Student Accommodation Durham

Welcome to Durham — the land of cobbled streets, cathedral views, and more colleges than you can remember after freshers’ week. It’s stunning, historic, and straight-up Hogwarts vibes — but let’s be honest, your biggest concern isn’t medieval architecture. It’s where you’re going to live, charge your laptop, and survive on pesto pasta until exams hit. 

Durham may be small, but it’s got a big personality when it comes to student living. Think ancient libraries by day and house party chaos by night. Whether you're a college loyalist, private en-suite hunter, or just desperately Googling “cheapest student accommodation in Durham” while crying into your third iced latte — you're not alone. Thousands of students battle it out every year for the best spots. The good news? You're smarter. Why? Because you’re starting here. 

At House of Students, we cut through the drama and help you find student accommodation in Durham that actually works for your life (and your overdraft). Forget sketchy landlords, mismatched furniture, and bathrooms you wouldn’t let your enemy use — we’re here for verified listings, good vibes, and heating that actually works. From shared student flats with enough space for your emotional baggage and your air fryer to stylish studios that scream “main character energy” — we’ve got options that slap. 

Looking for student accommodation near Durham University? That’s our thing. Want bills included so you don’t have to argue over who left the heating on all night during a snowstorm in April? Sorted. Need something affordable but not terrifying? We don’t do horror stories — unless you count someone else taking the last washing machine. 

There’s a surprising range of student housing in Durham, from classic halls of residence (think: social chaos and lukewarm lasagne) to sleek purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) that feels more “Pinterest board” than “panic room.” Some places even come with study pods and rooftop views — because why shouldn’t you romanticise your academic breakdowns? 

And the best part? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own — we’ve already done the homework. While everyone else is doom-scrolling through outdated listings, you’ll be kicking back with a confirmed room, an actual mattress (not a glorified yoga mat), and zero regrets. 

So whether you're an undergrad moving out for the first time or a postgrad who’s way too old for shared bathrooms and passive-aggressive fridge notes, House of Students is here to help you find your place — literally. 

Durham isn’t trying to be cool — and that’s exactly what makes it iconic. It's one of those cities where the buildings are older than your Wi-Fi contract, everything’s uphill (literally and emotionally), and yet... you’ll somehow find yourself romanticising a walk to Tesco like it’s a scene from a BBC period drama. 

On paper, it’s small. Like, blink-and-you’re-in-Newcastle small. But don’t let the postcard vibes fool you — student life in Durham hits differently. One minute you’re grabbing overpriced coffee by the River Wear, the next you’re screaming ABBA in a college bar that looks like a chapel. Durham is full of these bizarre contradictions — ancient and chaotic, scenic and slightly unhinged. 

The cathedral? Yeah, it’s gorgeous — and you will end up writing essays in its shadow pretending you're in Dead Poets Society. The city centre? Compact but stacked with everything you need: indie cafés, stationery shops you don’t need but will 100% buy stuff from, and pubs with sticky floors and way too much character. And don’t get us started on the market square — part student hangout, part medieval fever dream. 

What makes Durham extra spicy is the energy. With over 20,000 students floating around at any given moment, the city basically runs on caffeine, deadline panic, and late-night Deliveroos. Whether you're pub-crawling through cobblestones or pulling an all-nighter in the Billy B (if you know, you know), there's a low-key chaos to Durham that students genuinely love. 

And the best part? It’s walkable. Like, fully. No Tube maps. No 45-minute bus treks. You can get from your student accommodation in Durham to your lecture, the pub, the library, and back to bed — all before your flatmate finishes brewing their herbal tea. 

So yeah, Durham isn’t trying to impress you with skyscrapers or edgy nightlife. It’s doing its own thing — ancient, chaotic, charming — and somehow, it ends up being the backdrop to some of the most unhinged, unforgettable, and oddly wholesome years of your life. 

Living in Durham as a student is like being trapped in a coming-of-age indie film — but with more Greggs and less emotional growth. It’s the kind of place where you’ll start off lost in an alley that looks like a Harry Potter set, and a year later, you’re confidently power-walking it in slippers at 2 AM with cheesy chips in hand. 

Student life in Durham is anything but average. You’re not just managing classes, you're navigating a weird mix of college drama, endless hills, and that one Tesco Express everyone fights over. Some days you’re vibing by the river with your overpriced oat latte, and others you’re spiralling in the Billy B with three tabs open and a nervous breakdown brewing. Balance, right? 

The vibes? Immaculate. The stress? Also immaculate. But that’s part of the charm. Durham students somehow manage to make daily chaos look aesthetic. From college formals where everyone pretends to understand wine, to silent dance parties in the library (yes, really), there's something wonderfully unhinged about how things operate here. 

