University of Greenwich

University of Greenwich Accommodation Guide

Get settled in London before your September 2026 intake at University of Greenwich. Browse student rooms, private apartments and PBSA on FindUniRooms.

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Updated May 02, 2026
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University of Greenwich

Overview: Student Accommodation at the University of Greenwich

The University of Greenwich has three main campuses: Greenwich Campus beside the Thames in south-east London, Avery Hill Campus in Eltham, and Medway Campus in Chatham Maritime, Kent. Accommodation planning depends heavily on which campus you study at, because a room that is perfect for Greenwich Campus may be inconvenient for Medway, and vice versa.

For most students, the easiest route is to compare:

  • University halls for campus support, predictable bills, and a structured first-year experience.
  • Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) for modern rooms, inclusive bills, social spaces, and straightforward booking.
  • Private shared houses or flats for flexibility, local living, and sometimes lower monthly rent if you share well.
  • Studios for privacy, usually at the highest weekly cost.

Quick take: if you want the simplest move-in, start with university halls and PBSA. If your priority is lowest monthly cost, compare Avery Hill, Deptford, New Cross, Charlton, Woolwich, Eltham, and shared houses before committing to a Greenwich studio.

Best Areas to Live Near the University of Greenwich

Greenwich Campus

Greenwich Campus is close to Cutty Sark DLR, Greenwich rail/DLR, Maze Hill rail, bus routes, and Greenwich Pier. It works well for students who want walkable access to lectures, the town centre, parks, food, shops, and riverside social life.

Area Best for Typical commute to Greenwich Campus Student feel
Greenwich (SE10) Walkability, riverside, shortest commute 5-20 minutes walk Scenic, convenient, higher demand
Deptford (SE8) Value, food, nightlife, creative student scene 10-25 minutes walk/bus Lively and practical
New Cross Student energy, Goldsmiths area, transport 15-30 minutes bus/train/walk Busy, social, good PBSA options
Blackheath (SE3) Quieter streets and green space 15-30 minutes bus/train Calm, more residential
Charlton (SE7) Better value, local shopping 15-30 minutes bus/train Practical and less central
Woolwich (SE18) Value, DLR/Elizabeth line links 20-35 minutes DLR/bus Regenerating, well connected
Eltham / Avery Hill Lower-cost halls, campus village Shuttle/bus to Greenwich Quieter, campus-based

Avery Hill Campus

Avery Hill is in Eltham, with a greener, more campus-style feel. The university's Student Village houses more than 1,200 students, and many residents travel to Greenwich Campus using the free intercampus bus.

Choose Avery Hill if you want:

  • Lower weekly rent than central Greenwich options.
  • A more residential environment.
  • Sports facilities, campus amenities, and a student village feel.
  • Access to the university shuttle between Avery Hill and Greenwich during the week.

Medway Campus

Medway students should usually focus on Chatham, Gillingham, Rochester, and the area around Chatham Maritime. Do not book in Greenwich unless your course is actually based there; the journey between London and Medway is too long for daily student life.

University Halls: What to Know First

The University of Greenwich offers accommodation at Greenwich, Avery Hill, and Medway. University halls are useful because they typically include utilities, internet/Wi-Fi, contents insurance, security, and residential support in one package.

The university also has an accommodation guarantee for many new full-time students who meet the criteria and apply by 30 June for a September start.

Campus Main university accommodation Good for Indicative 2026-27 prices
Greenwich Cutty Sark Hall, Daniel Defoe Hall, Devonport House, McMillan Student Village Walkable access to Greenwich Campus Around £216-£300+ per week for many room types
Avery Hill Avery Hill Student Village Lower-cost London halls and campus living From £145.95 per week
Medway Adelaide, Forte, Sunne, Merlin, Wolfe Medway Campus students From £173.88 per week

Greenwich halls are the most convenient for Greenwich Campus, but they are not always the cheapest. Avery Hill is worth considering if budget matters and you are comfortable using the shuttle or public transport.

PBSA Near the University of Greenwich

PBSA is often the best balance between independence and support. You get a private provider rather than a traditional landlord, but the building is designed for students and normally includes:

  • Furnished rooms with study space.
  • Bills included, often covering electricity, water, heating, internet, and contents insurance.
  • On-site maintenance and secure access.
  • Common rooms, study areas, laundry, parcel handling, and events.
  • A choice of en-suite rooms, studios, shared apartments, and sometimes twin rooms.

PBSA can be especially useful if:

  • You are arriving from overseas and need a reliable move-in.
  • You do not have a UK guarantor and need a provider with international payment options.
  • You want to avoid setting up utilities.
  • You prefer a building with reception, security, and student neighbours.

Where to Search for PBSA

For Greenwich Campus, look around Greenwich, Deptford, New Cross, Lewisham, Charlton, and Woolwich. For Avery Hill, look around Eltham, Blackheath, Sidcup, and Welling. For Medway, stay focused on Chatham Maritime, Chatham, Gillingham, and Rochester.

