Heriot Watt University Accommodation

Heriot-Watt University is one of Scotland’s oldest universities, having been established in 1821 as the School of Arts of Edinburgh. It became the world's first mechanics' institute, giving practical teaching to assist Scotland's burgeoning industries in the nineteenth century.

The university acquired its Royal Charter in 1966, becoming Heriot-Watt University. Named for benefactor George Heriot and innovator James Watt, whose work still impacts engineering and innovation worldwide.

Today, Heriot-Watt is recognised internationally for teaching and research across engineering, mathematics, business, computer science, construction, energy, robotics and the built environment. Its actuarial science programmes are particularly well known, while the university also offers one of the few specialist degrees in Brewing and Distilling available in the UK.

The main Edinburgh campus is located at Riccarton, around six miles west of the city centre. Unlike many city universities, Riccarton operates as a self-contained campus surrounded by open green spaces, woodland and a small loch. Academic buildings, accommodation, sports facilities, cafés, libraries and student services are all located within walking distance of one another, creating a campus environment that feels separate from the busy city without being isolated.

Around 9,000 students study at the Edinburgh campus, forming part of a global university community of more than 27,000 students across campuses in the UK, Dubai and Malaysia. The student population includes learners from well over 150 countries, giving the university a genuinely international atmosphere.

Many first-year students benefit from the university's accommodation guarantee through WattLiving. Others prefer Heriot Watt University student accommodation in private residences across Edinburgh, particularly if they want easier access to the city centre, more room choices or greater flexibility after their first year.

Students looking for student accommodation Heriot Watt University often compare journey times alongside rent. Thanks to Edinburgh's frequent bus network, living outside the Riccarton campus is a practical option for many students throughout their degree.

Life at Heriot-Watt feels different from many universities in Edinburgh. Rather than being spread across busy city streets, much of student life centres around the Riccarton campus. Lectures, sports facilities, cafés, accommodation and social spaces are all within walking distance, so students spend a lot of their day on campus before heading into the city during evenings or weekends.

Students living in Heriot Watt University student accommodation on campus often become part of this community quickly, while those living elsewhere in Edinburgh usually stay connected through societies, sports clubs and Students' Union events.

Heriot-Watt University Students' Union

The Heriot-Watt University Students' Union (HWUSU) organises much of the social life on campus.

Throughout the academic year, students can join more than 100 clubs and societies covering sport, music, business, engineering, volunteering, gaming, photography and cultural interests. There are also academic societies linked to individual courses, making it easier to meet students studying the same subject.

The Union regularly hosts welcome events, quiz nights, cultural celebrations, careers workshops and social evenings, giving students opportunities to meet people outside their classes without needing to travel into Edinburgh.

For many first-year students, joining a society becomes one of the easiest ways to settle into university life.

Sport and Fitness

Sport is one of Heriot-Watt's strongest attractions.

The university is home to Oriam, Scotland's National Sports Performance Centre. Unlike a standard university gym, Oriam is used by professional athletes as well as students, with facilities that include football pitches, indoor courts, swimming and recovery facilities, strength and conditioning suites, climbing walls and fitness studios.

Students can join recreational sessions or represent the university in competitions across football, rugby, hockey, basketball, badminton, athletics, volleyball and many other sports.

Even students who aren't interested in competitive sport often make regular use of the gym and fitness classes throughout the year.

Campus and Social Life

Because Riccarton operates as a self-contained campus, many students spend their weekdays there before travelling into Edinburgh later in the day.

Campus cafés, study areas and outdoor spaces remain busy between lectures, while the Students' Union provides regular entertainment during term time.

Weekends usually bring a different routine. Many students head towards Gorgie, Fountainbridge or the city centre to explore restaurants, cafés and nightlife before returning to campus using late evening bus services.

Students living in student accommodation near Heriot-Watt University Edinburgh often appreciate having the flexibility to enjoy both environments—a quieter campus during the week and Edinburgh's city life whenever they choose.

