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Central Studios, Reading

4, Greyfriars Rd, Reading, RG1 1NG, United Kingdom
From
£269
per week
0.5 mi from City Center
( 3m. 10m. 10m)
See Universities on Map
University of West London (Read... | 0.18 mi
Reading college | 0.93 mi
ONCAMPUS Reading | 1.7 mi
University of Reading | 1.81 mi
The Henley College Rotherfield ... | 6.03 mi
Pay In Instalment
No Visa No Pay
game room
bills included
study area

Offers (5)

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About the Property

Central Studios Reading is located at 4 Greyfriars Rd, Reading, RG1 1NG, United Kingdom. This student accommodation in Reading offers a range of studio rooms, giving residents the privacy and convenience they need to focus on their academic and social lives. The University of West London (Reading Campus) is just a 4-minute drive away, and Reading College is only a 9-minute drive away. This makes Central Studios Reading ideally placed for students pursuing higher education in the city.

Reading is an excellent student city, home to over 23,000 students spread across various institutions, making it a lively and diverse place to live and learn. Reading is known for its cultural mix, student-friendly atmosphere, and strong safety record. The city has consistently ranked as one of the safest urban centres in the UK. The cost of living in Reading is around £1300-1400 per month, allowing students to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. With a balance of modern convenience, natural beauty, and rich history, Reading fosters a community where students can thrive academically and socially.

Central Studios Reading accommodation stands apart not just for its prime location but also for the overall experience it delivers. This Reading accommodation is in a well-connected, central neighbourhood known for its access to shopping, entertainment, and green spaces. The property is designed with students in mind, offering a supportive environment that encourages both independence and connection. With stylish studios, flexible living options, and excellent management, Central Studios Reading is a perfect fit for anyone looking to make the most of their student life.

Features

Central Studios Reading offers a wide selection of modern studio apartments, from Standard studio to Classic studio. This makes it an ideal choice for students who value privacy and functionality. Each studio at Central Studios Reading is thoughtfully designed with comfort and efficiency in mind, furnished with a double bed, wardrobe, drawers, shelves, breakfast bar, shower, under-bed storage, and study space equipped with a desk and chair. The kitchenette includes a ceramic hob, combi oven, and fridge freezer, allowing students to cook meals conveniently in their own space. Additionally, stools are provided for casual dining or study sessions at the breakfast bar. Every room features plenty of storage, helping students keep their living spaces tidy and organised.

Beyond the comfort of individual rooms, residents at this Reading accommodation also benefit from a wide range of communal amenities. Central Studios Reading features on-site management to ensure day-to-day operations run smoothly and queries are handled promptly. A variety of communal spaces, including study spaces and table football, encourage social interaction and collaborative study sessions. With WiFi and broadband available throughout the building, staying connected for coursework or entertainment is never a concern. The property includes private en-suites in every studio, ensuring personal comfort and convenience. All utility bills, including WiFi, water, electricity, and heating, are included in the rent.  Central Studios Reading prioritises student wellbeing with strict safety and security measures in place. Features such as secure access and content insurance make this building a reliable and reassuring place to live. It’s also worth noting that pets are not allowed to maintain a clean and allergy-sensitive environment for all residents.

Location and What's Hot?

Central Studios Reading offers unbeatable access to the city’s most loved spots. The ONCAMPUS Reading, the University of Reading, and Buckinghamshire New University are nearby universities. The surrounding neighbourhood is full of life, rich in cultural diversity, and buzzing with cafes, eateries, and shopping options.

Popular restaurants like Thai Corner and Memory of Szechuan are just around the corner. While local favourites like The Hope Tap – JD Wetherspoon and The Gateway pubs are perfect for relaxed evenings with friends. For coffee lovers, The Atrium and Rafina serve as perfect go-to spots. If you're looking for green spaces to unwind or take a stroll, Forbury Gardens Park and King’s Meadow are just a short walk away.

