At Exeter we have student accommodation available both on the Streatham campus and in the city. In this guest blog, student Brinda talks through what to expect from living in Exeter city centre.
You:
“Out of my comfort zone? Unknown faces? New neighbours? Away from my friends? Would it be harder to get to classes?”
With all those questions and more having probably made a cameo in your 2am thoughts, I might be able to help.
When I first started at Exeter, living on campus seemed to be the obvious choice. However, as I explored my options, I realised I wanted to experiment and embrace adventure.
Dear reader, let me share how living off-campus has allowed me to experience Exeter to the fullest.
Benefits
One of the best things about living in the city is you find everything you need. Grocery stores, quirky independent shops, cafés, restaurants, and nightlife spots are just a few minutes away.
But be warned, it only takes 10 steps out the door to let your coffee and snack expenses skyrocket.
Transport
Exeter is a very walkable city, but when you need to travel, it’s incredibly easy:
Walking:
- To Streatham Campus – about a 20–25 minute walk, keep in mind that there are some hilly gradients!
- To St Luke’s Campus, it’s even closer – around 10–15 minutes.
Buses:
- UNI buses run between the city centre and both campuses in term time – takes about 10 minutes.
Trains:
- Exeter Central Station is right in the middle of the city centre.
- Exeter St. David’s Station is about a 10–15 minute walk from the city centre (great to run away to the beach from that assignment you’re supposed to be doing)
Cycling:
- Exeter is cycle-friendly – the city to campus takes about 10 minutes.
Staying Connected
Living off campus feels like a “real world” collaboration – you mix with other students, locals, and families.
One of my biggest concerns about living off campus was feeling disconnected – not the case.
Clubs, societies, sports teams and events are still very accessible and most of my friends ended up living off-campus too, so there was always someone around to meet up with. Group chats, regular catch-ups and heading to campus for events will keep you feeling just as much a part of university life as before.
So, if you’re debating whether off-campus life is for you, take this as your sign to give it a go. It might feel like a leap at first, but it’s one that can lead to greater independence, a stronger sense of the city, and a different kind of uni experience that’s just as rich and rewarding. With the right mindset (and maybe a good pair of walking shoes), living off campus can become one of the most memorable parts of your time at Exeter.