For students in search of the best student accommodation in Colchester, you won't have to look much further, as amber will help you through your complete experience! Located on Hawkins Rd, Colchester, CO2 8YZ, Enso, Colchester offers nothing but premium-quality student apartments that fit all the student's needs and is perfectly located for university students. All the student rooms are chic and luxurious, from en-suites to studios. Another perk you get along with this beautiful housing is that it's located within proximity to many colleges and universities. Enso Colchester is located near the University of Essex. Moreover, the University Suffolk and Anglia Ruskin University are a short drive away from Enso Colchester.
Colchester, steeped in history and culture, presents a vibrant blend of old and new for students choosing Enso Colchester accommodation. Known for being one of the oldest recorded towns in Britain and celebrated for its educational institutions, Colchester is a hub for students from around the globe. With a robust student population, the city thrives with youthful energy and academic excellence. Nearby attractions such as Colchester Castle and the scenic Castle Park add to the city's charm, offering students a blend of study and leisure. The city boasts an array of stunning Victorian architecture, a testament to the historical masterpieces that the Victorian era has gifted us. As the largest county of Essex and a bustling market town, Colchester is steeped in culture and entertainment, with attractions such as the Natural History Museum, Hollytrees Museum, and Colchester Zoo. Enso Colchester, located on Hawkins Road just outside the city centre, is a highly sought-after student accommodation due to its proximity to prestigious colleges and universities as well as numerous tourist attractions that enhance the town's allure. Managed by CRM, Enso Colchester ensures students have access to leading amenities, providing a holistic living experience in this academically rich city.
Enso Colchester offers an impressive array of ensuites and studios to cater to every taste and need, ensuring a comfortable and stylish living experience. From classic ensuite to premium studio to 6 bed premium ensuite, you can find various types offering the ultimate level of comfort. In the ensuites of Enso Colchester, you can find a private room, shared kitchen, and private bathroom. In the studios, you will get the entire place to yourself, along with a private bathroom and a private kitchen. You can understand that Enso Colchester is much more than just a room in a building. Every room comes with comfy beds, plenty of storage space, study desks & chairs where you can study with ease, spacious wardrobes to store all your fit. In the equipped kitchen, you can find a lounge area with coffee table and TV, fridge/freezer, hob, and oven. Enso Colchester is also equipped with a dining table and seating where you can enjoy your comfort meals.
This Colchester student accommodation has a variety of communal spaces so that you can make the best of student life. Unwind after a long day in the landscaped courtyard and have intensive study sessions in the study spaces. You can also watch your favourite shows in the TV lounge. Other amazing common amenities include on-site laundry, on-site management, parcel lockers, secure bike storage, free contents insurance and more! You will be under the watch of 24/7 CCTV, and there is an accessible entrance. Moreover, there is a landscape courtyard and games room where you can get a little competitive with your friends. You can also take full advantage of the free on-site gym and keep your health in check. Though Enso student accommodation does now allow pets, the free Wi-Fi and broadband throughout will drive away your loneliness. In addition, the rent for Enso Colchester has all-inclusive utility bills.
With Enso Colchester as your home base, you'll be at the centre of a bustling city teeming with student life. Making sure that your study needs are well catered to, you will find the esteemed University of Essex and University Campus Suffolk close at hand, enhancing the appeal of Enso Colchester. This prime location seamlessly blends convenience with the excitement that Colchester has to offer, providing you with an unparalleled living experience. Whether it's grabbing a bite, stocking up on groceries, nurturing your health, or soaking in history and nature, Enso, Colchester assures you get to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Right next to the property, you'll find the enticing world of Colchester's culinary and social scene. You can spend weekends at Purple Dog and The Goat & Boot, have Thai dishes at Naka Thai, or dine in at Mama Rita Restaurant or Bambu Vietnamese. You can visit popular tourist attractions on free days like Hollytrees Museum, which is a publicly owned museum at the centre of the city close to Colchester Castle, Natural History Museum is a beautiful tourist attraction which is situated at the end of Colchester’s high street has mesmerising gothic styled widows and Colchester Castle where you explore to your heart's content. Moreover, you can indulge in retail therapy at Howdens Colchester, WhyBuyNew, and Gutetr Supplies near Enso Colchester. Enso's location is perfect for students as they have a lot of options scattered around the student accommodation. In case you need to run errands for first aid, WelPharm Pharmacy is near Enso Colchester. Plus, Iceni - Personal Training Gym is a few minutes away from this student accommodation, making sure your health is always in check with the help of a trainer. You can spend your free time checking out places or just going sightseeing. Colchester has many things to do, so experiencing the best of the city won't be a hassle!
