University Of Exeter Accommodation

Founded by Royal Charter in 1955, the University of Exeter has developed into one of the UK’s top research-intensive universities. However, its antecedents go back much further, with the founding of the Exeter School of Art in 1855 and the inauguration of the Exeter School of Science in 1863. The university is now a member of the Russell Group, indicating its reputation for high-quality teaching, internationally acknowledged research and excellent graduate outcomes.

There are about 30,000 students studying on the university's campuses, which makes for a lively and diverse academic community. Streatham Campus serves as the main campus and is often regarded as one of the country's most attractive university settings. Spread across landscaped grounds overlooking the city and the River Exe, it combines modern academic buildings with botanical gardens, woodland walks, and open green spaces that students regularly use between lectures.

A second campus, St Luke's, sits roughly one and a half miles away and houses programmes in medicine, nursing, sport sciences, and education. The university also operates the Penryn Campus in Cornwall alongside Falmouth University, giving students access to specialist facilities in marine science, renewable energy, and environmental research.

The University of Exeter consistently performs well across several academic disciplines. Business, Economics, Law, Environmental Science, Psychology, Medicine, Engineering, and English regularly attract students from around the world. Research centres, such as the Global Systems Institute, have also helped establish Exeter as a recognised name in climate and sustainability research.

Accommodation is a vital aspect of the student experience. First-year undergraduates (UG) who are eligible, accept their offer firmly and apply for accommodation on time are typically assured a university room.

Many students consider popular residences such as Holland Hall, Lopes Hall, James Owen Court, and Garden Hill House before choosing their student accommodation at the University of Exeter. Students typically compare these university homes with private accommodation to find the ideal combination between location, facilities, room type and affordability.

Visitors attending conferences, graduation ceremonies or open days may also come across Holland Hall guest rooms at the University of Exeter, which are often available outside student term dates and offer short-stay accommodation overlooking the city.

As students continue into their second and third years, many prefer to move into University of Exeter student accommodation in the private sector rather than staying in university-maintained dorms. Across Exeter, purpose-built student accommodation provides modern facilities, all-inclusive bills, varied room types and sites close to campus and the city centre, making it an attractive choice throughout a student’s academic journey.

Quick Facts about University of Exeter

Student life in Exeter strikes a balance that many university cities struggle to achieve. It has the facilities and opportunities you'd expect from a Russell Group university, yet it's compact enough that most places are within walking distance. You'll quickly become familiar with your favourite coffee shops, study spots and shortcuts across the city, while still having plenty to do outside of lectures.

• The Exeter Students' Guild, based in Devonshire House on Streatham Campus, plays a central role in student life. It supports more than 300 student societies and groups covering everything from academic interests and volunteering to music, media, cultural communities and outdoor adventure clubs. Students can also get involved with Exeposé, XpressionFM and XTV, gaining practical experience alongside their studies.

• Exeter has built a strong reputation for sport. The university consistently ranks among the UK's leading institutions in BUCS competitions, with rugby, rowing, hockey, cricket and athletics attracting large numbers of participants. The Sports Park on Streatham Campus includes a modern gym, fitness studios, swimming facilities, indoor courts and outdoor pitches, while recreational sessions make it easy for beginners to stay active without joining competitive teams.

• When lectures finish, most students head into the city centre. Gandy Street is lined with independent cafés and restaurants, while Fore Street has become one of Exeter's most popular areas for vintage shops, bakeries and relaxed evening venues. Exeter Quay is another favourite, especially during warmer months, offering waterside cafés, pubs and walking routes along the River Exe.

• Nightlife in Exeter revolves around a mixture of pubs, live music venues and student club nights. The Ram Bar on campus remains a popular meeting point before evenings out, while Timepiece has become something of a tradition for University of Exeter students, particularly during Freshers' Week and society socials. The Students' Guild and student societies usually organise most student events, so there's something happening throughout the academic year.

• Shopping is equally convenient. Princesshay is Exeter's main retail district, bringing together well-known high-street brands alongside restaurants and cafés. Nearby, the High Street caters for everyday essentials, while independent businesses around McCoy's Arcade and Fore Street offer something different from the larger shopping centres.