Food and Everyday Living

Food options on campus include cafés, coffee shops and dining facilities that serve meals throughout the day.

Students living off campus generally shop at supermarkets in Gorgie, Sighthill, Currie or Fountainbridge, depending on where they live.

Those based in central Edinburgh naturally have a wider choice of independent cafés, international restaurants and takeaway options, while students closer to Riccarton benefit from quieter surroundings and lower day-to-day living costs.

Edinburgh Beyond the Campus

Although the university sits outside the city centre, Edinburgh remains easily accessible.

Students regularly spend their free time exploring Princes Street, the Royal Mile, Grassmarket and Leith. During August, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe transforms the city with thousands of comedy shows, theatre performances, exhibitions and live music events.

The National Museum of Scotland, Scottish National Gallery and many public parks remain free to visit throughout the year, making them popular places for students looking to enjoy the city without spending much money.

Student Support

Heriot-Watt provides academic and personal support throughout the year.

Students can access wellbeing advisers, counselling services, disability support, careers guidance and learning development teams whenever additional help is needed.

Healthcare is also available through local NHS services, while students living on campus have straightforward access to nearby medical facilities.

Students comparing student accommodation near Heriot Watt University often focus on rent and commuting, but access to support services, healthcare and everyday amenities can be just as important over the course of a degree.

Because Heriot-Watt is based at Riccarton rather than in the city centre, choosing where to live usually depends on how much commuting you're comfortable with. Some students prioritise walking to campus, while others prefer being closer to Edinburgh's cafés, nightlife and shopping districts.

Here are some of the most popular areas for student accommodation near Heriot-Watt University Edinburgh.

Riccarton (On Campus)

Average Rent	Commute
University rates	2–10 min walk

Living on campus is the most convenient option available.

Everything is within easy reach, including lecture theatres, the library, Oriam Sports Performance Centre, cafés and student support services. The campus also has large green spaces that give it a quieter atmosphere than most city universities.

This area is particularly popular with first-year students who qualify for the university's accommodation guarantee.

Currie, Balerno and Juniper Green

Average Rent	Commute
£110–£160/week	5–15 mins by bus or bike

These neighbouring communities sit just east of the university and provide a quieter place to live than central Edinburgh.

Many students choose the area because rents are often lower than city-centre accommodation while remaining close enough to cycle or take a short bus journey to campus. Local cafés, supermarkets and access to the Water of Leith also make the area appealing for students who enjoy a slower pace of life.

Wester Hailes and Sighthill

Average Rent	Commute
£110–£170/week	10–15 mins by bus

Students looking for accommodation near Heriot Watt University on a tighter budget often consider these western neighbourhoods.

Although they don't offer the same nightlife as central Edinburgh, they provide quick access to Riccarton and generally lower rental prices. Several supermarkets and retail parks nearby also help students keep everyday expenses under control.

Gorgie and Dalry

Average Rent	Commute
£170–£240/week	20–25 mins by bus

Gorgie and Dalry remain two of Edinburgh's most established student neighbourhoods.

The Lothian 25 bus, which connects directly with the Riccarton campus, runs through this corridor, making commuting straightforward. Students also benefit from a wide choice of supermarkets, cafés, takeaway restaurants and independent shops.

Many providers of student accommodation near Heriot Watt University Edinburgh have properties in this part of the city because it offers a good balance between university access and city life.

Fountainbridge and Tollcross

Average Rent	Commute
£160–£300/week	Around 30 mins by bus

Students wanting to live closer to Edinburgh's city centre often choose Fountainbridge or Tollcross.

The neighbourhoods have a large number of purpose-built student accommodation buildings, modern cafés, restaurants, gyms and entertainment venues. Direct bus services make travelling to Riccarton relatively simple despite the longer journey.

Students searching for private student accommodation near Heriot Watt University Edinburgh frequently shortlist this area because of the range of modern residences available.