The city has an excellent internal and external transportation system. Students in Colchester have access to city buses and many other public transportation. If you choose Enso Colchester, you can stay connected to the transport links nearby. Mascot Square bus top is the closest bus stop to Enso Colchester. Also, you can hop on a bus from the Maudlyn Road bus stop, which is a short walk away. Hythe Railway Station bus station is also a few minutes away from Enso Colchester. To travel to far away distances, Hythe train station is within walking distance from Enso Colchester.
The residence only accept bookings if you are over 18, with the exception of properties in Scotland where you must be 16 or over. This is due to the legally binding tenancy agreement that every tenant is required to sign when living at the accommodation. They also can only accept people in full time education.
We do provide female only accommodation in some of the schemes but it is not guaranteed that this will be possible. Please speak to the amber team to find out more information.
We are more than happy to accommodate groups as well as individuals. Where you are not booking in a group, the residence team understand your flat mates will be key to your experience so when you book as an individual, they will ask you a series of questions to help them to match you with the perfect flatmates.
Yes. It is your home so you are allowed to have guests visiting you.
Their standard office hours are between 10am 5pm. Out-of-office hours are also supported by emergency contacts.
Absolutely! They want their community to suit you, so they wont force you to come to their events but you are always welcome. If you have your own suggestions for them even better!
No they do not advise you to bring your own electrical cooking equipment for health and safety reasons.
The students are responsible for their own rooms and communal kitchen within the flat. All other rooms and communal areas are cleaned by the site cleaner.
Smoking is not allowed within the accommodation, however there is a designated smoking area outside the building.
If you are having any issues please contact the accommodation team in the first instance, they will do all they can to help. In exceptional circumstances it may be possible to move you; however they would look to resolve any issues with you all.
Drop them an email or pop into the office to let them know, their on-site Maintenance team will be able to deal with most things.
No pets are permitted under the term of the tenancy agreement.
Yes. Groceries can be delivered to the reception area, but you are to ensure that you are available to take receipt of the delivery. Delivery drivers are not to be given access to the flats.
To learn more about the deposit requirement, please check the policy section above, or feel free to reach out to your amber agent.
Some of the accommodation include contents insurance with Howden.
It is important all students confirm their cover to ensure you understand what is and isn't covered. Plus you'll also be entered into a prize draw, courtesy of Howden!
Visit confirm your cover to see:
What is and what isn’t covered
They understand students have a limited budget so Howden have launched brand new, unique student insurance options. They have been designed to cover the risks that you may encounter whilst living in student accommodation and away from home.
Yes, WiFi is included in your rent. You'll also have a broadband connection in your room on your desk.
For more details about guarantor requirements, refer to the policy section above or connect with your amber agent.
Housing Hand provide a guarantor service for both International and UK students who do not have a suitable or qualifying UK guarantor.
Housing Hand works in partnership with the accommodation to stand as your UK rental guarantor. Accommodation requires all students to have a guarantor if you are not able or willing to pay your rent in full for the year. If you choose the instalment plan option and can provide your own UK guarantor, providing they qualify, then you do not need to use Housing Hand. If you choose the instalment plan option and cannot provide a UK guarantor, then Housing Hand will be able to provide this service for you.
Housing Hand charges a one off fee that you will either pay up front at the start of your tenancy or monthly (if on a 12 month contract).
