How to find the best student accommodation in Bath

Finding the perfect student accommodation in Bath can significantly impact your university experience. As a historic city hosting prestigious institutions including the University of Bath and Bath Spa University, Bath offers diverse student housing options ranging from university halls to private rentals. This guide, backed by our extensive local knowledge, will help you navigate the process of securing ideal student accommodation in Bath, UK.

Why choose Bath for your studies?

Bath combines academic excellence with an exceptional quality of life. The city's Roman heritage, Georgian architecture, and designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site create a unique backdrop for your education.

The University of Bath, consistently ranked among the UK's top universities, is renowned for its research excellence and high graduate employment rates. Bath Spa University offers outstanding creative courses in a supportive environment. Both institutions attract students from across the UK and internationally.

Beyond academics, Bath provides a perfect balance between city living and access to nature, with the picturesque Somerset countryside right on your doorstep. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate, whether on foot, by bike, or using the reliable public transport system.

How much is student accommodation in Bath?

Student accommodation costs in Bath vary depending on location, quality, and amenities:

• University halls: Typically range from £140-£220 per week, with variations based on whether catering is included and the room's size/facilities
• Private halls: Usually between £150-£250 per week, often including utilities and high-speed internet
• Private rentals (houses/flats): Shared houses average £120-£180 per week per person, excluding bills
• Studio apartments: Generally £180-£300 per week, depending on location and quality

Most premium accommodations like Old Bakery Yard offer all-inclusive packages where utilities, internet, and sometimes even contents insurance are covered in the weekly rate, providing better value than the headline figures might suggest.

Is Bath expensive to live for students?

While Bath's living costs are higher than some other university cities, they remain lower than London. Many students find the quality of life justifies the investment. To manage expenses:

• Take advantage of student discounts at local businesses
• Use the comprehensive bus network with student passes
• Consider accommodation with included utilities to avoid unexpected bills
• Look for properties slightly further from the city centre for better value
• Balance quality and location—premium accommodation like Old Bakery Yard offers excellent value through superior amenities and prime location

Is Bath a good place for students?

Bath is consistently rated as one of the UK's top student cities. Its strengths include:

• Safety: Low crime rates make Bath one of the safest university cities in the UK
• Community: A significant student population (approximately 25% of residents) creates a vibrant community
• Employment opportunities: Strong connections between universities and local businesses offer excellent part-time work and placement opportunities
• Transport links: Good connections to Bristol, London, and other major cities
• Cultural scene: Numerous festivals, theatres, museums, and events throughout the year

Is a student house cheaper than Halls?

When comparing costs, consider all factors:

University halls

• Advantages: All-inclusive billing, on-site support, no hidden costs
• Disadvantages: Limited availability, typically only guaranteed for first-year students

Private halls

• Advantages: Modern facilities, social opportunities, all-inclusive billing
• Disadvantages: Can be more expensive than shared houses

Student houses

• Advantages: Often cheaper base rent, more independence, choice of housemates
• Disadvantages: Additional costs for bills, potential maintenance issues, transportation costs if located further from campus

While the headline rent for a shared house might be lower, when factoring in bills, transportation, and potential unexpected costs, purpose-built student accommodation like Old Bakery Yard often provides better overall value, especially when considering the quality of amenities and prime location.

What is there to do in Bath for students?

Bath offers a rich variety of activities:

• Nightlife: Diverse venues from traditional pubs to contemporary clubs
• Shopping: Mix of independent boutiques and major retailers
• Culture: Theatre Royal, Holburne Museum, Victoria Art Gallery
• Sport: Team sports at the universities, Bath Rugby matches, water sports on the River Avon
• Food scene: Student-friendly cafes, international cuisine, historic tearooms
• Outdoor activities: Royal Victoria Park, canal walks, nearby countryside
• Annual events: Bath Festival, Christmas Market, Bath Fringe Festival

Most student accommodations in central Bath, including Old Bakery Yard, put you within walking distance of these attractions, enhancing your student experience.

Making the right choice for your accommodation

When selecting student accommodation in Bath, prioritise:

• Location: Consider proximity to your campus, amenities, and transportation links
• Budget: Establish a realistic budget including rent, bills, and living expenses
• Facilities: Assess what's important—high-speed internet, en-suite bathrooms, study spaces
• Contract length: Check if the tenancy covers the academic year or requires a full 12-month commitment
• Security: Evaluate building security features, especially for city centre locations
• Community: Consider the social aspects and opportunities to meet fellow students

For students seeking premium student accommodation in Bath, Old Bakery Yard offers an exceptional option. Located 1.5 miles west of the City centre and on the bus route for both University of Bath and Bath Spa University, this purpose-built development provides:

• Prime location with easy access to both universities
• All-inclusive billing—no surprise costs
• High-specification interiors and modern amenities
• Secure entry system and professional management
• Communal spaces designed for both socializing and studying
• High-speed internet throughout the building

Whether you're a first-year seeking the full student experience or a postgraduate requiring a more focused environment, Old Bakery Yard provides accommodation tailored to your needs. With our deep local knowledge of Bath's student housing market, we highly recommend exploring this exceptional development that balances location, quality, and value.

Conclusion

Finding the right student accommodation in Bath requires balancing location, quality, and budget. While the city offers a range of options from university halls to private rentals, purpose-built student accommodation often provides the best combination of convenience, facilities, and overall value. With its rich history, cultural offerings, and academic excellence, Bath provides an exceptional environment for your studies.

For personalised advice on student accommodation in Bath or to arrange a viewing at Old Bakery Yard, contact our local experts who understand both the city and your needs as a student.