When comparing PBSA, do not compare weekly rent alone. Check:

  • Contract length: 39, 40, 44, 45, 50, or 51 weeks changes the total price.
  • Room type: shared bathroom, en-suite, studio, or apartment.
  • Bills cap: some "bills included" contracts still have fair-usage limits.
  • Laundry cost and whether gym access is free.
  • Commute at 9am, not only late at night.
  • Cancellation policy if your visa or university place changes.

Private Renting and Shared Houses

Private renting around Greenwich gives you more choice but more responsibility. The university partners with Studentpad, where students can search for bedsits, flats, shared houses, lodgings, university hall rooms, and private hall rooms.

Private rentals can be good if you:

  • Already have friends to share with.
  • Want a specific area or a longer tenancy.
  • Prefer a house over a student building.
  • Can manage bills, cleaning, repairs, deposits, and guarantor checks.

They are riskier if you are booking remotely, have never rented in the UK, or need certainty before arriving. In those cases, PBSA or halls are usually safer.

Private Renting Checklist

Before paying money, confirm:

  • The property address exists and you have seen a live viewing or trusted video viewing.
  • The landlord or letting agent is legitimate.
  • The deposit will be protected in a government-approved scheme.
  • The contract names all tenants and explains rent, bills, break clauses, and notice periods.
  • You know who handles repairs.
  • The inventory is detailed before move-in.
  • You understand Right to Rent requirements if renting privately in England.

Accommodation Costs and Monthly Budget

London pricing varies sharply by room type. A shared room or halls room in Avery Hill can be much cheaper than a studio near Greenwich town centre.

Monthly cost item Budget estimate Moderate estimate Higher estimate
Student halls / PBSA outside central Greenwich £760 £950 £1,150
Student halls / PBSA near Greenwich Campus £1,000 £1,120 £1,320+
Private shared room £850 £1,050 £1,300+
Private studio / one-bed £1,300 £1,500 £1,900+
Food and groceries £230 £360 £540
Public transport £35 £75 £145
Social, gym, clothing, phone £220 £320 £450+

Budget warning: A room that is £40 per week cheaper may not save money if it adds regular DLR, rail, or taxi costs. Compare the total monthly cost, not just rent.

Transport for Greenwich Students

Greenwich Campus is unusually well connected for a campus outside central London. Students commonly use:

  • DLR from Cutty Sark or Greenwich.
  • National Rail from Greenwich or Maze Hill.
  • Buses across south-east London.
  • Walking and cycling between Greenwich, Deptford, and New Cross.
  • Free university intercampus bus between Greenwich and Avery Hill during weekdays.

TfL's adult bus Hopper fare allows unlimited bus and tram journeys within one hour for £1.75, and an 18+ Student Oyster can reduce eligible weekly, monthly, and longer-period travelcards or bus/tram passes. If you mainly live and study around Greenwich, you may spend much less than a student commuting daily across Zones 1-4.

Step-by-Step Booking Timeline

Timing What to do
October-January Shortlist halls, PBSA, and areas. Check campus location before comparing rooms.
February-March Build a realistic budget and compare contract lengths. International students should check guarantor and payment rules.
April-May Apply for halls or reserve PBSA if you need certainty. Ask about cancellation if your offer or visa is pending.
By 30 June Meet the university hall guarantee deadline if eligible.
July-August Finalise tenancy documents, deposit, move-in slot, inventory plans, bedding, and kitchen items.
September Move in, photograph the room, report defects immediately, and register with local services if needed.

Scam Prevention and Safety

Student housing scams are common in London because demand is high and many students book from overseas.

Red flags include:

  • Pressure to pay before a viewing or contract.
  • Rent that is far below nearby listings.
  • A landlord who refuses video calls or official paperwork.
  • Requests for bank transfer to a personal account with no receipt.
  • Fake "holding deposit" urgency.
  • No clear address or mismatched photos.

Safer options:

  • Use university halls, recognised PBSA providers, or the university's Studentpad route.
  • Search the address and provider independently.
  • Never rely only on social media messages.
  • Ask the accommodation team before paying if something feels wrong.

International Student Guide and Right to Rent

If you live in university halls, Right to Rent checks are generally not required in the same way as private renting. If you rent privately in England, landlords must usually check that every adult tenant has the legal right to rent before the tenancy starts.

International students may prove this using:

  • A UKVI share code.
  • Eligible immigration documents.
  • A passport or other documents depending on nationality and status.

Private landlords should apply checks consistently and must not discriminate. If your immigration status is time-limited, checks normally happen close to the tenancy start date, so plan this into your booking timeline.

