Best Student Accommodation in Plymouth, United Kingdom

Plymouth, England's port city, is located in Devon County on the South Coast. Plymouth’s population is about 260,000 people. Historically well-known for its shipbuilding and seafaring industries, it has turned more towards the service industries in modern times while maintaining a strong tourism industry. Popular sites include Barbican Quay, also known as The Barbican, which refers to the northern and western sides of Plymouth’s Sutton Harbour. Plymouth Sound, or The Sound, is one of the world’s most beautiful natural harbours, perfect for waterside walks. Being on the coast, Plymouth’s weather has milder temperatures than the rest of the UK, so it is ideal if you’re looking for a warm and beachfront study environment. 

Plymouth University is a well-ranked UK university With 30,000 students and a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Various courses focus on marine business, marine biology and Earth, marine engineering, ocean and environmental sciences, shipping and logistics, and surf science. The Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry was established as a joint venture with the University of Exeter and is recognised among the top medical schools in the country.

Several localities and neighbourhoods allow you to find and book affordable, comfortable, and convenient student accommodation in Plymouth. Some of the best places to live in Plymouth for students include Greenbank and the West End. Some of Casita’s most notable options for Plymouth student accommodation in those areas include Beckley Point, Central Point, and The Old Diary.

Greenbank

This area is one of the most famous among students in the city. This is due to its proximity to the University of Plymouth and its exciting events, along with a variety of student-friendly restaurants and cafes.

The West End

This is a lively, modern, and luxurious area to live in in Plymouth. It is bustling with activity and has plenty to offer in terms of food, entertainment, leisure, education, and natural scenery. It is a famous choice among students in the city. 

Casita offers plenty of Plymouth student accommodation for students all over the city. These include:

1. Discovery Heights

This Plymouth accommodation is located only a three-minute walk from the centre of the city. It offers both fully furnished ensuites and studios for students’ comfort and convenience. The property also has different amenities and services, including Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, and a games room, among others.

2. St. Teresa House

This Plymouth accommodation is only an 11-minute walk from the University of Plymouth. It has a variety of ensuites and studios that are fully furnished. Other amenities offered by the building include Wi-Fi, study spaces, and a meeting room, among others.

3. Alexandra Works

Located only 19 minutes away from the city centre and 14 minutes away from the University of Plymouth, this accommodation in Plymouth is one of the most convenient for students. It offers ensuite rooms that are fully equipped with everything you need. The property also has other facilities and services, including Wi-Fi, bike storage, and security teams.

The cost of living in Plymouth can vary depending on individual preferences and lifestyles. Here's a table outlining approximate prices for different categories:

In Plymouth, students have access to a range of convenient transportation options to navigate the city and its surrounding areas. Here are the key modes of transportation available:

• Bus: The bus network in Plymouth is extensive and well-connected, making it a popular mode of transportation for students. Plymouth Citybus and Stagecoach operate regular bus services that cover various routes throughout the city, including those connecting major educational institutions like the University of Plymouth and Plymouth College of Art. Students can benefit from discounted bus passes and tickets, which provide affordable and reliable transportation.

• Train: Plymouth has its own railway station, offering direct train services to major cities in the region, including London, Bristol, and Birmingham. Great Western Railway operates frequent train services, making it convenient for students to travel to and from Plymouth for home visits or weekend getaways. The train station is centrally located, providing easy access for students studying in the city.

• Cycling: Plymouth is a bike-friendly city, with dedicated cycling lanes and paths that make cycling an eco-friendly and efficient mode of transportation. Many students choose to cycle to their educational institutions, taking advantage of the city's bike-sharing schemes or using their own bicycles. The Plymouth Cycle Network provides a network of routes for safe cycling and promotes healthy and sustainable travel.

• Ferries: Plymouth's location on the coast provides students with the option of using ferries for transportation. The Plymouth to Roscoff ferry service connects the city with France, allowing for travel opportunities and cultural exchanges. Additionally, ferries operate within Plymouth itself, providing transportation across the Plymouth Sound and to destinations such as Mount Edgcumbe and the Royal William Yard.

Plymouth is home to reputable educational institutions, such as the University of Plymouth, which is renowned for its academic excellence and diverse range of courses. The city's location on the scenic south coast of England is a major draw for international students. The city offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, with stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and picturesque harbours. Students can enjoy a vibrant maritime atmosphere, participate in water sports, and explore the city's breathtaking natural landscapes.

