Royal Agricultural University Students – Your Complete Move-In Guide

Everything You Need to Prepare for Student Life at the Royal Agricultural University

Starting at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) means joining the UK's oldest agricultural university and one of the country's leading institutions for agriculture, rural business and land management. Whether you're moving into halls for your first year or renting a house in Cirencester later in your degree, preparing before move-in day will help you settle in quickly and make the most of university life.

Located in the historic market town of Cirencester in the Cotswolds, the Royal Agricultural University is renowned for its expertise in agriculture, veterinary nursing, equine science, environmental management, rural estate management, food production and business. Practical learning, fieldwork and industry placements are central to many courses, making your accommodation an important place to study, relax and recharge after busy days on campus or outdoors.

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

Royal Agricultural University at a Glance

📍 Location: Cirencester, Gloucestershire

🎓 Student Population: Around 1,200 students

🏠 Popular Accommodation: RAU Halls of Residence, New Court, Sandford Park, Cotswold Hall and shared accommodation in Cirencester town centre and surrounding villages

🛒 Nearby Shopping: Waitrose, Tesco, Aldi, Lidl, independent shops and Cirencester's historic market

🚌 Transport: Local bus services connect the campus with Cirencester town centre, while Kemble railway station provides links to Swindon, Gloucester and London.

Student Accommodation at the Royal Agricultural University

Many first-year students choose to live in the Royal Agricultural University's halls of residence, which are located on or close to the campus and provide an excellent opportunity to become part of the university community.

Returning students often move into shared houses and flats around Cirencester town centre or nearby villages, enjoying the relaxed lifestyle and easy access to both campus and the surrounding countryside.

Most student accommodation includes a bed, desk, chair and wardrobe, but you'll usually need to provide your own bedding, towels, kitchen equipment and personal belongings.

Before buying everything, check your accommodation inventory so you know exactly what's already provided.

What Should You Pack?

Preparing before move-in day makes settling into university life 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

Practical Study & Fieldwork Essentials

Many RAU courses combine classroom learning with practical fieldwork, laboratory sessions and placements. An organised room helps you stay on top of coursework while keeping outdoor clothing and equipment neatly stored.

Useful items include:

  • Desk organiser
  • Adjustable desk lamp
  • Extension lead
  • Laptop accessories
  • Cable organisers
  • Storage boxes for field clothing and equipment
  • Notebooks, folders and stationery

Enjoy Student Life in the Cotswolds

The Royal Agricultural University offers a unique student experience, combining historic surroundings with modern teaching and strong links to the rural industries. Students benefit from a close-knit campus community while enjoying the cafés, independent shops and green spaces of Cirencester, often described as the capital of the Cotswolds.

After a day of lectures, fieldwork or placements, it's always good to return to a room that's organised, comfortable and feels like home.

Popular with Royal Agricultural University students include:

All Loomz products are selected with student 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 student accommodation feel like home.

✔ Designed specifically for student accommodation

✔ Affordable essentials for every student budget

✔ Perfect for halls, studios and shared houses

✔ Free UK delivery

✔ Practical products that make everyday student life easier

Helpful Student Guides

Planning your move? Explore our other useful resources:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in Royal Agricultural University accommodation?

Most university accommodation includes a bed, desk, chair and wardrobe. Students are usually expected to bring their own bedding, towels, cookware and personal belongings.

Where do Royal Agricultural University students live?

Many first-year students live in the university's halls of residence. Returning students often rent shared accommodation in Cirencester town centre or nearby villages.

Can I personalise my student room?

Yes. Most students personalise their rooms with bedding, lighting, storage and decorative accessories. Always follow your accommodation provider's guidance and avoid making permanent alterations to walls or furniture.

What should I buy before moving to the Royal Agricultural University?

Most students need bedding, towels, kitchen equipment, study accessories and practical storage before arriving. Students on land-based and agricultural courses also benefit from storage for outdoor clothing, boots and fieldwork equipment.

Ready for the Royal Agricultural University?

Moving to the Royal Agricultural University means joining one of the UK's most respected specialist universities while studying in the beautiful Cotswolds. By preparing your accommodation before you arrive, you'll be ready to settle in quickly, focus on your studies and make the most of the university's practical learning opportunities and welcoming campus community.

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 the Royal Agricultural University.

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