Progressive House Babington Lane, Derby

Student accommodation in Derby offers options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re someone who enjoys your own space or prefers a more social setup, there's a room type for you. Here’s a quick guide to the most common room types available for students in Derby:

1. Ensuite Rooms

Ensuite rooms are great for students who want the privacy of their own bedroom and bathroom but are happy to share the kitchen and lounge with others. This room type strikes the perfect balance between independence and community living.

2. Non-Ensuite Rooms

Non-ensuite rooms are more budget-friendly. You’ll get a private bedroom while sharing the bathroom and kitchen with your flatmates. It’s ideal for those who want to save money and enjoy the social side of student life.

3. Studio Apartments

Studio apartments offer complete privacy with everything from a bedroom, a kitchen, and a bathroom, within a single space. They're a good option for students who value quiet time, independence, and a self-contained lifestyle.

4. 1-Bed and 2-Bed Apartments

These are great for students who want more space and plan to live with a friend or partner. Each person gets their own bedroom, and common areas like the kitchen and lounge are shared.

5. Shared Apartments
Popular among undergraduates and new students, shared apartments include private bedrooms and shared common areas. They’re ideal for making friends and enjoying a sociable living experience.

6. Private Rooms in Shared Flats
This room type gives you the comfort of your own bedroom while sharing a kitchen and bathroom with other students. It’s a balanced option that offers both privacy and interaction.

Living in Derby as a student is generally more affordable compared to larger cities like London or Oxford. With smart budgeting, students can comfortably manage their monthly expenses. Derby offers a reasonable cost of living while still providing access to modern amenities, shopping centres, green spaces, and cultural spots. On average, students should plan for a monthly budget of around £900 to £1,200, excluding rent. This covers basic needs such as groceries, transport, mobile services, and personal expenses. Here’s a rough breakdown of typical monthly costs for students in Derby:

1. Food: £30 to £70 per week
2. Gas & Electricity: £25 to £50 per week
3. Internet & Mobile Phone: £15 to £30 per week
4. Eating Out: £50 to £120 per week
5. Laundry: £10 to £20 per week
6. Stationery & Textbooks: £10 to £25 per week
7. Clothing: £30 to £70 per month
8. Travel (Bus, Train): £35 to £100 per month

Getting around Derby is easy and cheap, so students can travel to Universities, shops, and fun places without hassle. Whether you’re going to the University of Derby or the city centre, Derby’s transport and walkable layout make daily trips simple.

1. Buses

Derby has a good bus system run by Trent Barton and Arriva Midlands, linking student areas like the city centre, Allestree, and Kedleston Road. Students can use a Student Mango Card or Unirider pass for unlimited rides at lower prices. A weekly pass costs about £12–£15, great for daily travel.

2. Cycling

Derby is great for cycling, with many bike lanes and scenic paths like Route 6 of the National Cycle Network. Biking is popular for getting to campus or riding through Markeaton Park. Most student apartments Derby have secure bike storage, and rentals cost around £4–£6 a week.

3. Trains

Derby Train Station connects to cities like Nottingham, Birmingham, and Sheffield. It’s perfect for weekend trips or internships. With a 16–25 Railcard, students save up to 30% on fares, with tickets to London as low as £7 if booked early.

4. Walking

Derby is easy to walk around, with good sidewalks and safe crossings. The city centre, University Quarter, and Markeaton Park have clear paths, making walking pleasant. Most universities, accommodation for students Derby, cafes, and libraries are a 15–20 minute walk away, making it a healthy, free, and practical choice for students.

Derby is a student-friendly city where school life mixes well with fun and social activities. With green spaces, cultural events, and cheap entertainment, students can enjoy a balanced life outside class.

1. Dining & Nightlife

Derby has many affordable food and drink spots for students. Places like The Standing Order and Turtle Bay are great for casual meals, while Annie’s Burger Shack offers tasty American food. For nightlife, students can chill at The Friary or dance at Popworld. Many bars have student nights and discounts, making it easy to have fun after dark. You can also explore the 10 best clubs in Derby for a lively night out.

2. Cultural Events & Festivals

Derby hosts lots of cultural events all year. Derby Feste is a student favourite, with street shows, music, and art. The Derby Film Festival and Format International Photography Festival bring creative works to town. For daily culture, students can visit Derby Museum and Art Gallery or see a show at Derby Theatre. 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

Derby has calm parks and nature trails. Markeaton Park has walking paths, a boating lake, and sports areas, while Darley Park offers pretty views by the River Derwent. For weekend trips, the nearby Peak District National Park is great for hiking, biking, and outdoor fun.

4. Shopping

Students can shop at Derbion, a big mall with popular brands, tech stores, and cafes. For unique items, the Cathedral Quarter has small shops, used bookstores, and market stalls. It’s perfect for students wanting cheap clothes, gifts, and everyday items.

Derby has several respected universities, each with different programs and lively student communities. Here’s a look at the top universities in Derby:

1. University of Derby

The University of Derby is a modern public university with about 34,000 students. It offers over 300 programs in the arts, business, engineering, health, and education. The university is known for practical learning, strong ties to industry, and helping students find jobs. It supports around 1,700 international students from over 100 countries. Students can live near the University of Derby at places like Britannia Mill, which is close to campus facilities.

2. Derby College Group (DCG)

Derby College Group is a large college with around 28,000 students. It offers A-levels, vocational courses, apprenticeships, and adult education. DCG has campuses like The Roundhouse, Broomfield Hall, and Joseph Wright Centre, all with modern facilities for students. Students at Derby College can find nearby student accommodation in Derby options for a comfortable study environment.

3. University of Nottingham (Sutton Bonington Campus)

The main University of Nottingham campus is in Nottingham. The Sutton Bonington Campus, near Derby, specialises in biosciences and veterinary medicine. The university has more than 52,000 students. The Sutton Bonington Campus provides a close community and great facilities. Learners here can find student apartments Derby nearby for easy access to classes and local amenities.