For students the fee will be between 60-95% of your monthly rent with the minimum price starting at 295 for 12 months cover. The exact cost depends on your personal details and several factors including the amount of your rent, you will be given a no obligation quote for the cost of the service on application.
For more information on payment plans, refer to the policy section above, or contact your amber agent for assistance.
Yes you are entitled to cancel your booking but they will need you to provide proof for this.
Facilities and features can vary; typically you are provided with a bed, a study with a desk and a chair, bookshelves, wardrobe and plenty of storage. Bedding is not provided with each room as most of their students prefer to bring their own, however you can order bedding and kitchen utensils from their friends UniKitOut to be delivered to your room prior to your move in.
Most sites will be more than happy to arrange an airport pick up service for you. You just need to let them know your name, arrival date and time and your flight number, well then arrange the transport for you. Please ensure you have enough UK Sterling to pay the taxi fare and check with your chosen property first.
It is possible but it depends on each scheme. The residence team would advise you to check with them before you make any arrangements.
Most of the sites offer summer stays. Please check with the amber team for further information.
You will need to bring a method of Identification with you to the accommodation, either a Driving License or Passport, a letter of confirmation from the University. They also need a passport photograph.
If you are travelling via car on move in day they will inform you in advance whether there is a drop off bay on site for you to off load any suitcases or belongings, or they will send you the location of the nearest car park. Its important to book your move in slot with them in advance so that they can make sure these resources are available to you on the day.
They understand that sometimes students will need to arrive outside of arrival hours. They ask for you to contact your Accommodation Team at the earliest possible opportunity to ensure that they can provide all the necessary information and ensure that they have got everything ready for your arrival. For example they need to ensure that they have received all relevant documentation, the booking fee and first instalment before they can move anybody in.
It might not be a manager who will be there for the check-in however the Accommodation Team will always aim to introduce themselves at the earliest opportunity so you know who they are.
Yes but you will still have to pay rent for the full length of your agreed tenancy, even if you no longer live at your accommodation.
In the event that something is broken or doesn't work in any part of the accommodation, the student needs to report the issues to the accommodation office who will escalate it accordingly. They have accommodation maintenance wizards that work full or part time on site depending on the property. They are there for the hour of need replacing light bulbs, blown fuses, blocked showers etc. They do also work with local contractors for isolated issues. Your son/daughter will always be given at least 24 hours notice if a maintenance operative or contractor needs to access their room. They always offer for the maintenance operative/contractor to be escorted for the jobs entirety if necessary.
They know it can sometimes be unsettling when your son/daughter leave home for the first time, despite it being one of the proudest moments they understand it can be hard. As parents its natural to worry, they find a common one is their students not responding to phone calls or e-mails as quickly as they might have done at home. They always respect that all their students are responsible adults and are sensitive to respecting their privacy, however they appreciate that some situations can be distressing. They therefore always encourage all their parents to contact the accommodation team by phone or e-mail (details available on your relevant scheme page) if you have any concerns regarding your son/daughter. A member of the accommodation team will pop over to their room to give a friendly knock on the door to check everything is okay. If there's any reason why they aren't able to support your concern they will always try to direct you to the appropriate department at the University/College.
They are proud to offer a postal service during office hours within their schemes. They always communicate the postal process to their students when they move in, however they will always make every effort to ensure that your daughter/son gets their mail safely. They always asks for students to inform the staff if they are expecting a recorded or special delivery for the site team to ensure that someone is available for the delivery. They also always ask for the student to bring some ID for when they come to collect the parcel. They recognise that the students cant always come down themselves; they are flexible with friends picking up parcels however the student needs to contact the accommodation team to let them know in advance.
They cannot be liable for any direct, indirect or consequential loss arising from accepting mail on students behalf. Although they will make every effort to ensure the students get their mail safely, they will not be responsible if recipients fail to collect their deliveries, packages are stolen or damaged due to circumstances beyond the control of the accommodation team. They also are not responsible for packages that arrive outside office opening hours or when the accommodation team are out of the office. If the students dont collect their mail within 4 weeks it will be returned to the sender.
