Bowran House, Preston

Preston offers a variety of student accommodation options to suit different preferences, lifestyles, and budgets. Here’s a guide to the types of rooms and apartments you can find:

1. Ensuite Rooms
Ensuite rooms are perfect for students who want privacy but still enjoy a social environment. These rooms come with a private bedroom and bathroom, while you share the kitchen and living spaces with other students. It’s a great balance of independence and community living.

2. Non-Ensuite Rooms
For students on a budget, non-ensuite rooms are a more affordable choice. These rooms provide a private bedroom, but you’ll share the bathroom, kitchen, and living areas with other students. It’s ideal for those who want to save money and enjoy a sense of community.

3. Studio Apartments
Studio apartments offer complete privacy. Each studio flat Preston student has a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen all within one space. This option is perfect for students who prefer independent living and need a quiet place to study and relax.

4. 1-Bed and 2-Bed Apartments
1-bed and 2-bed apartments offer more space. You’ll have your own bedroom, while you share the kitchen, bathroom, and living room with a roommate or a friend. This is a great choice for students who want more room but still want to live with others.

5. Shared Apartments
Shared apartments are popular among students who enjoy communal living. These flats typically have 1 or 2 bedrooms, and the kitchen and living areas are shared with other students. It’s a great way to meet new people and share your university experience.

6. Private Rooms in Shared Flats
Private rooms in shared flats provide personal space along with shared common areas like the kitchen and bathroom. This option gives you a bedroom of your own while you interact and live with other students in the shared spaces.

As a student in Preston, managing your expenses wisely is crucial. The cost of living here is generally reasonable with affordable student accommodation in Preston, compared to larger UK cities like London. Students are advised to budget around £750 to £1,050 per month, excluding rent. This estimate covers essentials like food, travel, and personal expenses. Here’s a rough breakdown of typical monthly costs in Preston:
1. Food: £30 to £70 per week
2. Gas & Electricity: £25 to £50 per week
3. Internet & Mobile Phone: £15 to £30 per week
4. Eating Out: £70 to £150 per week
5. Laundry: £15 to £25 per week
6. Stationery & Textbooks: £10 to £30 per week
7. Clothing: £40 to £75 per month
8. Travel (Bus, Train, Tram): £40 to £120 per month

Getting around Preston is simple and great for students. There are many transport options and discounts to use. If you’re heading to university, exploring the town, or visiting nearby cities, look at this student travel guide for Preston:

1. Buses

Preston has a strong bus network. Stagecoach and Preston Bus run frequent routes. They connect students to key spots, like university campuses and local shops. Students can save money with a Student Saver bus pass. It gives unlimited travel in the city and nearby areas for less. A weekly bus pass costs about £12. This makes it a great choice for students who travel often in the city.

2. Cycling

Cycling is a popular choice for students in Preston, with dedicated bike lanes and scenic cycling routes like the Guild Wheel. Student accommodation in Preston offers safe bike storage. Also, you can find affordable bike rentals. Renting a bike in Preston costs about £5 a week. You can also get a monthly bike-sharing membership for unlimited access to city bikes.

3. Trains

Preston has great train connections. Major stations provide direct services to cities like Manchester, Liverpool, and London. This makes it easy for students to travel to other cities for weekend trips, internships, or leisure. A train ride to nearby cities usually costs about £5. Students can save on fares by booking tickets early or using a 16-25 Railcard. This card offers a 30% discount on train fares.

4. Walking

Preston is a small, walkable city. Many student homes are close to university campuses and shops. Walking is a convenient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective way to get around the city. Many parts of Preston, particularly around the city center and near UCLan, have safe pedestrian zones, making it easy for students to navigate on foot while enjoying the surroundings.

Preston offers students a lively mix of academic life and leisure, with plenty of exciting attractions and activities to enjoy during their time here. Here’s a glimpse of what makes student life in Preston great:

1. Dining & Nightlife

Preston has a diverse dining scene with plenty of student accommodation in Preston options. If you're craving classic British food, places like The Adelphi and The Mad Ferret are popular among students. For those who enjoy international cuisines, Turtle Bay and Wings & Beer Co. are go-to spots. As for nightlife, the Foster's Wine Bar and The Warehouse are favorite hangouts. Preston’s nightlife offers everything from casual pubs to exciting nightclubs, making it easy to unwind after a day of studying.

2. Cultural Events & Festivals

Preston hosts several cultural events throughout the year that draw both students and locals. The Preston Caribbean Carnival is one of the city’s highlights, showcasing live performances, food stalls, and parades. Students can also enjoy the Preston Guild, a festival that celebrates the city's rich history and traditions. The Harris Museum and The Guild Hall regularly feature exhibitions and live shows, providing a cultural escape for students. To better understand the region and how it fits into the UK’s broader landscape, check out this guide to the UK, Great Britain, and England.

3. Adventure & Green Spaces

Preston is also home to plenty of outdoor spaces where students can enjoy some fresh air. Avenham and Miller Parks are perfect for a relaxing stroll, a run, or even a picnic with friends. For a more adventurous day out, the Forest of Bowland offers hiking and nature trails. Morecambe Bay, a short trip from the city, is ideal for weekend exploration with its stunning coastal views and beach walks.

4. Shopping

Preston has plenty of shopping opportunities to cater to all tastes and budgets. The St George’s Shopping Centre is one of the top shopping spots for students, with popular high-street brands. For a more unique experience, Preston Market offers local produce and quirky items. If you're after bigger retail options, The Trafford Centre in Manchester is just a short train ride away, featuring a wide variety of stores and dining spots.

Preston has several well-known universities offering many programs for students. It’s a great place for both local and international students. Whether you like business, healthcare, creative arts, or science, Preston has strong options for higher education. Here are the top universities in Preston:

1. University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

UCLan is one of the largest and most respected universities in the UK, with over 38,000 students. It offers excellent programs in business, engineering, media, and healthcare. Ranked in the top 7% of universities worldwide, UCLan has great facilities and resources.

2. Edge Hill University

Edge Hill University is located in Ormskirk, a short trip from Preston. It has an average annual enrollment of 14,637 students. It provides undergraduate and postgraduate courses in education, creative arts, and health sciences. Edge Hill is known for happy students and a great campus. It's perfect for those who want to study teaching, social sciences, or creative fields.

3. Preston University

Preston University is another strong choice in the area with an average annual enrollment of 10,000 to 15,000 students. It focuses on innovation and hands-on experience, giving students a well-rounded education. It's in the city, so students can easily reach housing, cafes, and entertainment.