The Ultimate Guide to Student Accommodation in the UK’s Top Cities

21 Nov 2025 London Homestays 19 minute read

Homestay: The Ultimate Guide to Student Accommodation in the UK's Top Cities

Finding the right place to live can make or break your English language course experience. Over the years, we’ve helped thousands of language students from around the world find accommodation in the UK, and we’ve learned that language school students have very different needs from university students. This guide explains your accommodation options, what to check before you book, and how the big language school cities compare.

Table of contents

1) Accommodation types for language students

Homestay (living with a local host)

Why language students choose it: A room in a host home with meals included (breakfast & dinner half-board, or breakfast-only options), plus regular English conversation in the evenings. This is the most popular choice for language students.

For London homestays in Zones 2-7, see our sister site London Homestays. We offer homestays across areas including Fulham, Shepherd’s Bush, Ealing Broadway, Balham, Highgate, Golders Green, and further out to Kingston, Wembley, and Croydon. View our 2025 homestay rates organized by zone. englishuk.com

Why it works: We’ve seen students improve their English dramatically through homestay – not because of formal practice, but because they’re discussing the news over breakfast and explaining their day at dinner. That natural conversation accelerates your learning faster than any classroom can.

Best for: Students aged 16+, those wanting cultural immersion, and anyone prioritizing rapid English improvement over complete independence.

Private student residences (Purpose-built accommodation)

Modern buildings with private en-suite rooms or studios, often with shared kitchens or private kitchenettes. These offer all-bills-included packages with fast Wi-Fi, common areas, laundry facilities, and secure entry.

For London and other UK cities, see UK Student Residences – we have residences in central London locations including Camden, Notting Hill, Acton, Holloway Road, and Walthamstow, plus residences in Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, and Glasgow.

Best for: Students who want independence, modern facilities, and a ready-made international community. Many offer flexible booking for language school course lengths.

Shared flats & other student houses

Private rentals or smaller student houses where you share kitchen and living areas. Some are specifically set up for language school students with flexible booking periods.

Expect a deposit and references. For stays under 8 weeks, options are more limited. GOV.UK

Best for: Older students (25+), those staying 12+ weeks, or students who’ve found friends to share with.

University halls (summer only)

Many universities rent out their accommodation during summer holidays (June-September) when regular students are away. These offer good value but limited availability during term time.

Best for: Students taking summer English courses; book early as spaces fill quickly.

Short-term options

Hostels, apart-hotels or serviced apartments can work for very short stays (1-4 weeks) while you find something more permanent or if you’re taking an intensive short course.

Watch out: Avoid unverified Airbnb sublets or people offering “student rooms” without proper contracts.

2) Costs & budgeting (what actually drives the price)

Language school students typically book for shorter periods than university students, which affects pricing. Here’s what drives your costs:

  • City & area: London (especially central zones), Brighton, Cambridge and Oxford cost significantly more than Manchester, Leeds or Bournemouth.
  • Zone in London: London homestay prices vary by zone. Zone 2 homestays (Fulham, Shepherd’s Bush) cost more than Zone 3 (Ealing, Balham, Highgate) or Zone 4+ (Kingston, Wembley, New Malden). Check our London Homestays pricing for zone-by-zone rates.
  • Accommodation type: London homestay typically £180-300/week including half-board meals; student residences £300-500/week with bills included; private rentals variable.
  • Meal plan: Half-board (breakfast + dinner) vs. B&B only vs. self-catering significantly affects total costs. Our London Homestays offer different meal plan options.
  • Course length: Bookings under 8 weeks often cost more per week than longer stays. Some providers offer discounts for 12+ week bookings.
  • Season: Summer (June-August) is peak season in Brighton, Bournemouth, Cambridge and Oxford. Book early or expect higher prices.
  • Location vs. commute trade-off: Living in Zone 3-4 and traveling 45-60 minutes to your central London language school saves significant money compared to Zone 1-2. With 8-12 week courses, those savings add up.