They take booking preferences very seriously and take great pride in being able to accommodate these in most cases. There is a preference box on the booking form which allows the student to put any preferences they might have, for example friends they wish to live with, location of room within the building, same sex cluster flats. They always do their best to accommodate these preferences, if for whatever reason they cant fulfil them they will always try to achieve one or two and notify the student if they aren't possible.
Students do not have to pay Council Tax, but the council must be informed that you are a student and apply for exemption as this does not automatically happen. It is the responsibility of every student to apply for exemption, your University/College or accommodation provider* cannot do this for you, though they can help you!
At accommodation, they want you to feel safe and secure at all times. They understand how important safety and security is to students when it comes to choosing a place to live. That's why we've taken every effort to ensure that they provide the best services so that their students can thoroughly enjoy living with them. They have 24 Hour CCTV Cameras installed in all of their buildings, internally and externally. Secure Key Fob Door Entry & Bedroom Door Locks. There are also locks on all private bedrooms and out-of-hour security is there to support the community if you have any security concerns, ensuring your security and safety.
The properties have been specifically designed to be used by students. These properties have benefited from significant changes in fire safety, building regulations and coherent fire and management strategies. They have extensive fire safety systems in place in all the buildings that they manage. They are also audited by their own internal team, as well as external consultants, on a regular basis to validate, and if necessary update, their extensive fire safety systems, policies and procedures.
Yes, students generally need to meet the minimum age requirement (usually 18 years or older) to book accommodation at Enso Colchester.
Yes, female-only accommodation may be available on request, depending on room allocation and availability.
In many cases, students can request to live with friends or choose preferred flatmates, subject to availability.
Yes, guests are usually allowed, but they must follow the property’s guest policy and security guidelines.
Yes, the property provides 24-hour security and on-site staff support to assist residents.
Enso Colchester is located at Hawkins Rd, Colchester CO2 8YZ, United Kingdom.
The starting rent at Enso Colchester is £185 per week, depending on the room type and tenancy duration.
Nearby universities include the University of Essex, Colchester Sixth Form College, Colchester Institute, and University Campus Suffolk.
Finding a perfect Colchester student accommodation is important for students so that they can focus on their studies peacefully. Colchester can be called a student city commonly, as it is a home to several universities and colleges. Colchester has the University of Essex in which approx 15,000 students study. The city has approx 12,000+ international students every year. Because of the large student population in Colchester, on-campus Colchester student accommodation, like private halls and uni halls, fills up quickly, making off-campus student rentals Colchester a popular choice for most of the students.
You can find private rooms, shared flats, en-suite apartments, or cosy studios that fit your style and needs. Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) are residential buildings designed specifically for students. Students usually live in fully furnished accommodations that includes a bed, clothes storage, desk, and chair. Amber makes it easy to find Colchester student accommodation in your budget. Whether you study at the University of Essex or the University of Suffolk, amber helps you find a home in the nearby areas. Some of the top student lets in Colchester includes The Maltings or 27 Magdalen Street, which have comfy rooms and a friendly vibe.
Colchester is a town located in Essex, southeast England which has a rich history. Colchester is known for its typical brutalist architecture. It is Britain’s oldest recorded town which has a historic castle to visit. The town has a population of about 140,000 people and also includes 33,000 students which gives the town it's young and energetic feel. There are places like Castle Park and other green spaces that are perfect for relaxing and hanging out with friends after class. The University of Essex is the main academy in Colchester. It is well-known for its courses and research opportunities.
Colchester also has Colchester Free Festival, which is a fun event with music and dancing. Other events such as art fairs and markets are also there which makes the town fun for young people. The town also have a very good public transportation system, for example even if your friend stays in London student accommodation then you can reach him or her in less than an hour by train. The centre of the town has cafes, pubs, and restaurants, where you can visit to chill & relax. There are also theatres such as The Mercury Theatre, where you can go to enjoy plays and shows on evenings. The town's welcoming vibe and ample amount of student accommodation Colchester options makes it a fantastic place for students.
