifiable through low crime rates, positive community feedback, reliable transportation options, and proximity to essential facilities like grocery stores, cafés, libraries, and health services.
In Bristol, specific neighborhoods meet these criteria and attract different groups, including students, families, professionals, and tourists. The City Centre area appeals strongly to undergraduates due to active nightlife, convenience of transport, and easy access to campus facilities, making daily student life more efficient.
Close to this, Gloucester Road provides affordable dining options, independent retail stores, and frequent public transport. Its diverse community attracts both university students and working professionals, offering practicality combined with affordability.
Neighboring areas like Montpelier, St Paul’s, and Stokes Croft differ slightly by attracting postgraduate and international students who value artistic communities, cultural diversity, and lower rents. These neighborhoods create opportunities for creative social interactions while maintaining affordability.
In contrast, quieter districts such as Redland, Kingsdown, and Cotham offer mature students safer environments with quieter residential streets, fewer disturbances, and proximity to the University of Bristol. This area matches best with those focused on quiet study and safety.
Lastly, close to UWE Bristol, Stoke Park, Frenchay, and Cheswick Village provide modern, safe housing specifically suited to international and postgraduate students seeking tranquillity, strong community safety, and easy access to university amenities. These areas consistently support peaceful student living experiences.
Together, these varied neighborhoods effectively accommodate diverse student preferences and ensure safe, practical, and enriching living environments in Bristol.
What are the best student accommodation areas in Bristol?
The best student accommodation areas in Bristol combine affordability, convenience, safety, and proximity to campuses. These 13 are the best student accommodation in Bristol to live in for students, each uniquely suited to varied lifestyles:
- City Centre: City Centre provides vibrant nightlife, numerous cafés, and quick transport. It’s best for social students, offering proximity to University of Bristol and UWE campuses, along with essential facilities, convenience, and active student community life.
- Gloucester Road: Gloucester Road attracts students and professionals due to affordable eateries, independent shops, and excellent public transport. Its diverse atmosphere suits students looking for affordability without compromising easy daily access to amenities.
- Bishopston and St Andrews: Bishopston and St Andrews are residential neighborhoods featuring quiet streets, affordable housing, and easy bus access to universities. Students favor these areas for peaceful living while remaining conveniently close to city center services.
- Horfield: Horfield offers budget-friendly housing, reliable transport links, and proximity to UWE. Students prefer this neighborhood for affordable rents combined with nearby supermarkets, leisure centers, parks, and practical access to campus facilities.
- Montpelier, St Paul’s and Stokes Croft: Montpelier, St Paul’s, and Stokes Croft attract postgraduate and international students with artistic communities, affordable rents, and vibrant social life. These culturally diverse neighborhoods are best suited to students seeking lively yet economical living options.
- Redland, Kingsdown and Cotham: Redland, Kingsdown, and Cotham appeal mainly to mature and postgraduate students, offering quiet residential environments, lower crime rates, and proximity to the University of Bristol. Ideal locations for students prioritizing safety and focused studying conditions.
- Fishponds: Fishponds provides affordable rents, proximity to UWE Frenchay campus, and convenient public transport. It’s suitable for students prioritizing cost-effective accommodation, convenient access to campus facilities, and essential local amenities.
- Filton: Filton is close to UWE Bristol, featuring modern housing, affordability, and excellent transport connections. Students prefer Filton for its practicality, affordability, and closeness to leisure centers, supermarkets, and easy university commute.
- Stoke Park, Frenchay and Cheswick Village: Stoke Park, Frenchay, and Cheswick Village offer modern accommodations, peaceful green spaces, and a strong sense of safety. Preferred by international and postgraduate students, these neighborhoods provide quiet living close to UWE Bristol campus amenities.
- Bedminster/Southville: Bedminster and Southville combine affordable rents with a vibrant community atmosphere and excellent transport access. Students appreciate these areas for a balanced lifestyle, lively cafés, independent shops, and convenient proximity to central Bristol attractions.
- Totterdown/Windmill Hill: Totterdown and Windmill Hill offer a strong community atmosphere, affordable student houses, and quick access to the city center. Students choose these neighborhoods for peaceful residential streets combined with convenient city accessibility.
