About Bristol
Bristol is a vibrant city in the southwest of England known and loved by students for its creative feel, historic character, and picturesque harbourside. With colourful street art, music festivals, independent shops, and riverside cafés, it’s a place that perfectly balances learning with a laid-back lifestyle. Bristol also has a friendly and multicultural atmosphere, so it’s easy to feel at home here.
Bristol has some top-ranking universities, including the University of Bristol and the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), so you’ll have an international melting pot of students. For affordable Bristol student accommodation, check out areas like Fishponds and Kingsdown. Additionally, cities like Bath, Cardiff, and London are all easily accessible by train and could make for great weekend trips or day out getaways.
Best Student Accommodation in Bristol
At Alphaway, you will find the best student accommodation in Bristol! Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly shared apartment, a mid-range ensuite student room, or a luxury private student studio in Bristol we have it all. Our listings are verified, safe, and all have 24/7 support. Find top-rated student housing in Bristol and your next home:
Why Choose Bristol for Higher Education
Bristol has been recognized by QS as a top student city due to the combination of a great academic environment, creative culture, and prospects for professional opportunities. With global companies, tech hubs, and a vibrant city lifestyle, Bristol offers students the opportunity to develop both academically and personally.
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Bristol
Bristol is a super safe city for students, but some areas have a higher student population due to their proximity to the university. Here are some of the best areas for Bristol student accommodation, UK:
- City Centre: Close to universities, nightlife, and shopping. Popular for private student halls like Studio 58 Bristol.
- Clifton: A historic and upscale area with stunning views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Ideal for students who want a quieter, more scenic environment.
- Redland & Cotham: Peaceful residential areas with easy access to universities. Popular for shared housing and family-run accommodations.
- Stoke Bishop: Preferred by University of Bristol students, this area offers a mix of university halls and private housing.
- Filton: Affordable and close to UWE Bristol’s Frenchay Campus, making it a great option for budget-conscious students.
Different Types of Student Accommodation in Bristol
- Private Student Accommodation (PBSA): Purpose-built student accommodation in Bristol has students' lives at its heart. You may have the choice of shared student apartments (shared bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom), ensuite student rooms in Bristol (own bedroom and bathroom, shared kitchen), or private student studios in Bristol (all in one space). These students' apartments in Bristol come fully furnished with the benefit of all-inclusive rent (including utility bills, internet connection, and amenities such as gyms, laundry, and study lounges etc).
- University Halls: Run by universities and on campus or near campus. The types of accommodation and facilities may vary.
- Shared Apartments: Shared student apartments in Bristol or privately rented student flats are usually located near the university in Bristol. These are student flats that you share with other students. You would normally have to manage your own bills and maintenance.
Cost of Living in Bristol for International Students
The cost of living in Bristol for students is reasonable for a UK city. Here’s a quick guide:
- Rent: £180-£300/week, depending on location and room type. Most PBSAs offer all-inclusive prices.
- Groceries: £100-£150/month. Local stores like Lidl and Tesco help keep costs low.
- Travel: £40-£60/month using student travel cards or bus passes.
- Dining Out: £10-£20 per meal. Bristol has great food spots for every budget.
- Entertainment & Shopping: £50-£100/month. Enjoy cinemas, local markets, thrift stores, and gigs.
Transportation in Bristol
It is easy to get around Bristol. Here are the most convenient options:
- Buses: Bristol has a good bus network with frequent services and student discounts.
- Trains: Easy rail access to cities like Bath, London, and Cardiff.
- Cycling: Bike-friendly with cycle lanes and rentals available.
- Walking: Most areas near universities are walkable.
- Airport Access: Bristol Airport is close and connects to major European cities.
- Student Travel Passes: Save money with local travel cards and student rail discounts.
Student Life in Bristol
Bristol offers a fun and balanced student lifestyle, with something for everyone:
- Restaurants & Cafés: From street food at St. Nicholas Market to cosy brunch cafés in Clifton, Bristol has it all.
- Student Clubs & Events: Join societies, music nights, or attend campus events.
- Markets & Malls: Explore Cabot Circus, Gloucester Road shops, or weekend markets.
- Weekend Getaways: Easy train rides to Bath, Cardiff, and the Cotswolds.
- Libraries & Study Spots: Find quiet spaces at the university libraries or indie cafés.
- Live Music & Art: Enjoy gigs, art shows, and outdoor performances around the city.
Universities in Bristol
Bristol is home to two world-class universities: the University of Bristol and the University of the West England (UWE). Here is everything you need to know about these universities:
- University of Bristol: The University of Bristol is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and is consistently ranked among the best in the UK and in the world. Recognized for academic quality and impact in research, the university has a variety of programs in engineering, life sciences, social sciences, and arts and humanities. The university offers student support services with academic support, mental health and well-being support, as well as an international services department specifically for our international students.
- University of the West of England (UWE Bristol): UWE Bristol is a modern, career-focused university with excellent links to industries. The university focuses on a hands-on learning approach and offers practical and business-centric modules in programs. Programs offered include business management, engineering and technology, creative arts, health sciences, and more. Just like the University of Bristol, they too have student support services specifically for academics, mental health support, and support for our international students.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- University Scholarships: UWE and the University of Bristol offer merit-based and subject-specific scholarships.
- Government Grants & Loans: Available to eligible UK students for tuition and living expenses.
- GCC Country-Specific Scholarships: Students from Gulf countries can apply for support from embassies or government ministries.
- External Scholarships: Apply for schemes like Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships.
Tips for International Students
- Open a UK Bank Account: Helps with daily expenses and paying rent.
- Get a SIM Card: Providers like EE, GiffGaff, or O2 offer cheap student plans.
- Learn the Basics: “Cheers” and “You alright?” are common and friendly greetings.
- Use Discount Apps: UNiDAYS and Student Beans offer great student deals.
- Alphaway Support: From airport pickups to essentials kits, we’re here to help you settle in comfortably.
Health & Safety Tips & Student Well-Being Resources
- Register with the NHS: Access free healthcare by signing up with a GP near your student home.
- Emergency Contacts: Keep 999 and your university’s support numbers saved.
- Travel Safe at Night: Stick to lit paths or use night buses and trusted ride apps.
- Mental Health Support: Free services are offered by universities—don’t hesitate to ask for help.