Edinburgh City Centre and Old Town

Average Rent	Commute
£215–£420/week	30–40 mins by bus

Living in the city centre places students close to Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street, the Royal Mile and many of the city's best-known cultural attractions.

Although rents tend to be higher, students gain immediate access to shopping, nightlife, festivals and transport links across Scotland. Frequent buses continue to provide direct access to the university throughout the week.

Which Area Should You Choose?

Students who desire the shortest commute tend to choose Riccarton, Currie or Sighthill.

You will find those who want to blend university life with Edinburgh's social scene in Gorgie, Dalry or Fountainbridge. Those who are happy to make the extra journey every day tend to choose the city centre where they can experience everything that Edinburgh has to offer outside of campus.

Compare commute times, rent, facilities and neighbourhood vibe to find the student apartment near Heriot-Watt University that best suits your budget and lifestyle.

Your biggest spend every month is probably going to be rent. That doesn’t mean that’s the only thing in your budget. Transport, grocery shopping, mobile plans and everyday expenses can mount up over the course of an academic year.

If you are based in Riccarton, you will probably spend less on transport than if you live in central Edinburgh, especially if you qualify for Scotland's free bus travel scheme. Or students opting for central city apartments can pay higher rents but have the benefit of better access to part-time work, entertainment and late night transport.

As a general guide, students should expect to spend around £125 to £160 per week excluding rent. Your actual spending will depend on your accommodation, lifestyle and whether utilities are included in your tenancy.

Weekly Expense	Typical Cost
Groceries	£34
Transport	£0–£15
Household Bills*	£16
Social Activities	£14
Mobile Plan	£3–£5

*Bills mainly apply to private rentals. Most purpose-built student accommodation and university residences include utilities within the rent.

Grocery Shopping

Most students spend around £34 each week on groceries, although careful budgeting can reduce this further.

Students living in Gorgie, Dalry, Wester Hailes and Sighthill have access to supermarkets including Lidl, Aldi, Tesco and Morrisons, where weekly shopping is generally more affordable than relying on smaller convenience stores.

Riccarton campus also has its own shop for everyday essentials, making it easy to pick up groceries without travelling into the city.

Cooking at home throughout the week remains one of the simplest ways to reduce living costs, especially for students living in shared flats.

Transport Costs

Transport costs vary depending on where you choose your Heriot Watt University student accommodation.

Students living on campus often walk to lectures, while those staying in Gorgie, Dalry, Fountainbridge or the city centre usually rely on Lothian Buses.

One of the biggest advantages for eligible students is Scotland's Young Persons' Free Bus Travel Scheme. Students under 22 who meet the eligibility requirements can travel on most local bus services without paying a fare. For many Heriot-Watt students, this removes one of the largest weekly expenses outside rent.

Students aged over 22 can still keep costs manageable through student bus passes or Ridacards if they travel regularly.

The frequent Number 25 service, together with routes including the 34 and 45, connects Riccarton with many of Edinburgh's main student neighbourhoods throughout the day.

Utility Bills

Students who rent privately should allow for the cost of electricity, heating, water and broadband if not included in their tenancy.

The typical household bill is roughly £16 a week, although this depends on how much energy is used and how many people are sharing the property.

Many students opt for fully furnished student accommodation near Heriot Watt University Edinburgh as utility bills, Wi-Fi and contents insurance are generally included within the weekly rent. This makes monthly budgeting considerably easier, especially for international students who are renting in the UK for the first time.

Social expenditure

Student life is not just about the lectures.

Weekly expenditure includes coffee with friends, society gatherings, a few meals out and weekend activities. On average, most students spend roughly £14 a week on social activities; however, this can differ from person to person.

Many Heriot-Watt students split their time between campus events and travels into Edinburgh. The Students’ Union often puts on modest activities on campus, while the city offers free museums, public parks and seasonal festivals that don’t need a big budget.

Mobile and daily expenses

A UK SIM-only mobile plan typically costs £3-£5 per week depending on provider and data capacity.