- Temple Meads/St Philips Marsh: Temple Meads and St Philips Marsh are ideal for students needing central transport connectivity. Close to major train and bus stations, these areas provide convenient daily commuting, practical living options, and affordable rents.
- Hotwells/Clifton: Hotwells and Clifton attract students seeking scenic and secure environments close to the University of Bristol. Featuring quiet residential streets, picturesque parks, and convenient access to city amenities, these areas best suit students preferring tranquility.
Below, detailed descriptions for each location offer further guidance, enabling students to choose their ideal Bristol accommodation effectively.
1. City Centre
Bristol’s City Centre is a dynamic, centrally located neighborhood known among students for lively social opportunities and convenient access to universities. Students predominantly choose this area for its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to essential amenities, with average weekly rents between £160 and £220 for modern studios and purpose-built student accommodations. The University of Bristol is a short ten-minute walk, whereas UWE Bristol campuses are approximately 25 minutes away via frequent U1 and Metrobus services, ensuring easy commuting. Undergraduates and international students particularly favor this neighborhood due to its energetic student community, active nightlife, and variety of social events. Student feedback consistently highlights safety here, attributed to busy, well-lit streets enhancing comfort during evening hours. Additionally, public transportation is abundant, including buses, cycling routes, and the nearby Bristol Temple Meads railway station, connecting students effectively to both universities and other city districts. Local amenities within walking distance include supermarkets, gyms, cafés, restaurants, libraries, and diverse entertainment venues, greatly enhancing student convenience. Housing mainly consists of private halls and en-suite apartments catering specifically to student needs, rather than traditional shared houses, aligning closely with the lifestyle of students seeking social engagement and practical living. To secure optimal accommodation in this popular area, it is advisable for students to begin their search from November to January, when availability peaks. Trusted property platforms commonly recommended for reliable listings here include Unite Students, Rightmove, Zoopla, and Student.com, ensuring quality and security in student housing choices.
2. Gloucester Road
Gloucester Road is a vibrant, culturally-rich neighborhood known among Bristol students for affordable housing and convenient proximity to universities. Popular due to its unique combination of lively community atmosphere and practical affordability, this area offers average student rents of approximately £120 to £180 per week. Students frequently choose Gloucester Road because it conveniently positions them within easy commuting distance—just a 20-minute walk or a short 10-minute bus journey via frequent services (routes 70, 71, 72) to the University of Bristol, and about 15–20 minutes by bus to UWE Bristol campuses. Predominantly occupied by undergraduates and postgraduates alike, Gloucester Road provides a socially engaging yet comfortably relaxed environment, significantly appealing to international students seeking cultural diversity. Student feedback consistently identifies Gloucester Road as safe, highlighting the bustling nature of its streets and strong local community engagement as contributing factors. Additionally, the area features reliable public transport options and extensive cycling routes, simplifying student commutes and daily travel needs. Essential amenities such as supermarkets, independent grocers, diverse cafés, affordable eateries, gyms, and small shops are located conveniently nearby, greatly facilitating everyday student life. Housing here predominantly consists of shared houses, flats, and private studios, meeting the practical requirements of students seeking affordable yet comfortable living arrangements. To secure accommodation effectively in Gloucester Road—due to consistently high demand—students should ideally begin property searches from late autumn. Reliable platforms recommended by existing residents for trustworthy and affordable listings include Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom.
3. Bishopston and St Andrews
Bishopston and St Andrews are residential neighborhoods in Bristol offering students a balanced environment of quiet streets, affordability, and convenient university access. Average weekly student rents here range precisely from £130 to £170, attracting those who prioritize economical housing near both universities. The University of Bristol campus lies approximately 25 minutes away on foot, or a brief 10-minute bus journey via frequent bus routes (70, 71), while commuting to UWE Bristol typically takes around 20 minutes by bus. Predominantly chosen by undergraduates and postgraduates seeking a peaceful yet socially connected lifestyle, these areas appeal to students who value calm surroundings suitable for focused study sessions, complemented by opportunities for community interaction. Safety in Bishopston and St Andrews is notably high, a fact consistently supported by student experiences emphasizing quiet streets, attentive local residents, and active neighborhood engagement. Daily travel is straightforward thanks to regular buses and accessible cycling routes linking directly to campuses and central Bristol. Local amenities such as supermarkets, cafés, affordable restaurants, libraries, and fitness centers are conveniently positioned within easy walking distance, significantly enhancing the daily student experience. Housing primarily comprises shared student houses and private studios, fitting comfortably within typical student budgets and expectations. Students looking for balanced residential areas, close enough to city services yet distant from intense urban activity, will find these neighborhood’s particularly suitable. Given consistent housing demand, beginning property searches between November and January via reputable platforms like SpareRoom, Rightmove, or Zoopla is strongly advised for securing optimal student accommodation efficiently.