Social life is intense in the best way — whether you’re pub-hopping in a trench coat, playing rugby hungover, or turning a midweek society meet into a full-blown night out. There’s always something happening, even if it's just your flatmate’s existential crisis over dissertation deadlines. 

And the best part? It’s all happening within walking distance of wherever you live. Whether you're in college halls, a shared house, or a sleek student studio in Durham, you're never too far from the action (or the panic). 

The lowdown: student living in Durham means small city, big energy. It’s fast-paced, emotionally chaotic, and surprisingly wholesome — once you get used to the cobbles, the seagulls, and the fact that the weather hates you. 

Pro tip: Get a coat with a hood. And maybe a housemate who knows how to cook. 

Let’s be real — where you live in Durham can make or break your entire uni experience. Pick the right spot and you’re thriving: close to lectures, a decent corner shop, and noise levels under control. Pick the wrong one? You’re hiking 20 minutes uphill in the rain, surrounded by mysterious mould and mysterious flatmates. 

Here’s your cheat sheet to the best areas for student housing in Durham, so you can live your best semi-functioning adult life. 

Viaduct — The Main Character Energy Zone 

If you’re the kind of person who needs to be in the action, this is your spot. Viaduct is the student capital of Durham — packed with shared houses, pre-drinks, and regrettable walk-home chats. It’s chaotic, sociable, and about a five-minute walk to everything that matters (campus, bars, Tesco... you know, the essentials). 

House of Students has loads of Viaduct listings — from budget-friendly shared homes to upgraded pads with actual heating. 

Claypath — Semi-Serious But Still Fun 

Claypath is like Viaduct’s slightly more chill cousin. Still close to the city centre and full of students, but with less noise and more "I’m trying to pass this term" vibes. If you want a social scene but also sleep, this is a sweet spot. Plus, you're close to takeaway central — life-saving. 

Gilesgate — Budget Babe With a Bus Pass 

Gilesgate is perfect if you’re hunting for affordable student housing in Durham. It’s a bit further out (a brisk walk or bus ride into town), but rent is cheaper and you’ll get more space. Ideal if you don’t mind swapping central chaos for some peace, and maybe a slightly longer walk of shame. 

City Centre — For the Luxe Student Vibes 

Got a bigger budget or just like your room not smelling like last night’s chicken nuggets? City centre living is a flex. Expect modern student studios, sleek flats, and purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) with actual Wi-Fi that works. You’ll pay more, but hey — your kettle won’t be next to your shower, so that’s a win. 

Neville’s Cross — Quiet Girl Era 

Further out, yes. But peaceful? Absolutely. Neville’s Cross is leafy, suburban, and great for postgrads, chill undergrads, or anyone pretending to be a real adult. Plus, it's close to the School of Education and other campus buildings. Also, there are actual gardens. In Durham. Shocking. 

College Accommodation — The Full Durham Cult Experience 

Every college has its own personality and drama. Living in college halls means instant community, weird traditions, and never being more than a few metres from something chaotic. It’s great in first year, but let’s be honest — by second year, most people are running into House of Students looking for a kitchen that isn’t shared with 12 strangers. 

Choose the right area based on your energy. Want to be in the mix? Viaduct or Claypath. Prefer chill and cheap? Gilesgate. Going full luxe or full grown-up? City Centre or Neville’s Cross. And if you’re just here for vibes and formals, college it is. 

Ah yes, the sweet freedom of moving out — until you realise freedom comes with bills, budgeting, and the harsh truth that cheese isn’t cheap. Durham may look like a medieval fairytale, with its cobbled streets and Hogwarts vibes, but make no mistake: living here as a student still comes with a hefty side of financial trauma. The only magic trick you’ll be pulling off is surviving the term without going into your overdraft. 

Let’s start with rent — because that’s where 70% of your student loan vanishes before you can even say “direct debit.” Whether you’re living it up in a bougie city-centre studio with sleek lighting and suspiciously clean floors, or surviving in a five-person Gilesgate flat with questionable plumbing and even more questionable flatmates, housing will eat the biggest chunk of your budget. The good news? House of Students has options across Durham that won’t require you to sell a kidney. Bless. 

Then there’s food. You’ll swear you’re going to cook every night — maybe even meal prep if you're feeling delusional — but by week three it’s 90% Tesco meal deals, 10% regrets, and the occasional stir fry when you’re trying to feel like you have your life together. Weekly groceries? Around £25–40 if you avoid Waitrose and resist the siren call of Deliveroo (spoiler: you won’t). Toss in the late-night cheesy chips and spontaneous brunches and yeah… it adds up faster than you think. 

