Deciding where to live in Portsmouth as a student can be a daunting experience for you especially if you are torn between the city’s buzzing lifestyle on one side and the calmness of the Solent at your doorstep on the other hand. Fondly referred to as ‘Pompey’, Portsmouth happens to be the second-largest city in the county and is an important coastal location in the region. There are so many factors to consider and along with the stresses of actually moving, the whole task can seem very exhausting. In this article, we will help you to gather a better understanding of the best places in Portsmouth. Having a comprehensive understanding of what living in Portsmouth is like will undoubtedly help with your decision to move.
Best Areas For Student Living In Portsmouth
Living in a city like Portsmouth implies that you not only have options to stay at budget-friendly student accommodation in Portsmouth but you also will be surrounded by some renowned universities such as:
- University of Portsmouth
- International College Portsmouth (ICP)
- Highbury College
- University of Portsmouth Business School, Portsmouth
Considering these factors, I’m sure you’re now curious to know about the best places to live in Portsmouth; so let’s get started.
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Gunwharf Quays
If you’re fond of the city’s hustle and bustle and enjoy happening events around you, Gunwharf Quays would be your favourite place living in Portsmouth, the UK for students. With easy access to restaurants, bars, and cafes at your doorstep, this area will never fail to satisfy your needs. Most houses in this area are flats due to the density of the area meaning that they are on the more expensive side of student accommodation. However, if you manage to secure a scholarship to study in the UK, you will find it easier to manage your finances in Gunwharf Quays. This location is only a walk away from the main campus of the University of Portsmouth and is also within the vicinity of the vibrant Bridge Tavern which is one of the most common favourite spots for students and the best areas to live in Portsmouth.
Southsea
Southsea is one of the most popular and in fact amongst the best places for students in Portsmouth to live in. Located in the south of Portsea Island, Southsea is not far away from the beautiful views of the Isle of Wight which is just a few steps away from the beach. All student-housing options are very affordable in this area, most of which is within walkable distance from the main university campus. The UK is inundated with vintage and classy high-tea rooms and Southsea is no exception. You can go on shopping sprees at the main city centre which is just a few minutes away during your weekends and take casual tea breaks as and when you wish.
Fratton
Even though Fratton is not as close to the university’s main campus as the other areas, many students still prefer to choose their accommodation in this area, regarding it as one of the best places which have housing options for students in Portsmouth. This is because many students like to experience the Victorian-style terraced houses which are quite dominant in this area. Moreover, the place has excellent and well-connected transport links whether you’re looking for buses or trains. A short bus ride away from Cascade shopping centre where you’ll find all your desires and more, combined with the local train station, Fratton, which can easily transport you around the area for an affordable price.
Old Portsmouth
Considered to be one of the most beautiful and best areas in Portsmouth with a taste of the historical streets circulating this place, Old Portsmouth is for students who are looking for an escape from the bustling city life. Here’s where you can find premium student accommodation in Portsmouth at remarkable buildings, and hence may be on the pricier side. However, it is very close to the centre and the main campus which is ideal for any student. If you’re looking for quiet and serene evenings, make sure you visit these nearby places:
- The Wellington
- The Bridge Tavern
- The Still and West
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Buckland
Affordability is a huge criterion for students while choosing their accommodation, and that’s what makes Buckland an attractive option for students. As one of the best places for students in Portsmouth in terms of accommodation affordability, you can usually find terraced houses with the odd semi-detached house. For those of you who enjoy tours to museums, the Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum isn’t located far away from this area. Morrisons and McDonald’s are the student go-to for this area, although many people travel into the centre for a more lively night.
Copnor
Copnor is situated towards the North of Portsea Island and is filled with a plethora of parks that are a huge attraction to many students. Due to the distance from the main city centre and the university campus, houses are less expensive and this makes it easy for students who do not mind a little bit of travel. Some of the notable parks in and around this area include:
- Moneyfields Park
- The Great Salterns Recreation Ground
- Ocean Retail Park
You can find them right near your doorstep if you’re lucky enough and can also visit the shops, supermarkets, and general homeware housed in these parks.
Some of the popular student accommodations you can find at Portsmouth include:
- Stanhope House
- Catherine House
- Chaucer House
- Greetham Street
Thank you for reading this blog on the Best Places For Students In Portsmouth. If you’d like to read more about living in the UK, here are some blogs that might be of interest to you:
