If you’re seeking student accommodation in and around Newcastle, the chances are you’ll be looking at Jesmond, Heaton and Sandyford. The reason? For anyone studying on Tyneside, these are the places to live. They’re not that far apart (they’re interconnected in fact), but there are differences between the three that are important to understand.
The main things is that they’re all ideal locations for students, offering accommodation options aplenty, bars, pubs and restaurants galore, and all within touching distance of the Toon, and all that it has to offer. Think about what you need, what is most important and where you might find it.
But be it Jesmond, Heaton or Sandyford that makes the final cut, these popular spots will not disappoint.
Accommodation options
Jesmond
Jesmond is considered the jewel in the student accommodation crown, and for anyone seeking larger properties to house bigger groups, this is a good place to start your search. Smaller flats and houses can be discovered here, but Jesmond’s true appeal is the larger homes that offer additional rooms.
Heaton
Heaton has become increasingly-popular with students in recent times, and it’s not hard to see why. This is a large area, and a hotspot for private landlords, meaning accommodation options abound. Rents are often lower here too, making it an attractive proposition.
Sandyford
Can’t find the perfect rental in Jesmond or Heaton? Sandyford offers the middle ground. Larger properties than Heaton, with lower rents than Jesmond, there are options in Sandyford for all.
Transport Links

Tom Page from London, UK, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Jesmond
For anyone living in Jesmond, getting around is easy. There are bus routes that go all over, whilst Jesmond and West Jesmond Metro stations service the most popular student areas. Jesmond is close enough to walk to the city’s main campuses, and cycling is always an option.
Heaton
Heaton is well placed for anyone studying in Newcastle, with countless bus routes to the Toon and its various campuses. Depending on whereabouts in Heaton you choose, you can always walk or cycle to the city centre, whilst the Chillingham Road and Byker Metro stations are handy.
Sandyford
Sandyford might not be on the Metro, but getting around doesn’t present problems for those choosing to base themselves here. Cycling is popular, with quick and simple routes aplenty, whilst there’s a comprehensive bus network to take you wherever you need to go. Prefer to take a train? It’s not far to walk to Jesmond and its two stations.
Proximity to the City Centre
Jesmond
Jesmond is nice and close to Newcastle and, for anyone studying in and around the Haymarket area, this is the perfect place to seek accommodation. The city centre is walkable, whilst getting home after a night out is a quick trip in a taxi.
Heaton
Heaton is a little further out, but the difference in rents and the accommodation options available make up for this. It’s still close enough to walk into town, whilst the transport options on offer mean your commute will never take long.
Sandyford
This is where Sandyford excels, with those choosing this as their preferred place to live drawn to its close proximity to Newcastle and all its attractions and amenities. Strolling in from Sandyford is always a pleasant experience, making this a super spot for those keen to live within touching distance of the centre.
Bars, Pubs and Restaurants

Photo © Graham Robson (cc-by-sa/2.0)
Jesmond
This is where Jesmond comes into its own, with the Osborne Road circuit a perennial favourite with students. Like to be close to bars, pubs and restaurants? Jesmond has got the lot.
Heaton
Given all the students living here, there are countless options for nights out. The best drinking spots tend to be more traditional than those found in Jesmond, although students are well catered for. Innumerable eateries are located on Chillingham Road, whilst the area’s café culture is thriving.
Sandyford
There are no shortage of options in Sandyford – with great pubs and bars to cater for all tastes, and places to eat aplenty. There’s no main strip, like in Jesmond, but that’s no bad thing, with Sandyford’s best spots more subtle, like hidden secrets that demand to be discovered.
Shops and Amenities
Jesmond
Jesmond is well served for shops – ranging from supermarkets, to stock up on essentials, to designer boutiques, for luxuries and treats. Looking for a library, or seeking a swimming pool? You’ll find it all here.
Heaton
Heaton has the lot, with access to large supermarkets, small independents, mini-markets and more. No matter your needs, the chances are you’ll find it here.
Sandyford
Being so close to the city centre, you’ll have easy access to all the amenities you need if you decide to plump for Sandyford. You should find all the essentials on your doorstep here, but if there’s something more that you need, you’ll never have to go far to get it.