For a dose of culture, Reading Museum and the Riverside Museum offer fascinating insights into the city’s heritage. The nearby Reading Winter Wonderland and Reading Abbey’s Market Place are must-visit attractions during the festive season and local events. Bookworms and students looking for study materials will appreciate the proximity to Reading Central Library and The Learning Hub. In terms of practical needs, residents are well-served by the Sainsbury’s supermarket just a few steps away. While health concerns are easily addressed with Boots Pharmacy and the Royal Berkshire Hospital nearby. For a retail fix, The Oracle shopping mall is practically next door, offering high-street stores, dining spots, and leisure options all under one roof.

Commute

Getting around Central Studios Reading is incredibly convenient, due to the city's excellent transport system. Reading railway station and Reading West station are the closest for national and regional rail travel. Greyfriars Road (Stop FG) and Friar Street (Stop FF) bus stations are nearby for local bus connections. Central Studios Reading student accommodation is located just minutes away from key transport hubs, which makes it a popular option among students and professionals.

Video Tours

Explore the property through a virtual walkthrough and discover a variety of in house amenities all at highly affordable rents.

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Room Types (5)

Clear
All (5)
Studio (5)
Studio
All-in-one space with a bedroom, private bathroom, living area, and kitchenette — Ideal for complete independence
2

Classic Studio

Starting From:£269/week
Studio
Entire Place
Private Bathroom
Private Kitchen
2

Premium Studio

Starting From:£279/week
Studio
Entire Place
Private Bathroom
Private Kitchen
2

Luxury Studio

Starting From:£289/week
Studio
Entire Place
Private Bathroom
Private Kitchen
3

Deluxe Studio

Starting From:£299/week
Studio
Entire Place
Private Bathroom
Private Kitchen
3

Penthouse Studio

Starting From:£310/week
Studio
Entire Place
Private Bathroom
Private Kitchen
Amenities
Common Amenities
Study Rooms
Wi-Fi
Roof Terrace
Lounge
Laundry
Games Area
Safety and Security
On-Site Resident's Team
CCTV
Smoke Alarm
Bills Included
Hot Water
Electric
Contents Insurance
Wi-Fi
Property Rules
Pets Not Allowed
Smoking Not Allowed

Payment Policies (4)

  • Booking Deposit
    This property requires booking deposit.
  • Pay In Instalment
    This property offers flexible instalment plan.
  • Mode Of Payment
    Payment via easy transaction modes.
Booking Deposit
<p><strong>For 26-27 AY:</strong></p> <p>1. To secure the booking an <strong>advance rent payment of £150</strong> will be due at the time of completing the application.</p> <p>2. This amount will get credited against the <strong>first rent instalment.</strong></p>
Pay In Instalment
<p><strong>For 26-27 AY:-</strong></p> <p>1. The first instalment/full payment is due on the 1st August 2026. The subsequent instalments are due as detailed in the Tenancy Agreement.</p> <p>2. You will only be able to check in once the booking has been countersigned and the payment has been completed to the property.</p>
Mode Of Payment
<p>Credit card, debit card and bank transfer.</p>
Guarantor Requirement
<p><strong>For 26-27 AY:-</strong></p> <p><strong>Not required if you are paying the full rent upfront</strong></p> <p>1. All applicants are required to nominate a guarantor—someone over 18 who agrees to meet all obligations set out in the Occupancy Agreement.</p> <p>2. The guarantor cannot live with you (unless they are your parent or guardian) or live in another property managed by them.</p> <p>3. The guarantor must:</p> <p>• Pay rent if it is unpaid by the tenant</p> <p>• Cover any costs resulting from breaches of the tenancy</p> <p>• May be contacted if the tenant is involved in serious antisocial behaviour</p> <p>4. To qualify, guarantors must provide:</p> <p>• Photo ID (e.g. a valid passport)</p> <p>• Proof of residence (e.g. a recent utility bill or bank statement dated within the last 3 months) Failure to provide suitable documentation will result in the guarantor being declined.</p>

Cancellation Policies (4)