For language school students specifically:

  • Homestay meals: Half-board (breakfast + dinner) typically saves £150-250/month compared to buying all your own food, plus you practice English daily with your host family.
  • Deposit & upfronts: In England, tenancy deposits are capped (usually five weeks’ rent), must be protected in an approved scheme, and most letting fees are banned under the Tenant Fees Act. GOV.UK
  • Transport: Language schools are typically in city centers. Budget £40-70/month for local transport (London Zones 1-3 is approximately £60-70/week, or use pay-as-you-go Oyster/contactless for occasional travel).
  • Airport transfers: Both London Homestays and UK Student Residences offer airport pickup services – budget £40-80 depending on airport and destination.

Tip: Build a simple monthly budget: accommodation + transport to school + food (if not included) + phone + social activities + course materials. Most language school students spend £1,200-1,800/month total in London, £900-1,400/month in regional cities.

Budget reality for language students: The biggest surprise is usually transport costs and social spending. That coffee after class, weekend trips to see other parts of the UK, and going out with classmates add up quickly. Build in a 20% buffer.

3) City snapshots (popular language school destinations)

These guides focus on what matters to language students: proximity to language schools, transport, social opportunities, and accommodation availability for short-term bookings.

London

Why language students choose it: Highest concentration of accredited language schools, incredible cultural experiences, international atmosphere.

Popular language school areas: Central (Bloomsbury, Holborn, Oxford Street), West (Hammersmith, Kensington), North (Camden, King’s Cross), East (Shoreditch), South (Greenwich, Wimbledon).

Accommodation strategy:

For homestay, we don’t offer Zone 1 options (too expensive and limited space), but our London Homestays in Zones 2-4+ provide excellent value with fast transport links:

  • Zone 2: Fulham, Shepherd’s Bush (30 – 40 min to central schools)
  • Zone 3: Ealing Broadway, Balham, Highgate, Golders Green (40 – 50 min to central schools)
  • Zone 4+: Kingston, Wembley, New Malden (45 – 60 min to central schools)

For student residences in central locations, see UK Student Residences London with properties in Camden, Notting Hill, King’s Cross, Acton, Holloway Road, Walthamstow, and other areas.

Need help deciding? Check our Which Accommodation guide comparing homestay vs residence options.

Typical weekly costs:

  • Homestay Zone 2-3 (with half-board): £285 /week
  • Homestay Zone 4+ (with half-board): £250 /week
  • Student residences (bills included): £300-500/week
  • Transport: £60-70/week for Zones 1-3 travelcard, or use pay-as-you-go

Language school density: Excellent – dozens of accredited schools throughout central and inner London.

Practical help: See our Living & Studying in London guides covering visa requirements, mobile phones, arriving in London, and more.

Brighton

Why language students choose it: Relaxed beach atmosphere, creative culture, very international and LGBTQ+ friendly, excellent social scene.

Popular areas: City centre (near Churchill Square), Hove, Kemptown – most schools within walking distance.

Accommodation strategy: Book early for summer courses (June-September) as the city gets very busy. Homestay options are plentiful in residential areas like Preston Park and Hove.

Typical weekly costs:

  • Homestay (with meals): £175-240/week
  • Student residences: £165-225/week
  • Shared accommodation: £140-200/week
  • Transport: Most schools walkable; budget £5-10/week for occasional buses

Language school density: High – popular year-round, especially summer.

Watch for: Steep hills if you’re cycling; high demand July-August.

Bournemouth

Why language students choose it: Seven miles of beaches, relaxed atmosphere, lower costs than Brighton, established ELT reputation.

Popular areas: Town centre, Winton, Lansdowne – most schools very central.

Accommodation strategy: Excellent homestay network developed over decades of hosting language students. More affordable than southern competitors.

Typical weekly costs:

  • Homestay (with meals): £150-215/week
  • Student residences: £125-175/week
  • Shared accommodation: £115-165/week
  • Transport: Town is compact; budget £8-12/week

Language school density: Very high – Bournemouth has specialised in English language teaching for years.

