Best University of Gloucestershire Student Accommodation 2026: Cheltenham vs Gloucester
Discover the top student halls, vibrant private housing areas, and actual living costs for your transition to Gloucestershire Uni in 2026.
Updated 5 min readUniversity of Gloucestershire
Welcome to Gloucestershire: Your Journey Starts Here
Choosing where to live is one of the most exciting decisions you will make as you prepare for university life. If you are heading to the University of Gloucestershire in 2026, you are in for a truly unique student experience. Unlike traditional single-campus universities, this historic institution is spread across two distinct locations: the beautiful, regency town of Cheltenham and the historic, vibrant city of Gloucester.
Because your academic experience will be based on one of three campuses—Park Campus or Francis Close Hall in Cheltenham, or Oxstalls Campus in Gloucester—your choice of University of Gloucestershire student accommodation 2026 should be highly strategic. Living close to your lectures, social hubs, and transport links will save you time, stress, and money. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the options for both student halls and the local private accommodation market to help you make an informed decision.
"I was split between living in Gloucester or Cheltenham, but choosing Pittville Student Village was the best decision. The social scene is great, and the dedicated UniBus makes getting to my lectures at FCH absolute breeze!" - Chloe, BA Education studentThe Campus Split: Where Will You Be Studying?
Before you start looking at student housing listings, you must confirm where your course is based. The campuses are structured as follows:
- Francis Close Hall (FCH), Cheltenham: Often referred to as the 'Hogwarts' campus due to its stunning historic architecture. Home to Humanities, Education, Art, and Science courses.
- The Park, Cheltenham: Set in beautiful landscaped parkland, this campus hosts Media, Computing, Design, and Business-related courses.
- Oxstalls Campus, Gloucester: A modern, high-tech campus dedicated to Sports, Health, Social Care, Performing Arts, and Business.
While a dedicated student bus service (the UniBus) runs regularly between all campuses, most students prefer to find rent near University of Gloucestershire campuses where their primary lectures are held to cut down on daily travel time.
University-Managed Student Halls
For most first-year students, university-managed student halls offer the perfect transition into independent living. They provide a safe environment, opportunities to meet lifelong friends, and the simplicity of all-inclusive billing.
1. Pittville Student Village (Cheltenham)
As the university's flagship accommodation site, Pittville Student Village is incredibly popular. Located in Cheltenham, it houses over 800 students and offers a mix of en-suite rooms, shared-bathroom townhouses, and self-contained studio apartments. It features an on-site gym, a shop, social spaces, and 24/7 security.
2. Oxstalls Halls (Gloucester)
If your course is based in Gloucester, Oxstalls Halls are the premier choice. Located right on the Oxstalls campus, these modern halls mean you can wake up ten minutes before your lectures and still be on time. They feature high-specification en-suite flats and plenty of communal spaces for socializing.
3. Ermin Hall & Regency Halls (Cheltenham)
Perfect for those studying at Francis Close Hall or Park Campus who want to be right in the heart of Cheltenham town centre. These halls offer a more independent town-living vibe while maintaining the safety net of university management.
Exploring Private Accommodation & Student Housing
As you move into your second and third years—or if you prefer a more independent lifestyle in your first year—the private rental market in Gloucestershire is robust and varied. From traditional shared houses (HMOs) to private purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), there is something to suit every preference and budget.
Popular Student Areas in Cheltenham
If you are studying at Park or FCH, these are the primary neighbourhoods for private accommodation:
- St Paul’s: Located right next to Francis Close Hall, this is the historic heartland of student housing in Cheltenham. It offers affordable Victorian terraced shared houses and is highly social.
- Town Centre: Perfect for those who want quick access to Cheltenham's renowned bars, restaurants, and boutiques, with excellent transport links to all campuses.
- Leckhampton & The Park: Slightly quieter, leafy residential areas popular with final-year students looking for a peaceful study environment close to the Park Campus.
Popular Student Areas in Gloucester
If you are based at the Oxstalls Campus, look closely at these areas:
- Kingsholm: Famous for its rugby stadium, this area sits perfectly between the city centre and the Oxstalls Campus, offering excellent value shared houses.
- Gloucester Docks: A beautifully regenerated waterfront area offering modern apartments, trendy dining, and a vibrant atmosphere. Excellent for students looking for high-end private studios.
- City Centre: Offers highly convenient access to transport links, local shops, and nightlife, with a straightforward walk or bus ride to campus.
An Overview of Accommodation Costs in 2026
Understanding your budget is vital for managing your university finances. Below is an estimation of the expected weekly accommodation costs for the 2026/27 academic year to help you plan your living expenses.
| Accommodation Type | Average Weekly Rent (2026/27) | Contract Lengths Available | Utility Bills Included? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uni Halls (Shared Bath/Townhouse) | £145 - £160 | 40 Weeks | Yes (All included) |
| Uni Halls (En-suite Room) | £170 - £195 | 40 Weeks | Yes (All included) |
| Private HMO (Shared Student House) | £115 - £145 | 48 - 52 Weeks | Sometimes (Check contract) |
| Private Purpose-Built Studio | £190 - £240 | 51 Weeks | Yes (Most providers) |
Essential Booking Checklist for 2026
Securing the ideal home requires a bit of preparation. Follow these essential steps to make sure your booking process is seamless:
Secure Your Perfect Room: A Checklist
- Know your campus: Double-check whether your course is based in Cheltenham or Gloucester before signing any agreement.
- Understand the contract: Verify whether your contract is 40, 48, or 51 weeks long. Remember, you pay rent for the entire duration of the contract!
- Check what is included: Ask the landlord or university specifically about Wi-Fi, electricity, gas, water, and contents insurance.
- View before you sign: If renting privately, always arrange an in-person or virtual tour to check the condition of the property.
- Check the guarantor requirements: Most private landlords require a UK-based guarantor (usually a parent or guardian) to co-sign the agreement.
No matter which option you choose, living in Gloucestershire offers an incredible blend of scenic Cotswold beauty and vibrant urban culture. By selecting the right base, you will set yourself up for academic success and an unforgettable social life.