About Nottingham

Nottingham is a city that blends modern living with a rich history. Known for its legendary links to Robin Hood, the city also boasts a thriving arts scene, lively nightlife, and a strong student community. The city experiences a temperate maritime climate, with warm summers (avg. 21°C) and cool winters (avg. 3–5°C). Spring and autumn are pleasant and the best time to explore the city and enjoy the city’s parks, riverside walks, and open-air events. Home to top universities like Nottingham Trent and the University of Nottingham, this city is made for student life. You’ve got everything you need right on your doorstep – from lively cafes and great food spots to shops, bars, and live music. Plus, with a lower cost of living than many other big UK cities and loads of student accommodation to choose from, it’s no surprise so many students choose Nottingham.

Why Study in Nottingham?

Nottingham is home to top universities – Nottingham Trent University and The University of Nottingham, both known for their strong academic reputations, modern campuses, and supportive learning environments. No matter your course or area of interest, you will find world-class teaching, excellent facilities, and a lively student community. Student life in Nottingham isn’t just about lectures and labs, it offers an amazing student lifestyle as well. The city is affordable and easy to navigate with lots of things to do – be it grabbing coffee with friends, exploring the city, or heading out to a gig. With a wide range of accommodations to choose from and a cost of living that is easy on your bank, Nottingham is a place where you thrive academically and make the most of your student experience.

Best Student Accommodation in Nottingham

There are plenty of amazing options of Nottingham accommodation. This includes:

University Halls of Residence

These are university-managed student accommodations in Nottingham and are a great choice if you’re after that classic student experience. Top picks include:

• Broadgate Park and St Peter’s Court (UoN)
• Byron or Gill Street South (NTU)

Private Student Accommodation

These are student accommodations in Nottingham managed by private accommodation providers. Here are the best private student accommodations in Nottingham:

• Straits Village: A popular choice for students at NTU.
• The Laceworks: High-rise & stylish living just a short walk from both NTU and UoN.
• Newtown House: Centrally located with sleek studio apartments and shared flats.

Shared Housing and Studio Apartments

These are rented apartments managed by individual landlords. These Nottingham accommodation options can be studio apartments or shared apartments with 1, 2, or 3 bedrooms. Some of the best areas to look in are:

• Lenton – close to both unis and a major student hub
• Arboretum – close to NTU and the city center
• Dunkirk – perfect for UoN students

Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Nottingham

Nottingham is a great city for students and one of the best parts is the number of student-friendly neighbourhoods there are. Whether you want to be in the heart of the action or prefer somewhere a bit quieter and more chilled, there is a spot for every preference. Here are some of the best areas that students love to call home:

Lenton:

Lenton is kind of a rite of passage for students. It is close to UoN and full of classic student houses and corner shops. It is the perfect blend of social scene while being surrounded by other students.

Arboretum:

Arboretum is perfect if you want everything at your doorstep with it being tucked right next to NTU and just a short walk from town.

Dunkirk:

Dunkirk is a popular match with med students and those studying at UoN (main campus) or QMC. Everything you need is close by.

City Centre:

Want to live where it’s all happening? The city centre has multiple options of modern student flats and studio apartments to choose from and you will just be a few minutes away from shops, bars, and takeaways.

Beeston:

A little further out but relaxed, local feel. Trams make it easy to get around and it is a great option for UoN students.

Forest Fields:

An affordable option for students looking to save on rent yet stay connected. Forest Fields is a quieter option but has a growing student population. It is well connected by buses and trams into the city.

The Park:

A bit of a hidden gem, The Park is peaceful and little more upmarket. It is not the typical student area however; it is close to the centre and perfect if you like a bit of calm after a busy day.

Different Types of Student Accommodation in Nottingham

On-campus University Halls

These are on-campus and university-affiliated accommodation. They are managed by universities and provide students with shared and private rooms. These student accommodations in Nottingham are just seconds away from lecture halls, libraries and student events, making it convenient for students and helping them save time. It also gives students opportunities to socialize more on campus and make the most of their student lives. Rooms and flats in university halls are fully furnished and offer an all-inclusive rent.