When calculating your monthly budget, also take into account other little expenses such as toiletries, laundry, home supplies and stationery.

Financial Requirement for Student Visa

International students applying for a UK Student visa should also be aware of the financial criterion established by the UK Government.

For courses outside London, applicants presently need to demonstrate they have £1,171 per month for living costs, for up to nine months. This amount is used for visa purposes and should not be confused with typical student expenditure which can be lower based on accommodation and lifestyle.

It is considerably easier to evaluate housing near Heriot Watt University before arriving in Edinburgh and prevent unexpected charges throughout the academic year if you plan your budget beforehand.

The best room isn't always the most expensive one. It depends on how you prefer to live, how much privacy you want and what your budget allows.

Students looking for student accommodation near Heriot Watt University Edinburgh usually choose between four main room types.

Room Type	Privacy	Shared Facilities	Best For
Studio	High	None	Postgraduates, couples, independent living
En-suite Room	Medium-High	Kitchen & lounge	Students wanting privacy with a social environment
Shared Flat	Medium	Kitchen & bathroom	Budget-conscious students
Private Room	Medium	Kitchen, lounge & bathroom	Groups of friends and long-term renters

Studio

A studio combines your bedroom, kitchen and living area into one private space, together with your own bathroom.

Students who spend a lot of time studying, prefer quiet surroundings or simply enjoy living independently often choose studios despite the higher rent.

Studios are particularly popular with postgraduate and international students searching for Heriot Watt University student accommodation Edinburgh that offers complete privacy.

En-suite Room

En-suite rooms provide a private bedroom and bathroom while keeping the kitchen and communal living areas shared with other residents.

This room type offers a balance between independence and student life. You have your own personal space but still get opportunities to socialise with flatmates during everyday activities.

It's one of the most common options in student accommodation near Heriot-Watt University Edinburgh, especially within purpose-built student accommodation.

Shared Flat

Shared flats remain one of the most affordable ways to live in Edinburgh.

Each student has their own bedroom while sharing bathrooms, kitchens and communal areas with other residents. Living costs are generally lower, making this option attractive for students trying to keep their weekly budget under control.

Many first-year students also appreciate how quickly shared accommodation helps them meet people after arriving at university.

Private Room in a Shared House

A private room within a shared house gives students their own bedroom while sharing the rest of the property with housemates.

Unlike purpose-built student accommodation in Edinburgh, these houses are usually managed by private landlords. Rent can be competitive, particularly in areas such as Currie, Gorgie and Dalry, although utility bills are not always included.

Students looking for student accommodation Heriot Watt University often compare private houses alongside purpose-built residences to see which offers better value once bills and commuting costs are taken into account.

Which Room Type Offers the Best Value?

Students focused on keeping costs low usually choose shared flats or private rooms.

En-suite rooms suit students who want additional privacy without paying studio prices.

Studios remain the preferred option for students who value their own space and are comfortable paying a higher weekly rent.

When comparing student accommodation near Heriot-Watt University, don't look only at the room itself. Check what's included in the rent, how long the commute takes, whether the property is fully furnished and what communal facilities are available. Those details often have a bigger impact on everyday life than a small difference in weekly price.

Students looking for Heriot Watt University student accommodation Edinburgh usually have two priorities: keeping the journey to Riccarton manageable and finding accommodation that fits their budget. Most purpose-built student accommodation is located east of the campus, along the main bus routes that connect directly with the university.

Rather than focusing only on distance, it helps to compare travel time, what's included in the rent and the facilities available within each property.

