Where to find the best Oxford student accommodation?

The University of Oxford is a world leader in research and teaching and welcomes more than 21,000 students from across the world to its idyllic campuses and grounds. Many of these students must secure suitable Oxford student accommodation for their duration at the university. This guide offers useful information on the best places to find student accommodation in and near Oxford.When a student is looking for the best Oxford student accommodation, it’s important to understand the local area and the options that it offers to ensure they find the most suitable and beneficial option. Here are some of the top places to consider when searching for student accommodation in Oxford.

University Accommodation

The University of Oxford is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world and provides several accommodation options for its students. All undergraduate students are guaranteed college accommodation during their first year of study. From there, they can continue staying in college accommodation or branch into private or non-university housing.The university offers various types of student accommodation ranging from catered halls to self-catered apartments. All university accommodation is managed by University Rooms and sleeps up to 7,500 students each year. Rooms come with single beds, wardrobes, study desks, bookshelves, and kitchen utensils.

Private-Sector Accommodation

There are a variety of private-sector student accommodation options in and around Oxford that range from self-catered apartments to serviced studios, including luxury student accommodations. Living in private-sector housing can be a great cost-saving option for students as these lodgings are usually rented out by private landlords or companies that offer extra amenities and services not provided by the university. Private-sector accommodations also offer various bills-included deals as well as flexible contracts that can be tailored to suit individual student needs. For undergraduates, living with a private landlord usually means they don’t need guarantors, making it an attractive option for those unable to commit to contracts of over 12 months. However, this option tends to be pricey due to higher demand than university accommodation and no guarantors required.

Rental Agencies

Rental agencies are a great way for students looking for more affordable housing options close to university grounds. Landlords are more likely to be more flexible when renting through a rental agency due to contractual regulations that vary from agency to agency. Most agencies offer a range of properties from twin rooms in a shared house to private studios, apartments, and others that come equipped with kitchenettes, showers, and wifi. Additionally, rental agencies can help locate furnished and unfurnished property for students looking for something specific. Students should keep in mind that high demand for rental properties in Oxford can make them more expensive than normal due to competition between parties wanting the same room, particularly during rush seasons like autumn “Freshers’ Week”.

Sharing Flats with Roommates

Shared flats are not only one of the most typical living arrangements in Oxford, they are also a great way to live economically while sharing a space with friends or other students. Many housing providers (including some rental agencies) offer student flats designed with groups in mind, meaning that the units come equipped with multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms and kitchens; all fully furnished and with bills included. These flats are ideal for students who don’t want to worry about contracts or shared utilities with landlords but still want the freedom of living without a parent or guardian. Property providers such as Varsity Housing have become widely popular for their economical flats specifically designed for student occupants and their communal events that help create a more inviting community atmosphere for their residents.

Conclusion

Finding a suitable place to live while studying in Oxford is an important consideration for students and there are a variety of accommodations available depending on individual needs. From university residences to private-sector or rental agency accommodation, there are plenty of comfortable living options that can cater to every budget throughout your studies in Oxford.

An Insider’s Guide to Oxford: Finding the Best Student Accommodation

Oxford is a beautiful and historic city that boasts of stunning architecture, lush green spaces, and a rich culture. The city is known for its prestigious universities, including the University of Oxford, which is ranked among the top ten universities in the world. As a result, hundreds of students flock to the city every year to attend these world-renowned institutions. In this insider’s guide to Oxford, we’ll take a look at some hidden gems that only the locals know of and provide tips that go beyond conventional experiences.

Local Attractions: Discovering Oxford’s Hidden Gems

While the main tourist attractions in Oxford are awe-inspiring, they can be overcrowded and often lack the charm of hidden gems in the city. Instead of visiting the typical places, consider exploring some of the smaller and lesser-known attractions in Oxford. One of these attractions is the Oxford Botanic Garden, which is home to several rare and exotic plants and is the oldest botanic garden in the UK. Another hidden gem is the Pitt Rivers Museum, which houses a vast collection of historical and cultural artifacts. Here you can witness unique exhibitions such as the display of shrunken heads from South America.

Dining Spots: Exploring Oxford’s Food Culture

Oxford’s restaurants cater to a diverse range of cuisines and dietary requirements. Among the many options, the city’s most cherished cuisine is pub grub. Local establishments offer mouth-watering dishes, such as the Oxford Sausage, made of pork and herbs, and Oxfordshire Pudding, a type of savory pastry. One such renowned pub is The Eagle and Child, famously known as the favorite meeting place for writers J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. For something sweet, visit G&D’s, an exemplary ice-cream parlour in Oxford, with unique flavors such as Jammie Dodger, Salted Caramel, and Jaffa Cake.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing Yourself in Oxford’s Culture

Beyond the academic scene, Oxford has a rich cultural scene that is celebrated in various festivals, traditions and unique events. For music, head to the Turf Tavern for the folk night every Monday evening. A unique festival held in May is the Oxfordshire Art Weeks, where local artisans showcase their talents in a series of exhibitions. Oxford also hosts a literary festival, where writers come to discuss their books, including the prestigious Oxford Literary Festival, held annually in March.

Local History: Discover Fascinating Stories of Oxford

Oxford has a rich and complex history, which is worth exploring beyond the basic historical facts. One captivating story is that of the Martyrs’ Memorial, a monument built to honor the Protestant martyrs of the reign of Queen Mary I. Another fascinating story is that of the Oxford scientists who helped pave the way for the discovery of the structure of DNA at the University of Oxford, a monumental moment in the history of science.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences in Oxford

To discover the hidden corners of Oxford, venture off the beaten path. One suggestion is to experience Oxford from a unique perspective by taking a ride on the Oxford Canal, which runs right through the city. For fans of the mystical and macabre, ghost tours and ghost walks are available in the city. Don’t miss the chance to discover hidden tunnels, graveyards, and stories of witches and ghosts.

In conclusion, Oxford offers a surprising variety of attractions, cultural experiences, and historical stories that go beyond its academic reputation. There is almost too much to cover, but this insider’s guide to Oxford will undoubtedly help visitors navigate the city like locals.