The right neighbourhood will influence your daily commute, living costs, and university experience. Exeter offers several student-friendly areas with different advantages.
St James
St James is one of the most popular student areas in Exeter. The neighbourhood sits close to the University of Exeter's Streatham Campus.
Traditional terraced houses dominate the area. Many properties have been converted into student houses and shared flats. Students benefit from nearby cafés, pubs, convenience stores, and local services.
The location provides quick access to both the university and city centre. Students who want an active social environment frequently choose St James.
Heavitree
Heavitree lies east of Exeter city centre. The neighbourhood offers a more residential atmosphere while maintaining good transport connections.
The area includes supermarkets, independent shops, restaurants, and cafés along its high street. Students find private rooms, shared houses, and larger accommodation options throughout the neighbourhood.
Regular bus services connect Heavitree to the university and city centre. Students choose this area for its balance between convenience and a quieter environment.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is situated directly beside the Streatham Campus. This location makes it popular with University of Exeter students.
Many properties are large houses converted into shared student accommodation. Students living here benefit from spacious housing and direct access to campus facilities.
The elevated position provides views across Exeter. Daily travel times remain short because students live close to university buildings.
Newtown
Newtown sits between Exeter city centre and the university. The location provides easy access to academic facilities and local attractions.
The neighbourhood contains a mix of residential properties, including apartments suitable for students. Shops, restaurants, and essential services remain within easy reach.
Students who want convenient access to both campus and city facilities frequently choose Newtown.
St Davids
St Davids is an important transport area in Exeter. Exeter St Davids railway station is located here.
The neighbourhood offers modern accommodation developments and traditional housing. Students benefit from quick rail connections to other UK cities.
The area also provides convenient access to the city centre and university campuses. This makes St Davids a practical choice for students who travel regularly.
Whipton
Whipton is located northeast of Exeter city centre. The area offers lower accommodation costs than neighbourhoods closer to campus.
Many students choose Whipton for larger shared houses at competitive rental prices. Local shops, services, and community facilities support daily living needs.
Bus routes connect the area to the university and city centre. Students benefit from affordable housing without losing access to important locations.
Pinhoe
Pinhoe is located further northeast of the city centre. The neighbourhood provides a quieter suburban environment.
Students looking for additional living space frequently choose Pinhoe. Housing costs remain competitive compared with central Exeter locations.
Public transport links connect residents to the university and city centre. Many properties include outdoor garden space.
Polsloe
Polsloe is a residential area east of Exeter city centre. The neighbourhood offers a variety of housing options at reasonable rental costs.
Students benefit from public transport connections and straightforward access to university facilities. The area provides a quieter environment than locations closer to the city centre.
Many students choose Polsloe because it combines affordability with convenience.
Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant sits on one of Exeter’s hills and remains close to the Streatham Campus.
Traditional houses dominate the neighbourhood. Many properties have been adapted for student living and provide shared accommodation options.
Students benefit from short walking distances to the university. Local shops and services remain nearby, supporting everyday needs.
Topsham Road
Topsham Road extends south from Exeter city centre. Residential areas along this route provide several student housing options.
Students find shared houses, private accommodation, and larger residential properties throughout the area. Bus services provide regular access to the city centre and university campuses.
The neighbourhood suits students who prefer a less crowded environment while remaining connected to important locations.
Each neighbourhood offers different benefits. Students should compare location, transport access, rental costs, and local facilities before choosing accommodation.