Transport? Surprisingly chill. Durham is stupidly walkable, so unless you're living way out in Neville’s Cross or are allergic to hills, you’re not spending much here. Maybe the occasional bus ride when it’s raining sideways, or that one Uber after a night out when your shoe breaks and your dignity is long gone (it happens). 

And we can't forget the sneaky costs — printing, society memberships, library late fees (because we’re all delusional about deadlines), overpriced coffees that somehow feel essential, that one flatmate who never buys toilet paper, and the unexpected emotional support bottle of wine. Oh, and laundry in college halls? Basically daylight robbery — £3 per wash and that dryer never actually dries. 

Overall, the cost of living in Durham is lower than London, but don’t let that fool you. It’s still university. You’ll still spend £20 on a random society hoodie you’ll wear once, and you’ll still question every purchase that isn’t instant noodles or Tesco’s finest. Somehow you’ll be broke and holding a tote bag full of overpriced snacks from the student union shop. It’s an art form. 

Pro tip? Budget like you mean it. Or at least track your spending until week four, then spiral like the rest of us. And if you’re looking to save on rent without compromising on location, comfort, or Wi-Fi that actually works — House of Students can sort you out. No stress, no scams, no seven-person bathrooms. 

When it comes to student accommodation in Durham, your choice of room says a lot about you. Like, are you a minimalist who thrives in solitude or someone who treats the kitchen like a social battlefield? Either way, Durham’s got room types for every kind of student — from introverts who hate shared bathrooms to extroverts who love chaotic flat energy. Let’s break it down. 

1. En Suite Rooms 

For the hygiene queens and privacy kings. An en suite means you don’t have to share a bathroom with someone who thinks washing a towel once a month is fine. Perfect for anyone who values peace, personal space, and not having to schedule a 7AM shower like it’s the Olympics. Most House of Students en suite rooms in Durham also come with stylish furniture and Wi-Fi that doesn’t give up on you mid-Zoom. 

2. Studios 

Living solo but make it aesthetic. Studios are the soft-life dream — your own bed, desk, kitchen, and bathroom all wrapped into a sleek, compact space where no one can steal your milk. Ideal for final-year students, postgrads, or anyone who’s over communal anything. Yes, they’re a little pricier, but the peace and quiet? Absolutely priceless. Especially when you're submitting a 3,000-word essay at 3AM in your dressing gown. 

3. Shared Apartments 

Ah, the flatshare life — for the social butterflies and group project survivors. You get your own bedroom (obvs), but you’ll share common spaces like the kitchen and living area. Some even have shared bathrooms, so choose your flatmates wisely. Bonus: you’ll never be lonely. Downside: you’ll also never be alone. But hey, communal chaos is a core uni experience, right? 

4. Non-En Suite Rooms 

The budget-friendly option for students who don’t mind a little less personal space and a lot more awkward bathroom encounters. You’ll typically share a bathroom with a couple of flatmates, and while it’s not everyone’s dream, your wallet will thank you. These rooms are usually more spacious than you’d expect — and in House of Students properties, they’re still super clean and stylish. 

5. Dual Occupancy Studios 

For the couples who think living together during term time is a cute idea — until you realise someone snores and neither of you actually does the dishes. But seriously, if you and your partner want to cohabitate in peace, dual occupancy studios are perfect. Just make sure you’re really into each other. Like, toothbrush-sharing-level committed. 

Whether you’re the flatmate who hosts wine nights or the one who ghosts the group chat, there’s a student room in Durham with your name on it. And if you want options that balance vibes, value, and zero landlord drama — House of Students delivers. 

Choosing student accommodation in Durham is basically like swiping on dating apps — overwhelming, slightly chaotic, and full of red flags if you’re not paying attention. The good news? You don’t have to settle for a crusty flat with dodgy plumbing and vibes that scream haunted. Here's how to actually pick a place you'll want to live in (and not just survive in). 

1. Know Your Budget — and Be Brutally Honest About It 

Sure, that city-centre studio with marble countertops looks amazing… until you remember your student loan can barely cover rent and weekly cheesy chips. Set your budget, then stick to it like your life depends on it. Because it kind of does. House of Students offers a range of options across Durham — from sleek en suites to budget-friendly shared spaces — so you don’t have to trade comfort for cost. 

2. Location, Location… Lecture Proximity 

Durham may be tiny, but you still don’t want a 40-minute trek to your 9AM. Think about how close your potential digs are to your department, the library (aka where you’ll cry during deadlines), and the clubs you’ll pretend you don’t go to. Popular areas like Viaduct and Claypath are student favourites for a reason: close to campus and the kebab shop. 

3. Room Type = Lifestyle Clue 

En suite if you like privacy. Studio if you’re in your reclusive academic era. Shared flat if you’re extroverted, broke, or both. Your room says a lot about how you’ll experience uni, so think about what actually matters to you — and what you’re willing to share (spoiler: not your oat milk). 