 Plymouth has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous festivals, events, and artistic performances throughout the year. The city embraces creativity and offers a thriving arts and music community, providing international students with a rich cultural experience and opportunities to engage in various artistic pursuits. The cost of living in Plymouth is comparatively affordable compared to other major cities in the UK, making it an attractive option for international students seeking quality education without an excessive financial burden. Accommodation, transportation, and daily expenses are more manageable, allowing students to focus on their studies and enjoy their time in the city.

The city is known for attracting huge numbers of international students, making it a diverse place to be and meet people from all over the world. The main factor behind it being great for international students is that the University of Plymouth landed in fourth place in the international category in the 2018 WhatUni Student Choice Awards. Student life in Plymouth is exciting, with a great range of outdoor activities and things to do in Plymouth, such as sailing and hiking. The city also has a lot of student-friendly restaurants and entertainment spots. Foodies can enjoy the great places to eat in Plymouth, while those looking to explore Plymouth’s history can explore the historical buildings available.

Plymouth celebrates an array of different attractions and landmarks that appease people of all tastes and interests. Here are some of the must-visit Plymouth attractions you should absolutely check out during your time in the city! 

1. Smeaton’s Tower

This Plymouth monument is a memorial dedicated to the civil engineer John Smeaton, who designed the third and most notable Eddystone Lighthouse.

2. National Marine Aquarium

This is the UK’s largest aquarium, conveniently located in the nation’s ocean city of Plymouth, and is part of the Ocean Conservation Trust, which aims to connect people to the ocean.

3. Royal Citadel

This is a military structure that was built for defence back in the 17th century and is still in use today. 

4. Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery

Art fans would enjoy their time admiring and walking through the art exhibitions held at this Plymouth attraction. This is a place of nature, history, human history, and art! 

5. Royal William Yard

This modern meets historical attraction in the heart of the city is a great place to live, take a walk, grab a bite, and simply enjoy yourself!

Events in Plymouth

Plymouth is a city that celebrates its vibrant culture and community through various festivals and events throughout the year. Here are some notable festivals and events in Plymouth:

• The Plymouth Pirate Weekend: This lively event takes place annually and celebrates the city's rich maritime heritage. Locals and visitors don pirate attire and participate in a range of pirate-themed activities, including parades, live music, street performances, and treasure hunts. The Plymouth Pirate Weekend offers a fun-filled experience for all ages and immerses attendees in the spirit of adventure and swashbuckling fun.

• The British Firework Championships: Held in August, this spectacular fireworks display attracts thousands of spectators to Plymouth's waterfront. Renowned pyrotechnic companies compete to create mesmerising displays, lighting up the night sky with a symphony of colours and explosions. The event is accompanied by live music and entertainment.

• Flavour Fest: Flavour Fest is the South West's largest free food and drink festival, held in Plymouth's city centre. This three-day event showcases the region's culinary delights, featuring local producers, street food vendors, celebrity chefs, and cooking demonstrations. Visitors can sample a wide array of delicious food and drinks, learn new recipes, and enjoy live entertainment. Flavour Fest is a must-visit for food enthusiasts and a celebration of the region's gastronomic offerings.

• The Plymouth Christmas Market: This festive market transforms the city centre into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Stalls adorned with twinkling lights offer a selection of crafts, unique gifts, seasonal treats, and warm beverages. Visitors can soak up the festive ambience, browse the market, and indulge in traditional Christmas delights. The Plymouth Christmas Market provides a perfect opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit and find unique presents for loved ones.

Plymouth has a couple of world-renowned universities and top-ranked learning institutions that give both local and international students the opportunity to receive a high-quality education. Casita has a number of available options for Plymouth student accommodation close to those universities; check them out!

1. Plymouth University

• Our Plymouth student accommodation options are a few minutes away from campus on foot or a short ride by public transport.

• There are several bus stops surrounding the campus for easier access.

• Plymouth University International College (PUIC) is right next to the university.

• The Elizabethan Gardens are within walking distance from campus.

2. Plymouth Marjon University

• Several options for student accommodation in Plymouth are available within a 20-30 minute ride to campus by public transport.

• Marjons Footpath and Research Way bus stations are right next to the campus.