4. Horfield
Horfield is a popular residential area among Bristol students, offering a comfortable, budget-friendly environment coupled with excellent transport links. With average weekly rents ranging precisely between £110 and £160, this neighborhood is particularly appealing to students prioritizing affordability and practical housing. Strategically situated, Horfield provides convenient access to both UWE Bristol and the University of Bristol. UWE Bristol’s main campus lies approximately 15 minutes away by frequent bus routes, such as the 70, 71, and 72, while students travelling to the University of Bristol typically face a 25-minute bus commute or a short cycling journey. The area predominantly attracts undergraduates, though postgraduates also reside here, creating a balanced student community marked by quiet residential living combined with moderate social opportunities. Students consistently highlight Horfield’s safety positively, noting low crime rates, quiet streets, and attentive local residents. Transport convenience remains a key advantage, with regular buses, clearly marked cycling paths, and accessible roads facilitating straightforward commuting to universities and central Bristol. Essential amenities including supermarkets, independent shops, local cafés, affordable restaurants, gyms, and leisure centers are within easy walking distance, further enhancing daily convenience. Housing in Horfield primarily consists of shared student houses, flats, and some private studios, effectively meeting typical student accommodation preferences. Ideal for students seeking budget-conscious living conditions alongside peaceful residential surroundings, Horfield provides practicality without sacrificing essential amenities. Students should begin accommodation searches ideally from late autumn through early winter, using reputable online platforms such as SpareRoom, Zoopla, or Rightmove to secure suitable housing efficiently.
5. Montpelier, St Paul’s and Stokes Croft
Montpelier, St Paul’s, and Stokes Croft collectively form a vibrant and culturally dynamic area favored by Bristol students seeking affordable living close to the city center. Average weekly rents range precisely from £110 to £160, attracting students looking for budget-friendly housing. Conveniently located, these neighborhoods offer easy commuting; the University of Bristol is approximately 15 minutes away by foot, while UWE Bristol is accessible in around 20 minutes via reliable bus routes including the 70, 71, and 73. The student community here includes a diverse blend of undergraduates, postgraduates, and notably international students, drawn to the area’s creative atmosphere and inclusive social environment. Safety perceptions among students have notably improved in recent years, owing to active community engagement and increased residential presence, with student feedback generally positive regarding local security. Transport connections are robust, featuring frequent buses, clear cycle paths, and short walking distances to both campuses and central amenities. Essential facilities, such as independent cafés, multicultural restaurants, affordable grocery shops, gyms, libraries, and popular nightlife venues, lie conveniently within a short walking radius, significantly enhancing everyday student life. Accommodation typically consists of shared student houses and flats, aligning perfectly with the economical preferences of residents who appreciate community-oriented living. These neighborhoods are ideal for students prioritizing cultural diversity, affordability, and social connectivity
6. Redland, Kingsdown and Cotham
Redland, Kingsdown, and Cotham form a peaceful cluster of neighborhoods favored by Bristol students seeking safe, comfortable, and quieter residential environments close to the University of Bristol. Average weekly rents typically range between £140 and £190, reflecting the high desirability of these areas. Conveniently positioned, the University of Bristol is reachable within a comfortable 10-15 minute walk or shorter cycling route, while commuting to UWE Bristol takes roughly 25 minutes by regular bus services including routes 70 and 71. The student population here mainly comprises mature undergraduates, postgraduates, and international students who prefer tranquil settings ideal for focused academic work and relaxed social interactions. Safety perceptions in these neighborhoods are consistently positive, supported by low crime rates, well-lit streets, and vigilant residential communities, qualities particularly highlighted in student feedback. Public transport and cycling options provide straightforward, hassle-free access to city amenities and university campuses, enhancing everyday convenience significantly. Essential services such as supermarkets, cosy cafes, boutique restaurants, fitness centers, and libraries are easily accessible within short walking distances. Housing options generally consist of shared student houses, flats, and some private studio apartments, ideally matching student preferences for comfort, quiet, and affordability. These neighborhoods specifically appeal to students who prioritize academic productivity, security, and a peaceful community lifestyle over vibrant nightlife activities. Due to consistently strong demand for accommodation here, students benefit from initiating their housing searches between late autumn and early winter, using trusted property platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, frequently recommended by current residents for reliability and quality listings.
