Loughborough is one of those towns that students end up loving more than they expected. It’s got the friendly, easy going feel of a smaller town, but with a huge student population, a world famous sporting reputation and plenty going on week to week. Add in brilliant transport links and you’ve got a place that’s easy to settle into and even easier to get around. 

With Loughborough University and Loughborough College both based in the town, students are a big part of everyday life here. From freshers’ events and society socials to sports fixtures and nights out, you’ll never be short of something to do or someone to meet.

Loughborough is also known as one of the UK’s top sporting towns, and you’ll feel it the moment you arrive. Whether you’re playing at an elite level or just fancy a casual game with your housemates, there’s a real active, sociable atmosphere that makes it easy to get involved.

Loughborough Student Accommodation: Finding the Right Place to Live

One of the biggest parts of settling into student life is finding somewhere you’ll actually want to call home. Student accommodation in Loughborough comes in all shapes and sizes, from halls in your first year to shared student houses with your mates further down the line.

When you’re looking for a place to live, it’s worth thinking about a few key things:

  • Location: Loughborough student areas like Ashby Road, Storer Road, Forest Road and Leicester Road put you close to campus, the town centre and the shops, bars and cafés students love. Living a bit further out can mean more space for your money, especially in a bigger group.
  • Bills and budget: Look for bills-inclusive options so you’re not left juggling separate payments for gas, electricity, water and broadband. At Student Digs, we offer a range of student homes, so check what’s included in each property to help you plan your budget with confidence. 
  • Safety and security: Secure doors, good locks and well-maintained properties give you and your parents real peace of mind. Our information for parents page covers how it all works.
  • Transport links: Loughborough is compact, so walking and cycling cover most of your journeys. The train station has direct services to Leicester, Nottingham, Derby and London St Pancras, so heading home (or off exploring) couldn’t be easier. Check how long your walk to lectures will be before you commit to a property.

Whether you’re after a no-frills house to keep costs down or something more premium with all the extras, taking the time to view a few options will help you find a home that suits your lifestyle, not just your budget.

Things to Do in Loughborough for Students

Once you’ve sorted your accommodation, the real fun begins. There’s no shortage of things to do in Loughborough for students, whatever you’re into.

Nightlife and Socialising

Loughborough’s social scene is built around students. Between Students’ Union events on campus and the pubs and bars in the town centre, there’s a good mix of big nights out and relaxed evenings. For a proper local pub, head to the Swan in the Rushes, well known for its real ale and a great spot for a catch-up with friends. 

Grab your housemates and explore the different vibes across town, from quiz nights in cosy pubs to bigger student nights.

Sport and Fitness

Sport is what Loughborough is famous for, and you don’t need to be an athlete to enjoy it. Join a club or intramural team, make use of the university’s facilities, or go and watch a match. Catching the Loughborough Lightning netball team is a brilliant way to see top-level sport on your doorstep.

Getting Outdoors

When you need a break from the books, the great outdoors is right on your doorstep, especially Queens Park which is perfect for a study break or a picnic with mates. The canal and River Soar towpath are ideal for a walk or cycle and the countryside of Charnwood Forest and Beacon Hill is only a short trip away for a proper weekend hike.

Food and Shopping

From independent coffee shops perfect for revision sessions to takeaway favourites for a night in with the housemates, Loughborough’s food scene is affordable and student-friendly. The Market Place hosts a market on Thursdays and Saturdays and Carillon Court shopping centre has high street favourites when you need a bit of retail therapy. For a bigger shop, Leicester and Nottingham are both a short train ride away.

Living in Loughborough as a Student: Settling In and Making the Most of It

Moving to a new town can feel like a big step, but Loughborough has a way of making you feel at home fast. The community spirit is real, and everything you need is close by. Get involved with your Students’ Union, say yes to the socials, explore the parts of town you haven’t seen yet, and don’t be afraid to hop on the train for a day trip when you fancy a change of scenery.

Not sure about your next move yet? Our Leicester and Nottingham properties are both just up the line and our first week in a new student house guide will help you settle in wherever you end up.

Whatever your course, whatever your budget and whatever kind of student you are, Loughborough is a place that’s easy to love. Sort your accommodation, get stuck into everything the town has to offer and enjoy every minute of it.

Ready to start looking for your next Loughborough home? Get in touch with our team today at Student Digs and take the first step towards making the most of your new student life.