The Ultimate Student Accommodation Guide to Preston

Preston has emerged as a popular student city in the UK, attracting numerous students annually, especially those attending the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan). With its affordable living costs, welcoming community, and excellent transport links, Preston provides an ideal environment for student life. A crucial decision for students relocating to the city is selecting the right student accommodation.

Why Preston is a Great City for Students

Preston offers a blend of a vibrant university city and the affordability of a smaller town. Rent prices are significantly lower compared to larger cities like Manchester or Liverpool, making Preston an excellent choice for students on a budget. The city centre is compact and walkable, providing easy access to campus buildings, shops, cafes, libraries, and social spaces.

Preston boasts excellent transport links, including direct train connections to Manchester, Liverpool, London, and Scotland, making travel convenient and affordable for students.

Types of Student Accommodation in Preston

Students in Preston have various accommodation options to suit their lifestyle, budget, and preferences.

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

PBSA is a popular choice, featuring modern developments designed specifically for students. These accommodations often include fully furnished rooms, high-speed internet, on-site security, social spaces, gyms, and study areas. PBSA is ideal for students seeking a hassle-free living experience with all bills included.

Private Student Accommodation

Private student accommodation offers similar benefits to PBSA, providing a wider range of room types, including studios and en-suite rooms, catering to students who value independence, comfort, and modern facilities.

Shared Student Houses and Flats

Shared student houses and flats are a common option, especially for second- and third-year students. While generally cheaper, shared housing requires managing utility bills separately and dealing directly with landlords, which may not suit everyone. A shared house in Preston will cost you £93 per week.

Benefits of Student Accommodation Near UCLan

Living close to UCLan offers several advantages. Students save time and money on commuting and can easily access lectures, libraries, and university facilities. Accommodation near campus also facilitates participation in social activities, student societies, and events.

Many student accommodations near UCLan are located close to the city centre, providing quick access to supermarkets, restaurants, gyms, and nightlife. This balance between academic and social life makes Preston an attractive city for students.

What to Look for in Student Accommodation

When selecting student accommodation in Preston, consider these key factors:

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Location: Proximity to the university, public transport, and local amenities.
Budget: Inclusive rent can help manage expenses and avoid unexpected costs. Halls of residence will cost, on average £108 per week, but could cost more depending on what type of room you select.
Room Type: Options range from shared rooms to en-suite rooms and private studios.
Security: Look for secure entry systems, CCTV, and on-site staff.
Facilities: Study rooms, social spaces, laundry facilities, and bike storage add convenience.

Modern student accommodation often fosters a community-focused environment where students can socialize, collaborate, and build friendships.

Cost of Student Accommodation in Preston

One of Preston’s significant advantages is its affordability. Student accommodation in Preston is generally cheaper than in many other UK university cities. Prices vary depending on location, room type, and facilities, but students can find high-quality accommodation at competitive rates.

Purpose-built and private student accommodations usually offer all-inclusive rents, covering electricity, water, heating, Wi-Fi, and sometimes even contents insurance. This helps students budget more effectively throughout the academic year.

A student will need approximately £1,010 - £1,565+ per month to lead a decent life in Preston, including rent, utilities, transportation, groceries, entertainment, and other expenses.

International Students and Accommodation

Preston is home to a diverse international student community. For international students, choosing student accommodation with inclusive bills and on-site support can make settling into UK life much easier. Many student accommodations offer flexible contracts, multilingual support, and a welcoming community environment.

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Purpose-built student accommodation is often preferred by international students because it removes the stress of managing utilities and dealing with council tax, as most student accommodations are exempt.

Safety Tips for International Students

Students must prioritize their safety at their student accommodation in Preston. They must follow all the vital practices to lead a secure academic journey. However, they must know how to keep themselves safe in a foreign land.

Get Travel Insurance: Students should always ensure they get extensive travel insurance before they leave. It covers things like lost luggage, health issues, and trip cancellations.
Stay Informed: Students should keep themselves informed of the political, social, and economic conditions that exist in Preston.
Observe Your Surroundings: Pupils should always observe their surroundings. They must be aware of the people living near their student accommodation in Preston and their college.
Take Care of Your Belongings: Students should remember to take care of their belongings. They might lose their things while travelling in local buses and trains.
Observe Local Laws and Traditions: By observing the local laws and traditions, pupils can keep updated with the customs of the city.
Follow Safety Guidelines: In the event of a problem, while staying in student accommodation in Preston, students should follow the safety instructions given by the local authorities or the study abroad plan.
Maintain a Low Profile: Since you are a visitor from abroad, you should make every effort to blend in as much as you can.
Remain in Communication: One of the most vital tips for students is to stay in touch with others and notify someone of their activities.

Student Life Beyond Accommodation

Living in student accommodation in Preston means being part of a vibrant student community. The city offers a wide range of activities, from parks and museums to restaurants and entertainment venues. Students can enjoy events organised by the university, local festivals, and social gatherings within their accommodation.

Modern student housing often organises community events, helping residents connect and feel at home, especially those living away from family for the first time.

Fun Things to Do in Preston

Go For a Walk to Discover the City: Preston and the surrounding area have some excellent walking trails. Starting with the Guild Wheel is a great place to start if you're considering participating in this activity because it's always a great way to get to know a new location.
Visit Famous Museums: The Harris Museum is a must-visit while you're in Preston if you want to explore local art and history.
Go Shopping! The St. George's Shopping Center, located in the centre of the city, has a wide variety of stores where you may buy necessities or indulge yourself in.
Enjoy Going Out at Night: You'll be astonished by how many excellent restaurants there are in this little city.
Attend Football Events at Deepdale: As a student residing in Preston, Preston North End (PNE) are only outside your door if you enjoy playing the beautiful game.

Top Student Accommodation Options in Preston

iQ Kopa
Walker Street
Foundry Court
Friargate Court
The Tramshed
Canterbury Hall
Grange Court & The Ridings
Urban Hub
Ladywell Halls

Other Affordable Student Accommodation Options

Moor Lane Halls
Leighton Hall
Warehouse Apartments
Trinity Student Village
Jubilee Court

Transportation in Preston

Preston is only 142 kilometres long, so getting around is simple and convenient.

Bus: Every hour of the day, more than 100 buses in Preston's bus network move up and down the City. Students may board buses that link to all of England's national roads from the major bus station, which is close to the city centre.
Cycling: Cycling is a terrific way to explore the city's more intimate neighbourhoods.
Rail Travel: Preston is a major train hub, so getting to Manchester, Liverpool, or London is very easy from your Preston student home.
Walking: Preston is very compact, which makes it very easy to travel from one place to another on foot.

Preston Tourist Attractions for Students

Harris Museum & Art Gallery: This place can be understood as the crown of the top tourist spots in Preston.
Avenham and Miller Parks: Students go here to praise and soak the nature in their soul.
Preston Guild Hall: It is the heartbeat of the city's live entertainment scene, hosting everything.
Ribble Steam Railway & Museum: It is best for students who seek something a little different and new.
Preston Markets: It offers indoor and outdoor markets in Preston.

Top Universities in Preston

Preston has quietly established itself as one of the North West's most important academic hubs.

The University of Lancashire (UCLan): It was previously known as The University of Central Lancashire.

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