While students have returned to their university campuses for the new academic year, budget-conscious travellers can still find affordable accommodation in university rooms across the UK. Once a well-kept secret, these rooms offer an inexpensive alternative for those seeking to explore popular cities like Oxford, Cambridge, York, and London without breaking the bank.
Lily Smith, a travel expert from UniversityRooms.com, explains that despite students being back, several colleges and universities continue to offer accommodation to visitors throughout the year.
“It’s not widely known, but many universities still have rooms available, even during term time,” Smith says. “For example, colleges in Oxford and Cambridge offer year-round accommodation, providing a fantastic opportunity to stay in these historic cities.”
Oxford, known for its rich academic heritage, has a selection of university rooms open to non-students. Options include the Oxford University Club, Rhodes House, Rewley House, and Magpie Lane House (Oriel College). Prices start from £114 per night, with many of the city’s famous attractions, such as the Ashmolean Museum and the Bodleian Library, just a short distance away.
“Oxford and Cambridge are beautiful places to visit at any time of year,” says Smith. “They’re less crowded during the off-peak season, making it a more relaxing experience for visitors.”
In Cambridge, several colleges continue to offer rooms, including Westminster College, Hughes Hall, and Westminster College Cottages. Located in the heart of the city, Westminster College provides easy access to many of Cambridge’s renowned landmarks, with rooms starting from £105 per night.
Beyond the academic cities, London also offers affordable student accommodation. “Staying in London can be expensive, especially in central areas,” Smith notes. “However, options like Goodenough College in Bloomsbury provide a more budget-friendly stay in a vibrant part of the city.” Rooms at Goodenough College start from £120 per night, a competitive price for central London accommodation.
For those looking to explore beyond the capital, the historic city of York stands out as a year-round destination. Known for its rich history, from the medieval streets of The Shambles to the imposing York Minster, the city offers attractions that remain open throughout the winter months. Visitors can stay at the University of York’s Franklin House on weekends, with rooms available from £80.40 per night.
Bournemouth, a popular coastal destination, also has university rooms available during the autumn and winter months. The Artisan, a modern facility located between Bournemouth station and its award-winning beaches, offers rooms for as little as £60 per night.
“Many people love visiting seaside towns out of season,” says Smith. “Bournemouth’s accommodation offers a great value option for autumn breaks.”
As the availability of these university rooms can be limited during term time, Smith advises booking in advance. For more details and to secure accommodation, visitors can use the UniversityRooms.com website, which provides a variety of options in cities across the UK.
For more information, visit: UniversityRooms.com.
