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.
Finding great student accommodation in Colchester is important for students to focus on their academic journey. The city has many students, especially at the University Campus Suffolk. On-campus rooms in Colchester tend to fill up quickly, making off-campus student flats a popular choice. You can find private rooms, shared flats, en-suite apartments, or cosy studios that fit your style and needs.
Amber makes it easy to find Colchester student accommodation. Our website lists verified properties that suit your budget and preferences. Whether you study at the University of Essex or the University of Suffolk. Amber helps you find a home near campus. Prices usually range from £100 to £250 per week, depending on the property. Check out popular student accommodation in Colchester options like The Maltings or 27 Magdalen Street, which have comfy en-suites and a friendly vibe. Amber’s support team is here to help, and our flexible leases make renting simple and stress-free.
Colchester is a lively town in Essex, southeast England. It is Britain’s oldest recorded town, with Roman ruins and a historic castle to visit. The town has about 140,000 people, including around 15,000 students, which gives it a young and lively feel. Castle Park and other green spaces are perfect for relaxing, picnics, or hanging out with friends after class.
The University of Essex is the main school in Colchester. It is well-known for its excellent programs and research opportunities. The town has many student-friendly cafes, libraries, and quiet study spots. Colchester hosts the Colchester Free Festival, a fun event with local music and dancing that students love. Other events, like art fairs and markets, keep the town exciting for young people. Colchester is easy to get around, with good bus routes and train links. You can reach London in less than an hour by train. The town centre has affordable cafes, pubs, and restaurants for grabbing a bite or a coffee. The Mercury Theatre offers plays and shows for fun evenings out. With its rich history, lively culture, and welcoming student vibe, Colchester is a fantastic place for students from around the world to live and study.
Choosing the right student accommodation in Colchester is key to a great university experience. You need a place that feels comfortable, is convenient, and supports your studies and social life. Important factors include proximity to campus, affordability, safety, modern amenities, and a friendly community. Amber makes finding cheap student accommodation Colchester easy with a wide range of verified options tailored to your needs. Here are some of the best & affordable student accommodation in Colchester:
1. Elmstead Place
2. Hythe Mills
3. Enso
4. 27 Magdalen Street
5. The Maltings
Colchester has many neighbourhoods perfect for students, each with unique features like proximity to the University of Essex, affordable student accommodation in Colchester, or a lively student community. Here are five great areas to live in Colchester:
1. Hythe
Hythe is near the River Colne and close to the University of Essex. It has a fun student feel with shared flats and studios. The Quayside Cafe is great for coffee, and Tesco Express has groceries. Riverside paths are nice for walks.
2. Colchester City Centre
Colchester City Centre is busy with shops, bars like Three Wise Monkeys, and restaurants. Buses make it easy to reach campus. The train station connects to London in under an hour. The weekly market sells fresh food.
3. Greenstead
Greenstead has a strong student community. It offers shops like Co-op and a community centre with fun events like quiz nights. St. Andrew’s Gardens is a calm spot, but be careful at night for safety.
4. Wivenhoe
Wivenhoe is a quiet village in Colchester. It has riverside trails and pubs like The Rose and Crown. The Wivenhoe Bookshop and art galleries are perfect for creative students. The Wivenhoe Art Trail is a fun event.
5. Lexden
Lexden is a calm area with green spaces like Lexden Park. The Lexden Crown cafe is nice for meals. Historic spots like St. Leonard’s Church add charm. It’s safe and great for studying.
Colchester offers many student accommodation in Colchester options, fitting different budgets and lifestyles. Whether you want privacy or a social vibe, there’s something for everyone. Amber’s verified properties make it easy to find a home near the University of Essex. Here are the main room types available:
1. Ensuite Rooms
Ensuite rooms give you a private bedroom and bathroom. You share the kitchen and living areas with others. These are great for students who want privacy but enjoy meeting new people.
2. Non-Ensuite Rooms
Non-ensuite rooms are cheaper and include a private bedroom. You share the bathroom, kitchen, and lounge with other students. They’re perfect for those on a tight budget who still want a personal space.
3. Studio Apartments
Studios are self-contained with a private bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. They offer full independence, ideal for students who prefer living alone and managing their own space.
4. 1-Bed or 2-Bed Apartments
These apartments have one or two private bedrooms and shared spaces like a kitchen and a living room. They suit students who want to live with just one friend or enjoy a quieter setup.
5. Shared Apartments
Shared apartments have multiple private bedrooms and shared areas like the kitchen and lounge. They’re great for students who love a lively, social environment with roommates.
6. Private Rooms
Private rooms provide a personal bedroom with a bed and desk. You may share a bathroom or kitchen. They’re versatile for students wanting a mix of independence and community.
