Finding the right student accommodation in Cheltenham is a key part of a smooth and enjoyable academic experience. While on-campus living might appeal to some, many students prefer the freedom, variety, and modern amenities that come with off-campus housing. Cheltenham, with its growing student community, offers a wide range of living options to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you're looking for private rooms, en-suite apartments, shared flats, or cosy studios to enjoy a more social lifestyle, Cheltenham has something for everyone. Off-campus housing options provide more space, better privacy, and flexible lease terms, making them ideal for students who value independence.
Amber makes the search for student accommodation in Cheltenham simple and reliable. With verified listings, filters for price, and amenities. Students can find their perfect home with ease. Popular properties in Cheltenham include Collegiate Shaftesbury Hall and Collegiate Upper Quay House, both offering comfortable rooms, Wi-Fi, and great communal areas. Amber’s expert support team also assists with every step, from property selection to booking, ensuring a hassle-free transition. Whether you want to live close to campus, near the town centre, or in a quiet residential neighbourhood, amber has got you covered for student accommodation in Cheltenham.
Cheltenham is a charming town located in Gloucestershire, South West England, on the edge of the Cotswolds. Known for its blend of regency architecture, cultural spirit, and academic excellence. It has become a popular student city, especially for those attending the University of Gloucestershire. The town is easily accessible via road and rail, making it ideal for students who want both connectivity and calm surroundings. Founded as a spa town in the 18th century, Cheltenham has grown into a hub for education, arts, and festivals. Today, it’s home to a population of around 120,000, with a youthful vibe driven by a growing number of UK and international students. The town offers a balance of city life and green space, with beautiful parks like Pittville Park and proximity to the Cotswold countryside, making it perfect for walking, cycling, and weekend outings. Cheltenham hosts world-famous events such as the Cheltenham Literature Festival, Science Festival, and the Cheltenham Races, giving students exciting opportunities to engage with local culture. The University of Gloucestershire has multiple campuses across the town and offers respected programs in media, arts, business, and sports science. Whether you're exploring its indie cafes in the Montpellier District or shopping at Promenade, Cheltenham delivers a rich student experience. The town’s mix of academic excellence, entertainment, and natural beauty makes it a rewarding and student-friendly place to live and study.
This city offers a range of student accommodation in Cheltenham options perfect for those seeking affordability, comfort, and independence. With growing demand, many students opt for off-campus housing for more space and flexibility than traditional dorms. Amber makes the search simple with verified listings close to the Universities. From studio apartments and 1-bedroom flats to shared student accommodation in Cheltenham, there’s something for every lifestyle and budget. Best & affordable student accommodation in Cheltenham includes:
1. Collegiate Shaftesbury Hall - Shaftesbury Hall offers fully furnished single en-suite rooms with high-speed Wi-Fi, on-site laundry, and all-inclusive bills, ensuring a comfortable student living experience.
2. Collegiate Upper Quay House - The Collegiate Upper Quay House features en-suite single rooms, each furnished with a bed, study desk, wardrobe, and a private bathroom. Residents share a fully equipped kitchen, fostering a lively student community.
Cheltenham is a well-connected and student-friendly town, offering a variety of neighbourhoods to match different preferences, whether you want proximity to campus, lively student life, or peaceful green spaces. Here are some of the best areas to live in Cheltenham, each with unique perks for students:
1. Pittville
Home to the University of Gloucestershire’s Pittville Student Village, this area is ideal for students wanting to live near campus. Pittville Park, one of the largest ornamental parks in Cheltenham, features a boating lake, paths, and the historic Pittville Pump Room. Essentials like Tesco Express and student-friendly cafes like The Sober Parrot are nearby.
2. Town Centre
Cheltenham Town Centre is perfect for students who love being in the middle of it all. You’ll find top shopping at Regent Arcade, live gigs at The Frog and Fiddle, and events at the Everyman Theatre. It’s also well-connected by public transport, with frequent buses to university campuses and surrounding towns.
3. St Paul’s
A favourite among students attending the Francis Close Hall campus, St Paul’s is filled with affordable housing, local corner shops, and fun eateries like Paparrito’s. The area has a youthful, lively feel and is just a 10-minute walk to the town centre.
4. Fairview
Fairview offers a quieter, residential atmosphere while still being close to central Cheltenham. It features Victorian terraced homes, cosy cafes like Curious Café, and easy access to shops on Fairview Road. Students love it for its calm vibe and walkability.
5. Lansdown
Known for its leafy streets and upscale flats, Lansdown is close to Cheltenham Spa train station, making weekend travel easy. The area features popular hangouts like The Ivy, Montpellier Wine Bar, and Montpellier Gardens. Though slightly more premium, it offers a perfect blend of convenience, lifestyle, and safety.
Cheltenham offers a range of student accommodation options designed to fit different preferences, lifestyles, and budgets. Here’s a helpful guide to the common types of rooms and apartments available:
1. Ensuite Rooms
These rooms are perfect for students who want privacy with a social atmosphere. You get your own bedroom and bathroom, while sharing the kitchen and living areas with other students. This setup strikes a good balance between independence and community living.
2. Non-Ensuite Rooms
Ideal for students on a budget, non-ensuite rooms provide a private bedroom but require sharing the bathroom, kitchen, and lounge with flatmates. This is a cost-effective option for those who enjoy social living and want to save money.
