The Keel Houses, Edinburgh

If you thought student accommodation in Edinburgh was all about squeaky beds, dodgy Wi-Fi, and kitchens with six different brands of milk going off in the fridge, think again. The Keel Houses takes everything you think you know about student housing and flips it on its head. Modern, stylish, and loaded with extras you’d normally expect in a boutique hotel, this isn’t just a place to crash—it’s a full-on lifestyle upgrade.

Located on Lower Gilmore Place, The Keel Houses puts you right by Union Canal, with leafy views and a relaxed vibe that feels miles away from city chaos—but spoiler alert, you’re still in the middle of Edinburgh. The University of Edinburgh is a breezy 15-minute walk, while buses take you straight to Edinburgh Napier and Heriot-Watt. Translation: whether you’re chasing library marathons or lecture sprints, you’re covered.

But here’s the kicker: it’s studio-only. That means no awkward “who left this in the sink?” chats or flatmate politics. Every student gets their own private studio with an ensuite, kitchenette, and study space. Think independence with a sprinkle of luxury. Whether you’re on a Bronze budget or eyeing up the Platinum Studio Canal View (hello, dreamy window shots), The Keel Houses has a space for every student mood.

All bills are included, so you don’t need to freak out about how much that extra-long shower just cost. Plus, super-fast 1Gbps wired internet keeps you connected whether you’re deep in research or deep in a Netflix spiral. Throw in communal spaces like cinema rooms, games lounges, and even a private dining room for hosting, and suddenly “student digs” doesn’t feel like the right label anymore.

Living at The Keel Houses is like saying goodbye to compromises. Privacy? Yes. Social life? Absolutely. Safety? Locked down with CCTV and secure entry. This isn’t just another box-ticking accommodation—it’s where Edinburgh students level up their uni experience.

Life at The Keel Houses

Day-to-day life at The Keel Houses is anything but basic. Let’s start with the facilities. You’ve got your own private studio, kitted out with a kitchenette, ensuite bathroom, and a proper study area. That means no waiting for someone else to finish frying bacon at 8 a.m. when you’re already late for class. Independence is the name of the game here.

And yet, it’s not just about shutting yourself away. Communal spaces bring the social vibes when you’re ready to surface. The cinema room is a go-to for movie nights or binge-watching with friends. The games room? Expect pool, table tennis, and the occasional fiercely competitive tournament. There’s even a private dining room where you can actually host a proper dinner party—so much more chic than instant noodles in a shared kitchen.

Wi-Fi is lightning fast (1Gbps wired internet, thank you very much), which means zero lag whether you’re gaming, streaming, or tackling group projects. Practical facilities also deliver: secure bike storage if you’re cycling around Edinburgh, on-site laundry so you don’t trek across town with a bag of socks, and landscaped courtyards for a quick breather between lectures.

Safety is top-tier. With secure fob entry and CCTV across the property, you can relax knowing both you and your stuff are well protected. It’s exactly the kind of detail that makes parents sleep at night—and makes you feel free to focus on the good stuff.

Social experience? Spot on. The Keel Houses attracts a mix of students from the University of Edinburgh, Napier, and Heriot-Watt, meaning you’ll be rubbing shoulders with people from all corners of student life. The balance here is ideal: privacy in your own studio, community in the shared spaces, and a buzzing city right outside.

In short: facilities that go beyond the basics, a social scene you can dip into whenever you want, and a safe setup that feels like home. That’s life at The Keel Houses.

Neighbourhood and Lifestyle near The Keel Houses

Living at The Keel Houses means you’re not just getting a stylish studio—you’re plugging yourself straight into Edinburgh’s best mix of convenience and character. Lower Gilmore Place is a gem of a location, perched right next to Union Canal. It’s the kind of spot where you can sip your morning coffee while watching rowers glide past, or take a walk along the water when you need a study break.

The University of Edinburgh is an easy 15-minute walk, making those early lectures slightly less painful. Edinburgh Napier and Heriot-Watt are just a bus ride away, so you’re never too far from campus, no matter where you study.

When it comes to city life, you’re spoilt. Haymarket Station is close by, giving you travel links across the city and beyond. Fountain Park is also a short stroll—think cinemas, bowling, gyms, and restaurants for those days when you just can’t face another night in. Groceries? Sorted with nearby supermarkets. Nights out? Head into the Grassmarket or Old Town for pubs, bars, and clubs that students practically call home.

And let’s not forget culture. Edinburgh Castle looms just a short walk away, while Princes Street, the Meadows, and endless historic streets are all within reach. You’ll never run out of places to explore or spots to drag your visiting mates.