Perfect for: Students wanting a beach lifestyle without London/Brighton prices.

Cambridge

Why language students choose it: Historic university atmosphere, compact and walkable, safe and welcoming, excellent summer schools.

Popular areas: City centre and Mill Road area – most language schools very central.

Accommodation strategy: Summer gets busy with both language students and tourists. Book early. Many language schools offer accommodation placement.

Typical weekly costs:

  • Homestay (with meals): £190-250/week
  • Student residences: £175-275/week
  • Shared accommodation: £150-225/week
  • Transport: Most places walkable; bikes very popular; budget £5-10/week

Language school density: Good – particularly strong summer programs.

Tip: Cycling culture means good bike storage essential.

Oxford

Why language students choose it: Iconic university city, beautiful architecture, intellectual atmosphere, excellent schools.

Popular areas: City centre, Cowley, Headington – language schools typically central.

Accommodation strategy: Similar to Cambridge – summer booking competition. Universities rent out rooms in summer months at good rates.

Typical weekly costs:

  • Homestay (with meals): £190-250/week
  • Student residences: £175-275/week
  • Shared accommodation: £150-225/week
  • Transport: Very walkable; budget £5-10/week

Language school density: Good – strong summer programs and year-round schools.

Manchester

Why language students choose it: Vibrant, multicultural, excellent value, famous music and football culture, authentic northern English experience.

Popular areas: City centre, Salford Quays, Northern Quarter – schools typically central.

Accommodation strategy: More affordable than southern cities with good availability. Strong public transport means you can live slightly further out. We have student residences in Manchester at Parkway Gate, New Medlock House, and Piccadilly Point.

Typical weekly costs:

  • Homestay (with meals): £150-200/week
  • Student residences: £140-190/week
  • Shared accommodation: £100-150/week
  • Transport pass: £10-15/week

Language school density: Growing – good mix of established and newer schools.

Perfect for: Students wanting authentic British city life at lower cost than London.

Birmingham

Why language students choose it: Second-largest UK city, multicultural, central location for exploring England, improving as a student destination.

Popular areas: City centre, Jewellery Quarter, Selly Oak – language schools typically central.

Accommodation strategy: Good availability and value. We have student residences in Birmingham at Queen’s Hospital Close and The Beeches.

Typical weekly costs:

  • Homestay (with meals): £140-190/week
  • Student residences: £125-175/week
  • Shared accommodation: £90-140/week
  • Transport pass: £12-18/week

Language school density: Moderate – growing destination for language schools.

Edinburgh

Why language students choose it: Beautiful historic capital, strong Scottish culture, safe and walkable, amazing in summer.

Popular areas: New Town, Old Town, Newington – most schools in central areas.

Accommodation strategy: August (Festival month) creates accommodation pressure. Either avoid August or book very early.

Typical weekly costs:

  • Homestay (with meals): £165-225/week
  • Student residences: £165-240/week
  • Shared accommodation: £125-190/week
  • Transport: Very walkable city centre; budget £10-15/week

Language school density: Moderate – excellent schools but fewer than English cities.

Watch for: Festival season (August) – amazing experience but higher costs and crowds.

Bristol

Why language students choose it: Creative, independent culture, diverse and welcoming, good value, beautiful surroundings.

Popular areas: City centre, Clifton, Redland – schools typically central or easily accessible.

Accommodation strategy: Mix of homestay and shared accommodation. Check for good heating/ventilation (some older properties have damp issues).

Typical weekly costs:

  • Homestay (with meals): £165-215/week
  • Student residences: £150-215/week
  • Shared accommodation: £125-175/week
  • Transport pass: £12-18/week

Language school density: Moderate – growing destination.

Canterbury

Why language students choose it: Historic cathedral city, very safe, small and manageable for younger students, close to London.

Accommodation strategy: Smaller city means more limited options but excellent homestay network. Book through your language school.

Typical weekly costs:

  • Homestay (with meals): £150-200/week
  • Shared accommodation: £125-175/week
  • Transport: Everything walkable; budget £5-8/week

Language school density: Several well-established schools.

Perfect for: Younger students (16-18) or those wanting a smaller, safer city experience.

Liverpool & Glasgow

Both cities offer student residences through UK Student Residences and are growing destinations for language students seeking authentic regional British experiences at excellent value.

Liverpool: Grand Central and Cambridge Court residences; strong Beatles/music heritage; friendly atmosphere.

Glasgow: Argyle Street and Kelvin Court residences; Scotland’s cultural capital; vibrant arts scene; very affordable.

4) Before you book: the paperwork that matters

For homestay bookings:

Most homestay bookings go through your language school or a specialist agency like London Homestays who are registered with the BritishCouncil. The British Council is the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and education. Its homestay guidelines are widely used in international education and emphasise student safety, welfare and good communication at home. London Homestays assesses hosts against these guidelines and reviews suitability on an ongoing basis. The guidelines help ensure clear, practical standards for everyday living in a homestay and offer peace of mind when booking.

You’ll typically complete a booking form, and we’ll match you with an appropriate host family. Review house rules, meal times, and arrival arrangements carefully.

For student residences:

Purpose-built accommodation like UK Student Residences typically use license agreements for short stays. These are simpler than full tenancy agreements but equally important to understand. Key details include:

  • Contract length and start/end dates
  • Total cost and what’s included (bills, WiFi, etc.)
  • Deposit amount and protection details
  • Notice period for extensions or early departure
  • House rules and guest policies

For private rentals in England:

Deposit rules: tenancy deposits are capped (usually five weeks’ rent under the Tenant Fees Act) and must be placed in a government-approved Tenancy Deposit Protection scheme. You should receive prescribed information within 30 days. GOV.UK

Right to Rent (England only): landlords/agents must check you have the right to rent (passport or an online share code for eVisa holders). This is routine – have your documents ready. GOV.UK

For stays under 12 weeks: Some landlords use license agreements instead of tenancy agreements for short-term language students. These have different rules. Always understand what you’re signing.

Council Tax (UK-wide): If you’re studying full-time on a course of at least 21 hours per week for at least 24 weeks, you’re typically a full-time student and may be exempt from Council Tax. However, many language courses don’t meet these criteria. Check with your school and local council. GOV.UK

Visa requirements: Check our visa guidance for language students if you need help understanding UK visa requirements for your course length.

Travel insurance and health coverage: While not accommodation-related, ensure you have adequate insurance covering your entire stay. Language students sometimes underestimate this.

We’re not giving legal advice here—always read the official pages and your contract carefully.

5) How to find a place (step-by-step)

For language school students specifically:

  1. Book through your language school first (if offered): Many schools have accommodation officers who arrange homestays, student houses, or residences. This is often the easiest route and they understand your course dates.
  2. Or book directly through specialist providers:
  3. Decide homestay vs. independent: If improving English is your priority and you’re comfortable with house rules, homestay usually wins. If you’re over 25 or want complete independence, consider student residences. Our Which Accommodation guide explains the differences.
  4. Check timing against your course: Language courses often start mid-week or mid-month. Ensure accommodation is available from your arrival date, not just the start of the month. Both our accommodation services can arrange arrivals on any day.
  5. Gather documents: Passport, visa status (if applicable), proof of enrollment at your language school, payment method for deposit/first month.
  6. For homestay: Complete the booking form being clear about dietary requirements, allergies, and any concerns (pets, smoking, etc.). We’ll match you with an appropriate family.
  7. For student residences: Browse available residences by city on UK Student Residences, check room types and facilities, then apply for your preferred option.
  8. Consider airport transfers: Both London Homestays and UK Student Residences offer airport pickup. This removes stress on arrival day – highly recommended for first-time UK visitors.
  9. Ask the right questions:
    • What’s included in the price? (utilities, WiFi, meals if homestay)
    • Minimum stay requirement? (Some require 4 or 8 week minimums)
    • Deposit amount and protection scheme?
    • Notice period if you need to extend or leave early?
    • House rules (guests, noise, kitchen access times)?
  10. Save all documentation: Booking confirmation, payment receipts, house rules, deposit protection details, emergency contact numbers, host family details (if homestay).

