Durham University Students – Your Complete Move-In Guide

Everything You Need to Prepare for Student Life at Durham



Starting at Durham University is the beginning of an unforgettable university experience. Whether you're moving into one of Durham's historic colleges for your first year or renting a shared house later in your degree, preparing before move-in day will help you settle into university life with confidence.

As one of the UK's leading Russell Group universities, Durham is renowned for its collegiate system, academic excellence and centuries-old traditions. Every student belongs to a college, creating a close-knit community that extends beyond lectures through social events, sports, formal dinners and student societies. Combined with Durham's beautiful cathedral city setting and compact layout, it's a unique place to live and study.

This guide covers everything you need to know before moving to Durham University, including accommodation advice, packing tips and the everyday essentials that will help you feel at home from day one.

Durham University at a Glance

📍 Location: Durham, County Durham

🎓 Student Population: Around 21,000 students

🏠 Popular Accommodation: Collingwood College, Grey College, St Mary's College, Josephine Butler College, Van Mildert College and Durham's other collegiate residences

🛒 Nearby Shopping: Prince Bishops Place, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Aldi and Durham city centre

🚆 Transport: Durham railway station is within walking distance of the city centre, with regular rail services to Newcastle, York, Edinburgh and London.

Student Accommodation at Durham University

Unlike most universities, Durham's accommodation is centred around its college system. Most first-year students live in their allocated college, where accommodation, social events and student support all become part of daily life. Each college has its own character, traditions and community, making your accommodation a key part of your university experience.

After first year, many students move into shared houses in popular areas including The Viaduct, Gilesgate, Neville's Cross and Crossgate, while remaining closely connected to their college.

Most college rooms include essential furniture such as a bed, desk, chair and wardrobe, but you'll usually need to bring your own bedding, towels and other everyday essentials. Before buying everything, check your accommodation information to see what's already provided.

What Should You Pack?

Preparing before move-in day helps make your first few weeks at university much easier.

Bedroom Essentials

Make your room comfortable with:

  • Duvet and pillows
  • Bedding sets
  • Mattress protector
  • Clothes hangers
  • Laundry basket
  • Storage boxes
  • Soft lighting

Kitchen Essentials

If you'll be sharing a kitchen, don't forget:

  • Plates and bowls
  • Cutlery
  • Pots and pans
  • Cooking utensils
  • Food storage containers
  • Tea towels
  • Washing-up supplies

Bathroom Essentials

Pack your everyday necessities, including:

  • Towels
  • Toiletries
  • Shower caddy
  • Cleaning products

Study Essentials

A well-organised workspace can make studying more productive throughout the academic year.

Useful items include:

  • Desk organiser
  • Desk lamp
  • Extension lead
  • Laptop accessories
  • Notebooks and stationery

Make Your College Room Feel Like Home

Your college room quickly becomes much more than somewhere to sleep. It's where you'll study, prepare for tutorials, relax after lectures and spend time with friends between college events and society activities.

A few practical additions can transform your room into a warm, organised space without taking up valuable floor space.

Popular with Durham University students include:

All Loomz products are selected with university accommodation in mind, making them ideal for furnished student rooms where permanent alterations aren't permitted.

Why Students Choose Loomz

Students across the UK choose Loomz because we understand what makes university accommodation feel like home.

✔ Designed specifically for university accommodation

✔ Affordable essentials for every student budget

✔ Perfect for colleges, halls and shared houses

✔ Free UK delivery

✔ Practical products that make everyday student life easier

Helpful Student Guides

Planning your move? Explore our other helpful resources:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in Durham University accommodation?

Most college accommodation includes a bed, desk, chair and wardrobe. Students are usually expected to bring their own bedding, towels and personal belongings. Kitchen facilities vary between colleges.

Do all Durham University students belong to a college?

Yes. Every Durham student is a member of one of the university's colleges, which provide accommodation, social activities, student support and a strong sense of community.

Where do Durham University students live after first year?

Many students move into shared houses in The Viaduct, Gilesgate, Neville's Cross and Crossgate, while remaining members of their college throughout their degree.

What should I buy before moving to Durham University?

Most students need bedding, towels, study accessories and practical storage before arriving. If you're moving into accommodation with kitchen facilities, you'll also need cookware and other kitchen essentials.

Ready for Durham University?

Moving to Durham University means becoming part of one of the UK's most distinctive collegiate communities. By preparing your accommodation before you arrive, you'll be able to settle into college life quickly, enjoy Durham's traditions and focus on making the most of your university experience.

Browse Loomz's collection of student essentials to find everything you need for your bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and study space before beginning your journey at Durham University.

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