Student Accommodation in Polsloe
Polsloe is a residential area east of Exeter city centre, known for Polsloe Bridge railway station which provides local train connections. The area offers affordable housing in a quiet setting, with reasonable access to St Luke's Campus. It's less established as a student zone, meaning more space and lower prices but also fewer student-focused amenities.
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Living in Polsloe as a Student
Polsloe has a suburban residential character with families and professionals rather than large student populations. This creates a quiet, settled atmosphere that suits students who prefer calm over buzz. It works well for mature students, postgraduates, or undergraduates who want affordable housing and don't mind commuting. Students at St Luke's benefit from walkable access; Streatham students need to commit to buses or cycling.
Polsloe housing is varied - you'll find Victorian terraces, inter-war semis, and some modern developments. Properties tend to be family homes rather than purpose-built student accommodation. This can mean better quality, more space, and features like gardens and driveways, but also less student-specific amenities like fast broadband (check before signing).
Commute to Streatham and St Luke's
Streatham Campus
Streatham Campus is a longer walk from Polsloe - too far for most students to walk regularly. The bus runs with regular services. Cycling is also popular. Students choosing Polsloe for Streatham need to genuinely commit to transport rather than assuming they'll walk.
St Luke's Campus
St Luke's Campus is a moderate to longer walk from most Polsloe locations. This is further than Heavitree or Mount Pleasant but still walkable for those who don't mind the exercise. The route is mostly flat which helps.
Shops, Food & Essentials
Polsloe has limited local shops - you'll find some convenience stores on Pinhoe Road but will likely do main shopping in the city centre or Heavitree. Polsloe Bridge station provides local rail connections to the city centre and Exmouth line. The area is residential and quiet, with fewer cafés or student-focused venues than more central areas.
Popular Roads in Polsloe
Polsloe 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 Polsloe
Polsloe is among Exeter's most affordable student areas. Expect £80-110 per person per week for 4-5 bed houses. The lower prices reflect the longer commute and fewer amenities. All-inclusive options are particularly valuable for simpler budgeting.
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.
Rail Access + Residential Peace + Best Budget Value
Polsloe Bridge station is a hidden advantage - quick connections to Exeter St Davids (for mainline trains) and the Exmouth line make weekend trips easy. For students who travel home frequently or want to explore Devon's coast, this rail access adds genuine lifestyle value. The trade-off is clear: you're further from campus and student life, but you get more space, lower costs, and a peaceful environment. For students who study hard and want minimal distractions (and minimal rent), Polsloe delivers.
Viewing Checklist for Polsloe
When viewing student properties in Polsloe, check these area-specific points:
- Test the commute to your campus at realistic times
- Check bus routes and frequencies to both campuses
- Walk to Polsloe Bridge station and explore train times
- Ask about broadband speeds - older residential areas can lag behind
- Check parking availability if anyone in your group drives
- Explore nearest shops and plan how you'll do grocery runs
- Look at heating systems and expected costs
- Confirm there are enough students nearby to not feel isolated
Common Pitfalls in Polsloe
Avoid these common mistakes when choosing Polsloe student accommodation:
- Choosing purely on price without testing the commute first
- Assuming walking to Streatham is realistic - it's really far
- Not checking broadband speed before signing - varies significantly
- Expecting student nightlife or social scene - Polsloe is quiet
- Underestimating how far you are from city centre amenities
FAQs About Polsloe Student Accommodation
Is Polsloe good for students in Exeter?
Polsloe suits budget-conscious students who want a quiet environment and don't mind commuting. It's most practical for St Luke's students or those genuinely committed to busing/cycling to Streatham.
How far is Polsloe from Exeter University?
Streatham Campus is a longer walk (most students bus or cycle). St Luke's Campus is closer and walkable, making Polsloe better for medical and health students.
What are rent prices in Polsloe Exeter?
Expect £80-110 per person per week - among the most affordable student accommodation in Exeter. The lower prices reflect the longer commute and quieter location.
Is there a train station in Polsloe?
Yes, Polsloe Bridge station provides local rail connections to Exeter city centre, Exeter St Davids (for mainline trains), and the Exmouth line for beach trips.
Is Polsloe quiet?
Yes, Polsloe is one of the quietest student-accessible areas in Exeter. It's primarily residential with families and professionals rather than large student populations.
Are there student houses in Polsloe?
Yes, though fewer than more popular student areas. Properties tend to be family homes with good space and often gardens or parking. Quality and student suitability varies, so viewing is essential.