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Explore beautiful and popular places to stay with all the comfort of home.
Looking for a modern student accommodation in Colchester? We've got the widest range of student houses, private flats, studios, shared flats and en-suites. 100% free service. No booking fee. Free cancellation. With House Of Student, you get to choose from 2100+ student room options with amenities that will make university life better. If you’re not much of an outdoorsy person, you can also lounge around your student housing in Colchester to meet new people in the shared spaces there.. All our properties offer a unique and modern take on student flats with a variety of partially and fully furnished housing options and floor plans including:
More About Colchester
Colchester is a picturesque historic and provincial town located 80 kilometres northeast of London in the county of Essex. With a rich history dating back over 2000 years, it is thought to be England's oldest recorded town. Colchester Castle, which is essentially a Norman castle and is the largest and oldest surviving of its kind in Britain, is located here. The city also offers international students some of the United Kingdom's finest higher education institutions, including the University of Essex, and many more.
If it’s just a day of relaxation you want, you can head to Beth Chatto Gardens with friends for a picnic or Mersea Island, only a 30 minutes’ bus ride away where you can find countless independent shops, pubs and enjoy local seafood.
Culture and Heritage: There are many attractions that you must visit such as the Colchester Castle and museum, Natural History museum and Hollytrees museum to experience the rich culture.
Shopping: The High Street offers shoppers everything from high-end brands, departmental stores to restaurants and cafes and a little further down the street, you will find smaller roads with independent shops and boutiques. The Lion Walk, Culver Square and St John’s Walk are some of the prominent shopping malls.
Theatre: You can sit back and watch some quality drama, dance, music and comedy at the Lakeside Theatre, Charter Hall and the Mercury Theatre.
Restaurants, Cafes and Bars: You can enjoy a lively night out in Colchester, whatever is your preference. For a club night out, you simply cannot miss a student night at all of these - ATIK, Walkabout, The Silk Road, Qube Bar & Brasserie and Twisters. If you are looking for a cozy bar to have drinks or play a game of darts with your friends you can head to the Essex University SU Bar, Slug & Lettuce, Three Wise Monkeys, The Hole in the Wall or Yates and avail great student discounts on meals and beverages
Greenstead
Greenstead is one of the most popular areas for student accommodation in Colchester, especially for those studying at the University of Essex. It’s located very close to the university campus, making it ideal for students who want to walk or cycle to class. The area offers a variety of housing options, from shared student houses to budget-friendly apartments. Greenstead is also well-served by local shops, takeaways, and bus routes into the town centre.
Wivenhoe
Wivenhoe is a charming riverside town just a short distance from the university, popular among students who enjoy a more peaceful, community-focused environment. It has a laid-back, artistic vibe, and offers picturesque walks along the River Colne. With a direct train to Colchester town centre and plenty of pubs, cafes, and green spaces, Wivenhoe combines convenience with charm. It’s particularly appealing to postgraduate students or those looking for a quieter living environment.
Hythe
Hythe is another excellent option for students at the University of Essex. It’s very close to campus and also offers good transport links to the town centre. The area features a large Tesco superstore and modern apartment buildings, making it a practical and convenient choice. With student-friendly housing developments and riverside views, Hythe is a modern and comfortable area to live.
Colchester Town Centre
For students who prefer to be in the heart of the action, Colchester town centre is a great place to live. It offers access to a wide range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and cultural attractions like Colchester Castle and the Firstsite Art Gallery. While it’s a little further from the university, frequent buses and train services make commuting easy. Living in the town centre is ideal for students who thrive in a busier, more dynamic environment.
Old Heath & New Town
These two areas are popular for students who want to be within reach of both the university and the town centre. They offer a variety of affordable housing options and have good local amenities, including parks, shops, and gyms. The neighbourhoods have a residential feel but are still close enough to the nightlife and social spots of central Colchester.
Lexden
Lexden is a more residential and leafy part of Colchester, perfect for students who want a quiet place to live. While it’s further away from the university, it's ideal for those who prefer a more suburban lifestyle. It’s well-connected by bus, and its proximity to the town’s amenities makes it a balanced option for student accommodation.
Colchester is not just the UK’s oldest recorded town — it’s a vibrant, student-friendly city full of history, green spaces, and exciting things to see and do. Whether you’re here to study, visit, or settle in for a while, Colchester offers a unique mix of ancient landmarks, modern attractions, and natural beauty. Here are some of the must-visit places that capture the spirit and charm of this fascinating town.
