Riverside, Canterbury

Canterbury offers it all, from affordable shared rooms to chic private apartments, making it easy to find something that fits your vibe and budget. Here’s a quick rundown of the most popular room types for students in the city:

1. Ensuite Rooms – This option for Canterbury UK accommodation is perfect for those who like their own space but still want to be part of a social community. You’ll get a private bedroom with your own bathroom, while sharing a kitchen and lounge with your flatmates. It’s a great balance of privacy and connection, ideal for students who like their quiet time but don’t want to miss out on flat banter.

2. Non-Ensuite Rooms – If you’re looking for cheap student accommodation in Canterbury, this is your go-to. You’ll have your private room but share a bathroom with others, keeping costs low while still enjoying a friendly, communal living setup.

3. Shared Apartments – Want a social vibe with plenty of company in your Canterbury UK accommodation? Shared apartments give you a private bedroom but shared access to bathrooms, kitchens, and living areas. They’re perfect for students who love cooking together, movie nights, and a good laugh with housemates.

4. Private Rooms – These Canterbury student houses are for students who prefer their own company or a quieter lifestyle. You’ll have a private bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom, giving you full independence without sharing any spaces. Great for postgrads or those who like things neat and peaceful.

5. Studios – The ultimate all-in-one setup! Studios come with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette in one cosy space. It’s perfect for students who want freedom, privacy, and a personal space to unwind after lectures.

6. 1-Bed Apartments – If you’re looking for something more like a home, 1-bed flats offer a separate bedroom, kitchen, living area, and bathroom all to yourself. They’re ideal for couples or students who want a bit more room to spread out and settle in.

The cost of living in Canterbury depends on various factors. Though it is an inexpensive locality compared to other areas in the city, planning your budget well is crucial since approximately what you should be expecting to spend in a week in total comes to around £900-£1400/month. Planning can help you waive a few expenses outside of your student accommodation in Canterbury and save a few extra pounds. The fees and approximate costs are as below :

1. Restaurants: £20-£60/month
2. Groceries: £100-£120/month
3. Transportation: £80-£100/month
4. Utilities: £200-£240/month
5. Clothing: £40-£100/month

Canterbury’s well-connected and affordable transport network makes it simple for students to travel around the city and nearby areas. Whether you’re heading to lectures, exploring local attractions, or working part-time, getting around Canterbury is easy, budget-friendly, and efficient. Here’s a breakdown of transportation options available for students in Canterbury:
1. Buses: Stagecoach operates the main bus network across Canterbury, connecting key neighbourhoods, university campuses, and nearby towns. A standard single fare costs around £2, while a day ticket is about £4.50, allowing unlimited rides. Students can also get the UniRider Pass, which offers unlimited travel for as low as £1.38 per day, perfect for daily commutes to the University of Kent, Canterbury Christ Church University, or Canterbury College.
2. Trains: Canterbury has two main railway stations, Canterbury West and Canterbury East,  offering regular services to London St Pancras (from £12), Dover, and Ramsgate. With a 16–25 Railcard, students can save up to 33% on rail fares, making weekend trips or visits home more affordable.
3. Cycling: Canterbury is a compact, bike-friendly city with plenty of dedicated cycling routes. The Crab and Winkle Way and Great Stour Way are scenic trails often used by students travelling between campuses and accommodation. Many Canterbury student accommodation options provide secure bike storage, making cycling both convenient and affordable.
4. Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber, Bolt, and local taxi companies are easily accessible for late-night rides or quick trips around town, offering flexible and safe travel options for students.

Canterbury offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and modern student life, making it a dream destination for students. With over 30,000 students studying across top institutions like the University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University, the city is buzzing with youthful energy and endless opportunities for exploration. Students staying in student accommodation in Canterbury can enjoy a lifestyle that blends centuries-old architecture with vibrant cafés, bars, and local hangouts. The city is steeped in heritage, and a stroll through its cobbled streets feels like walking through time. The iconic Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit landmark, while St. Augustine’s Abbey and Westgate Gardens offer a peaceful escape from student life. For art lovers, the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge and Canterbury Roman Museum showcase the city’s artistic and historical roots.

Students can enjoy shopping at Whitefriars Shopping Centre or unwind at local favourites like The Loft Bar and The Foundry Brew Pub. For weekends, Howletts Wild Animal Park, Dane John Gardens, and Whitstable Beach (just 20 minutes away) are perfect for a quick getaway. The compact city layout means that most attractions, eateries, and student housing are within walking distance. Whether you’re living in Canterbury student accommodation or nearby private student accommodation Canterbury, you’ll find yourself surrounded by history, culture, and student-friendly entertainment, all wrapped in a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

Canterbury is home to several well-known institutions that attract students nationally and internationally, making it an ideal destination for those seeking academic excellence. Here are some of the top universities near Canterbury accommodation:
1. University of Kent: The University of Kent is a leading public research university, renowned for its strong programs in law, humanities, and social sciences. Ranked #380 in the QS World University Rankings 2025, it boasts a student population of over 18,000, offering a diverse and inclusive academic environment.
2. Canterbury Christ Church University: Canterbury Christ Church University is known for its focus on teaching and professional development. Ranked #801-1000 in the QS World University Rankings, it serves a student body of over 16,000, providing a supportive atmosphere with a wide range of academic programs, particularly in education, health, and social sciences.
3. Canterbury College: Canterbury College, part of the EKC Group, offers a wide range of vocational and technical courses. It has a student population of approximately 4,500, providing education to students aged 14 and above, including adult learners. Students seeking off-campus student accommodation near Canterbury College have plenty of options that’ll elevate their student living experience.