4. Bills Included? You’ll Thank Yourself Later 

A lot of Durham student rentals don’t include bills — which sounds fine until you’re decoding an electricity meter in November and your Wi-Fi cuts out mid-essay. Most House of Students accommodations include bills in the rent, so you know exactly what you’re paying and don’t have to stress over budgeting for gas and water like it’s 2008. 

5. Check the Vibe (Yes, That’s a Real Tip) 

Read reviews. Stalk the place on Instagram. Ask current students. Visit if you can. Is the Wi-Fi solid? Are the common areas clean? Is the landlord an actual human being or a ghost with a spreadsheet? House of Students properties are made for students — not just anyone with a buy-to-let fantasy — so the vibe’s already student-friendly, aesthetic, and anti-damp. 

Bottom line: Finding the right student accommodation in Durham isn’t just about where you sleep — it’s where you live, cry over coursework, have chaotic pre-drinks, and make core memories. Choose wisely. Or better yet, let House of Students make it easy. 

Because even the most committed student needs a break from Moodle, microwave meals, and pretending to understand seminar readings. Whether you're team “just one coffee” (liar) or someone who needs a Thursday pint to survive the week, Durham's got options — from cosy cafes to chaotic bars and everything in between. 

Cafes That Understand Your Caffeine Addiction 

1. Flat White Kitchen 
This is the “I romanticise my life” spot. Expect exposed brick, baked goods that could ruin your budget, and the kind of latte art that makes you forget your dissertation-induced spiral. 

2. Cafédral 
Yep, it’s a café next to the Cathedral. Super aesthetic, great coffee, and ideal for pretending you're in a BBC period drama while actually working on your group project. 

3. Chapters Tearoom 
More of a vintage vibes + tea cakes kind of place. Perfect for when you want to escape the Gen-Z chaos and live out your “I journal and drink loose-leaf” fantasy. 

4. Leonard’s Coffee House 
Cozy, underrated, and just far enough from the centre to feel like a hidden gem. Bring a book or your laptop — or don’t, and just people-watch for hours. 

5. Flat White Café 
Not to be confused with the Kitchen version — this one's the original. Smaller, but still serving that same energy: solid brews and the occasional philosopher bro deep in thought. 

6. The Greenhouse Café 
Vegan-friendly, plant-covered, and low-key your best bet for a guilt-free coffee and cake combo. The vibes = cottagecore meets caffeine. 

7. Treats Tea Room 
Old-school charm, hearty portions, and a serious sugar rush waiting to happen. Grab a booth and debrief that night out with a full English and zero judgement. 

Bars That Don’t Judge Your Weekday Drinking 

1. The Library 
Irony at its finest. Tell your parents you're spending the evening at "The Library" and technically you’re not lying. Great for student deals and questionable dance moves. 

2. Jimmy’s 
Grungy, loud, and exactly what you need when subtlety is dead. Ideal for pre-drinks, post-exams, or forgetting that seminar you skipped. 

3. Fabio’s 
Part bar, part fever dream. A true Durham rite of passage. Come for the cheap drinks, stay because you got peer-pressured into karaoke. 

4. The Boat Club 
A bit fancier, but still accessible. Think riverside cocktails and dressing like you care — for once. Great for birthdays and pretending you're in your LinkedIn era. 

5. Klute 
Infamous. Ridiculous. Probably sticky. Klute has been dubbed “Europe’s worst nightclub” and wears that title proudly. If you’re not at least mildly traumatised after a night here, you did it wrong. 

6. Swan & Three Cygnets 
Chill pub vibes. Grab a pint, park yourself outside (weather permitting), and engage in top-tier people watching. A solid choice for group hangs and avoiding chaos. 

7. The Half Moon Inn 
Small, atmospheric, and old enough to have ghosts. Allegedly. Perfect for a quiet drink with friends or your weekly existential crisis. 

8. Osbournes 
Bright, loud, unapologetically studenty. Always buzzing, usually has drink deals, and occasionally features dancing on furniture. Proceed with caution. 

9. Revolution Durham 
Chain bar energy, but reliable when you just want your vodka-flavoured something and a playlist you know. Bonus: actual seating. 

10. Wiff Waff 
Yes, it has ping pong. And yes, you will get too competitive. This is the bar for when you're trying to be social but still want a distraction from small talk. 

11. The Water House (Wetherspoons) 
You already know. Cheap. Chaotic. Surprisingly good curry. Bonus points if you spot half your seminar group in there on a Wednesday. 

12. Whiskey River 
Cosy, candle-lit, and vibey. Great spot for “serious” convos or pretending you’re deep. A nice contrast to the Klute hangover. 