6) Insider tips for language school students

After years of helping language students find accommodation, here’s what actually matters:

  • Book earlier than you think: For summer courses (June-September) in Brighton, Cambridge, Oxford, or London, book 2-3 months ahead minimum. Other cities and other seasons, 4-6 weeks is usually sufficient. London homestay places fill particularly quickly in summer.
  • Homestay maximizes language learning: The students who make the fastest progress are almost always those in homestay. Yes, you have less independence, but you’re practicing English 2-3 hours every evening over dinner and conversation. That’s worth the trade-off if language improvement is your goal.
  • Don’t fear the outer zones in London: Zone 3 and Zone 4+ London homestays save you significant money (£40-80/week) and the commute is only 10-15 minutes longer than Zone 2. With London’s excellent transport, a 40-minute commute is completely normal. Check our zone comparison to see the savings.
  • Location matters more for short courses: If you’re only here 4-8 weeks, don’t waste 90 minutes daily commuting to save £150/month. Your time is valuable – live reasonably close to your school. For London, this means Zone 2-3, not Zone 6.
  • Join WhatsApp groups for your intake: Most language schools have groups for students starting the same month. Join immediately – you’ll find activity partners and helpful advice from students already there.
  • For students under 18: Make sure your accommodation provider has experience with under-18s and proper safeguarding policies. Both London Homestays and UK Student Residences are accustomed to hosting under-18 students safely.
  • Don’t overpack: If you’re in homestay, bedroom space is often limited. You can buy most things you need in the UK. Bring clothes, essentials, and electronics – leave the “just in case” items at home.
  • Understand meal times in homestay: British dinner is typically 6-7:30pm. If your evening class finishes at 7pm, discuss this with your host family before booking. Most are flexible, but it’s better to clarify upfront. Check our how homestay works guide for more details.
  • Keep your school informed: If you have any issues with accommodation, tell your school’s accommodation officer immediately. They can often resolve problems that seem impossible to you as a student.
  • Weekend trips are easier from some cities: London and Manchester have excellent transport links for exploring other UK cities. Brighton and Bournemouth are perfect for day trips to London. Consider this if you plan to travel on weekends.
  • Mobile phone on arrival: Get a UK SIM or ESIM or ensure your international plan works here. You’ll need it for coordinating with your accommodation provider, especially on arrival day. See our mobile communications guide.
  • Airport transfers are worth it: If your accommodation provider offers airport pickup (like London Homestays airport transfers), strongly consider it. Arriving in a new country with luggage and finding unfamiliar accommodation is stressful. The extra £40-80 is usually worth it, especially for first-time UK visitors.
  • Check the accommodation FAQs: Both London Homestays student FAQs and UK Student Residences have detailed FAQs answering most common questions.

FAQs

What’s the best accommodation type for language school students?

Homestay is most popular and typically best for language learning, cultural immersion, and students under 21. Student residences suit those wanting independence and modern facilities. The right choice depends on your age, priorities, and comfort with house rules. See our Which Accommodation comparison for detailed guidance.

Is homestay only for younger students?

No—plenty of adult language students choose homestay for everyday conversation and included meals. It’s excellent value and dramatically improves your English. We’ve hosted students from 16 to 65+. englishuk.com

How do London zones affect homestay prices?

Zone 2 homestays (Fulham, Shepherd’s Bush) are most expensive but closest to central language schools. Zone 3 (Ealing, Balham, Highgate) offers better value with 40-45 min commutes. Zone 4+ (Kingston, Wembley) provides the best value with 45-60 min commutes. See our 2025 pricing by zone.

Do you offer homestay in central London (Zone 1)?