Living in Colchester as a student can be affordable with careful budgeting. Students should plan for a monthly budget of £1,300–£1,600, including all living expenses, to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. This estimate excludes tuition fees and depends on personal spending habits. Below is a breakdown of typical costs, aside from rent for your Colchester student accommodation:
1. Food: £30–£70 per week.
2. Gas and Electricity: £20–£40 per week.
3. Internet & Mobile Phone: £15–£30 per week.
4. Dinner at a Restaurant: £60–£120 per week.
5. Laundry: £10–£20 per week. ( Costing about £3 per wash. )
6. Stationery and Textbooks: £10–£25 per week.
7. Clothing: £30–£60 per month.
8. Travel (Buses, Trains): £30–£100 per month.
Colchester is easy for students to get around. It has affordable transport options for going to the University of Essex, exploring the city, or visiting nearby places. Here is a simple guide to student travel from your student accommodation in Colchester:
1. Buses
Buses in Colchester connect student areas like Hythe and Greenstead to the university and city centre. First Essex and Arriva run buses often. The First UoE bus pass gives students unlimited rides. Cost: £15/week. Travel Card: A weekly pass costs £12/week for unlimited trips.
2. Trains
Colchester’s train station has direct trains to London, Ipswich, and Norwich. It’s good for weekend trips. A 16-25 Railcard saves students 1/3 on train tickets. Cost: £25/week for regular trips. Travel Card: Railcards give a 30% off weekly passes.
3. Bicycles
Cycling is fun in Colchester. The city has bike lanes and is mostly flat. Many student homes have bike storage. Colchester Cycle Hire rents bikes, and the university offers free bike repairs. Cost: £5/week for rentals. Travel Card: A monthly bike pass costs £10 for unlimited use.
4. Walking
Colchester is small, so walking is easy. The City Centre and Hythe are near the university. You can walk to Castle Park or High Street from most student housing in Colchester for free.
Colchester is a vibrant student city that offers a perfect mix of academics, leisure, and culture. Colchester offers many activities, events, and parks. It’s a great place for students to relax, explore, and socialize.
1. Dining & Nightlife
Colchester boasts a rich culinary scene, catering to all tastes and budgets. The Natural Pantry provides fresh meals made from local ingredients for health-minded students. The Royal Oak offers classic British pub food. Popular student spots like The Fox Inn are perfect for hanging out with friends after a long day. For those seeking an exciting night out, The Arts Centre offers live performances, while the lively pubs and bars around Culver Street ensure a fun evening for students.
2. Cultural Events & Festivals
Colchester is home to many exciting cultural events and festivals that engage students throughout the year. The Colchester Arts Festival offers performances, exhibitions, and live music. It's great for art lovers and anyone wanting new experiences. The Colchester Film Festival is perfect for film lovers. It shows independent films and helps students connect with each other. The Colchester Fringe Festival also showcases street art, theater performances, and more, giving students the chance to dive into the local arts scene. For those interested in exploring more about England's rich sports history, you can check out the top 10 oldest football clubs in England to get a deeper understanding of the country's football heritage.
3. Adventure & Green Spaces
Colchester is filled with lush parks and green spaces that students love to explore. Castle Park, located in the heart of the city, is ideal for a relaxed afternoon, offering stunning views and plenty of open space for outdoor activities. Students who enjoy cycling or walking will find Hollytrees Park and Highwoods Country Park perfect for an escape into nature. Whether you're taking a jog, having a picnic, or simply unwinding with friends, these spaces offer peaceful retreats from university life.
4. Shopping
Students in Colchester will find no shortage of shopping options. The Lion Walk Shopping Centre is a popular destination with its variety of high-street stores and local boutiques, perfect for grabbing essentials or treats. For those who love exploring unique finds, Colchester Market is the place to go, offering a wide range of fresh produce and handmade goods. For bigger shopping trips, The Arc Shopping Centre offers a variety of larger stores and plenty of dining options.
Colchester is home to some prestigious universities that draw students from around the world. Here's a look at the top universities in Colchester:
The University of Essex is a leading UK university, known for its excellent programs in social sciences, business, and law. Ranked 28th in the QS World University Rankings, the university is highly regarded for its research excellence and international student community. Its campus is equipped with modern facilities, including a dedicated sports center and extensive research labs.
Colchester Institute is a major provider of vocational and further education. Colchester Institute is a well-regarded university with a global ranking of #472 in the QS World University Rankings It offers a wide range of practical programs in subjects like health, business, and the arts. Located near the town centre, the institute boasts excellent links to local businesses, providing students with strong career prospects.
3. University of Suffolk (Colchester Campus)
The University of Suffolk offers a variety of courses in business, education, and social sciences. The University of Suffolk is ranked 58th in the UK University League Table by The Complete University Guide. With strong ties to local industries, the university prepares students for practical careers. Its Colchester campus is modern and welcoming, offering a collaborative learning environment.