Amber provides a list of student apartments Colchester which comes with facilities like wi-fi, laundry and communal areas where you can make friends. There are alos options for short term stays. Some of the student housing in Colchester provides options for both academic year and summer stays. One good thing about Colchester is that the average cost of accommodation in Colchester is 6% lower than the national average. Some of the best student accommodation in Colchester are:
| Student accommodation in Colchester | Top Amenities | Nearest Uni / Distance | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Maltings, Colchester | Gym, Laundry Facility, Bills Included, Study Area, Ultra-fast WiFi, Table Football, CCTV, Security Doors, Outdoor Courtyard, Common Area | 2.4 miles from city center (approx. 11 min) | £119/week |
| 27 Magdalen Street, Colchester | Dual Occupancy, Bills Included, Laundry Facility, Communal Lounge, Games Area, Study Area, Free WiFi (200mb), Gaming Facilities, Secure Key Fob Access, Wheelchair Accessible Rooms | 1.2 miles from city center (approx. 7 min) | £128/week |
| Enso, Colchester | Study Area, Games Room, Gym, Coffee Bar, TV Lounge, Bike Storage, Laundry Services, Courtyard, Garden, Pool Table, Parking, 24-Hour Security | 2.4 miles from city center (approx. 10 min) | £185/week |
| Elmstead Place, Colchester | Study Area, Laundry Facility, Bike Storage, High Speed WiFi, TV Lounge, Parcel Service, Contents Insurance, Keycard Access, Courtyard | 2.5 miles from city center (approx. 10 min) | £205/week |
The right transport connectivity will greatly affect how enjoyable your time at university will be while studying in Colchester. Below you will find a number of ideal areas to live throughout your academic year based on their distance from your place of study and the types of accommodation available to students in closeness to Essex University, Colchester.
| Area | Atmosphere | Proximity to University (Essex vs. UCC) |
|---|---|---|
| Hythe | Near River Colne; features shared flats, Tesco Express, and Quayside Cafe. | Closest to Essex: ~10–15 min walk or short cycle. UCC is ~15 mins away by bus. |
| City Centre | Busy hub with shops, markets, and Three Wise Monkeys bar. | Closest to UCC: ~10–15 min walk. University of Essex is ~15–20 mins by bus. |
| Greenstead | Large student community with a Co-op and community center. | Closest to Essex: ~15–20 min walk. UCC requires a ~20 min bus ride. |
| Wivenhoe | Quiet riverside village with a bookshop and The Rose and Crown pub. | Closest to Essex: ~5 min by bus/train or a 25 min scenic walk. UCC is ~10 mins by train. |
Colchester has a wide range of accommodation options designed to meet different budgets. Most accommodations are fully furnished normally including a bed, clothes storage, desk, and chair. Here’s are the availabe accommodation in Colchester.
1. Ensuite Rooms - En suite apartments in Colchester have a private bedroom and attached bathroom, giving students personal space while living in shared accommodation.
Privacy: A private bathroom.
Shared Living Areas: Kitchen and lounge are shared.
Ideal For: Students wanting privacy with the option to socialise sometimes.
2. Non-Ensuite Rooms - Non-ensuite rooms have private bedroom with a shared bathroom, making them budget-friendly options.
Privacy: Bedroom remains personal, bathroom is shared with others.
Shared Living Areas: Shared Kitchens and communal areas.
Ideal For: Students looking for affordable housing with community living.
3. Shared Apartments
Shared cheap student flats in Colchester have individual bedrooms while residents share bathrooms, kitchens, and lounges.
Privacy: Bedrooms are private.
Shared Living Areas: Strong focus on social living.
Ideal For: Students who enjoy community and making friends.
4. Private Rooms
Private apartments provide a full private residence with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen solely for one person. Private accommodations often include amenities such as all-bills-inclusive rent, Wi-Fi, contents insurance, on-site laundry, and secure bike storage.