Hangouts Where You Might Accidentally Be Productive 

1. Durham Riverwalk 
Take a break from the four walls of your flat and spiral by the riverside instead. Cute for walks, existential thoughts, or filming that deep “study abroad” vlog. 

2. Palace Green 
Iconic photo spot. Also doubles as a great place to lie on the grass and pretend your essay doesn’t exist. Bonus: actual history all around you. 

3. Durham Students’ Union 
For when you want to feel involved. From society meetings to surprise food markets, something chaotic is always happening here. 

4. Botanic Garden 
Nature fix without needing hiking boots. A peaceful, underrated retreat — until someone starts blasting TikTok sounds on a speaker. 

5. Elvet Riverside Courtyard 
Between classes? Escape here. Not quite a bar, not quite a café, but prime location for awkward run-ins and overheard gossip. 

6. Wharton Park 
Green space with views that almost make your student debt feel poetic. Pack snacks, invite the group chat, and try not to get rained on. 

7. Durham Market Place 
It’s giving cobblestone main character energy. Good for people watching, coffee runs, or spending too much on locally made things you didn’t need. 

8. Cafés with Plug Sockets 
Yes, this is a category. You’ll know the ones. Any café that doesn’t side-eye you for loitering with a laptop is elite. Respect the plug hierarchy. 

9. College Common Rooms 
Each college has its own vibe. Use them. Abuse them. They're comfy, warm, and occasionally have free biscuits. Enough said. 

10. Bill Bryson Library (the BB) 
You're lying if you say you've never napped here. Half library, half stress den. Go early to secure your fave spot before it turns into the Hunger Games. 

Need a map or a caffeine-to-alcohol conversion chart? Durham’s got you covered. And if you’re still figuring out where to live while bouncing between all these spots — House of Students has the plug for that too. 

Because if your camera roll doesn’t have at least one scenic shot of a cathedral, did you even go to uni here? Durham is tiny but mighty, packed with history, legends, and more cobbled streets than your ankles signed up for. Here’s your unofficial hit-list of spots worth ditching your bed for. 

1. Durham Cathedral 

Yes, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Yes, Harry Potter was filmed here. Yes, you’re going to act like you care about the architecture while low-key trying to find the exact spot Professor McGonagall stood. Iconic? Always. Overhyped? Never. 

2. Durham Castle 

Fun fact: students actually live here. Like, literally. Imagine calling a literal Norman castle your dorm. Whether you’re here for a tour or pretending you’re royalty during Freshers’ Week, this place screams main-character energy. 

3. River Wear Walks 

Get your steps in with a riverside loop that makes you forget about deadlines (temporarily). Whether you’re dodging rowers or feeding ducks, this walk is a rite of passage for every stressed Durham student. 

4. Wharton Park 

Sunsets, views of the cathedral, and enough grass space for dramatic picnics or existential crises. It's the chill-out zone you’ll crawl to once the group project drama hits. 

5. Durham Botanic Garden 

Underrated and lowkey magical. Come here to escape the chaos, get that nature fix, or pretend you're the kind of person who journals with a matcha latte in hand. 

6. Palace Green 

Nestled between the Cathedral and the Castle, this is your go-to for pretending you’re in a Netflix period drama. Bonus points if you spot the tourists and act like a seasoned local. 

7. Old Elvet Bridge 

One of the oldest bridges in the city and perfect for that misty morning aesthetic shot. Also good for spontaneous river staring while questioning your life choices. 

8. Durham Market Hall 

Vintage finds, indie sellers, and that “accidentally spent £30 on handmade candles” vibe. If you like buying quirky stuff you don’t need but totally vibe with — this is your spot. 

9. The Oriental Museum 

A cultural gem and arguably one of Durham’s best-kept secrets. If you’re into ancient art, global history, or just want to sound impressive on a first date — this museum’s got your back. 

10. The Assembly Rooms Theatre 

Student-led theatre but make it actually good. Whether you're performing, crewing, or clapping awkwardly in the audience, this space is peak artsy student energy. 

11. Crook Hall Gardens 

Cottagecore heaven. A historic home with gardens that make you feel like you've wandered into a Bridgerton side plot. Warning: may cause spontaneous romantic delusions. 

12. Durham University Observatory 

If stargazing sounds cooler than essay writing (spoiler: it is), head here. Great for astronomy nerds or anyone looking for an excuse to be outside at night without calling it a "walk of shame." 

So whether you’re a tourist trapped in a student’s body or just bored of your college’s common room, Durham delivers. And if you’re planning to live close to these gems — you guessed it — House of Students has options that keep you near the views, not stuck miles away. 