3. Studio Apartments
Studios offer full privacy with a self-contained space including a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. They are great for students who prefer independent living and a quiet environment for studying and relaxing.
4. 1-Bed and 2-Bed Apartments
These apartments provide one or two private bedrooms with shared common areas like the kitchen and lounge. Perfect for students who want more space and possibly to live with a friend while maintaining some privacy.
5. Shared Apartments
Shared apartments include private bedrooms but shared kitchen, bathroom, and lounge areas. This option is popular among students who enjoy a lively, communal lifestyle and want to meet new people.
6. Private Rooms in Shared Flats
This option offers a private bedroom with shared access to the kitchen, bathroom, and living areas. It combines personal space with the benefits of social living, ideal for students who want a mix of privacy and community.
As a student, managing your budget is crucial because the cost of living in Cheltenham can be moderately high. Students are advised to plan for a monthly budget of around £700 to £1,000, covering living expenses and personal costs, excluding rent. Here’s a rough breakdown of typical monthly costs students may encounter aside from accommodation fees:
1. Food: £30 to £70 per week
2. Gas and Electricity: £25 to £50 per week
3. Internet & Mobile Phone: £15 to £30 per week
4. Dining Out: £70 to £150 per week
5. Laundry: £15 to £25 per week
6. Stationery and Textbooks: £10 to £30 per week
7. Clothing: £40 to £75 per month
8. Travel (Buses, Trains, Trams): £40 to £150 per month
For students living in Cheltenham, having reliable and affordable travel options is key to a smooth daily routine. Cheltenham offers a range of convenient transport choices that make getting to university, work, or exploring the town easy and budget-friendly.
1. Buses
Cheltenham’s bus system is extensive and well-connected. Operators like Stagecoach West provide frequent services covering the entire town and surrounding areas. There are direct routes to the University of Gloucestershire, making commuting hassle-free. Students can purchase a 7-day student bus pass for around £14, which offers unlimited travel and great value for daily use.
2. Cycling
Known as a bicycle-friendly town, Cheltenham has dedicated bike lanes and safe cycling paths. Many students opt to cycle for its health benefits and eco-friendliness. Most student accommodations provide secure bike storage to support this popular travel mode. Local bike shops also offer rentals and repairs, making cycling accessible for everyone.
3. Walking
With its compact layout, Cheltenham is ideal for walking. Many students enjoy walking to classes or local shops, taking in the town’s beautiful Regency architecture and green spaces like Pittville Park. Walking not only saves money but also encourages a healthy lifestyle.
4. Rail
Cheltenham Spa railway station connects students to major cities including Bristol, Birmingham, and London. While train fares vary, the rail network provides a fast, comfortable option for weekend trips or visits home. Discounted railcards are available for students to reduce travel costs.
Cheltenham offers a fantastic mix of academic life and leisure, making it an ideal place for students to live, study, and unwind. Here’s a snapshot of what student life looks like in Cheltenham and some top attractions to explore:
1. Dining & Nightlife
Cheltenham’s dining scene caters well to students in shared apartments or private flats. From classic British pubs like The Brewery and The Victory Club to diverse eateries such as The Coconut Tree serving Sri Lankan food, there’s something for every taste. For nightlife, students enjoy lively spots like The Library and The Golden Pheasant, perfect for relaxed evenings or weekend fun.
2. Cultural Events & Festivals
Cheltenham hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year. The famous Cheltenham Literature Festival attracts book lovers worldwide, while the Jazz Festival offers great music performances. The Everyman Theatre provides a hub for student arts with plays, comedy nights, and film screenings. Students interested in cultural history can explore the stories behind some of the top 10 oldest football clubs in England and where they are today.
3. Adventure & Green Spaces
For outdoor lovers, Cheltenham boasts beautiful parks like Pittville Park and Montpellier Gardens, perfect for study breaks or picnics. The nearby Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers hiking and cycling trails for weekend adventures, blending nature with student life.
4. Shopping
Students living in Cheltenham student accommodation can enjoy shopping at Regent Arcade and the High Street, where you’ll find both popular brands and independent shops. The Cheltenham Farmers’ Market is also a favourite for fresh local produce and unique finds, making shopping both convenient and fun.
Cheltenham is home to several reputable universities, attracting students from across the UK and internationally. Whether your interests lie in business, the arts, or the sciences, Cheltenham offers quality education and a vibrant student environment. Here’s a look at the top universities in Cheltenham:
1. University of Gloucestershire
The University of Gloucestershire is well-regarded for its strong programs in education, business, and environmental science. It has a student population of around 10,000 and offers modern facilities with close access to student accommodation options in Cheltenham, providing a supportive campus life.
2. University of the West of England (Frenchay Campus)
Located near Bristol, the Frenchay Campus of the University of the West of England (UWE) serves as a major education hub with a student population of approximately 28,000. It is known for its courses in health sciences, engineering, and media, and offers extensive resources and links to Cheltenham for accommodation.
3. University of the West of England (UWE Bristol)
UWE Bristol is a large university with multiple campuses, hosting over 36,000 students. It has a strong reputation in business, creative industries, and technology. Many Cheltenham students commute or seek off-campus housing connected through amber’s listings, ensuring easy access to campus facilities.