  • Cooling Off Period
    This property offers cooling-off period.
  • No Visa No Pay
    This property allows cancellation due to visa rejection.
  • No Place No Pay
    This property allows cancellation if admission is not secured.
  • Replacement Tenant Accepted
    This property allows cancellation upon finding replacement tenant.
Cooling Off Period
<p><strong>For 26-27 AY:-</strong></p> <p>1. If you booked online or by phone and have not viewed the accommodation in person, you have a 72-hour cooling-off period after booking (reduced to 24 hours from 1st August 2026).</p> <p>2. During this period, you may cancel your booking provided you have not moved in.</p> <p>3. To cancel, please email the Residents’ Team with the subject line: “Cooling Off Period Cancellation.”</p> <p>4. Refunds will be processed within 10 working days.</p>
No Visa No Pay
<p><strong>For 26-27 AY:-</strong></p> <p>1. After the cooling-off period, you may cancel before the tenancy start date only if you are unable to obtain a visa to enter the UK.</p> <p>2. Please provide supporting evidence (e.g. visa refusal) to your Residents’ Team within 72 hours of receiving it.</p> <p>3. Your advance rent payment will then be refunded.</p> <p>4. If you receive this notification after your tenancy start date, you remain responsible for rent payments up to the date you provide evidence and we confirm your release.</p> <p>5. No other cancellation requests will be accepted before or during the tenancy.</p>
No Place No Pay
<p><strong>For 26-27 AY:-</strong></p> <p>1. After the cooling-off period, you may cancel before the tenancy start date only if :</p> <p>• You did not receive the required grades to attend your chosen university</p> <p>• You failed to achieve the grades needed to continue your studies</p> <p>2. Please provide supporting evidence (e.g. UCAS notifications) to your Residents’ Team within 72 hours of receiving it.</p> <p>3. Your advance rent payment will then be refunded.</p> <p>4. If you receive this notification after your tenancy start date, you remain responsible for rent payments up to the date you provide evidence and we confirm your release.</p> <p>5. No other cancellation requests will be accepted before or during the tenancy.</p>
Replacement Tenant Accepted
<p><strong>For 26-27 AY:-</strong></p> <p>1. If you wish to end your license to occupy early, you may find a replacement licensee acceptable to the landlord.</p> <p>2. The new licensee will sign a new agreement, which may be at a different rent to match the current market rate.</p> <p>3. Before we accept a replacement:</p> <p>• Your rent account must be fully up to date</p> <p>• Any rent owed up to your leaving date must be paid Once the replacement licensee has signed and paid, they will assume responsibility for all future rent and obligations.</p> <p>4. Until then, you remain responsible for the rent until the original end date.</p>
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Come to Have a Look Around Before I Book?

Of course! They are very proud of their properties and would love to show you around. If you want to bring some friends or family members that’s absolutely fine too – they just ask that you speak to their Residents’ Team in advance so they can make sure some rooms are available to view. If you find yourself in the area and haven’t had a chance to speak to them, you can still pop in. Whilst there might not be a room to show you, they will still be able to show you around their Residents’ Shared Spaces. They can also offer online video viewings if you don’t live locally, so let them know what works for you!

What room types are available, and what’s the difference between them?

Their room types vary per property but usually range from en-suite rooms to individual studios. Differences in rooms per property may include size, floor, and the number of flatmates you’ll be sharing a kitchen with.

How Can I Choose the Best Room for Me?

They want you to choose a room you are going to be happy living in and know everyone has a different wish list – from the floor the room is on to the view and the amenities in the room, their Residents’ Team will be on hand to discuss this with you and help you make the best selection.

Can I live with friends or request specific flatmates?

Yes! They know that choosing who you live with is really important, so their properties with shared apartments offer group booking which can be easily organised by getting in touch with their Residents’ Teams.

I Have a Medical Condition Which Means I Have Certain Requirements for My Room?

Please get in touch with their Residents’ Team – they are experts on their properties and most have rooms with varying levels of adaptations, so their team will be able to help you. If you book online and tell them you have a medical condition, the booking process will automatically pause so you can speak with them to discuss your requirements.