7. Fishponds
Fishponds is an affordable, student-friendly neighborhood in Bristol, popular for its practical balance of quiet living and convenient amenities. Average weekly rents typically range from £100 to £150, making this area highly attractive for students managing tight budgets. Its location is especially advantageous for students at UWE Bristol’s Frenchay Campus, reachable within 15 minutes by direct buses such as routes 48, 49, and Metrobus M3, while the University of Bristol is approximately 25–30 minutes away by frequent bus connections. The community primarily consists of undergraduates and international students who appreciate the calm residential atmosphere, balanced by regular social opportunities in local cafés, restaurants, and pubs along Fishponds Road. Safety ratings are generally positive due to residential quietness and active local community involvement, factors often highlighted by current students. Regular bus services, clear cycling paths, and straightforward routes facilitate convenient travel to campuses and the city centre. Within walking distance, students find large supermarkets, independent grocery stores, gyms, eateries, and libraries, providing essential services without the need for lengthy travel. Housing mostly comprises shared student houses and affordable flats, ideal for students prioritizing cost-effective and comfortable accommodations over luxury studios or private halls. Fishponds best suits students who prefer a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing convenience or affordability. Due to steady housing demand, early property searches from November to January are recommended.
8. Filton
Filton is a residential suburb in North Bristol, popular among students—particularly those attending UWE Bristol—due to its proximity to the Frenchay Campus and relatively affordable housing. Average weekly rents for student accommodations in Filton typically range from £175 to £195 per person, depending on property size and amenities. The area is especially convenient for UWE students, with the Frenchay Campus located approximately 1.5 miles away, accessible via a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride on routes such as the 70, 71, and Metrobus M1. For students at the University of Bristol, Filton is about 5 miles away, with commuting times of around 30–40 minutes by bus or train. The student community in Filton comprises a mix of undergraduates and postgraduates, including international students, who appreciate the quieter residential environment. Safety is generally regarded as good, with low crime rates and a strong community presence contributing to a secure atmosphere. Transport links are robust, featuring frequent bus services, nearby train stations like Filton Abbey Wood, and well-maintained cycling routes, facilitating easy travel to university campuses and the city centre. Local amenities include supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, gyms, and parks, all within walking distance, enhancing the convenience of daily life. Housing options in Filton primarily consist of shared houses and flats, catering to students seeking cost-effective and comfortable living arrangements. The area is ideal for those who prioritize affordability and a peaceful study environment over proximity to nightlife. Given the steady demand for student housing, it is advisable to begin property searches between November and January to secure suitable accommodations.
9. Stoke Park, Frenchay and Cheswick Village
Stoke Park, Frenchay, and Cheswick Village are adjacent neighborhoods in North Bristol, offering a blend of affordability, convenience, and community appeal, particularly for students attending the University of the West of England (UWE) Bristol. Average weekly rents in these areas range from £137 in Stoke Park to approximately £198 in Cheswick Village , depending on property type and amenities. UWE Bristol’s Frenchay Campus is within walking distance from these neighborhoods, enhancing their attractiveness to students. The University of Bristol is approximately 5 miles away, accessible by bus or train in about 30 to 40 minutes. The student community here is diverse, comprising undergraduates, postgraduates, and international students who appreciate the balance between a peaceful residential environment and proximity to campus facilities. Safety is generally regarded as good, with low crime rates and active community engagement contributing to a secure atmosphere. Transport links are robust, featuring frequent bus services, nearby train stations like Filton Abbey Wood, and well-maintained cycling routes, facilitating easy travel to university campuses and the city center. Local amenities include supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, gyms, and parks, all within walking distance, enhancing the convenience of daily life. Housing options in these areas primarily consist of shared houses and flats, catering to students seeking cost-effective and comfortable living arrangements. These neighborhoods are ideal for those who prioritize affordability and a peaceful study environment over proximity to nightlife. Given the steady demand for student housing, it is advisable to begin property searches between November and January to secure suitable accommodations.
