Student Accommodation in St James
St James is a compact area between Pennsylvania and the city centre, named after St James Park (Exeter City FC's ground). The area offers a middle-ground location with reasonable access to both Streatham Campus and city amenities. Properties here are typically Victorian terraces, and the area maintains a quieter feel than the city centre while being more urban than suburban areas.
Living in St James as a Student
St James has a mixed residential character with students, young professionals, and families. It's less student-dominated than Pennsylvania, creating a quieter atmosphere outside of match days. The area suits students who want easier city centre access than Pennsylvania offers, but prefer a more residential feel than pure city centre living. It's practical for both campuses though not ideal for either, making it a good compromise for mixed-course housemate groups.
Victorian terraced houses predominate, typically 3-5 bedrooms. Many properties have been well-maintained given the mixed residential population. You'll find some period features preserved and generally reasonable room sizes. Some newer flats exist near the main roads.
Commute to Streatham and St Luke's
Streatham Campus
We do not currently hold enough recorded listing walk times to publish a Streatham Campus duration for St James. Check the route from the individual property before deciding.
St Luke's Campus
We do not currently hold enough recorded listing walk times to publish a St Luke's Campus duration for St James. Check the route from the individual property before deciding.
Shops, Food & Essentials
St James has limited local shops but benefits from proximity to both city centre amenities (a short walk away) and Pennsylvania Road services. Exeter Central station is nearby for local train services. On match days, the area around St James Park becomes busy with football fans - worth knowing if you view on a non-match day. The city centre's full range of shops, restaurants, and nightlife is easily accessible.
Popular Roads in St James
St James 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 St James
Recorded St James prices vary by property, bedroom count and academic cycle. Use the current Rent Intelligence table and individual listings to compare prices and bills-package inclusions rather than relying on a fixed area hierarchy.
Tip: Rent is exclusive. Where a property offers an optional bills package, the listing shows its recorded price and inclusions separately.
Central Station Access + Match Day Considerations
St James's location near Exeter Central station provides useful local rail connections (different from St Davids main line station). The train to Exmouth beach takes about 30 minutes - handy for summer days out. However, you need to know about match days: when Exeter City play at home (Saturday afternoons and some weekday evenings during the season), the area around St James Park becomes significantly busier with football fans. This can mean parking difficulties, some noise, and busy local pubs. Most students find this manageable, but it's worth experiencing a match day before committing if you're sensitive to crowds.
Common Pitfalls in St James
Avoid these common mistakes when choosing St James student accommodation:
- Not realising match days affect parking and local atmosphere
- Assuming it's equidistant to both campuses - check your actual route
- Viewing on a quiet day and being surprised by match day activity
- Overlooking the slightly awkward location - not ideal for either campus but okay for both
FAQs About St James Student Accommodation
Where is St James in Exeter?
St James is located between Pennsylvania and the city centre, named after St James Park football ground. It offers a middle-ground location with reasonable access to both campuses.
How far is St James from Exeter University?
St James offers walkable access to Streatham Campus, with distances varying by property location. St Luke's Campus is also within walking distance.
Is St James affected by Exeter City matches?
Yes, when Exeter City play at home the area becomes busier with football fans. Parking can be difficult and local pubs get busy. Most students find this manageable but it's worth knowing.
What are student rent prices in St James Exeter?
Use the current Rent Intelligence table on this page and each individual listing. Recorded prices and inclusions change by property and academic cycle.
Is St James near Exeter city centre?
Yes, St James is a short walk from the city centre, making shops, restaurants, and nightlife easily accessible.
Are there good student houses in St James?
Yes, St James has quality Victorian terraced houses, typically 3-5 bedrooms. The mixed residential population means properties are often well-maintained.