No – homestays aren’t available in Zone 1 due to limited space and very high costs. For central London accommodation, we recommend our student residences in locations like Camden, King’s Cross, Notting Hill, or Holloway Road.

How far in advance should I book accommodation?

For summer courses (June-September): book 2-3 months ahead, especially for Brighton, Cambridge, Oxford and London. For other times: 4-6 weeks is usually sufficient. Homestay books up faster than other options.

Can I book accommodation for just 4 weeks?

Yes. Both London Homestays and UK Student Residences cater specifically to language students with short courses. Many language school bookings are 4-12 weeks.

What if I want to extend my course and stay longer?

Contact your accommodation provider as soon as you know. Homestay extensions are usually easiest to arrange. Give at least 2-3 weeks notice if possible. During busy periods (summer), extensions aren’t always possible, but we try our best to accommodate.

What’s included in homestay?

Typically: private bedroom, breakfast and dinner daily (half-board), or breakfast only (B&B), utilities, WiFi, and use of communal areas. Lunch is not usually included (you’ll be at school). Check our how it works page for full details on meal plans and what’s provided.

What’s included in student residences?

All bills (electricity, water, heating), fast WiFi, private en-suite bathroom, access to communal areas and facilities (common rooms, laundry, etc.), and 24-hour security. Studios also include private kitchenettes. Check specific residences on UK Student Residences for exact amenities.

Will my host family have children/pets?

This varies. If you have allergies or preferences, tell us on your booking form and we’ll match you with appropriate families. Many host families have children – this can be great for English practice.

What are house rules in homestay?

Common rules: guests must be approved in advance, no overnight guests, respect quiet hours (usually 10-11pm), keep your room reasonably tidy, let the family know if you won’t be home for dinner. Rules vary by family – you’ll receive them before arrival. See our student FAQs for more details.

How do I get from the airport to my accommodation?

We offer airport transfer services for Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton and City airports to both homestays and student residences. This is especially helpful for first-time visitors. Alternatively, use public transport – we provide detailed arrival instructions with your booking confirmation.

What fees am I allowed to be charged in England?

For private rentals: most letting fees are banned. You can be asked for rent, a capped tenancy deposit, and a small holding deposit to reserve. Homestay bookings may include a placement/booking fee. GOV.UK

Do I need a UK guarantor?

For homestay: no. For student residences: usually no – UK Student Residences has processes for international students. For private rentals: often yes, or you’ll need to pay several months upfront.

Will I pay Council Tax?

Most language courses don’t qualify for full-time student status (which requires 21+ hours/week for 24+ weeks). However, homestay doesn’t involve Council Tax (the family pays it). In student residences, Council Tax is typically included in bills. GOV.UK

What is ‘Right to Rent’?

In England, accommodation providers must check you’re allowed to rent by viewing your passport or immigration documents. This is routine – have your documents ready. See our visa guidance if you need help. GOV.UK

Can I choose my homestay family?

You can express preferences (family with/without children, pets, dietary needs, location/zone) on your booking form and we match accordingly. You can’t usually choose a specific family before arrival, but if there are serious compatibility issues, contact us immediately and we’ll work to resolve it.

What if I don’t like my homestay?

First, speak to your host family – many issues are simple misunderstandings. If that doesn’t work, contact London Homestays or your school immediately. We’ll try to move you if there’s a genuine problem. Document any serious issues.

Which London areas are best for language students?

It depends on your school location and budget. For schools in central London (Oxford Street, Holborn, Covent Garden), consider homestays in Zone 2 (Fulham, Shepherd’s Bush) or Zone 3 (Ealing, Balham). For more affordable options with slightly longer commutes, Zone 4+ works well. For central residences, see our London properties.

Is accommodation safe in the UK?

The UK is generally very safe. London Homestays host families are vetted and experienced. UK Student Residences have secure entry, CCTV, and often 24-hour staff. Your language school can also advise on safe areas.

Useful links for language students

London Homestays:

UK Student Residences:

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