Private Student Halls

These are student accommodations in Nottingham managed by private accommodation providers. These Nottingham accommodations may or may not be located near the university campus. They’re modern, luxurious, and fully furnished. They also offer premium amenities to students like cinema rooms, study lounges, gym etc. Private student accommodation in Nottingham offers different room types like en-suite, non-en-suite, and studio.

• En-suite: This accommodation type offers a private bedroom, and bathroom with a shared living area and kitchen.
• Studio: This accommodation has a private bedroom, bathroom, living area, and a kitchenette.
• Non-en-suite: This accommodation type has a shared bathroom, living area, and kitchen.

Shared Housing in Nottingham

These Nottingham student accommodations are managed by individual landlords. They can be much more affordable than on-campus accommodation and private student accommodation. Shared student houses in Nottingham can be 1, 2, or 3-bedroom apartments with shared bathrooms, living areas, and a kitchen. These may or may not be furnished and the rent is rarely all- inclusive. This means that students must pay the bills for electricity and Wi-Fi separately.

Cost of Living in Nottingham

Nottingham is a lively and student-friendly city that offers a great lifestyle at an affordable cost. With a little bit of smart budgeting, you can enjoy everything that Nottingham has to offer. Here is a breakdown of the cost of living in Nottingham, England:

Average Accommodation Costs

• University Halls (On-Campus): £400-£750/month (all bills usually included, shared rooms or en-suites)
• Private Student Accommodation: £550-£900/month (modern studios, en-suites plus added facilities like onsite gyms, cinema rooms and social spaces. Bills are inclusive)
• Shared Houses/Flats: £375-£625/month (Ideal for groups of friends, bills may be separate)

Pro Tip: Lenton is super popular, but accommodations are a little high-priced. Look around Dunkirk or Forest Fields for better deals

Food & Grocery Expenses

• Weekly Groceries: £25-£45 (Sainsbury, Aldi, Lidl, and local markets near the city centre)
• Eating Out: £8-£14 (for a meal at Annie’s Burger Shack, Zaap Thai, or café chains like 200 Degrees)
• Meal Deals: £3-£4.50 (at Boots, Tesco, Greggs and university cafes)

Transport & Commuting Costs

• Student Bus Pass (NCT): Around £65/month (unlimited city-wide travel, with discounts for term-time or yearly passes)
• Tram Pass (NET): Around £60/month (connects uni campuses, Beeston, and city center)
• Cycling: Free or a very low cost – the city has good bike lanes and pre-owned bikes are easy to find
• Train to Lincoln, Leicester, or Sheffield: £10-£20 return with a 16-25 Railcard

Entertainment & Social Life

• Cinema Tickets: £5-£9 (student discounts at Cineworld and Savoy Cinema)
• Club Entry: £4-£8 (early entry deals at Rock City, Ocean and Pryzm)
• Pubs & Bars: £3-£4.50 for pints (The Rose & Crown, The Bodega and The Organ Grinder are student faves)
• Free Attractions: Wollaton Park (aka Wayne Manor), Nottingham Castle Grounds and The Green’s Mill

Gym Memberships

£15-£30/month (University gyms are often the cheapest)

Part-Time Jobs & Student Discounts

• Part-time wages: £9-£12/hour (retail, cafes, campus work, tutoring)

Student Discounts:

• Unidays & Student Beans: 10-25% off fashion, tech and takeaways
• TOTUM Card: Discount on travel, entertainment and subscriptions

Transportation in Nottingham

Getting around in Nottingham is super straightforward, making it accessible for students to commute with ease – be it to the university, meeting friends in town, or planning a weekend getaway, the city’s well-connected transport makes life that much easier. Here’s everything you need to know:

Bus Travel

• Student Monthly Bus Pass: Around £65 for unlimited travel within the city
• Single Ticket: £2.70 or £4.80 for a day pass
• Late Night Services: Buses run late into the night on main routes, perfect for late lectures or library sessions

Tram Travel

• Student Tram Pass: Around £60/month
• Pay-As-You-Go: From £2.70 per trip

Trains for Weekend Trips

Typical return fares (with a 16–25 Railcard):

• Lincoln: £10
• Sheffield: £12-£15
• Manchester: £20-£30
• London: £25–£45

16-25 Railcard: Just £30/year saves you 1/3 on all rail fares

Cycling & Walking

• Cycling: Nottingham is a bike-friendly city with plenty of bike lanes. You can find pre-owned bikes at local shops or uni forums
• Walking: Most student areas are 15-30 minutes on foot, perfect for sunny day strolls and keeping active

Student Discounts on Transport

• 16-25 Railcard: Save 1/3 on train fares across the UK
• NCT Student Bus Passes: Flexible and cheaper monthly or term passes
• NET Tram Student Tickets: Discounted unlimited travel options
• TOTUM Card: May offer occasional deals on trains, coaches, or cycling gear

University in Nottingham

Nottingham is one of the UK’s most exciting student cities, home to two top-notch universities that each bring something unique to the table. Whether you are after world-class research, creative courses, or a lively campus atmosphere, Nottingham has you covered.

University of Nottingham (UoN)

The University of Nottingham is recognized globally for its research, teaching, and beautiful campuses. The university offers a wide range of degrees like Engineering, Medicine, Law, Business, and Social Sciences. Its strong global links and partnerships with companies like Rolls-Royce, Pfizer, and Microsoft give students a serious edge when it comes to future careers. You will also find state-of-the-art labs, libraries, and one of the best Students’ Unions in the UK, offering 200+ societies and sports clubs here. The uni experience here is about more than just lectures—it’s about building skills, friendships, and unforgettable memories.

Nottingham Trent University (NTU)

Nottingham Trent University is one of the UK’s most popular universities. It is modern and career-focused, with strong industry links and a big emphasis on practical learning. Whether you’re studying Fashion, Architecture, Journalism, Psychology, or Science, NTU has courses designed to get you workplace ready. The main City Campus is right in the heart of Nottingham while Clifton Campus and Brackenhurst offer a scenic setting and close-knit community. With a friendly vibe, modern facilities, and a strong support network, NTU gives you all the tools to succeed—both during your studies and beyond.

Student Life in Nottingham

Nottingham is a perfect blend of city buzz and student-friendly charm. Whether you are on the hunt for your next coffee spot, catching live music, hitting shops, or just looking for a great pub to unwind in, the city delivers. Here is how you can make the most of your time as a student in Nottingham:

Top Cafes, Restaurants & Pubs for Students

• Best cafes to study or chill: 200 Degrees, The Specialty Coffee Shop, Cartwheel Café
• Budget-Friendly Eats: Annie’s Burger Shack, Falafel King, Tortilla
• Student Pubs & Bars: The Ropewalk, The Sir John Borlase Warren, Bunk

Shopping Destinations

• City Centre: Packed with all your high street favourites like Urban Outfitters, JD Sports, and Primark
• Hockley & Lace Market: Indie shops, vinyl stores and vintage fashion
• Old Market Square & Surrounds: Seasonal markets, local crafts and food festivals
• Sneinton Market: Artisan stalls and pop-up food vendors

Nightlife & Music Scene

• Best Clubs
  • Rock City (An absolute Nottingham Icon with live bands)
  • Pryzm (Classic multiroom nightclub)
  • Stealth (for house & techno student nights)
• Live Music Venues
  • Rescue Rooms (Open mic nights)
  • Metronome (live bands & comedy nights)
  • Bodega (indie bands & chilled DJ sets)
• Student Nights
  • Monday: Crisis at Rock City (UoN’s biggest night).
  • Wednesday: Ocean’s Student Night (Fancy dress & Karaoke).
  • Friday: Pryzm (Student deals & all-night dancing)

