Where students live in Southampton
In Southampton, most of our students tend to live either close to Highfield Campus or in the city centre. There is convenient transport between these areas.
Portswood
There are plenty of private rented accommodation options for students in Portswood, located south of Avenue Campus and Highfield Campus. Highstreet shops and eateries are on the doorstep, and there are bars, gyms, and good transport links to travel around the city.
Swaythling
A large residential area that’s popular with students as it’s close to both Highfield and Boldrewood campuses. You’ll find plenty of food options and smaller shops along Burgess Road, and the University’s water sports centre is located here too. Wide Lane sports centre, home to many Team Southampton sports clubs, and the city’s airport are a short bus journey away.
Highfield
The quiet residential area of Highfield is home to both the Highfield and Avenue campuses. The area borders Southampton Common to the west, so is a great place for fresh air and outdoor fitness.
Bassett
This leafy residential area is situated north of Highfield Campus and Boldrewood Campus. It’s a great area to choose if you’re into sport, as Bassett is home to many of the city’s sports facilities. This includes Southampton Outdoor Sports Centre, which has tennis courts, a cricket pitch and BMX track. It also includes Alpine Snowsports Southampton, Southampton Golf Club, and Red Lodge Community swimming pool.
Shirley and the city centre
Shirley is a suburb on the edge of the city centre, so it’s a good choice for shopping, socialising and nightlife. You can find mountain bike and BMX tracks close by in Lordswood. Shirley has its own high street with pubs, bars, cafes and small shops. It’s popular with medical students as it’s so close to the hospital. Our Waterfront campus is also an easy commute from this area.
Learn more about Southampton
Discover the many things to do in our home city, Southampton, with our Southampton city guide.