Property	Weekly Rent	Commute to Riccarton	Best For
Edinburgh Gorgie	From £185	20–25 mins by bus	Students wanting a balance between campus and city life
The Mill House	From £199	20–25 mins by bus	Modern studios and en-suite rooms
Edinburgh Westfield	From £185	15–20 mins by bus	Shorter commute to campus
Silk Mill Edinburgh	From £199	Around 25 mins by bus	Students wanting larger communal spaces
Haymarket Yards	From £245	Around 30 mins by bus	Premium accommodation close to transport links
iQ Fountainbridge	From £275	Around 30 mins by bus	Students wanting central Edinburgh living
The Bridge House	From £180	Around 30 mins by bus	Budget-friendly private accommodation
Murieston Crescent	From £315	Around 30 mins by bus	Postgraduate and studio living
Beaverbank Place	From £255	35–40 mins by bus	City-centre access with student facilities
Haddington Place	From £250	Around 35 mins by bus	Students who regularly travel across Edinburgh

Edinburgh Gorgie

Students looking for student accommodation near Heriot Watt University Edinburgh regularly shortlist Edinburgh Gorgie because of its location on one of the city's main transport corridors.

The Number 25 bus provides a direct route to Riccarton, while supermarkets, cafés, restaurants and gyms are all within walking distance. The property offers a good balance between university access and everyday convenience without placing students too far from the city centre.

The Mill House

The Mill House suits students who want modern accommodation with practical facilities.

Residents can choose from en-suite rooms and studios, with communal study areas and social spaces available throughout the building. The journey to campus remains straightforward using regular bus services from nearby Gorgie.

Edinburgh Westfield

Located closer to the western side of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Westfield reduces commuting time compared with many city-centre residences.

Students choosing private student accommodation near Heriot Watt University Edinburgh often consider this property because it combines a shorter journey with access to local supermarkets and essential amenities.

Silk Mill Edinburgh

Silk Mill offers a mixture of private study space and shared social facilities.

Students living here benefit from direct public transport to Riccarton while remaining close to Fountainbridge, Haymarket and central Edinburgh. For many students, it provides a comfortable middle ground between campus convenience and city life.

Haymarket Yards

Haymarket Yards is well suited to students who travel frequently.

Haymarket Station, tram services and numerous bus routes are all nearby, making it easier to reach different parts of Edinburgh as well as destinations across Scotland. Although the commute to Riccarton is slightly longer, the transport connections compensate for it.

iQ Fountainbridge

Students wanting a more central location often choose iQ Fountainbridge.

The area offers restaurants, cafés, gyms, cinemas and supermarkets within walking distance, while direct buses continue to connect residents with Heriot-Watt throughout the day. Students searching for fully furnished student accommodation near Heriot Watt University Edinburgh frequently include properties like this on their shortlist because many rooms include modern furnishings and all-inclusive utility packages.

The Bridge House

The Bridge House remains one of the more affordable purpose-built options available.

Students can reach campus by direct bus while keeping accommodation costs relatively low compared with premium city-centre residences. It appeals to students who want modern facilities without paying some of Edinburgh's highest weekly rents.

Which Property Should You Choose?

The best accommodation depends on your priorities rather than the property with the highest price.

If reducing travel time matters most, Edinburgh Westfield and Edinburgh Gorgie are practical choices.

Students who want to spend more time in central Edinburgh often prefer Fountainbridge or Haymarket.

Those looking for modern facilities with a wider choice of studios may find The Mill House or Silk Mill better suited to their needs.

Comparing location, weekly rent, included bills and commuting time together will give you a much clearer picture than comparing prices alone.

Finding affordable student accommodation Heriot Watt University doesn't necessarily mean moving far away from campus.

Several student residences across western Edinburgh combine reasonable rents with reliable public transport, helping students reduce both accommodation and commuting costs.

Property	Weekly Rent	Commute
The Bridge House	From £180	Around 30 mins by bus
Edinburgh Gorgie	From £185	20–25 mins by bus
Edinburgh Westfield	From £185	15–20 mins by bus
The Mill House	From £199	20–25 mins by bus
Beaverbank Place	From £255	35–40 mins by bus
Haddington Place	From £250	Around 35 mins by bus

The Bridge House

Students on tighter budgets often begin their search here.

The property keeps weekly costs lower than many central Edinburgh residences while maintaining straightforward bus access to Riccarton.