Sports & Fitness Options

• Gyms
  • The Gym Group (24/7 access, no contract, £18/month)
  • PureGym (Centrally located, student-friendly, open all hours)
  • University Sports Centre (well-equipped gyms, fitness classes, and best student deals)
• Outdoor & Team Sports
  • Wollaton Park (Walking & Jogging)
  • Highfields Sports Complex (Pitches, Courts, and Rowing)
  • Trent Bridge (Cricket)
  • University Sports Club (Basketball, Football & Ultimate Frisbee)

Student Societies, Events & Festivals

• Student Societies: Film Society, International Students Group, Feminist Society, Esports
• Regular Events: Pub Quizzes, Language Exchanges, Themed Club Nights, Career Fairs and Networking Sessions, Open Mic, and Comedy Nights across campus
• Annual Events
  • Nottingham Goose Fair (October – Food & Rides)
  • Light Night Festival (February – Immersive Art & Performances)
  • Hockley Hustle (Autumn – Local Music & Street Art)
  • Nottingham Carnival (August – Caribbean Food, Live Music & Dancing)

Cultural Spots

• Nottingham Contemporary (Free entry)
• Nottingham Castle (Beautiful views & Exhibitions)
• City of Caves (Underground network of caves)

Safety Tips for International Students

• Use well-lit paths at night
• Register with SafeZone (an app provided by both NTU & UoN. that Connects you instantly to campus security).
• Keep emergency contacts saved: UoN security (0115 951 3013), NTU Security (0115 848 6462), police (101/999).
• Avoid late-night walking: Travel with friends or use trusted taxi services like Uber or DG Cars
• Join University’s safety briefing: Usually held during welcome week and covers everything from staying safe on night outs to public transport.

Tourist Attractions in Nottingham

• Nottingham Castle: The castle offers an immersive exhibit about Robin Hood, rebellion, and the city’s rich history
• City of Caves: With over 500 hidden networks of caves right underneath the streets of Nottingham, the City of Caves gives you a rich, centuries-old underground history.
• Old Market Square: The heart of the city is known for hosting seasonal events, pop-up markets, and the iconic Nottingham Winter Wonderland.
• The Arboretum: Just a short walk from the city centre and is ideal for a quiet afternoon, picnic or just simply reading.
• Wollaton Hall & Deer Park: Spot deer, walk around the lake, or visit the Natural History Museum.
• Lace Market & Hockley: A trendy filled with art spaces, vintage stores, indie shops & cool cafes.

Tips for International Students in Lincoln

Moving to a new country can feel a little overwhelming—but Nottingham makes settling in surprisingly smooth. With its supportive universities and loads of international students, it won’t take long to feel right at home. Here are some key tips to help you settle in:

Visa & Immigration Essentials

• Student Visa (Tier 4/Student Route)
  Apply in advance and check up-to-date requirements on the UK Government website.
• BRP Collection:
  Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) soon after arrival—usually at your university or a local post office (check your visa letter for details).
• Police Registration:
  Only required for certain nationalities—your visa letter will say if this applies to you.
• Pro Tip: Always keep digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, BRP, and offer letter in a safe place.

Opening a UK Bank Account

• Required Documents:
  Passport, BRP, proof of address (e.g., tenancy agreement), and letter of confirmation from your university.
• Choose a Student-Friendly Bank:
  Popular options are Lloyds, Barclays, HSBC, NatWest, and Santander—these banks offer accounts tailored for students with perks like railcards or interest-free overdrafts.
• Pro Tip: It's often quicker to book an appointment ahead—banks get busy during the welcome week!

Healthcare & NHS Registration

• NHS Access: Free healthcare for students on a visa for more than 6 months.
• Register with a GP:
  Visit a local clinic (e.g., UoN and NTU health centers) with your BRP, student ID, and proof of address.
• Prescriptions & Dental:
  Prescriptions: £9.65 per item in England.
  Dental: Register with an NHS dentist (check www.nhs.uk).
• Emergency Numbers:
  111 (non-emergency) or 999 (ambulance/police).

