Finding the right accommodation is one of the most important parts of starting university life. For students at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) in Preston, there are plenty of choices available, from university-managed halls to privately owned apartments. Each option offers its own advantages depending on budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Below is a detailed guide covering everything you need to know about UCLan student accommodation.
Why Accommodation Matters
University is about more than just lectures and assignments. Where you live shapes your student experience, influencing how easily you make friends, how well you study, and how comfortable you feel day to day. Accommodation provides a base where students can balance their social life, academic commitments, and independence. Choosing the right option at UCLan is therefore crucial for both first-year and returning students.
University-Managed Halls
UCLan offers a wide range of halls of residence that are either owned by the university or approved by them. These are particularly popular with first-year students as they provide a supportive environment with other new students nearby, fostering a strong sense of community.
Features of UCLan Halls
Location: Most halls are within a 5–10 minute walk of the main Preston campus, meaning students can easily get to lectures, the library, and social facilities.
Room Types: Options vary from standard single rooms with shared bathrooms to en-suite rooms, where students have their own private facilities.
Support Services: University-managed halls often come with 24/7 security, maintenance support, and pastoral care teams. This ensures that students feel safe and supported during their stay.
All-Inclusive Rent: Utilities such as gas, electricity, water, and internet are usually included in the price. This makes budgeting much simpler for new students.
Examples of university-managed accommodation include Whitendale Hall, Harrington Hall, and Eden Hall, each with slightly different layouts and price ranges.
Private Halls of Residence
Alongside UCLan-owned properties, Preston also has several private halls specifically designed for students. Companies such as Unite Students, Fresh Student Living, and Homes for Students manage these modern buildings.
Benefits of Private Halls
Modern Facilities: Many private halls offer high-quality facilities including gyms, cinema rooms, study spaces, and social lounges.
Flexible Contracts: Some private halls provide different tenancy lengths, which can be useful for students on shorter courses or postgraduate programmes.
Community Feel: These halls often host social events, which make it easier to meet people outside your course.
Popular private halls for UCLan students include Trinity Student Village, Leighton Hall, and Friargate Court. These are within walking distance of campus and close to shops, cafés, and nightlife in Preston city centre.
Shared Student Houses
After first year, many students choose to move into private houses shared with friends. This option offers more independence and can sometimes work out cheaper than halls. Preston has a large student housing market with many properties located in areas such as Plungington, Adelphi, and Moor Lane.
Advantages of Shared Houses
Lower Costs: Rent is often cheaper compared to halls, especially if students are willing to share bathrooms.
Greater Independence: Students have more control over bills, household routines, and guests.
Home-Like Feel: A house can provide a quieter environment that feels more like a long-term home.
However, renting privately means students need to manage utility bills, internet, and sometimes deal with landlords or letting agencies. It’s important to check that the house is accredited by UCLan’s Student Accommodation Service to ensure quality and safety standards.
Cost of Accommodation
Prices vary widely depending on the type of accommodation chosen. As a guide:
University Halls: £80–£120 per week for standard or en-suite rooms.
Private Halls: £110–£150 per week, often reflecting the modern facilities included.
Shared Houses: £70–£100 per week, not always inclusive of bills.
When budgeting, students should also consider food, transport, and personal expenses. The advantage of halls is that costs are predictable, while houses may be cheaper but less straightforward to manage.
Location and Transport
Most student accommodation in Preston is located within walking distance of the UCLan campus, meaning there is little need for public transport. The city centre is compact, and students can access supermarkets, shops, bars, and Preston railway station easily on foot or by bike. For those who prefer quieter surroundings, there are also housing options slightly further from the centre, with good bus connections.
Tips for Choosing the Right Accommodation
Decide Your Priorities: Do you prefer privacy, budget-friendliness, or social opportunities? En-suite halls may suit some, while others might enjoy the communal life of a shared house.
Visit Before Choosing: If possible, attend UCLan open days or accommodation tours to get a real feel for the options.
Read Reviews: Speaking to current students or checking online reviews can provide honest insights.
Check What’s Included: Make sure you know whether bills, internet, or insurance are part of the rent.
Book Early: Accommodation fills up quickly, especially university-managed halls, so it’s best to apply as soon as offers are confirmed.
Living in Preston as a UCLan Student
Preston is known as an affordable city for students, offering lower living costs compared to larger UK cities. Its friendly atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and green spaces make it a welcoming place to study. Being based in Lancashire, it also has good rail links to Manchester, Liverpool, and the Lake District for weekend trips. This combination of affordable housing and accessible city living makes Preston a great choice for students.
Final Thoughts
Choosing accommodation at UCLan is about balancing comfort, cost, and lifestyle. University-managed halls offer security and convenience, private halls add modern facilities, and shared houses provide independence and value for money. No matter the choice, students will find plenty of options close to campus, allowing them to focus on studies while enjoying the full university experience.