I Will Be Aged 16 or 17 When the Tenancy Starts – Can I Still Book?

Please contact the Residents’ Team at your chosen property for more information. At properties where under 18’s are accepted, they will ask you to complete a few extra steps during the booking process. This will include nominating a Responsible Adult who will be their point of contact for you, and they will recommend monthly meetings with their General Manager once you have moved in, but that’s up to you! What are Sanction Checks? (Does not apply in Republic of Ireland) Sanction checks are carried out to make sure that individuals are not listed on the UK government’s financial sanctions list. These checks are part of the Sanctions (EU Exit) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2024, which took effect from 14 May 2025. This means they are legally required to: Check applicants and guarantors against the UK Sanctions List before entering into a tenancy agreement. Prevent any bookings involving individuals who appear on the list. Report any matches or concerns to the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI). The checks are carried out by a specialist provider on behalf of the property and help ensure compliance with UK law.

What social events do you hold?

They have a thriving social calendar, thanks to their award-winning Be Wellbeing Programme. Their Residents’ Teams put on weekly events for their residents, including pizza nights, quizzes, crafting evenings, book clubs, and so much more!

Can I Invite Guests to Stay In My Room?

They're all grown-ups here, so of course occasional overnight guests are allowed. Please don't invite someone to stay for more than three consecutive nights, and always check with your flatmates first that they're ok with extra house guests.

Can I Bring an E Scooter or E Bike with Me?

E-scooters have become a popular way to get around, but due to the fire risks associated with their batteries, not all properties are able to accommodate them. You’ll need to check directly with your chosen property to find out if e-scooters are permitted on-site and if any specific storage or charging rules will apply.

Will My Room be Inspected?

Yes, they conduct inspections at least three times during your tenancy. They'll keep an eye on cleanliness and hope not to spot any damage or missing items. After each inspection, they will tell you if any charges need to be made to put something right. You will be invoiced immediately for damages, and any cleaning charges will be added at the end of the tenancy. The cost of recharges for cleaning, damages, and missing items can be found in the Residents’ Handbook.

Do I Need to Move Out Over the Christmas and Easter Holidays?

No, your room is yours for the whole of your tenancy. You only need to move out at the end of the agreement. It will be your responsibility to check with the local Council if Council Tax will be due if you stay during the holidays.

What Do I do if I am Not Totally Satisfied?

They hope you will love living with them, but there may be times when they don’t always get it right. They take all complaints seriously and will try their best to fix any issues the first time. If you need help or advice, please speak with your General Manager first. To view their complaints procedure, please download this Guide.

What Behaviour / Conduct is Expected of Me?

At the property, they believe all residents want to live in a safe and clean environment where individuals respect each other, their home, and the local community. Please have a read of their Anti-Social Behaviour Policy, which explains their approach to managing any anti-social behaviour that may occur.

When Can I Move In?

A few weeks before the start of your tenancy, they will get in contact to ask you to watch their induction video and book a move-in slot. You will need to do this so they can make sure they are expecting you!

Can I Order Bedding and Kitchen Packs?

Yes! Order bedding, kitchen packs, and other uni essentials from their shop.

Do I need a TV license?

You need a TV Licence if you watch or record live TV broadcasts on any channel, on any service, or through any device, including streaming services like BBC iPlayer. This also applies to watching live TV on platforms like YouTube, ITVX, or Amazon Prime Video. However, you don't need a TV Licence if you only watch on-demand content or never watch live TV.
Central Studios, Reading
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3 Reviews
4.7

D
Divya
5.0
Rooms are good size. love the amount of desk space and storage. Only draw back to the room is the lack of plugs near the bed or wall. They do put on events etc for us to participate in and there is pool and table tennis to do. Location: definitely the furthest out of city campus Safety: good ish safety. prefer the key fob at the forge compared to the key card though. CCTV everywhere although they dont use it. (I lost my watch after a night out in the reception and they refused to look at CCTV to see if anyone had picked it up) Management: the CCTV use pissed me off quite abit and the fact that parking is sooooooo expensive. there are so many spaces left over underneath they should really consider reducing the cost as there is free parking at the leadmill. They also took 8 months to deliver our post box keys. how difficult is it to go get some cut or even buy a new lock??? i could do it in 30mins by walking to the key cutting place on castle square. Value: good value overall to be fair
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I
Isha
5.0
I stayed here in Central Quay my first year and I thoroughly enjoyed living here. Ideal place to live for first years that want a good social life... there was always something happening. They would always see to any maintenance needs in a timely manner. They were extremely reasonable with the damage deposit and refunded my full deposit within days of moving out (some student letting companies are not reasonable with deposits). I loved my room in my first year and the kitchen was well-equipped. I would highly recommend to first years who are looking for accommodation
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A
Aniket
4.0
never found a problem staying here. A bit far from the town centre and steep climb to the university blocks, if you don't mind walking, one of the best places to stay. but that's subjective
Read more

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Student Accommodations in Reading

Reading Student Accommodation

Reading is one of the United Kingdom's most dynamic student towns, home to over 30,000 students and known for its blend of modern city life, riverside charm, and strong academic reputation. Known for its mix of modern living and rich history, Reading is home to a large student population, thanks to the University of Reading, Reading College, and several language institutes. Whether you’re looking for cheap student accommodation in Reading or stylish studios near the city centre, you’ll find plenty of options to match your lifestyle and budget. Amber makes it simple to compare and book Reading student accommodation. From private student accommodation Reading to shared flats and en-suite rooms, every property listed is 100% verified, with transparent pricing and inclusive rent. You can explore options like shared apartments, PBSAs (purpose-built student accommodations), and co-living spaces, all designed to offer comfort and community.

The average rent for student accommodation in Reading UK, ranges between £180 and £300 per week, depending on the location and facilities. Amber’s listings make it easy to find student accommodation near University of Reading. Whether you prefer modern studios or budget-friendly shared rooms, student housing in Reading offers the perfect balance of comfort. Top properties like Berkshire House and Student Castle Reading are provided by some of the most reputable PMGs like Dwell Student Living. So, if you’re searching for the best student accommodation in Reading, amber has you covered with a seamless booking experience and expert support every step of the way.

About Reading

Reading, located in Berkshire, England, is a university town known for its strong academic reputation, historic charm, and youthful energy. With a population of over 230,000 people, Reading is one of the largest towns in the UK and has evolved into a thriving hub for students, innovation, and culture. Just 25 minutes from London by train, it offers the perfect blend of big-city opportunities and small-town comfort, ideal for students looking for a balanced lifestyle. The town is home to the prestigious University of Reading, renowned for its research excellence and global rankings, attracting students from more than 150 countries. It’s also known for its green campuses, particularly the Whiteknights Campus, which spans over 130 hectares of parkland and has been voted one of the best university campuses in the UK.

Beyond academics, Reading offers a buzzing social scene. Students can unwind at Oracle Riverside, famous for its restaurants, shops, and riverside cafés, or explore Forbury Gardens and Prospect Park for some greenery. Music lovers will love the legendary Reading Festival, one of the UK’s biggest annual music events. With a safety index of 62 and excellent transport links, getting around is easy and secure. Whether you’re studying, working, or just exploring, Reading’s blend of modern living, cultural heritage, and accessibility makes it one of the most student-friendly cities in the UK, a top choice for anyone seeking student accommodation in Reading UK.

Best Student Accommodations in Reading

1. Student Castle Reading – Experience premium student accommodation in Reading with modern studios, an on-site gym, and communal spaces close to the University of Reading. The property costs £225/week

2. Berkshire House – Enjoy contemporary Reading student housing featuring stylish interiors, rooftop terrace views, and easy access to Reading Station and city hotspots. The property costs £195/week
3.
Crown House – (5/5) Live in elegant student houses in Reading, offering top-notch amenities, study lounges, and a welcoming student community near the city centre. The property costs £199/week.
4.
The Kendrick Hall – (5/5) Stay in this popular student accommodation near the University of Reading, known for its spacious rooms, friendly service, and peaceful surroundings. The property costs £214/week.
5.
Royal Heights – Indulge in luxury living with high-end student studios in Reading, complete with premium furnishings, private amenities, and breathtaking city views. The property costs £517/week.

Best Areas to Live in Reading

Reading is a dynamic student city, ideal for students looking for quality living close to campus. Whether you want to be near the action, enjoy quiet residential vibes, or live by the river, the city has a perfect neighbourhood for everyone. Here’s a look at some of the best and most popular areas for student accommodation in Reading UK:
1. City Centre – Perfect for students who love being close to everything. It’s well-connected to the University of Reading and Reading College. Rent for student accommodation here typically ranges from £850 – £1,200 per month, with both shared and private student accommodation Reading available.
2. Earley – A favourite among University of Reading students, Earley offers a peaceful, residential setting with plenty of green spaces. It’s just a 10–15-minute bus ride to the main campus. Student housing Reading options here are more affordable, usually between £600 – £900 per month, depending on the amenities.
3. Coley & Whitley – Known for their budget-friendly student rentals, these neighbourhoods are ideal for anyone looking for cheap student accommodation in Reading. The areas are well-connected to campus and the city centre by frequent bus routes. Rent here averages £550 – £800 per month, making it a great value choice.
4. Caversham – Located just across the River Thames, Caversham offers a calm, scenic atmosphere. It’s ideal for those who want a break from the city buzz while still being just 15 minutes from campus. Rent for student flats in this area typically falls between £700 – £950 per month.
5. Lower Earley – A modern, family-friendly suburb. It’s slightly farther from the city centre but well-connected by public transport. Expect rent prices between £650 – £900 per month, depending on the accommodation type.

Room Types for Student Accommodation in Reading

Student accommodation in Reading comes in a variety of room types designed to fit different lifestyles, preferences, and budgets. Whether you’re after complete privacy or love the idea of shared living, there’s something to suit everyone’s needs. Here’s a quick guide to the main types of rooms available in student housing in Reading:

1. Ensuite Rooms
Ensuite rooms are ideal for students who value privacy while still enjoying a shared living environment. Each student has a private bedroom and bathroom, while the kitchen and lounge areas are shared with other flatmates. This option strikes the perfect balance between independence and social interaction.

2. Non-Ensuite Rooms
Non-ensuite rooms are among the most budget-friendly choices. You’ll have a private bedroom but share bathroom and kitchen facilities with other residents. These rooms are great for students who want affordable rent and a more communal experience, often leading to close friendships within the accommodation.

3. Studio Apartments
Studios are self-contained units offering complete independence. Each studio includes a bedroom, private bathroom, and kitchenette, giving students everything they need in one space. They’re perfect for postgraduates or anyone who prefers a quiet and private study environment.

4. 1-Bed and 2-Bed Apartments
1-bed and 2-bed apartments provide a more spacious and homely setup. These flats typically include separate bedrooms, a private kitchen, a living room, and a bathroom. They’re ideal for couples, close friends, or students who want a little more space and comfort.

5. Private Rooms
Private rooms offer a mix of personal comfort and shared living. Students get their own furnished bedroom while sharing kitchen, lounge, and bathroom areas with a small group of flatmates. It’s a balanced option for those seeking affordability without compromising on privacy.

Cost of Living

Student accommodation in Reading is ideal for students. Living in Reading can be expensive, but careful assessments and planning can help students avoid spending extra pounds. For student accommodation in Reading, it is recommended to have a budget of £1000 – £1,500 per month, including all living and other personal expenses, excluding student accommodation in Reading rent expense.

1. Accommodation: £650–£1,100/month

2. Groceries: £100–£150/month

3. Transportation: £30–£80/month

4. Utilities: £40–£60/month

5. Internet: £20–£35/month

6. Leisure & Social Activities: £100–£200/month

Student Travel in Reading

Getting around Reading is super easy and budget-friendly, making student life smooth and convenient. The city’s transport network is well-connected, so whether you’re heading to lectures, exploring local attractions, or grabbing a bite in the town centre, you’ll get there in no time.
1. Buses: Reading has an excellent local bus system operated mainly by Reading Buses, which connects all major student areas, including the University of Reading, the town centre, and surrounding neighbourhoods. A single journey costs around £2, while a weekly pass starts at roughly £16, making it a cost-effective option for daily commutes. Most buses run late into the night, ensuring students can travel safely after classes or nights out.

2. Trains: The Reading Railway Station is one of the busiest and best-connected in southern England. Students can easily travel to London in just 25 minutes, Oxford in 30 minutes, or Bristol in 1 hour and 15 minutes. With a 16–25 Railcard, you can save up to 30% on rail fares, making weekend trips or visits home much cheaper.

3. Cycling: Reading is a bike-friendly city, with well-marked cycle paths and green routes throughout. The ReadyBike scheme allows students to rent bicycles for short trips, making it perfect for eco-friendly travel around campus or to local cafés.

4. Walking & E-Scooters: Many student accommodations are within walking distance of the university, and shared e-scooters are available across the city for quick, convenient trips. It’s a fun, affordable, and sustainable way to get around without worrying about parking or traffic.

Student Lifestyle and Tourist Attractions in Reading

Known for its balance between city energy and green tranquillity, Reading gives students the best of both worlds. With a student population of over 20,000, including those at the University of Reading and various language colleges, the city is buzzing with opportunities to study, socialise, and explore.

Reading student accommodation is ideally located near shops, cafés, and entertainment hubs, so everything you need is within reach. The Oracle Shopping Centre is a local favourite, packed with restaurants, fashion brands, and cinemas. Students often unwind at Forbury Gardens or take riverside walks along the River Thames and Kennet Canal, enjoying the city’s scenic beauty.

For culture enthusiasts, Reading offers the Reading Museum, Abbey Ruins, and Hexagon Theatre, which hosts comedy, theatre, and live music. If you’re into festivals, the Reading Festival, one of the UK’s biggest music events, draws thousands every August. Sports fans can catch matches at the Madejski Stadium, home to Reading FC. When it comes to food and nightlife, the city doesn’t disappoint. You’ll find everything from affordable bites on Friar Street to lively student pubs and bars in the town centre. Whether you’re living in private student accommodation Reading or near campus, the city guarantees a mix of community that makes student life unforgettable.

Top Universities in Reading

Reading is one of southern England’s leading student cities. The city combines academic excellence with a relaxed student lifestyle, just 25 minutes by train, making it an even more appealing study destination. Students can choose from a range of top-rated universities and colleges, all easily accessible from the city centre and most Reading student accommodation options. Here are some of the best and closest universities to the city centre:
1. University of Reading: Ranked among the top 30 UK universities for research and teaching quality. Known for its beautiful 130-hectare campus, it offers world-class programmes in business, sciences, architecture, and humanities. Student accommodation near University of Reading is popular among both undergraduates and postgraduates.
2. Reading College: Just 10 minutes from the city centre, Reading College provides a wide range of vocational courses, A-levels, and apprenticeships. It’s an excellent choice for students seeking practical learning and local career opportunities.
3. University of West London (Reading Campus):  Located close to the main train station, this campus specialises in business, law, and creative industries. Its modern facilities and professional links make it ideal for career-focused students.
4. Bracknell and Wokingham College: Situated about 20 minutes from central Reading, this college is known for its flexible study options and technical qualifications that prepare students for both university and employment.
5. ONCAMPUS Reading (University of Reading International Study Centre): This institution helps international students prepare for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees through foundation and pre-master’s programmes. It’s closely linked with the University of Reading and offers a smooth transition into higher education.

Why is amber the best choice?

Whether you’re searching for cheap student accommodation in Reading or modern studios close to the University of Reading, amber has something for everyone. With 100% verified listings, all-inclusive rent, and 24/7 student support, amber makes finding your home in Reading simple and stress-free. Book early to secure the best student accommodation in Reading that fits your lifestyle, budget, and university commute perfectly.

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