Life in Jesmond: A Guide for Newcastle Students

Living in Jesmond as a Student

Ask any current student or recent grad, and chances are they’ll be a fan of the Jesmond area. Something that might surprise you is that the neighbourhood is made up of families mostly due to schools being located in that area. So why is it one of the most popular areas for student accommodation?

Why Jesmond?

First up, the location. Jesmond sits just outside the city centre, within walking distance of both Newcastle University and Northumbria University. You can get to campus in 20–30 minutes on foot or hop on the Metro at Jesmond, West Jesmond, or Ilford Road stations. Haymarket is just one or two stops away – ideal for early morning lectures or nights out in town.

But Jesmond is also considered seriously cool. Think tree-lined streets, Victorian terraces, boutique shops, and a nightlife scene that's a little more polished than your typical student area.

It’s also incredibly popular. In fact, demand for student housing in Jesmond is five times higher than any other area in Newcastle. So if you’re thinking of moving here, the earlier you start looking, the better.

What’s the Vibe Like?

Jesmond strikes the perfect balance between both fun and homely. It’s the type of place where you can work, live and play. It’s home to a mix of students, professionals, and families, which gives it a warm, community feel. You’ve got buzzing high streets like Osborne Road and Brentwood Avenue, full of cafés, bars, and restaurants. But you’re also never far from nature – Jesmond Dene is the local park and a student favourite for weekend walks, study breaks, and even the odd picnic (weather permitting).

It’s the kind of place where you can grab a Greggs on the way to uni, study in a chilled café, and finish the day with a cheap pint at your local – all without ever leaving the neighbourhood.

Finding Accommodation in Jesmond

So, you’ve decided Jesmond is the one. What next?

Types of student accommodation in Jesmond

Most student homes here are shared houses or flats – might be three-bed, six-bed, even eight-bed places if you're rolling deep. You’ll find everything from modest terraces with character to modern properties with en-suites and private gardens.

For those transitioning out of first-year halls, Jesmond offers a more independent, off-campus, real-world living experience while still keeping the student social life in Newcastle alive.

Budgeting and rent

Here’s the deal: Jesmond isn’t the cheapest student area in Newcastle, but it’s not unreasonably priced either. Expect to pay around £165 per person per week for a decent place with bills included – though affordable housing options do exist if you’re happy to compromise on location or amenities.

Many landlords offer all-inclusive rent, covering gas, electricity, broadband, water, and even your TV licence. If not, services like Split The Bills can take the hassle out of collecting up utilities between housemates.

House-hunting tips

🕰️ Start early: Students start house-hunting as early as October for the following academic year. The best places go quickly.

👭Pick your housemates wisely: Who you live with matters more than you think. Compatibility can make or break your uni experience. Check out some tips for finding the perfect roommate in Newcastle.

🤯 Don’t panic: If you’re searching for accommodation last minute, don’t stress. More properties tend to become available later in the year. Reach out to letting agents like M Apartments and they will be able to help you find your dream apartment.

🤝Check what’s included: Some houses offer perks like dishwashers, dryers, or even garden space for BBQs.

And remember – Jesmond student living isn’t just about the house itself. It’s about the lifestyle that comes with it.

Jesmond's Social and Cultural Scene

Now for the fun part. Jesmond has become a bit of a hotspot for students who love a good time, great food, and easy access to everything they need.

Nightlife on your doorstep

Jesmond's nightlife is legendary among Newcastle students, particularly along Osborne Road. Expect cocktail bars, traditional pubs, and late-night dancing spots – all within walking distance.

Some favourites include:

The Holy Hobo – It’s lively, a little chaotic (in the best way), and a go-to for students looking for fun on a budget. It also happens to be home to Jesmond’s only karaoke bar – Karaoke Kave – which makes it a favourite for birthday parties, society socials, or spontaneous midweek belters. It’s super student-friendly, with all food on the menu priced at just £5, pints starting from £3.50, and a cocktail list where everything comes in at £4.95. There are even beer jugs for group hangouts and, if you're the kind of housemate who insists on bringing the dog everywhere, they’re welcome too 🐾.