Tenancy Agreement Cheat Sheet

Read the full agreement before signing. Pay particular attention to:

  • Rent amount: weekly or monthly, and whether it is paid in instalments.
  • Contract length: 39 weeks versus 51 weeks can change total cost dramatically.
  • Deposit: amount, protection scheme, and refund conditions.
  • Guarantor: UK guarantor, international guarantor, rent upfront, or third-party guarantor service.
  • Bills: what is included and whether usage caps apply.
  • Council tax: full-time students are usually exempt, but mixed households need care.
  • Repairs: how to report issues and expected response times.
  • Break clause: whether you can leave early.
  • Subletting: usually restricted or banned.
  • Inventory: the evidence used for deposit deductions.

What to Pack vs What Is Usually Provided

University halls and PBSA usually provide basic furniture, but you still need personal items.

Usually provided You usually bring
Bed frame and mattress Bedding, duvet, pillows, mattress protector
Desk and chair Laptop, chargers, extension lead if allowed
Wardrobe/storage Towels, hangers, laundry bag
Shared kitchen appliances Plates, cutlery, pans, mugs
Internet/Wi-Fi Personal router only if permitted
Basic contents insurance in many halls Extra insurance for expensive devices if needed

Do not overpack kitchen items before you know your flatmates. It is common for shared kitchens to end up with six kettles and no usable cupboard space.

Accessibility and Special Requirements

The University of Greenwich gives priority consideration to students with disabilities, serious medical conditions, care experience, and some specific course or placement needs. The university says its accommodation includes accessible rooms and flats, and students can request adaptations where needed.

If you have a disability, medical condition, mobility requirement, care-leaver status, sensory need, or equipment requirement:

  • State it clearly on your accommodation application.
  • Contact Accommodation Services early.
  • Speak to Student Wellbeing or disability support where relevant.
  • Provide medical or supporting evidence if asked.
  • Ask about room location, lift access, adapted bathrooms, fire alarms, fridge/medication storage, and summer accommodation if needed.

Do this before room allocation, not after arrival, because the most suitable rooms are limited.

Final Advice

For Greenwich Campus, the strongest shortlist is usually Greenwich halls + PBSA in Greenwich/Deptford/New Cross + value options in Avery Hill, Charlton, or Woolwich. For Avery Hill, prioritise Eltham and the Student Village. For Medway, stay near Chatham Maritime rather than booking in London.

The best accommodation choice is the one that fits your campus, budget, commute, and support needs. For many students, PBSA or halls are worth the premium because they reduce uncertainty, especially in the first year or when arriving internationally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about University of Greenwich.

How early should I book student accommodation near the University of Greenwich?
For a September start, begin comparing options from October to January and aim to apply for university halls before the 30 June accommodation guarantee deadline. PBSA and good-value rooms in Greenwich, Deptford, New Cross, and Eltham can move earlier than ordinary private rentals.
Is PBSA a good option for University of Greenwich students?
Yes. PBSA is often the easiest choice if you want bills included, furnished rooms, security, maintenance, social spaces, and a simpler move-in. It is especially useful for international students and anyone who does not want to manage utilities or shared-house admin.
Which areas are best for Greenwich Campus students?
Greenwich, Deptford, New Cross, Blackheath, Charlton, Lewisham, and Woolwich are the most practical areas. Greenwich is closest, Deptford and New Cross are lively and student-friendly, Blackheath is quieter, and Woolwich can offer better value with Elizabeth line and DLR links.
What are the main University of Greenwich halls near Greenwich Campus?
Greenwich Campus students can look at Cutty Sark Hall, Daniel Defoe Hall, Devonport House, and McMillan Student Village. Avery Hill Student Village is also used by many Greenwich Campus students and is connected by a free intercampus bus.
How much does accommodation near the University of Greenwich cost?
University hall prices for 2026-27 start from about £145.95 per week at Avery Hill, around £173.88 per week at Medway, and around £216-£300+ per week for many Greenwich options. Private PBSA and studios in London can be higher, so always compare weekly rent, contract length, bills, and transport.
Should I live at Avery Hill if I study at Greenwich Campus?
Avery Hill can be a sensible value choice if you are comfortable commuting. The university says many Avery Hill residents study at Greenwich Campus, and the free weekday intercampus bus makes it easier than a normal cross-London commute.
Do international students need Right to Rent checks?
In England, private landlords normally need to check that adult tenants have the right to rent. Students in university halls are generally exempt, but if you rent privately you may need a passport, immigration documents, or a UKVI share code.
Are bills included in University of Greenwich halls?
University accommodation generally includes utility bills, internet/Wi-Fi, contents insurance, and 24/7 support. Private rentals vary, so check whether electricity, gas, water, broadband, contents insurance, and council tax rules are included before signing.
Is Greenwich expensive for students?
Greenwich is cheaper than some central London student areas but still has London-level rents. Students can reduce costs by considering Avery Hill, Deptford, New Cross, Charlton, Woolwich, or shared PBSA/private rooms instead of central studios.
What should I check before signing a private tenancy?
Check the landlord or PBSA provider, total rent, deposit protection, guarantor rules, contract length, break clauses, repair responsibilities, inventory, bills, transport costs, and whether every tenant has completed any required Right to Rent process.

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