Part-Time Job Opportunities

• Work Rights:
  Tier 4 visa holders can work 20 hours/week during the term and full-time during holidays.
• Where to Find Jobs:
  On-campus: Libraries, student unions, cafes, or events.
  City Centre : H&M, Tesco, Primark, Costa
  Job Portals: Indeed, StudentJob UK, your uni’s career portal.
• Pro Tip: Get a National Insurance Number (NINo) to work legally (apply via gov.uk).

Cultural Adaptation & Support Services

• Support Systems:
  Tackle Culture Shock Early: Join International Student Groups or buddy schemes at your university to meet people from all over the world.
• Free English Support:
  Both UoN and NTU offer free language support through workshops and classes.
• Faith & Belonging:
  Nottingham is a diverse and inclusive city, with mosques, churches, temples and multi-faith spaces across both uni campuses.
• Feeling Homesick?
  NTU and UoN provide free mental health counselling services – book a session anytime, there’s always someone to talk to.

Safety & Well-Being Resources

• Campus Security:
  UoN & NTU offer 24/7 on-campus security and emergency contact numbers.
• Safe Nights Out:
  Stick with the group, plan how you will get home, and use well-lit routes. Look out for SafeZone or similar safety apps offered by your university.
• Mental Health Support:
  Free counselling and well-being services are available through your university, don’t hesitate to reach out.
• Local support & Emergency contacts:
  Nottinghamshire police – Call 101
  Emergency (police/ ambulance/fire): Call 999
  University Health Centres: For physical and mental health concerns
  Samaritans – call 116 123 (24/7 free mental health support)
  Nightline – Anonymous support run by students (nightline.ac.uk)

Student Support Services in Nottingham

As an international student, settling into a new city is never easy and can be overwhelming but you are never alone. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed! You need to have access to resources that will help you. Here are all the resources you should save right away:

Academic Support

• Writing & Research Help:
  Free academic skills workshop on essay writing, referencing (APA/Harvard), and presentation and time management.
• One-on-one tutoring:
  Via Uni’s Learning Development Centre.
• Library Resources:
  24/7 access to major libraries like Hallward Library (UoN) and Boots Library (NTU).
  Free inter-library loans for more specialist resources.

Mental Health & Wellbeing

• Confidential Counselling:
  Book free sessions via your uni’s Wellbeing team (in-person/online).
  Arabic-speaking counsellors available upon request.
• Peer Support Groups:
  Join the "Global Lounge" or “Global Buddies” program for international student meets.
  Weekly mindfulness sessions, chill-out cafes, and wellness walks through places like Arboretum Park.

Career & Employability

• Workshops & Internships:
  CV reviews, LinkedIn clinics, mock interviews, and career fairs.
  Internship programs via the Nottingham Internship Scheme or NTU’s Grads4Nottm initiative.
• Visa Guidance:
  Dedicated international support teams offer guidance on the Graduate Route (Post-Study Work Visa).
  Attend free Q&A sessions or book an advisor to help plan your career path post-graduation.

Financial Aid

• Hardship Funds:
  Emergency grants are available for students facing unexpected financial crises.
• Part-Time Job Board:
  Curated listings for on-campus roles (max 20 hours/week for Tier 4 visa holders during term time).

Faith & Community

• Prayer Spaces:
  Multi-faith rooms across campuses plus nearby worship spaces including the Nottingham Central Mosque, synagogues, and chaplaincy centres.
• Halal Food:
  Uni cafes offer halal, vegetarian, and vegan options, and you’ll find halal grocery stores across Radford, Hyson Green, and the city centre.

Nottingham is a dynamic student city with a mix of heritage, creativity, and opportunity. If you're planning your move here, it's the perfect time to sort your student accommodation. Book your home in Nottingham with Alphaway and find your perfect student space.