• Students looking for a break from studying don't need to travel far. Exeter Cathedral, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM), Northernhay Gardens and the historic city walls are all within convenient reach. Beyond the city, Dartmoor National Park and the beaches around Exmouth provide convenient weekend escapes, giving students access to some of the South West's best scenery without travelling long distances.

• Healthcare is straightforward to access throughout your studies. Most students register with the University of Exeter Student Health Centre, while the Royal Devon University Hospital serves the city for specialist and emergency care. Exeter is widely regarded as one of the safer university cities in England, although the usual precautions apply when walking home late at night, particularly along quieter routes leading back towards Streatham Campus.

Students searching for University of Exeter accommodation often find that living within walking distance of both campus and the city centre makes it much easier to take advantage of everything Exeter has to offer, from societies and sporting events to cafés, cultural attractions and evenings out.

Although Exeter is smaller than many UK university cities, where you live can make a noticeable difference to your daily routine. Streatham Campus sits on elevated ground, so even relatively short journeys often involve a steep walk. Many students therefore look beyond simple distance and consider transport links, local amenities, nightlife, and rental costs before deciding where to live.

Here's a comparison of some of the most popular student neighbourhoods.

Best Areas for University of Exeter Student Accommodation (2026/27)

Best Nearby Areas for University of Exeter Accommodation: Detailed Breakdown

New North Road & St David's

• This area is one of the most practical locations for students who want to stay within walking distance of Streatham Campus. The area forms the gateway between the campus and the city centre, so you can avoid tackling the steepest section of Exeter's hills every day.

• Several purpose-built student accommodation developments are located here, including Northfield, Cricket Field Court and New North Road, making this one of the most sought-after locations for student accommodation near the University of Exeter.

City Centre

• Students who prefer having cafés, restaurants, supermarkets and shopping within easy reach often choose accommodation around Queen Street, Longbrook Street and the High Street.

• Exeter Central railway station is nearby, making travel home relatively simple, while Princesshay and Gandy Street provide plenty of places to eat, shop and meet friends after lectures.

• The walk back to Streatham Campus is uphill, but many students feel that the city-centre lifestyle makes the extra effort worthwhile.

Sidwell Street & St James

• This part of Exeter has long been associated with student living. Traditional shared houses remain common here, although several newer developments have expanded the accommodation choices available.

• Students who enjoy a sociable neighbourhood with independent cafés, takeaway restaurants and convenience stores often find this area a comfortable fit.

Heavitree & St Luke's

• Students based at St Luke's Campus usually prefer accommodation along Heavitree Road. Living here considerably reduces commuting time for medical, nursing and education students, while still providing straightforward bus links into the city centre and to Streatham Campus when needed.

• Atlas House is one of the better-known private accommodation options in this part of Exeter.

Pennsylvania

• Situated immediately north of Streatham Campus, Pennsylvania remains particularly popular with second and third-year students searching for shared houses.

• Rental prices are often slightly lower than purpose-built accommodation, although availability changes quickly each academic year.

• Students prepared to share a house with friends can often find excellent value here while remaining close enough to walk to lectures.

For students working with a tighter budget, New North Road offers one of the strongest combinations of affordability and convenience. Those seeking premium studio accommodation closer to Exeter's shopping district often prefer Queen Street Studios, which offers modern facilities, a central location, and straightforward access to both university campuses.

Compared with many other university cities in southern England, Exeter offers a fairly balanced cost of living. Rent is usually the biggest expense, while everyday costs such as groceries, transport and entertainment are generally manageable if you budget carefully. Choosing accommodation with bills included can also make monthly spending much more predictable, especially for first-year and international students.

Most students spend between £120 and £150 per week on living expenses, excluding rent. Your actual budget will depend on your lifestyle, how often you eat out, and whether you live within walking distance of campus.

Average Weekly Cost of Living for Students Near the University of Exeter (2026/27)

Grocery Shopping

• Food shopping is relatively affordable compared with larger cities such as London or Bristol. Tesco, Sainsbury's, Aldi, Lidl, Waitrose and Marks & Spencer all have stores across Exeter, giving students plenty of choice regardless of their budget.

• Many students living near St David's Station or the city centre can complete their weekly shopping without needing public transport.

• Cooking at home for most meals usually keeps grocery spending close to the national student average, while shopping at discount supermarkets can reduce costs further.

