Best Student Accommodation in Leicester, United Kingdom

University of Leicester

The University of Leicester is a research-intensive university in Leicester known for its strong academic reputation, global outlook, and student-focused learning environment. It offers a wide range of programmes across fields such as Medicine, Biological Sciences, Business, Law, Engineering, Media, and Space Science, with many courses incorporating research opportunities and industry engagement.

The university is particularly recognised for its contributions to scientific discovery and innovation, including pioneering work in genetics and space science. It also performs strongly in graduate employability and research impact, making it a popular choice for students seeking both academic depth and career opportunities.

De Montfort University

De Montfort University is a modern, career-focused university recognised for its emphasis on practical learning, creativity, and employability. It offers professionally oriented programmes in areas such as Art & Design, Business, Computing, Engineering, Media, Fashion, and Health Sciences, with many courses featuring placements, live projects, and industry partnerships.

The university is especially known for its strong industry links and hands-on teaching approach, helping students gain real-world experience while studying. Its graduates are well supported through career services and placement opportunities, making it a strong choice for students studying in Leicester focused on employability.

Loughborough University

In addition to Leicester’s own universities, students in the wider Leicestershire area also benefit from access to nearby institutions such as Loughborough University. Loughborough University is one of the globally recognised institutions, with a reputation for academic excellence, outstanding student experience, and world-leading sports provision. It offers highly regarded programmes across areas such as Engineering, Sport Science, Business, Architecture, Computer Science, and Social Sciences, combining academic study with practical and research-led learning.

The university consistently performs strongly in student satisfaction and graduate outcomes, with close links to industry and employers. It’s also internationally respected for its research output and innovation, making it one of the UK’s most prestigious student destinations.

Best Student Accommodation in Leicester

• The Summit

• 142 Charles Street

• Pennine House

• Eastern Boulevard

Affordable Student Accommodation in Leicester

• York House Leicester

• Tudor Studios

• Filbert Village

• CODE Leicester

Clarendon Park

Clarendon Park is south of the city centre and one of the top student areas in Leicester. It’s known for its multicultural vibes and houses a large student population, with proximity to the University of Leicester. The area includes various student-friendly amenities and student hangout spots like Queens Road, where you can find shops, cafes, and unique finds. Green spaces like Victoria Park also serve as relaxation areas for students in Leicester.

Transportation in Clarendon Park is well-connected by bus and train, offering easy access to Leicester city centre, Leicester Railway Station, and nearby student areas. The neighbourhood is also popular with cyclists and pedestrians thanks to its walkable streets and convenient location. Clarendon Park is within a short walking distance of the University of Leicester, making it especially popular among its students. Meanwhile, students attending De Montfort University can easily reach campus by bus, bike, or a short commute through the city centre.

Leicester City Centre

Leicester city centre is located in the East Midlands, along the River Soar, and serves as the city’s main hub for culture, transport, shopping, and business. It’s one of the most popular student areas in Leicester, combining city energy, convenient student living, and a strong cultural scene. Most notably, it’s home to Leicester’s Cultural Quarter, which features music venues, art spaces, exhibitions, and a thriving food scene. 

The city centre is well served by buses and rail connections, providing easy access to surrounding neighbourhoods and nearby cities across the Midlands. De Montfort University is within walking distance for many students living in the area, while the University of Leicester can be reached by bus, bike, or a short walk. Students living in the city centre also benefit from proximity to shopping destinations, entertainment venues, cafés, restaurants, and Leicester Railway Station. 

West End / Narborough Road

Leicester’s West End, centred around Narborough Road, is located immediately west of the city centre. It offers affordable student housing in Leicester, multicultural restaurants, and a lively atmosphere popular with De Montfort University students. The area’s mix of international food spots, independent shops, and student houses creates a social and community-focused atmosphere. Key highlights include Narborough Road, Bede Park, and Westcotes Gardens.

Transportation in the West End is convenient thanks to regular bus routes, walkable streets, and cycling access to both the city centre and nearby universities. De Montfort University is within easy walking distance, while students attending the University of Leicester can commute by bus, bike, or through the city centre. 

The Golden Triangle (Loughborough)

The Golden Triangle is one of the most well-known student neighbourhoods in Loughborough, located between the town centre and Loughborough University. The area is especially popular among students thanks to its social atmosphere, convenient location, and wide range of shared student housing options. Students studying at Loughborough University can benefit from nearby cafés, supermarkets, gyms, and takeaway spots, creating a lively student environment.

Transportation in the Golden Triangle is highly convenient for students, with walking and cycling being common ways to travel around the area. Loughborough University can be reached within minutes, while the town centre and Loughborough Railway Station are also easily accessible. The neighbourhood’s strong student presence and balanced mix of residential streets and social spaces make it one of the top places to live for students studying in Loughborough.

The cost of living in Leicester depends on several factors, including lifestyle choices and the type of accommodation.

Student Accommodation

Here’s an estimated monthly breakdown for student expenses in Leicester according to Numbeo:

Groceries

Utilities

Item	Monthly Cost (£)
Basic Utilities for 85 m² Apartment	130 - 350 £
Mobile Phone Plan	8 - 15 £

Transportation

Item	Cost (£)
One-Way Ticket	2 - 3 £
Monthly Public Transport Pass	50 - 78 £ depending on operator and ticket type.

Note: Students in Leicester can use several discounted travel options, including First Bus student tickets (Weekly, 4-Week, Monthly & Annual passes) and Arriva Midlands student tickets, which offer unlimited travel on key city routes. For rail travel, the 16-25 Railcard provides 1/3 off train fares across the UK, making trips to cities like London and Birmingham more affordable.

Students in Leicester enjoy excellent, affordable transport links, making it easy to travel between universities, student neighbourhoods, and the city centre. Public transport is mainly operated by several key providers, including Arriva Midlands and First Bus, which run frequent services across major student areas, the city centre, and university campuses.

 
Bus

Leicester has a strong local bus system connecting student areas like Clarendon Park, the West End, and Oadby with the city centre and universities. Buses run frequently during the day, with reduced but still regular services in the evenings.

Train

The main rail hub is Leicester Railway Station, located close to the city centre. It offers direct services to cities like London, Birmingham, Nottingham, and Sheffield, making it convenient for weekend travel, internships, and airport connections.

Cycling

Cycling is another popular and practical way to get around Leicester, especially for students. The city has improving cycle lanes and short travel distances, making it easy to commute between neighbourhoods and universities.

Walking

Leicester is fairly compact, so walking is a popular option, particularly between the city centre and nearby student areas in Leicester like Clarendon Park and the West End.

• National Space Centre: A leading science and astronomy attraction featuring interactive space exhibits and planetarium shows, popular with students and visitors alike.

• Leicester Museum and Art Gallery: A city-centre museum showcasing art, archaeology, and natural history collections, ideal for a quick cultural visit.

• Clock Tower: A central Leicester landmark and popular meeting point surrounded by shops, cafés, and busy pedestrian streets.

• King Richard III Visitor Centre: A historical attraction telling the story of the discovery and life of King Richard III, located near Leicester Cathedral.

• Abbey Park: A large riverside green space offering gardens, walking paths, and recreational areas perfect for relaxing outdoors.