Student Accommodation in Newtown
Newtown is a residential area between the city centre and Heavitree, offering affordable accommodation in a quieter setting. The area includes Belmont and stretches towards Polsloe, providing options for students who want value without being too far from campus. It's less established as a student zone than Pennsylvania or St Davids, which can mean more space and lower prices.
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Living in Newtown as a Student
Newtown has a genuinely residential feel with fewer students than more popular areas. You'll live alongside families and professionals, creating a quieter atmosphere. This suits students who prefer calm over buzz, want value for money, and don't mind slightly longer commutes. It's popular with postgraduates, mature students, and groups seeking larger houses at lower prices. The area works well for St Luke's students given the reasonable walking distance.
Newtown offers a mix of Victorian terraces and some inter-war housing. Properties tend to be slightly larger and more affordable than equivalent houses in more popular student areas. You'll find genuine family houses that happen to be rented to students, often with gardens and more storage space. Quality varies, so viewing is essential.
Commute to Streatham and St Luke's
Streatham Campus
Streatham Campus is a longer walk from Newtown - too far for most students to walk regularly. Most students take the bus (routes vary but services run regularly) or cycle. If you're studying at Streatham, be honest about whether you'll commit to transport.
St Luke's Campus
St Luke's Campus is within walking distance from most Newtown locations, making it practical for medical and health students. This is one of Newtown's main advantages - St Luke's proximity at lower prices than Mount Pleasant.
Shops, Food & Essentials
Newtown has fewer local shops than areas like Heavitree, but benefits from proximity to both city centre and Heavitree Road amenities. Belmont Park provides green space. Bus services connect to the city centre and both campuses. You'll likely do main shopping in the city centre or use the Heavitree shops.
Popular Roads in Newtown
Newtown features several popular student streets within easy walking distance of campus. Browse our full property listings to see available student houses, or explore other Exeter areas to compare options.
Budget and Bills in Newtown
Newtown is one of Exeter's more affordable student areas. Expect £85-115 per person per week for 4-6 bed houses. The savings compared to Pennsylvania can be significant over a full year. All-inclusive options help manage bills in larger properties.
Tip: All Gillams properties show all-inclusive pricing first (covering gas, electricity, water, broadband, and TV licence), then rent-only as an alternative. This helps your group compare like-for-like.
Student Mix + Parking + Quieter Streets
Newtown's less student-heavy population means you're more likely to find street parking available, properties with driveways, and quieter evenings. For groups with cars or who work part-time jobs requiring vehicles, this practical advantage matters. The trade-off is fewer student neighbours and a slightly longer trek to campus. Some students find this isolation refreshing; others prefer the built-in social scene of student-heavy areas. Know what matters to your group before choosing.
Viewing Checklist for Newtown
When viewing student properties in Newtown, check these area-specific points:
- Walk to your main campus and time it realistically
- Check bus routes and frequencies for Streatham commute
- Ask about parking availability - often better than more central areas
- Explore nearest local shops and services
- Check heating systems in older properties
- Look at bedroom sizes and overall condition
- Ask about the neighbourhood mix - is it mainly families or students?
- Confirm refuse collection arrangements
Common Pitfalls in Newtown
Avoid these common mistakes when choosing Newtown student accommodation:
- Underestimating the Streatham commute - it's longer than Pennsylvania
- Expecting a student party atmosphere - Newtown is quieter
- Not checking bus routes before signing if you'll rely on them
- Choosing purely on price without considering the commute impact on your studies
FAQs About Newtown Student Accommodation
Is Newtown a good area for students in Exeter?
Newtown suits students who prioritise value and a quieter environment over campus proximity. It's affordable with larger properties, but requires commitment to public transport or cycling for Streatham Campus.
How far is Newtown from Exeter University?
Streatham Campus is a longer walk, so most students take the bus or cycle. St Luke's Campus is closer and walkable, making Newtown more practical for medical students.
What are rent prices in Newtown Exeter?
Expect £85-115 per person per week for 4-6 bed houses in Newtown - some of the most affordable student accommodation in Exeter.
Is Newtown quiet for students?
Yes, Newtown is quieter than popular student areas like Pennsylvania. The mixed residential population means fewer student parties and a calmer environment.
Is parking easier in Newtown?
Generally yes - Newtown has more street parking availability and more properties with driveways than student-heavy areas. Good for groups with cars.
Are there large student houses in Newtown?
Yes, Newtown has some larger 5-6 bed Victorian properties at affordable prices. The area offers good value for larger groups willing to accept the longer Streatham commute.