🏡 Radford Student Area Guide – Is It a Good Place to Live for Students in Nottingham?

If you’re a student at the University of Nottingham or Nottingham Trent University and searching for affordable, well-located private student accommodation — Radford should definitely be on your radar.

This area has become a hidden gem for students looking to live close to the city centre without the Lenton price tag, and it continues to be one of the most searched-for locations when it comes to ensuite rooms, private student houses, and value-for-money accommodation.

Let’s break it down.

📍 Where Is Radford?

Radford sits just north-west of Nottingham city centre, neighbouring the popular student hubs of Lenton and Forest Fields. It’s ideally placed between both universities:

🏫 15–20 mins walk to University of Nottingham Jubilee Campus
🎓 Around 15 mins to Nottingham Trent University
🚉 Less than 10 minutes to the city centre via bus or tram

That means Radford offers a short commute to lectures, great transport links, and quick access to nightlife, without paying the premium some other student areas demand.

💸 Budget-Friendly Student Accommodation in Radford

One of the biggest reasons students choose Radford is price. Compared to Lenton or city-centre purpose-built blocks, you’ll find better value and often larger rooms.

Whether you’re looking for:

Student houses with bills included
Ensuite rooms in shared houses
Private student accommodation with flexible contracts

…Radford tends to be cheaper, while still offering great access to both Nottingham universities.

🧑‍🎓 Who Lives in Radford?

Radford has a strong student presence — particularly among second and third years — but it’s also home to postgrads and international students. If you’re looking for a diverse community with a mix of backgrounds and interests, this area is perfect.

It’s also a good choice if you:

Missed out on early housing in Lenton
Are looking to rent later in the academic cycle (August/September)
Want to live close to uni, but away from high-density student zones

🛍️ What’s in the Area?

Radford might be more residential than party-central Lenton, but it still has a lot going for it:

🛒 ASDA and Lidl for affordable shopping
🚌 Quick access to Ilkeston Road bus routes
🏋️‍♂️ Close to The Gym Group Nottingham
☕ A growing number of local cafes and takeaways
🌳 Short walk to Forest Recreation Ground

Whether you’re cooking at home, grabbing a takeaway after a night out, or heading to the park for a study break — Radford has everything you need close by.

🔍 Why Choose Radford Over Other Areas?

Here’s why Radford stands out in Nottingham’s student accommodation scene:

✅ Affordable rent – often lower than Lenton or city centre

✅ Easy access – walking or short bus ride to both UoN and NTU

✅ Great for late renters – availability remains stronger later in the season

✅ Wide range of property sizes – perfect for groups or solo lets

💡 Looking for Student Accommodation in Radford?

At Student Housing Nottingham, we’ve helped thousands of students find the perfect place — from budget rooms to ensuite houses. All our listings come with bills included, responsive maintenance, and flexible contract options.

Explore our Nottingham student accommodation listings now and filter by Radford to find: