Looking to live near Anglia Ruskin University? Our curated guide covers rooms, shared flats and purpose-built student accommodation in Cambridge for September 2026 intake arrivals.
Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) traces its roots back to the Cambridge School of Art, founded in 1858. After merging with Cambridgeshire College of Art and Technology and Essex Institute of Higher Education, it became Anglia Polytechnic, before gaining full university status in 1992. In 2005 it was officially renamed Anglia Ruskin University.
Today ARU is one of the UK's largest universities, with over 35,000 students across campuses in Cambridge, Chelmsford, Peterborough, and Writtle. It is ranked 61st in the UK by Times Higher Education (2026), making it a well-regarded choice for undergraduate and postgraduate study.
ARU has a strong employability record — the Graduate Outcomes survey shows 92% of ARU graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduating, placing it 5th among mainstream universities in England for this measure. Tuition fees for UK students are £9,535 per year, with international fees starting from £15,900 per year for 2025/26.
The university has a vibrant Students' Union based at Peter Taylor House in Cambridge, supporting over 120 student societies. Notable ARU alumni include Syd Barrett and David Gilmour of Pink Floyd, and BBC sports journalist Manish Bhasin. ARU was also awarded Entrepreneurial University of the Year at the Times Higher Education Awards in 2023.
Finding the right place to live can make a real difference to your university experience. Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) near Anglia Ruskin University is designed with students in mind — giving you everything you need without the hassle of private rentals.
Most PBSA properties near ARU include all bills in the rent (electricity, gas, water, and broadband), so there are no surprise costs mid-term. You will typically find on-site security, communal spaces, study areas, and maintenance teams — all things that private rentals often lack.
Unlike private HMO rentals, PBSA tenancy lengths are usually aligned to the academic year or full calendar year, meaning you do not have to pay rent over the summer if you do not need to. Rooms range from en-suite bedrooms in shared flats to self-contained studios, suiting every budget and lifestyle.
For international students in particular, PBSAs offer a structured, safe, and social environment that makes the transition to university life significantly easier.
ARU's Cambridge campus is located on East Road (CB1 1PT), close to the city centre. There is a strong range of private PBSA options within walking distance or a short cycle from campus, operated by well-known student accommodation providers.
Key PBSA buildings near ARU Cambridge include:
Weekly prices range from approximately £171 to £265, depending on room type, provider, and tenancy length. Bills are typically included.
ARU's Chelmsford campus is a popular choice for students studying health, science, and engineering. The campus is well-connected to the city centre, with a growing range of private PBSA options nearby that offer modern facilities and flexible tenancy lengths.
Private PBSAs in Chelmsford are generally more affordable than Cambridge equivalents, making it an attractive option for students who want quality accommodation with bills included and no hidden costs.
When searching for accommodation near ARU Chelmsford, look for properties with direct bus routes or short walking distance to the campus on Rivermead Campus, Bishop Hall Lane, CM1 1SQ.
ARU's Peterborough campus is a newer addition, focused on providing higher education access in the region. Student accommodation options near ARU Peterborough range from private PBSA developments in the city centre to house shares and private rentals.
Peterborough is generally more affordable than Cambridge, with weekly PBSA rents typically lower than the Cambridge equivalents. Students are advised to start their search early, particularly for the September intake, as demand for well-located accommodation near the campus is growing year on year.
Cambridge City Centre - The city centre puts you within walking distance of ARU's East Road campus (under 10 minutes on foot) as well as shops, restaurants, and nightlife. It is the most convenient location but commands the highest rents, typically £280–£436/week for PBSA.
Mill Road - One of the most popular areas for ARU students. Mill Road has a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere with independent cafés, restaurants, and shops. It is approximately a 10–15 minute walk to campus and slightly more affordable than the city centre. A favourite for students who want character and convenience.
Chesterton - A residential neighbourhood north of the city centre, around 15–20 minutes from campus on foot or a short cycle ride away. Chesterton offers a quieter setting with good transport links to the city. Popular with students who prefer a calmer environment.
Newnham - A leafy, residential area to the south-west of Cambridge, favoured by students who want a calmer, more settled neighbourhood. It is around 20–25 minutes from ARU on foot or a short bus ride. Rents here tend to be slightly lower than in the city centre.
Abbey & Romsey Town - These areas to the south-east of the city centre offer some of the most affordable private accommodation in Cambridge. They are approximately 15–20 minutes from ARU by foot or bike, and well-served by local buses.
Book Private PBSA Early
The best way to secure great accommodation near ARU is to book a private PBSA room as early as possible. Providers near ARU — such as those listed above — typically open bookings from October/November for the following September. The most popular buildings, particularly those closest to campus, can sell out by January or February.
Booking early gives you the widest choice of room types, the best availability, and often access to early-bird pricing. Most providers allow you to reserve a room with just a small holding deposit, with no commitment required until you have confirmed your place at ARU. Planning early for September 2026 can help you find student accommodation near Anglia Ruskin University with better flexibility and less stress. As intake demand rises, students who start early usually have more choices in room style and location. Checking student rooms near Anglia Ruskin University in advance can support better decision-making.
For international students or those arriving from outside the UK, private PBSAs are strongly recommended. Most providers do not require a UK-based guarantor, and having all bills included from day one makes budgeting straightforward before you even arrive.
The cost of student accommodation near Anglia Ruskin University varies depending on campus location, room type, and provider.
Private PBSA (Cambridge): The most affordable PBSA options near ARU Cambridge start from ~£171/week. En-suite rooms are typically from ~£215/week, studios from ~£225/week. Premium options reach up to ~£265/week. Bills are typically included.
Private PBSA (Chelmsford): Chelmsford is generally more affordable than Cambridge. Private PBSA options offer good value with all bills included and modern facilities.
What's included: All major PBSA providers near ARU include electricity, gas, water, and broadband in the rent. Students are exempt from council tax — you will need to apply for an exemption certificate via your local council, which your university can help with.
As a rough monthly guide, budget:
Share a few details and we will send tailored rooms near Anglia Ruskin University.
Powered by Best Student Halls
Estimate your monthly expenses near Anglia Ruskin University.
Based on your selected preferences.
Common questions about Anglia Ruskin University.
Moving to Cambridge for Trinity College? We've hand-picked the best student accommodation — from affordable rooms to fully-furnished PBSA — for the September 2026 intake.
Planning to study at University of Cambridge? Browse verified student rooms, shared houses and purpose-built accommodation in Cambridge for the September 2026 intake.
Get settled in Cambridge before your September 2026 intake at Fitzwilliam College. Browse student rooms, private apartments and PBSA on FindUniRooms.
Moving to Cambridge for King's College School? We've hand-picked the best student accommodation — from affordable rooms to fully-furnished PBSA — for the September 2026 intake.
Explore student housing near Murray Edwards College in Cambridge, United Kingdom. Find rooms, studios and PBSA that suit your budget for the September 2026 intake.