Edinburgh Napier University Student Accommodation Guide 2025
Best Halls & Housing Options

Discover the best accommodation options for Edinburgh Napier University students in 2025. Compare halls, private housing, costs, and tips for living in Edinburgh.

🎓 Introduction

Finding the right accommodation is one of the first and most important decisions students make before starting their studies at Edinburgh Napier University (ENU). Where you live will shape your budget, commute, and social life. Edinburgh offers world-class culture and student life, but can be one of the more expensive UK cities—so planning is key.

This guide covers the best university halls, private accommodation, and shared rentals in 2025, with costs, pros and cons, and practical tips to help you choose confidently.

🏫 University-Managed Halls of Residence

ENU provides purpose-built residences across the city with all-inclusive bills, Wi‑Fi, and support services.

🛏️ Bainfield (Fountainbridge)

👉 Best for: Students who want modern facilities in a lively central area.

🛏️ Orwell Terrace

👉 Best for: Balancing affordability with city-centre access.

🛏️ Slateford Road

👉 Best for: Budget-conscious students who don’t mind a commute.

🛏️ Craiglockhart Court

👉 Best for: Students based at Craiglockhart (business, social sciences).

🏘️ Private Student Accommodation

Popular with international and postgraduate students; often includes premium amenities like gyms and cinema rooms.

👉 Private halls are modern and stylish but can be significantly more expensive.

🏡 Shared Flats & Private Rentals

After first year, many students move into shared housing with friends.

Popular Student Areas

👉 Private rentals offer independence but require budgeting for bills and contracts.

💸 Cost Comparison

Accommodation Type Weekly Rent (£) Bills Included? Typical Commute
ENU Halls (Craiglockhart) 135–150 Yes On campus
ENU Halls (Bainfield) 185–215 Yes ~10 mins
Private Halls 190–320 Yes Citywide
Shared Flat (Private) 140–180 ppw No 15–30 mins

✅ Pros & Cons

University Halls

Pros: All bills included, social, safe

Cons: En-suites are pricier

Private Halls

Pros: Modern amenities, gyms, cinema rooms

Cons: Premium prices

Shared Flats

Pros: Independence, can be cheaper

Cons: Bills and responsibilities

🏁 Conclusion

ENU accommodation in 2025 ranges from affordable shared halls to premium studios. Freshers and international students may prefer Bainfield or Orwell Terrace for convenience and community, while returning students often save by sharing private flats. Whatever you choose, start early—Edinburgh is a popular and competitive rental market.

❓ FAQs about ENU Accommodation

How early should I apply for ENU halls?
👉 Apply as soon as you accept your offer—popular residences fill quickly before term.
Is contents insurance included?
👉 Many halls include basic insurance; check your contract and consider add-ons for high-value items.
Are short-term contracts available?
👉 Some private halls offer flexible tenancies; university-managed halls typically follow academic terms.