Privacy: Full privacy .
Shared Living Areas: None.
Ideal For: Students who want full independence.
5. Studios - Studio apartments in Colchester are independent spaces with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen.
Privacy: Complete independence.
Shared Living Areas: No.
Ideal For: Students who prefer independence.
Careful budgeting while living in Colchester as a student can make a very affordable cost of living, if you create a budget to aim for each month that is in the region of £1,300–£1,600, (which is also the average cost of living) so you will be able to live comfortably. Tuition fees are excluded from this estimate, and it will vary according to your individual personal spending habits including how much, and how you are managing your monthly living expenses for bills. Below is a list of normal cost breakdowns for costs other than rent for student lets in Colchester:
1. Food: £30–£70 per week.
2. Gas and Electricity: £20–£40 per week.
3. Internet & Mobile Phone: £15–£30 per week.
4. Laundry: £10–£20 per week. ( Costing about £3 per wash. )
5. Clothing: £30–£60 per month.
6. Travel (Buses, Trains): £30–£100 per month.
It’s simple for students in Colchester to travel around. With all the affordable ways you can travel around, whether you are going to your class at the University of Essex, exploring Colchester, or visiting places nearby. Travelling around Colchester will be easy to do if you are travelling to local attractions or going to class from your student housing Colchester. When travelling from your Colchester student accommodation to other places, refer to this brief guide to some of the travel services you can use to help you while in Colchester, and there are many of them.
| Mode of Transport | Key Routes | Student Pricing & Discounts |
|---|---|---|
| Buses (First Essex / Arriva) | Connects Hythe, Greenstead, and the City Centre to the University of Essex (UoE). | UoE Discounted Pass: Weekly for ~£18.70 (Inner Zone). Monthly passes cost ~£60.00. Termly/Annual passes are also available. |
| Trains (Greater Anglia) | Direct links from Colchester/Hythe to London Liverpool St, Ipswich, and Norwich. | 1/3 Off: Use a 16–25 Railcard (£35/year). Local singles start around £6; London advance tickets from ~£10.50. |
| Bicycles | Flat routes like the Wivenhoe Trail link the campus to local residential areas. | Free Maintenance: Visit "Dr Bike" on campus (Wednesdays, 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM) for free health checks and minor repairs. |
| Walking | Compact paths; Hythe and Greenstead are within a 15–25 minute walk of the UoE. | Free. Best for students living in University Quays, The Meadows, or Greenstead. |
Culinary diversity abounds in Colchester. From popular restaurants such as The Natural Pantry, a local produce supplier that prepares meals using organic, locally sourced products for healthy-eating students, to pubs such as The Royal Oak serving traditional British fare, there really is a wide variety of places to eat when you break your fast. For a more social atmosphere, Colchester has several good pubs with many of them in The Fox Inn area, an ideal location to relax with friends after a long day.
Colchester has many historic buildings and sites of interest to visit such as the ruins of St. Botolph's Priory. Colchester Castle is Europe's largest Norman castle with 2500 years of historical artifacts on display. The city also hosts several major festivals each year (Colchester Food Festival, June) as well as exciting cultural events and festivities (Colchester Arts Festival-performance) which provide engaging experiences for students in Colchester. The Colchester Film Festival is perfect for avid moviegoer; there are art galleries, ice skating rinks, bowling alleys, theatres and movie theatres for you to use at your time-out. There are plenty of green areas and parks throughout Colchester for students to enjoy and to have fun when living as a student here. Castle Park is in the centre of Colchester and is great for a relaxing afternoon out and also provides a lovely view, along with plenty of space to do recreation outside.
Colchester is home to some prestigious universities that draw students from around the world. Here's a look at the top universities in Colchester:
| University Name | Courses Offered | Colchester student accommodation |
|---|---|---|
| University of Essex | Social Sciences, Business, Law | The Maltings |
| Colchester Institute | Health, Business, Arts | Enso student accommodation |