10. Bedminster and Southville
Bedminster and Southville are vibrant, culturally rich neighborhoods in South Bristol, offering a blend of affordability and convenience that appeals to students, particularly those attending the University of Bristol. Average weekly rents in these areas typically range from £219 to £438, depending on property size and amenities . The University of Bristol is approximately 1.5 miles away, accessible by a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride, while UWE Bristol’s Frenchay Campus is about 5 miles distant, reachable in 30 to 40 minutes via public transport. The student community here is diverse, comprising undergraduates, postgraduates, and international students who appreciate the balance between a peaceful residential environment and proximity to campus facilities. Safety is generally regarded as good, with low crime rates and active community engagement contributing to a secure atmosphere. Transport links are robust, featuring frequent bus services, nearby train stations like Bedminster and Parson Street, and well-maintained cycling routes, facilitating easy travel to university campuses and the city center. Local amenities include supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, gyms, and parks, all within walking distance, enhancing the convenience of daily life. Housing options in these areas primarily consist of shared houses and flats, catering to students seeking cost-effective and comfortable living arrangements. These neighborhoods are ideal for those who prioritize affordability and a peaceful study environment over proximity to nightlife. Given the steady demand for student housing, it is advisable to begin property searches between November and January to secure suitable accommodations.
11. Totterdown and Windmill Hill
Totterdown and Windmill Hill, situated just south of Bristol’s city center, are vibrant neighborhoods known for their colourful terraced houses and strong community spirit. These areas are popular among students, particularly those attending the University of Bristol, due to their proximity to the campus and the city centre. The average weekly rent for student accommodation in Totterdown is approximately £241 per person , while in Windmill Hill, it is around £265 per week . The University of Bristol is about 1.5 miles away, accessible by a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride , whereas UWE Bristol’s Frenchay Campus is approximately 5 miles distant, reachable in 30 to 40 minutes via public transport. The student community in these areas is diverse, comprising undergraduates, postgraduates, and international students who appreciate the balance between a peaceful residential environment and proximity to campus facilities. Safety is generally regarded as good, with low crime rates and active community engagement contributing to a secure atmosphere. Transport links are robust, featuring frequent bus services, nearby train stations like Bedminster and Parson Street, and well-maintained cycling routes, facilitating easy travel to university campuses and the city center. Local amenities include supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, gyms, and parks, all within walking distance, enhancing the convenience of daily life. Housing options in these areas primarily consist of shared houses and flats, catering to students seeking cost-effective and comfortable living arrangements. These neighborhoods are ideal for those who prioritize affordability and a peaceful study environment over proximity to nightlife. Given the steady demand for student housing, it is advisable to begin property searches between November and January to secure suitable accommodations.
12. Temple Meads and St Philips Marsh
Temple Meads and St Philip’s Marsh are centrally located areas in Bristol, offering students a blend of urban convenience and emerging residential options. Average weekly rents for student accommodations in these areas typically range from £150 to £200, depending on the type and location of the property. The University of Bristol is approximately 1.5 miles away, accessible by a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride. UWE Bristol’s Frenchay Campus is about 8 miles distant, reachable in 30 to 40 minutes via public transport . The student community here is diverse, comprising undergraduates, postgraduates, and international students who appreciate the balance between a peaceful residential environment and proximity to campus facilities. Safety is generally regarded as good, with low crime rates and active community engagement contributing to a secure atmosphere. Transport links are robust, featuring frequent bus services, nearby train stations like Bristol Temple Meads, and well-maintained cycling routes, facilitating easy travel to university campuses and the city center. Local amenities include supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, gyms, and parks, all within walking distance, enhancing the convenience of daily life. Housing options in these areas primarily consist of shared houses and flats, catering to students seeking cost-effective and comfortable living arrangements. These neighborhoods are ideal for those who prioritize affordability and a peaceful study environment over proximity to nightlife. Given the steady demand for student housing, it is advisable to begin property searches between November and January to secure suitable accommodations.