Colchester Castle
Standing proud in Castle Park, Colchester Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in town. Built on the foundations of a Roman temple, it’s the largest Norman keep in Europe. Inside, the museum walks you through Colchester’s rich history — from Roman times to the medieval era — and you can even explore the eerie prison cells and climb to the roof for panoramic views of the city.
Castle Park
Right in the heart of Colchester, Castle Park is a peaceful and beautifully maintained green space that’s perfect for relaxing between lectures or catching up with friends. With its riverside views, ornamental gardens, open lawns, and regular events, it’s a hub of outdoor activity all year round.
Firstsite
If you're into contemporary art and culture, Firstsite is a must. This award-winning visual arts centre hosts exhibitions, films, talks, and workshops — all in a stunning golden building that stands out just off the town centre. It’s free to enter and great for a dose of creativity and inspiration.
Colchester Zoo
One of the best zoos in the UK, Colchester Zoo is home to more than 220 species from around the world. From elephants and giraffes to sea lions and penguins, it’s an impressive place that’s both educational and fun. Perfect for a weekend outing or a day off from studying.
Hollytrees Museum
Located next to Colchester Castle, Hollytrees Museum is a charming Georgian townhouse turned museum that tells the story of everyday life in Colchester over the centuries. It's free to visit and offers a quirky insight into the town’s social history — from fashion and childhood to domestic life.
Roman Walls and Balkerne Gate
As one of the most significant Roman sites in Britain, Colchester’s ancient Roman walls are well worth exploring. The Balkerne Gate, a surviving Roman gateway, is the oldest and largest in the country and gives a real sense of the town's historical depth. You can follow parts of the wall on a walking tour through the town centre.
High Street & The Lanes
Colchester’s high street offers everything from big-name brands to independent boutiques and cafes. If you head down some of the side lanes, you’ll find hidden gems like second-hand bookstores, vintage shops, and cosy coffee spots — perfect for students and locals alike.
Mercury Theatre
For a taste of local arts and drama, the Mercury Theatre is a cultural hotspot. Hosting everything from contemporary plays and classic performances to comedy nights and student productions, it’s a great way to dive into Colchester’s creative scene.
Beth Chatto Gardens
A little way out of town but well worth the trip, the Beth Chatto Gardens are beautifully designed and maintained, with different themed zones showcasing how to garden in harmony with nature. It’s peaceful, scenic, and a great break from the buzz of student life.
Wivenhoe
Just a short train ride or cycle from Colchester, Wivenhoe is a picturesque riverside village known for its creative, laid-back vibe. With waterfront pubs, local galleries, and walking trails along the River Colne, it’s a lovely place for a quiet day out or a change of pace.
You’ll have supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, and other essential services just a stone’s throw away. And moving around Colchester is a breezy affair thanks to its excellent public transport. You can also obtain a travel pass by contacting your local administration.
Bus: Colchester provides bus services for its students that are well-connected to student housing in Colchester, ensuring that you do not have a difficult time getting to and from your university.
Book with House of Student and become a part of the largest global community of students accomodation with us. Know why students love us!
Safe Spaces, No Exceptions
Student-only, fully vetted homes
365 days, 24/7 genuine support
Your concierge aka ivey.ai and our global team of real humans are there to help you.
Lowest Prices, Best Deals Guaranteed
No hidden costs or platform fee
Thrive Inside Out
Mental health & wellbeing support always available throughout your tenure.
Grow Anywhere
More than 1 million student rooms across 1000+ student cities
Reserve now.
Pay Later, Free Cancellations
Change of mind? No questions asked cancellations within the specified period
Finding and booking your student home can be overwhelming, and we are committed to making it safe and easy. That is why over 5 million students from over 177 countries trust us each year to find a place suitable to their needs!
100% Free Service & Lowest Price Guaranteed!
No hidden costs or platform fee
Pay Later, Free Cancellations
Change of mind? No questions asked cancellations within the specified period
Grow Anywhere
More than 1 million student rooms across 1000+ student cities Reserve now.
Safe Spaces, No Exceptions
Student-only, fully vetted homes.
365 days, 24/7 genuine support.
Your concierge aka IVEY.AI and our global team of real humans are there to help you
Thrive Inside Out.
Mental health & wellbeing support always available throughout your tenure.