Sure, you came here for the degree — but let’s not pretend you’re not also scouting for your future ride-or-dies, flatmates, or at minimum someone to split a Domino’s with at 2am. Good news: Durham’s student scene is a whole personality, and the communities here? Top tier. 

Collegiate System: Basically Hogwarts, But With More Group Chats 

Durham isn’t just a university. It’s a full-on college experience. Whether you land in St. Chad’s, Trevs, Hatfield, or one of the others with surprisingly intense reputations, your college becomes your built-in crew. Think: intercollegiate drama, rivalry sports, bops (Durham slang for themed parties), and that one mate who lives in the library. 

Societies: Your Excuse to Be Dramatic or Sporty (or Both) 

With over 200 student societies, there’s something for everyone — drama nerds, sports fiends, Harry Potter reenactors, cheese lovers (yes, that's real), and people who peak in Model UN. Want to join seven clubs and never show up to a single meeting? You won’t be the first. Or the last. 

Course Groups: Aka Trauma Bonding Over Deadlines 

There’s nothing like a 2,000-word essay due in 6 hours to unite you and five strangers from your seminar. Course mates often become your unofficial therapists, rant buddies, and caffeine-fueled study crew. Pro tip: make friends in your department early. They’ll save your life during exam season. 

Student Union (DSU): Part Support System, Part Gossip Mill 

The Durham Students’ Union is where voices are heard, campaigns are run, and the occasional scandal brews. Whether you’re looking to make change or just show up for the free snacks, it’s a place where students shape student life — or just complain about it louder. 

Flatmates & Neighbours: Your Accidental Family 

Whether you met them via House of Students (smart choice, by the way) or just got randomly matched — these people will see you at your worst. Midnight breakdowns? Weird food combos? Cry-laughing at the kitchen table? Yep, this is where chaos meets community. 

Faith & Cultural Societies: Finding Home Away From Home 

Durham’s international and inclusive student base means there are societies for all backgrounds, religions, and identities. Whether you’re looking for a prayer space, Diwali events, LGBTQ+ socials, or just people who get your slang — there’s a pocket of community waiting. 

Bottom Line: Durham may be small, but its student communities are massive in vibes. Whether you’re a social butterfly, a chaos goblin, or a certified introvert who sometimes peeks out, there’s a place for you here. And if you want to live near where all the community magic happens? House of Students makes sure you’re always in the mix — never out of the loop. 

So you’ve made it to Durham — a pint-sized city where Google Maps is more of a suggestion than a survival tool. The good news? It’s so walkable you’ll accidentally hit your daily step goal just by going to grab a Pret. The bad news? Durham’s hills will make sure you earn those steps. It’s not flat. At all. But hey, who needs the gym when the streets themselves are a HIIT workout? 

On Foot (Yes, Your Legs Are Your Best Friends Here) 

Welcome to the cardio club. Durham is compact, charming, and completely conquerable on foot. Most uni buildings, accommodations (like House of Students, obviously), cafés, and dodgy kebab shops are within a 15-minute radius. But beware: what goes down must come up — and you’ll find out just how high your stamina is when you have to climb from the river up to the Science Site in under ten minutes. Bonus: walking lets you stumble upon random hidden alleys, indie shops, and questionable street performers. 

Buses (For When Your Ankles Tap Out) 

Arriva is the main bus operator in Durham, and while buses do run regularly, it’s a bit of a roulette. You’ll either just miss one or have three show up at once — the mystery is part of the charm. Still, if you’re staying a little outside the city centre, buses are your best bet. Student discounts and bus passes help keep costs low, and there's usually enough room for your tote bag, iced coffee, and mental baggage. 

Trains (Escape Plans and Spontaneous Day Trips) 

Durham Station is small but mighty. You’re only 15 minutes from Newcastle, under two hours from Edinburgh, and about three from London — ideal for spontaneous weekends, desperate getaways, or just pretending you're in a coming-of-age film. Trains are comfy, scenic, and only mildly traumatic if you forget to book in advance and end up paying full price. Railcards = life-saving. 

Cycling (For the Brave Only) 

Technically, you can cycle around Durham. But between cobblestones, suicidal pigeons, and surprise hills that weren’t on your route map, it’s a bold choice. If you do brave it, invest in a good lock, even better brakes, and a helmet that can withstand emotional trauma. That said, it’s the fastest way to class if you're running late and don’t mind arriving mildly drenched. 

Taxis & Ubers (The Backup Plan) 

Ubers are limited, but they exist. Just don’t expect a five-minute wait time — Durham prefers its old-school local cabs, and they’ll usually get to you quicker anyway. Whether it’s a post-night-out lifeline or an emergency Tesco run, taxis are there when you physically can’t. Keep a few numbers saved. And cash, just in case. 