Getting Around

• One advantage of studying in Exeter is that many students spend little on transport. The city is compact enough that walking becomes part of everyday life, especially for those living around New North Road, Pennsylvania, or St David's.

• Students living further away can use Stagecoach South West buses, which provide regular services between residential areas, Streatham Campus, St Luke's Campus and the city centre.

• Cycling is another option, although Exeter's hills can make some routes more demanding than expected.

Household Bills

• Students renting privately should budget separately for electricity, heating, water, broadband and other household costs if these aren't included in their tenancy.

• Purpose-built student accommodation Exeter usually includes utility bills, Wi-Fi and contents insurance within the weekly rent. This makes budgeting considerably easier, particularly for students moving away from home for the first time or those choosing University of Exeter private accommodation instead of traditional house shares.

Entertainment and Student Life

• Exeter has a lively but relatively affordable social scene. Student nights, society events and activities organised by the Students' Guild help keep entertainment costs reasonable throughout the year.

• You'll find independent cafés around Gandy Street and Fore Street, pubs throughout the city centre, restaurants near Princesshay, and plenty of outdoor spaces along Exeter Quay where students can spend time without spending too much money.

• Setting aside around £15–£20 per week is usually enough for occasional meals out, coffee with friends and social events.

Course-Related Expenses

• Most courses require very little expenditure on books and stationery, as the institution has a wide range of digital materials available through its libraries.

• Students in medicine, nursing or other healthcare disciplines should factor in the added costs of transport during clinical placements across Devon. Depending on eligibility, NHS funding schemes may be able to provide financial support to help defray these fees.

Student Visa Financial Requirement

• International students should also be aware of the UK's financial maintenance requirement for student visa applications. For universities outside London, applicants are currently expected to demonstrate living expenses of £1,171 per month for up to nine months.

• This figure is set for visa purposes and shouldn't be treated as the typical amount students spend each month in Exeter.

Choosing the right accommodation often has the biggest impact on your overall budget. Many students searching for accommodation near the University of Exeter compare properties based on what's included in the rent rather than looking at the weekly price alone. Bills-inclusive accommodation near the University of Exeter can often work out better value than a lower-priced tenancy where utilities, broadband and other household expenses are paid separately.

The type of accommodation you choose can have just as much impact on your university experience as the location itself. Some students want complete privacy, while others enjoy living with housemates and sharing communal spaces. Exeter offers plenty of flexibility, whether you're booking your first room or moving into private accommodation after your first year.

Types of Student Housing near University of Exeter (2026/27): Room Types and Prices

Studio Apartments: Complete Privacy and Independence

• A studio offers a completely independent living space which combines your bedroom, study area, kitchen and private bathroom all in one apartment. This is a very common alternative for postgraduate students and those of us who are more independent.

• However, studios normally boast the highest weekly fee, but many students like the extra privacy, particularly when it’s exam time or when juggling study with a part-time job. Properties such as Queen Street Studios are widely recognised for their modern studio apartments, which are close to the city centre and campus.

En-Suite Rooms: Privacy with Shared Social Spaces

• En-suite accommodation strikes a balance between privacy and student life. You'll have your own bedroom and bathroom while sharing a kitchen and communal living area with other residents.

• This remains one of the most common choices for University of Exeter student accommodation because it allows students to meet new people without giving up their own personal space. Developments including Northfield and Cricket Field Court offer a range of en-suite options within walking distance of Streatham Campus.

Non-En-Suite Rooms: Affordable Student Living

• Students sometimes choose non-en-suite rooms to save money on lodging. You will have your own bedroom and access to common kitchens and social rooms but will share bathing facilities with other residents.

• Although less common in modern purpose-built constructions, you can still find these rooms in traditional student residences and certain older accommodation structures. They are popular with returning students who are looking for value for money rather than extra facilities.

Shared Houses and Apartments: Social and Cost-Effective Living

• Many second and third-year students choose to rent an entire house or apartment with friends rather than remain in university-managed residences. Shared housing generally offers more independence and can work out cheaper once several tenants divide the rent.

• Before signing a tenancy agreement, it's worth checking whether utility bills are included, how maintenance requests are handled and whether the property is licensed as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), where applicable.

No single room type suits everyone. Students comparing University of Exeter accommodation and nearby areas often find that the right choice depends on their budget, preferred lifestyle and how much privacy they want during the academic year. Taking the time to compare room layouts, facilities and total living expenses will help you choose accommodation that continues to work well long after Freshers' Week ends.