13. Hotwells and Clifton
Hotwells and Clifton are two adjacent neighborhoods in Bristol, each offering distinct advantages for students. Clifton, renowned for its Georgian architecture and green spaces, is considered one of the safest and most prestigious areas in the city, providing a secure and tranquil environment for students. Hotwells, situated along the harbour, offers a more urban feel with vibrant surroundings. The average weekly rent in Clifton is approximately £307 per person, reflecting its upscale status, while Hotwells offers a range of accommodations, including options like Hotwells House, which is about a 20-minute walk to the University of Bristol. The University of Bristol is easily accessible from both areas, with Clifton being about a 10-minute walk away and Hotwells approximately 20 minutes on foot. For students attending UWE Bristol, commuting from these areas takes around 30 to 40 minutes by bus. Both districts boast a diverse student community, including undergraduates, postgraduates, and international students, who appreciate the balance between peaceful residential settings and proximity to campus facilities. Transport links are robust, featuring frequent bus services and well-maintained cycling routes, facilitating easy travel to university campuses and the city center. Local amenities in both areas include supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, gyms, and parks, all within walking distance, enhancing the convenience of daily life. Housing options primarily consist of shared houses and flats, catering to students seeking comfortable living arrangements. These neighborhoods are ideal for those who prioritize a peaceful study environment and proximity to university facilities. Given the steady demand for student housing in these areas, it is advisable to begin property searches between November and January to secure suitable accommodations.
Where do most students live in Bristol?
Most students in Bristol live around Gloucester Road, Clifton, Redland, and Stokes Croft. Gloucester Road hosts numerous student residences and offers vibrant cafes, shops, and bars within walking distance, making it particularly popular among undergraduates. Clifton and Redland appeal due to their proximity to the University of Bristol campus—approximately a 10-minute walk—and their safe, residential character, attracting many postgraduate and international students. Stokes Croft is preferred for its cultural diversity and affordability, being just 15 minutes from campus. Each of these areas provides students with a practical balance of accessibility, safety, and community.
When is the best time to look for student accommodation in Bristol?
The best time to look for student accommodation in Bristol is early November. From this period until January, most housing options become available, as this aligns with the city’s standard student-letting cycle. Beginning property searches during this timeframe ensures the broadest selection and greatest chance of securing preferred housing types. Waiting until spring reduces available options significantly, as desirable properties typically rent quickly. Early searches enable students to select accommodations closely matching their preferences regarding location, price, and facilities, increasing satisfaction with their housing choice.
Is Bristol cheap for students?
Bristol is not cheap for students. Average monthly living costs range precisely from £900 to £1,200, covering accommodation, groceries, transport, and utilities. Student rent typically averages £130 to £200 weekly. Lower-cost housing is primarily found in areas like Fishponds, Horfield, and Filton, while neighborhoods such as Clifton or City Centre tend toward higher prices due to proximity and convenience.
Which areas in Bristol offer a good balance of quiet study and social living?
The Bristol areas offering the best balance of quiet study conditions and active social life are Redland, Cotham, Bishopston and St Andrews, Horfield, and Fishponds. These neighborhoods feature quiet residential streets suitable for concentrated academic work, combined closely with accessible social venues such as cafés, restaurants, and smaller pubs. Students residing in these areas benefit from easy access to amenities, maintaining a comfortable balance between productive study and community engagement without excessive urban noise or distractions.
Where can students get affordable moving help during their move in Bristol?
If you’re a student looking for affordable moving assistance in Bristol, MO Transport offers tailored student moving services at budget-friendly rates. Our team ensures a smooth, stress-free move with flexible scheduling, professional packing help, reliable transportation, and insurance coverage for your belongings. Choose MO Transport for a convenient, reliable, and cost-effective moving experience specifically designed for students in Bristol.