Student Travel Discounts: Milk Them Dry 

From 16–25 railcards to the elusive “student discount” tab on every booking site, Durham’s got plenty of ways to make your travel budget stretch. Local shops, bus services, and even national rail are all ready to throw you a bone (or 30% off). Oh, and staying at a House of Students location? That means living right next to transport hubs and never missing the bus — unless it’s a personality trait. 

In short? You don’t need a car. You don’t need a scooter. You do need solid walking shoes, a decent umbrella, and a whole lot of chill. Durham’s travel scene may not be glamorous — but it works. And living with House of Students means you're always right in the middle of everything… not miles away Googling “cheapest Uber alternatives” at midnight with dead phone battery and no charger in sight. 

You’re in Durham — home of cathedral views, cobbled streets, and a vibe so wholesome it practically knits you a jumper. But even picture-perfect cities need a game plan for when things go sideways. Whether it’s a sprained ankle from too much dancing at Klute or panic-Googling “weird rash NHS” at 2am, this is your no-fluff survival guide to staying safe and sane. 

Is Durham Safe for Students? 

Short answer: Yep. 
Long answer: Still yep — but keep your wits about you. 

Durham consistently ranks as one of the safest uni cities in the UK. The crime rate’s low, the locals are chill, and the city’s cosy size means you’re never too far from familiar ground. It’s giving “I can walk home from the library at midnight and only be scared of my deadlines.” 

That said, this isn’t a green light to operate on sleep-deprived autopilot. Stay sharp — zip your bags, share your location when heading out late, and maybe skip the “mysterious shortcut” across the River Wear in the dark. You’re a student, not the lead in a horror flick. 

If you’re staying with House of Students, know this: safety isn’t an afterthought — it’s a priority. We’re talking secure fob access, CCTV, responsive on-site teams, and central locations that won’t leave you wandering through ghost towns after seminar drinks. 

Healthcare: The Boring Stuff That Actually Matters 

Let’s be real — no one moves to uni thinking about GPs and NHS numbers. But trust us, you don’t want to be registering with a doctor while battling the flu and crying into your Berocca. 

Most Durham students go with Claypath Medical Practice or the University Health Centre — both know the student lifestyle all too well. Register early, book online, and thank yourself later when Fresher’s Flu inevitably comes for you. 

In case of emergency, the University Hospital of North Durham (UHND) is your go-to for A&E — it’s about 10 minutes from the city centre and known for being student-friendly. For not-so-emergency stuff (read: WebMD says “possible plague”), ring 111 for the NHS helpline — way more helpful than Reddit health threads. 

Mental Health Support — Because You’re Human 

Between coursework chaos, living away from home, and the stress of pretending to have your life together, your mental health will need looking after. Durham University offers free counselling, wellbeing hubs, peer support, and drop-in sessions. No long forms. No judgy vibes. Just actual help. 

And if you need to go beyond uni services, organisations like Mind, Samaritans, and Togetherall offer 24/7 support — anonymous, accessible, and there for when things feel too much. 

At House of Students, we’re all about building more than just a place to crash — we foster a community where support is real, not just a poster in the stairwell. Whether it’s someone to talk to or someone who knows where the nearest GP is, you’re never navigating alone. 

Pharmacies, Prescriptions, and All-Nighter Regrets 

Need paracetamol, plasters, or caffeine eye cream? Pharmacies in Durham have your back. Boots on Silver Street is your closest bet, and there are plenty of local independents dotted around if you’re in a pinch. Prescriptions are straightforward — most GPs will send them directly to a nearby pharmacy once you’re registered. 

Living with House of Students means you're never far from essentials. GP? 10 mins away. Pharmacy? Down the road. Safety net? Built in. 

TL;DR? 

Durham = safe. 
Healthcare = accessible. 
You = covered. 

Just be smart, plan ahead, and remember — the best way to survive student life is to actually look after yourself. With House of Students, you’re not just choosing a roof over your head — you’re choosing safety, support, and stress-free access to the stuff that keeps you going. 

Because “funemployed” isn’t the end goal — just the prequel. 

Let’s face it: uni life is 30% lectures, 20% late-night takeout, and 50% pretending you’re not thinking about what comes next. But reality check — unless you plan to become a professional napper (in which case, same), you’re gonna need a job. Thankfully, Durham doesn’t just excel at giving you a degree and a caffeine dependency — it actually sets you up to snag real opportunities too. 

Part-Time Hustles That Actually Pay 

You don’t need to sell your soul or your PS5 to survive student life. Durham’s sprinkled with part-time gigs that won’t crush your will to live. Think pulling espresso shots in indie cafés, folding jeans in high-street retail, filing papers in university admin offices, or stacking books in the library while lowkey studying. 