What matters most to you will help you choose the finest student accommodation near the University of Exeter. Some students want to be able to walk to Streatham Campus in under 15 minutes, while others prefer a city-centre location with cafés, shops and transport links on their doorstep. Budget, accommodation type and facilities are equally important when you compare your options.

Here are some of the most popular properties on the House of Student platform offering various locations, accommodation types and price points to meet diverse preferences.

Uni of Exeter Accommodation: Distance, Prices (2026/27)

Northfield

• Northfield on New North Road is one of the closest private halls of residence to Streatham Campus. It’s only a 15-minute walk to the lectures, so it’s a practical option for anyone who wants to limit their commute time.

• Modern student rooms with community facilities and easy access to the university and Exeter city centre are popular with first-year and international students alike.

Cricket Field Court

• Cricket Field Court enjoys one of the best locations for students attending the University of Exeter. Situated close to Prince of Wales Road, it allows residents to reach campus in well under ten minutes on foot while remaining close to local shops and everyday essentials.

• Its combination of location, modern facilities and student-focused environment makes it one of the strongest options for anyone looking for accommodation near the University of Exeter.

New North Road

• Students seeking excellent value often shortlist New North Road. Prices are competitive from roughly £150 per week, and it is conveniently situated within easy walking distance of Streatham Campus.

• Many inhabitants just walk to lectures rather than rely on buses each day, which helps decrease their weekly transport costs while enjoying easy access to the city centre.

Queen Street Studios

• Students who prefer complete privacy often gravitate towards Queen Street Studios. Located close to Exeter Central Station and Princesshay, it offers fully self-contained studio apartments with modern kitchens, private bathrooms, and dedicated study areas.

• Although it's one of the premium-priced options, many postgraduate and international students appreciate the independence and city-centre location.

Study Inn Walnut Gardens Exeter

• Study Inn Walnut Gardens is a modern place to stay with high-quality shared areas, comfy places to study and great services.

• The location is within easy reach of both campus and Exeter’s main commercial areas, perfect for students who want to mix university life with city living.

Exeter One

• Exeter One is a perennially popular choice, offering a blend of affordability, modern accommodation and a handy location on Cowley Bridge Road.

• Residents have convenient transit links as well as a walkable distance to Streatham Campus, offering flexibility during the academic year.

Collegiate Bonhay House

• Collegiate Bonhay House is located between Bonhay Road and the River Exe, in a calmer area, yet still has good access to the university and the city centre.

• This is a very popular place for students who want riverbank strolls and a little less hustle and bustle.

Hill View Place Hill

• Hill View Place offers modern student apartments with excellent shared facilities and comfortable living areas.

• The property is called 'The Shard', yet it is still only about a 15-minute walk to campus, making it a good alternative for anyone who wants to live somewhere modern but not too far from lectures.

Northernhay House

• Located close to Northernhay Gardens and Exeter's historic centre, Northernhay House combines convenient city-centre living with competitive pricing.

• While the walk to campus is slightly longer than some alternatives, residents benefit from having restaurants, supermarkets, shops and transport links almost immediately outside their accommodation.

Point Exe Exeter

• PointExe, Exeter, provides spacious housing within close proximity to the River Exe and key transport links through the city.

• Those students who choose this property benefit from modern facilities, cosy social areas and convenient access to both university campuses.

If you are looking for a quality studio or a cheaper en-suite, evaluating the journey times as well as the rent will frequently make your selection easier. Many students looking for private accommodation in Exeter opt for properties within a mile of the StreathaCampus, so they can walk to their lectures while still enjoyingoy everything that Exeter city centre has to offer.

Living in Exeter doesn't mean you absolutely need to stretch your budget. A few of the premium projects charge higher weekly rents, but there are many cheap options that nevertheless offer pleasant rooms, contemporary facilities, and handy access to campus. The trick is to choose lodging that offers the correct blend of price, location, and amenities included in the rent.

Affordable Student Accommodation near University of Exeter, Streatham Campus (2026/27)

Budget-Friendly Student Housing Options near University of Exeter – A Quick Guide

• The City Arcade Exeter: Starting from around £130 per week, it is one of the most affordable private student accommodation options close to the University of Exeter. Although it's further from Streatham Campus than some alternatives, students benefit from living in the city centre, close to supermarkets, cafés, shops and public transport.