Edinburgh Gorgie

Edinburgh Gorgie continues to offer one of the strongest combinations of price and location.

Daily essentials are close by, public transport is frequent and commuting to the university is uncomplicated, making it a reliable choice for students trying to manage their overall spending.

Edinburgh Westfield

Edinburgh Westfield appeals to students who want to stay closer to campus without paying premium city-centre rents.

The shorter commute also helps reduce travel expenses over the course of the academic year.

The Mill House

Although slightly more expensive than some budget options, The Mill House includes modern facilities that many students value, making the overall package competitive once included amenities are considered.

Beaverbank Place and Haddington Place

Students who prefer living closer to Edinburgh's city centre sometimes choose these residences despite the longer journey to campus.

The additional travel time is often balanced by easier access to shops, restaurants, part-time employment and nightlife.

Finding the Right Balance

Affordable accommodation isn't always the property with the lowest weekly rent.

Before booking accommodation near Heriot Watt University, compare what's included within the tenancy, how much you'll spend travelling each week and how much time you'll commute during the semester.

A residence with bills included and a direct bus connection can often provide better overall value than a cheaper room with additional monthly costs.

Riccarton sits around six miles west of Edinburgh city centre, but travelling to and from campus is generally straightforward.

Frequent buses connect the university with western Edinburgh, Haymarket and the city centre, allowing students to live in a wide range of neighbourhoods without needing a car.

Walking

Students living in WattLiving accommodation or nearby private housing can usually walk to lectures within a few minutes.

Those staying in Currie or parts of Juniper Green may also choose to walk or cycle during good weather.

Bus Services

For most students, buses are the main form of transport.

The Lothian 25 provides the most direct connection between Riccarton and Edinburgh city centre, stopping through Gorgie, Dalry and Fountainbridge before reaching campus.

Other services, including the 34 and 45, also serve the university and surrounding western suburbs.

Students searching for student accommodation near Heriot-Watt University often choose properties located close to these bus routes because they make commuting much easier throughout the academic year.

Students under 22 who qualify for Scotland's Young Persons' Free Bus Travel Scheme can travel without paying on most local bus services, reducing weekly transport costs considerably.

Cycling

Cycling offers another practical way of reaching campus.

Dedicated cycle routes connect several western neighbourhoods with Riccarton, while secure bicycle storage is available across the campus.

Students living in Currie, Juniper Green or Sighthill often find cycling quicker than driving during busy periods.

Rail Connections

Although Riccarton doesn't have its own railway station, nearby stations make regional travel straightforward.

Curriehill Station is the closest rail station to campus and provides services towards Glasgow and other destinations in central Scotland.

Edinburgh Park Station offers additional rail connections alongside tram and bus services.

For longer journeys, most students travel through Haymarket or Edinburgh Waverley, where direct trains operate to destinations across the UK.

Destination	Approximate Journey Time
Glasgow	50 mins
Stirling	50 mins
Newcastle	1 hr 30 mins
Aberdeen	2 hrs 30 mins
London King's Cross	4 hrs 20–45 mins

Edinburgh Airport

One advantage of studying at Heriot-Watt is the university's location relative to Edinburgh Airport.

The airport lies west of the city centre, making it considerably closer to Riccarton than many other Edinburgh universities. Students can usually reach the airport in around 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or connecting public transport.

This is particularly useful for international students and anyone travelling home during university holidays.

Choosing Accommodation Based on Transport

Travel times across Edinburgh are generally reliable, so students don't necessarily need to live beside the university.

Many students choose private student accommodation near Heriot Watt University Edinburgh in Gorgie, Dalry or Fountainbridge because regular buses provide direct access to campus while allowing them to enjoy more of Edinburgh outside university.

Before booking, compare weekly rent alongside commuting time, transport costs and the frequency of local bus services. Looking at all four together usually gives a much clearer picture of which accommodation will work best during your time at Heriot-Watt.