Lonsdale Hotel – If you’re after something a bit more laid-back, Lonsdale Hotel has you covered. It’s your classic student pub. Perfect for watching live sport (they’ve got both TNT and Sky Sports), shooting some pool, or catching one of their regular live music nights. It’s ideal when you want a casual evening with mates.

Spy Bar – For sports lovers, Spy Bar has earned a bit of a reputation as Jesmond’s best sports bar. The place is filled with big screens showing everything from Premier League games to late-night NFL. There’s interactive darts for some friendly competition, and the food menu covers all the classics: think burgers, nachos, loaded fries, and plenty of sharing snacks for those “I didn’t eat dinner but I’m not getting a whole meal” moments. It’s a fun, energetic place that always feels busy – especially on match days.

97 & Social – This one’s great for a dressier night out or a lazy Sunday feast. Their Taco Tuesday deals are a crowd favourite, with 50% off tacos, £4 frozen margaritas, and £3 bottles of Sol – the kind of prices that make you feel like you’re on holiday, even in term time. Sundays are for their epic roast dinners, often paired with themed events like tequila tastings. It’s got a more upscale feel without being too serious – perfect for when you want something a bit special without blowing the budget.

Oh, and Tuesday night deals? £2 pints, student specials, and packed outdoor seating. Sounds like a dream right?

Food, glorious food

Brunch? Burgers? Bao buns? Jesmond has it all. You could live here for three years and still not try every café or restaurant. But here are a few local legends to get you started:

• Fat Hippo – Famous for stacked burgers and loaded fries.
  
• Sohe – If you’re after something a bit more refined, Sohe is a Pan-Asian gem with stylish interiors and a chilled vibe. It’s perfect for bottomless brunches when you’re feeling a little fancy – think exotic cocktails, beautifully plated dishes, and a setting that’s ideal for pre-night out selfies or catch-ups with your housemates.
  
• Pizzeria Francesca – Jesmond’s go-to for pizza and pasta since forever.
  
• Dabbawal – Bold Indian street food kitchen that never misses.
• The Little Dumpling House – Ideal for casual catch-ups over bao.

Shopping and essentials

You’ll find everything you need locally, from big-name supermarkets to indie boutiques:

• Tesco Metro, Sainsbury’s, and Waitrose are all close by.
  
  
• Oliver Bonas, Seasalt Cornwall, and Jules B offer gifts, clothes, and homeware for when you want to add a bit of personality to your room.
  
  
• Brentwood Avenue and Acorn Road are perfect for a weekend mooch.
  
  

Green spaces and downtime

Need a break from lectures and nights out? Jesmond Dene is your escape.

This peaceful wooded park follows the River Ouseburn and features:

• Walking trails
• A waterfall
• Pets’ Corner (yes, there are goats and alpacas)
• Hidden cafés for a quiet coffee
  

Whether you're walking your flatmate’s dog, revising under a tree, or just clearing your head, it’s a total gem right in the middle of the city.

What Makes Jesmond a Good Choice?

To sum it up, Jesmond offers the full package. It’s social but not too wild. It’s stylish without being pretentious. It offers the independence of private accommodation, combined with safe and secure living, all within the convenience of a student-friendly neighbourhood. Get that moving to Uni checklist sorted and start your student life in a neighbourhood that truly ticks all the boxes.

What makes Jesmond stand out?

• Unbeatable location – Walking distance to campus and the city centre.
  
  
• Strong community – A mix of students and locals gives it a friendly, inclusive feel.
  
  
• Fantastic transport – Metro, buses, walking and cycling routes.
  
  
• Lifestyle perks – Great food, buzzing bars, and a stunning park all in one spot.
  
  

If you’re searching for student accommodation in Jesmond Newcastle, make sure you start early, set a realistic budget, and choose housemates you genuinely get on with. The right setup in Jesmond can transform your uni years – trust us on that one.

M Apartments Tip: Still looking for your perfect student place? We’ve helped loads of students find their ideal setup in Newcastle – drop us a message, and let’s find you a home that fits your lifestyle (and your budget). Book a viewing today.