Private or uni halls, which one is better?

Going to university in London and unsure whether to stay in uni halls or private student accommodation? There’s lots to think about when you’re deciding where to live. Many students start off in university halls of residence, and then move into private student accommodation where they can live with friends they made in first year. For many, this move couldn’t come sooner.

University halls cons

From late-night parties and loud music to noisy flatmates next door, university halls can be a little frustrating if you’re a light sleeper or trying to study without distractions. With shared bedrooms and bathrooms, there’s not much privacy in uni halls which is tricky if you’re super tidy or really value your personal space. The facilities are often lagging, and you’re limited by university rules around things like guests which can sometimes make you feel like you're still in school instead of enjoying your newfound freedom. On the contrary, private student accommodation offers loads of perks that are hard to find in London private rentals and uni halls. 

Private student accommodation pros

More flexibility - Unlike university halls where you’re randomly assigned a room on campus, private student accommodation offers loads more flexibility. Whether you want to live with friends in a shared apartment or have a studio all to yourself, it’s totally up to you. You can take your pick from standard, large or premium student rooms. Whatever room type you choose, you’ll find everything you need for a comfy stay.

Purpose-built for students - In private student accommodation, every detail is thoughtfully designed especially for student living. With comfy double beds, ensuite bathrooms, and fully furnished spaces for you to live, study and hang out, private student accommodations like Scape have everything you need to make the most of your time at uni.

Next-level amenities - In Scape student accommodation, our free onsite gyms, cinemas, and study spaces are yours to enjoy anytime you like. You can grab a bite to eat in our dining area or kick back and relax in our lounges. With our enviable locations in London and next-level amenities, the hardest decision you’ll have at Scape is whether to head out or stay in.

Central locations - Unlike uni halls which are usually situated on campus, private student accommodation providers tend to be a lot more selective with our locations. You can find Scape in all the best neighbourhoods around the city, where there’s loads to see and do at your doorstep. Expect safe, central locations only a short commute to most major universities in London and plenty of restaurants and shops nearby.

24/7 gym - Hit the town or hit the gym. In private student accommodations like Scape, you’ll have free access to a 24/7 onsite gym and fitness studio. Feel free to book regular sessions with your friends or flatmates. Each gym is fully equipped with free weights, running machines, cross trainers, rowers, and bikes so you can keep up with your fitness goals.

All bills included - In private student accommodation, everything is covered in your weekly rent, including all utilities and bills so you can relax and have fun without worrying about any costly surprises. Better yet, this amount is fixed for the year so even when energy bills go up, your rent stays the same making it super easy to stay on top of your finances while you’re living in London.

Privacy - Sometimes you’re an introvert, sometimes an extrovert. At Scape, we get it. Which is why all our properties have large communal areas to bring everyone together as well as your own private room for when you want to recharge. If you value your personal space, private student accommodation is ideal. You can choose to live with friends or have a studio all to yourself, either way you’ll have your own ensuite bathroom.

Better security - A big relief for students (and parents) is that there’s generally better security in private student accommodation. This includes CCTV, on-site security, and secure key fob access to make sure you feel at home from the second you walk in. On top of this, all our buildings at Scape are staffed 24/7, providing around the clock support with anything you need.

Beautiful design - Kick back in your bed or knuckle down at your desk. From our rooms to our communal areas, Scape student accommodation prioritises beautiful, award-winning design to make your landing at university feel easy, enjoyable, and exciting.

Stress-free living - There’s no need to find your own energy, gas and Wi-Fi suppliers, everything's already set up and ready so you can get settled in straight away. Living in private student accommodation means there’s always someone on hand to help. If you lose your room key or need help changing a lightbulb, no worries. Our onsite maintenance and housekeeping will take care of it. Just pop down to reception or drop us a message on the app anytime and we’ll take it from there.

Handy student app - Unlike uni halls which can be a little intimidating, everything you need can be found at the click of a button on the Scape student app. You can track your parcel deliveries, log maintenance requests, book cinema and study rooms and keep an eye on upcoming events.  You can also access exclusive student discounts from our local brand partners, like 25% off food and drinks, £6 VIP booths and so much more.

24/7 support - As well as all the amazing amenities included in your rent, what makes private student accommodations like Scape truly special is our staff. We know that starting university can be a big change, so all of our buildings have trained people on hand 24/7 to prioritise your wellbeing. Unlike uni halls where there’s so many students coming and going, we make sure you feel valued and supported throughout your stay, you’re not just another number.

Lifelong connections - In private student accommodations like Scape, you can forge connections with students from all across the globe, opening the door to all sorts of possibilities down the line. From holidays abroad in your new friends’ hometowns to venturing into your careers together, the Scape alumni is one of a kind.

Buzzy social life - Scape student accommodation has a super inclusive, community feel making it really easy to make new friends. We host events almost every week and have lots of shared spaces where you can meet other residents, like games rooms, communal lounges, and dining areas.

Surprises and treats - When you choose private student accommodation like Scape, you choose personalised support. From grab-and-go smoothies and delicious dinners to little gifts now and then, Scape is always looking for new ways to put a smile on your face.

Regular events - If you want the full uni experience, but with all the added benefits, private student accommodation is for you. From stand-up comedy nights and big summer parties to puppy yoga and laidback art classes, there’s always something fun going on inside of our Scape buildings. You can opt in or out whenever suits you, there’s no pressure.

Private student accommodation in London

On the whole, while university halls might offer convenience and proximity to campus, the cleanliness, comfort, and overall sense of community in private student accommodation is hard to top. When you’re weighing up your options, make sure to choose accommodation that prioritises student living, from studying and socialising to everything else in between. Scape is a game changing student accommodation with properties in every corner of London, including Hammersmith, Bloomsbury, Canada Water, Kings Cross, Mile End, Shoreditch, and Wembley (not to mention Guildford & Leeds!) At Scape, you’ll enjoy all the above perks and more. Plus, you don’t need a guarantor to book!

Our rooms fill up quickly so make sure to book yours before someone beats you to it.