These roles are actually flexible — because employers here know your schedule looks like a Tetris puzzle of seminars, deadlines, and identity crises. Plus, if you’re posted up in a House of Students crib, chances are you’re within walking distance of most of these money-making opportunities. No buses. No excuses. 

Internships and Work Experience 

Durham may give countryside core, but it doesn’t mean your CV has to. There are tons of local businesses — from charming heritage centres to PR startups and community organisations — that offer micro-internships and short placements. And spoiler alert: experience doesn’t always have to come with a London postcode and a crushing rent bill. 

Also, shout out to Durham Uni’s Careers & Enterprise Centre. These guys are the plug for student placements, paid summer internships, and resume workshops that don’t make you want to scream. They’ve basically made being employable their brand — and it works. 

If you're living with House of Students, you’ve got the city at your doorstep. And by city, we mean an entire ecosystem of side hustles, placements, and accidental career moves just waiting to happen. 

Big City Energy Without the Rent Pain 

Just because you’re studying in a historic city doesn’t mean your job search has to live in the past. Durham’s a stone’s throw from Newcastle and Sunderland — which opens the floodgates for bigger, glossier internships without the emotionally damaging price tag. Trains and buses make the commute painless, so you can dip into city life while still enjoying the homey charm (and actual savings) of living in Durham. 

Graduate Schemes and Career Launchpads 

Enter: the final boss level — adulting. But good news: Durham doesn’t leave you to wing it post-graduation. Employers actually rate Durham grads — thanks to the uni’s academic rep and the number of students who’ve somehow mastered PowerPoint, public speaking, and three internships before graduating. 

From NHS schemes to fast-track government roles, finance firms, media companies, and tech giants, the options are vast — and surprisingly accessible. Keep an eye out for uni-hosted career fairs that are more “network with real companies” and less “grab free pens and awkwardly hover.” 

Networking, But Without the Cringe 

You don’t have to show up in a blazer and lie about your 5-year plan to build connections. Durham’s college system, student societies, volunteering groups, and late-night event meetups are stealth-mode networking opportunities. That random girl you met in debate club? Her sister works in publishing. That guy you did a group project with? His cousin recruits for Deloitte. Play the long game — you never know who knows who. 

TL;DR? 

Durham’s more than just pretty views and overpriced coffee — it’s a genuine springboard for anyone who’s got ambition, curiosity, or even just the desire to stop being broke. Whether it’s a part-time job to fund your ASOS addiction, an internship that gives your CV some teeth, or a grad role that finally justifies your degree, the opportunities are there. 

And if you’re living with House of Students, you’re not just getting a solid roof and a nice kitchen — you’re getting location perks that put career moves within walking distance. Slay your degree. Snag the job. Repeat. 

Because finding a place to live shouldn't feel like applying for a mortgage, and yes — we get it. 

You’ve made it to Durham — the historic city with cathedral-core vibes, academic pressure, and cobbled streets that will trip you up at least once during Freshers' Week. Now the only thing standing between you and main-character-campus-life? Decent accommodation. That’s where House of Students slides into the group chat like the hero you didn’t know you needed. 

Zero Stress, All Sass 

We’re not here to give you the same five listings copy-pasted across ten sites. House of Students makes it ridiculously easy to find student accommodation in Durham that actually suits your life — budget, location, vibe and all. Whether you’re after a swanky en-suite or a classic crash pad near the uni library (read: last-minute panic zone), we’ve got you. 

Options That Don’t Suck 

Shared flats, private studios, full-blown apartments for the main characters — you name it, we’ve listed it. And no, we’re not going to show you “budget-friendly” places that look like they’ve survived three apocalypses. Our Durham accommodation options are modern, secure, and most importantly, places you won’t mind being seen in during a 9am Teams call. 

Close Enough to Campus, Far Enough from Chaos 

Durham’s a student city, which means prime location matters. Our properties are within walking (or panic-jogging) distance of your lectures — but also close to cafes, nightlife, and whatever Pretend-You’re-Studying spot you frequent. With House of Students, you don’t have to trade convenience for comfort. 

No Corporate BS, Just Real Talk 

We’re not here to sell you the “university experience” wrapped in fake promises and beige carpeting. We’re here to help you find a space that feels like home — even if that home has takeaway boxes piled higher than your GPA. Plus, we make the booking process so smooth it could be its own TikTok transition. 

We Actually Know What Students Want 

We listen. We adapt. We don’t ghost you after the deposit’s paid. House of Students is student-first — always. Our Durham listings are handpicked with the chaotic, coffee-fueled student lifestyle in mind. 

TL;DR? If you want to live in Durham and not spiral into a housing crisis, House of Students is your go-to. We're the friend who knows a guy — except we are the guy.