• New North Road: Few properties offer the same combination of price and location as New North Road. With rents beginning at around £150 per week, residents remain within walking distance of campus while avoiding the higher prices associated with premium studio developments.

• Northernhay House: Students who enjoy city centre living without paying premium prices often consider it. Located close to Exeter's historic centre, it offers excellent access to local amenities and a reasonable commute to the university.

• Isca Lofts: Isca Lofts combines competitive pricing with a central location near Longbrook Street. It's well suited to students who want modern accommodation while remaining close to both lectures and Exeter's social scene.

• Central Living: As its name suggests, Central Living places residents close to the city's shops, restaurants, and transport connections. Students willing to walk slightly further to campus often find it represents excellent overall value.

• Exeter One: Exeter One continues to appeal to students looking for dependable accommodation at a sensible price. Its combination of modern facilities and straightforward transport connections makes it suitable for a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate students.

• Picturehouse Apartments: Located around Sidwell Street, Picturehouse Apartments gives students convenient access to independent cafés, supermarkets, and everyday amenities. The accommodation offers a practical choice for those who prefer to live in one of Exeter's busiest student neighbourhoods.

• Atlas House: Atlas House is particularly attractive for students attending St Luke's Campus. While it's further from Streatham Campus, its location significantly reduces travel time for medical, nursing and education students, making it excellent value for the right courses.

• Library Lofts: Positioned near Castle Street, Library Lofts combines central living with comfortable accommodation. Students can reach many of Exeter's cultural attractions, cafés and shopping areas within a few minutes' walk.

• Exeter Trust House: Exeter Trust House rounds out the list with a solid combination of reasonable pricing, comfortable accommodation, and convenient transport links. It's another option worth considering for students comparing affordable student accommodation near the University of Exeter.

Lower rent doesn't always mean lower overall costs. Properties that include utilities, high-speed Wi-Fi and contents insurance can often save students money over the course of an academic year. When students are comparing University of Exeter accommodation, it's worth looking beyond the weekly price and considering the total cost of living before making your final decision.

Exeter is one of those cities where many students rarely need a car. Most accommodation is located close enough to campus that walking becomes part of the daily routine, while buses and trains make travelling further afield straightforward whenever needed.

Transport Options near the University of Exeter

Walking

• Walking remains the most common way for students to travel around Exeter. Most accommodation close to Streatham Campus is within a 10 to 25-minute walk, while many city-centre properties are around 15 to 20 minutes away on foot.

• The only thing new students quickly learn is that Exeter is considerably hillier than it first appears, especially around Streatham Campus.

Bus Services

• For students who would rather avoid the climb, Stagecoach buses provide reliable connections throughout the city. The Line 4 and UNI services link Streatham Campus, St Luke's Campus, Exeter St David's Station and the city centre, with discounted student tickets available throughout the academic year.

• Night bus services also operate during term time, making it easier to get home safely after evenings out.

• Students living at properties such as Atlas House, Point Exe Exeter or accommodation further from campus often rely on these regular bus services for their daily commutes.

Cycling

• Although Exeter's hills can make cycling challenging in places, dedicated cycle routes and secure bike storage at many accommodation buildings encourage students to travel this way.

• The university also supports cycling through bike maintenance sessions and secure parking facilities across both campuses.

Rail Connections

• Exeter benefits from two railway stations. Exeter St David's is the city's main station, located roughly ten minutes on foot from Streatham Campus.

• Exeter Central is another convenient option for students who live closer to the city centre.

Typical journey times include the following:

These connections make travelling home during holidays or exploring other parts of the UK relatively straightforward.

Travelling by Air

• Exeter Airport lies around six miles from the city and is usually accessible within half an hour by bus or taxi. It offers domestic flights alongside selected international destinations.

• For a wider choice of overseas routes, many students also travel via Bristol Airport, which is approximately 90 minutes away by road.

One advantage of choosing student accommodation near the University of Exeter is that long daily commutes are rarely necessary. Whether you choose accommodation close to Streatham Campus, St Luke's Campus or the city centre, most destinations can be reached on foot or by a short bus journey, helping you spend less time travelling and more time making the most of university life.