STUDENT ACCOMMODATION
Durham
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Welcome to
Durham
Study in Durham
University in Durham
Durham University, founded in 1832 and a member of the Russell Group, operates through a collegiate system of 17 colleges spread across the city. Teaching takes place in academic departments, while colleges are where students live, eat and take part in social and sporting life. All new undergraduates are guaranteed an offer of University accommodation if they request it, either in college or in college-managed buildings nearby.
Most second and third-year students move into private housing while remaining members of their college. Find student accommodation close to your college or department on Hallbookers..
Where do students live in Durham
The Viaduct, west of the city centre near Durham railway station, is one of the most popular areas for second and third-year students, with large shared houses and easy walking access to university buildings on both the Bailey and the Hill.
Neville’s Cross, southwest of the city centre, is a quieter residential area popular with students at the Hill colleges, within walking distance of the Bill Bryson Library and the main science site. Gilesgate, northeast of the city centre, offers more affordable private housing and purpose-built student accommodation, with bus connections to the city centre and university buildings.
Getting around Durham
Durham is a compact city where most student areas are within walking distance of the colleges and academic buildings, though some routes involve steep hills. Local buses connect Gilesgate and outlying areas to the city centre and the university. Durham railway station has direct services to Newcastle in around 15 minutes and to London King’s Cross in around 2 hours 45 minutes.
Browse student accommodation in Durham on Hallbookers, and rate and review your accommodation to help other students choose.
Search for Durham Accommodation
- All utility bills included
- 🎬 Cinema Room
- Communal lounge
- 🚿 En Suite
- 🎮 Games Room
- +5
- All utility bills included
- 📹 CCTV
- 🎬 Cinema Room
- 🛋️ Common Room
- 🚿 En Suite
- +6
- 🛎️ 24/7 staff support
- All utility bills included
- 🚲 Bike Storage
- 🛋️ Common Room
- ♿ Disabled Access
- +7
COMMON QUESTIONS
Everything students ask about accommodation in Durham
Quick answers to the most common questions about finding student accommodation across UK cities — from costs and contracts to the best time to search.
When should I start looking for student accommodation in Durham?
It depends on your year of study.
- First-year undergraduates are offered University accommodation, so most only need to search privately for their second year.
- For those students, there is no need to rush: Durham University says there is enough student housing to meet demand, and houses for the next academic year are usually advertised from around November to February.
- Postgraduates and students who choose not to live in college can start looking once their place is confirmed.
Do private student contracts in Durham include the summer?
Often, yes. Most private landlords in Durham expect students to sign a 12-month tenancy, and many undergraduate contracts start on 1 July, so rent is paid over the summer. Check the start date and length before signing.
What is the Durham Student Lettings Code of Practice?
It is a voluntary code signed by letting agents, landlords and purpose-built accommodation providers in Durham. Members agree not to issue contracts for the same property to several groups at once, to give students at least two working days to sign, and to help end overnight queuing outside letting agents.
Do I have to live in college in my first year at Durham?
No, but most first-years do. All new undergraduates are guaranteed an offer of University accommodation if they say they want one. Students can decline it to live privately or at home and still remain full members of their college.
Can I live in college after my first year?
Sometimes. Most second and third-year students live out, but some colleges accept applications from returning students for college rooms. Places are limited, so check with your college.
How many purpose-built student accommodation buildings are there in Durham?
Durham University lists 14 large purpose-built student accommodation buildings in the DH1 postcode area. Two of them are leased by the University, which leaves around 11 sites that students can book directly.
How do I get from Durham railway station to the city centre?
The Cathedral Bus (route 40) links Durham railway station with the city centre, the Market Place and the Cathedral from Monday to Saturday. It does not run on Sundays or public holidays. The walk is short but includes some steep sections.