Living near The Keel Houses is like getting the full Edinburgh package: peaceful canal views, buzzing nightlife, culture on tap, and campus convenience. Basically, you’re set.

Unique Highlights of The Keel Houses

The Keel Houses isn’t your run-of-the-mill student accommodation—it’s packed with features that make it stand out:

• Studio-Only Living – No shared kitchens, no chaos. Every student gets their own private ensuite studio with kitchenette and study space.

• Location Goals – Lower Gilmore Place means Union Canal views, a 15-minute walk to University of Edinburgh, and quick links to Napier and Heriot-Watt.

• All Bills Included – Rent covers it all: electricity, heating, water, and Wi-Fi. Budgeting just got way easier.

• Super-Fast Wi-Fi – 1Gbps wired internet to keep up with your lectures, gaming, and streaming habits.

• Communal Extras – A cinema room, games lounge, private dining area, bike storage, landscaped courtyards, and on-site laundry.

• Eco-Friendly Touches – Solar panels help power the building, so you’re living sustainably without lifting a finger.

• Safety First – CCTV and secure fob entry for total peace of mind.

Whether you’re about social spaces, fast internet, or just want a studio with views of Union Canal, The Keel Houses gives you the lot.

House of Student Take on The Keel Houses

The Keel Houses is basically student living glow-up edition. It takes all the annoying parts of traditional housing—sharing kitchens, dodgy Wi-Fi, mystery utility bills—and throws them out the window. What you’re left with is sleek, private studios in one of Edinburgh’s prettiest spots, complete with the kind of communal extras you’d expect in a luxury apartment.

We especially love the range of studios. Bronze gives you everything you need on a budget, while the Platinum Studio Canal View is basically influencer-level accommodation (seriously, imagine the Instagram shots). Add in the fact that you’re within walking distance of uni, close to nightlife, and right on Union Canal, and it’s hard not to be impressed.

Would we recommend it? Without hesitation. The Keel Houses is where you come to live like a student—just not in the way your parents remember it.

Who Will Love This Property?

• Freshers: The Keel Houses is the perfect launchpad into uni life. Private studios give you independence, while the cinema and games rooms help you meet new people fast. It’s like easing into student life without the chaos of shared flats.

• International Students: Moving countries is stressful enough without worrying about bills, Wi-Fi, or safety. At The Keel Houses, all bills are included, security is tight, and you’re close to everything from campus to supermarkets. It’s a soft landing in Edinburgh.

• Social Butterflies: Between Union Canal strolls, Fountain Park nights, and communal hangouts, your calendar will never be empty. Add in Edinburgh’s nightlife and you’ll wonder when you’ll ever stay in.

• Introverts: Your studio is your sanctuary. Cook your own meals, study in peace, and recharge in total privacy. Social spaces are there when you want them, but you’re never forced into them.

• Budget-Savvy Students: Bronze and Silver Studios keep costs under control without cutting corners on comfort. You get central Edinburgh living, bills included, and zero hidden costs.

Types of Rooms at The Keel Houses

• Bronze Studio – Compact and functional with all the essentials: ensuite, kitchenette, and study space.

• Silver Studio – More room to spread out, ideal if you want extra comfort.

• Silver Plus Studio – Upgraded layouts and design for students who want style on a budget.

• Gold Plus Studio – Spacious and modern, perfect for those wanting a little luxury.

• Platinum Studio – Premium finishes and generous space for a top-tier living experience.

• Platinum Studio Canal View – The crown jewel. Floor-to-ceiling vibes with stunning views of Union Canal.

Universities near The Keel Houses

• University of Edinburgh – Just a 15-minute walk, making The Keel Houses an ideal home base.

• Edinburgh Napier University – Quick bus connections take you straight to campus.

• Heriot-Watt University – Well-connected by public transport for an easy commute.

• Edinburgh College of Art – Within walking distance, perfect for creatives who need fast access to studios.

The House of Student Edge on The Keel Houses

The Keel Houses isn’t just student accommodation—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Studios only, all bills included, lightning-fast internet, and killer extras like cinema rooms and canal views. You’re minutes from the University of Edinburgh, with easy access to Napier and Heriot-Watt. Whether you’re here for independence, convenience, or just a place that looks good on your feed, The Keel Houses has you covered.

Our advice? Don’t sleep on this one. The best studios—especially those Platinum Canal View gems—get snapped up fast. Secure your spot now and claim your slice of luxury student living in Edinburgh.