by zameeninfo.com
Finding affordable short term accommodation in UK can be challenging, especially with varying prices across cities and regions. Whether you’re a student, professional on a contract, tourist, or in-between permanent housing, understanding the best places, types, and strategies for temporary stays will save you time, stress, and money. This guide explores various affordable accommodation options in UK, breaking down choices by type, location, budget, and purpose.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Understanding Short Term Accommodation in UK
Short term accommodation in UK typically refers to stays ranging from a few days to several months. These options are flexible and do not require long leases. People may seek such accommodations while transitioning between properties, studying abroad, travelling for work, or visiting on extended holidays. The focus here is affordability and flexibility without compromising basic living standards.
Types of Affordable Short Term Accommodation in UK
Budget Hotels and Hostels
Budget hotels and hostels are among the most popular forms of affordable short term accommodation in UK. Available in almost every city and town, they offer nightly or weekly rates with basic services such as Wi-Fi, breakfast, and 24-hour reception. Shared dorms in hostels can be especially economical for solo travelers or backpackers.
Student Halls and University Housing (Outside Term Time)
Many universities rent out student halls during holidays. These rooms are clean, secure, centrally located, and cost-effective. Renting student accommodation in UK universities during off-peak seasons provides a practical short term option, particularly in cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.
House Shares and Sublets
Platforms like SpareRoom or Gumtree often list room sublets available for one to six months. Shared accommodation in UK cities helps keep costs low while offering access to amenities like kitchens and washing machines. It’s a good fit for professionals or students.
Serviced Apartments
Serviced apartments cater to those needing more privacy and amenities than a hostel. These are fully furnished flats with weekly cleaning and utility costs included. For business travelers or digital nomads, serviced accommodation in UK provides a balance between hotel convenience and home-like living.
Airbnb and Short Let Flats
Airbnb offers a range of short term stays from private rooms to entire apartments. Prices vary by location and time of year, but many hosts offer discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. It’s one of the most flexible ways to secure temporary accommodation in UK.
Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs)
In smaller towns and rural areas, B&Bs are often the most accessible form of short term housing. Family-run, reasonably priced, and often including breakfast, B&Bs make for a homey stay.
Best Cities for Affordable Short Term Accommodation in UK
Manchester: Vibrant and Budget-Friendly
Manchester offers a range of affordable accommodation in UK. Neighborhoods like Fallowfield or Salford Quays feature budget hotels, hostels, and student housing. With a strong public transport system, staying slightly outside the city center can reduce costs significantly.
Birmingham: Centrally Located and Diverse
Birmingham has a mix of student housing, shared flats, and Airbnb rentals. Areas like Selly Oak and Edgbaston are known for value accommodation and easy access to universities and transport. Birmingham’s central location also makes it ideal for those traveling to other UK cities.
Edinburgh: Culture and Cost-Conscious
Edinburgh can be pricey during festival season but offers reasonably priced short lets in areas like Leith and Gorgie during off-peak months. Student accommodation in UK cities like Edinburgh is frequently available from May to August.
Leeds: Perfect for Students and Short-Term Renters
Leeds is known for its affordability and wide selection of rental options. Shared housing, Airbnb stays, and budget hotels near the university or city center are ideal for visitors staying a few weeks or months.
Glasgow: Rich in Culture, Light on Price
Glasgow’s West End and city center have budget hostels, shared flats, and university accommodation. Whether you’re in town for work, study, or travel, Glasgow provides a variety of cost-effective accommodation in UK.
Cardiff and Bristol: Budget-Friendly Regional Cities
These cities provide cheaper alternatives to London, with ample short-term rentals, especially for students and interns. In areas like Cathays (Cardiff) or Stokes Croft (Bristol), you’ll find sublets, guest houses, and university-managed housing.
London: Tips for Budget Accommodation
London is famously expensive, but affordable short term options still exist:
- Look in outer boroughs like Lewisham, Barking, or Tottenham
- Use platforms like SpareRoom, Zoopla, or OpenRent for short lets
- Consider hostels in zones 2 or 3 with good tube access
- Check university dorms in the summer months
Choosing the right neighborhood helps reduce your rent without sacrificing convenience.
Tips to Save on Short Term Accommodation in UK
Book in Advance
Short term housing in UK gets booked fast, especially during festivals, holidays, or academic terms. Early booking secures better rates.
Be Flexible with Dates and Location
Staying outside the city center, even by a few tube stops or bus routes, can significantly reduce prices. Flexible move-in dates help align with lower rate periods.
Check for Discounts on Longer Stays
Many landlords or platforms offer weekly or monthly discounts. Airbnb, in particular, lists reduced rates for longer bookings. Negotiating directly with hosts or landlords may help lower your costs.
Consider Alternative Living Options
Look into house-sitting, homestays, or co-living spaces. These emerging accommodation types in UK provide affordable and sometimes even free lodging in exchange for chores or companionship.
Amenities to Expect in Budget Accommodation
When booking affordable short term accommodation in UK, expect basic but functional amenities:
- Wi-Fi and utilities
- Shared kitchens and bathrooms (hostels, house shares)
- Laundry facilities
- Furnished spaces with linens and basic cookware
Higher-end serviced apartments or long-stay hotels may also include cleaning services and concierge support.
Safety and Legality
Always ensure your short term rental complies with local regulations. Look for:
- Landlord registration or licensing
- Health and safety standards
- Clear rental agreements
Avoid cash-only deals unless you fully trust the host. Always review contracts, especially for stays longer than 28 days.
Who Benefits Most from Short Term Accommodation in UK?
- Students awaiting long-term housing or staying during internships
- Digital nomads or remote workers exploring different UK cities
- Professionals on contracts or relocation assignments
- Tourists wanting extended stays without hotel pricing
- People between leases or those renovating their homes
Short term accommodation in UK fits a wide range of needs and offers flexibility not found in standard rental markets.
Comparing Costs by Type and City
| Type | Average Weekly Cost | Cities Available |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel Dorm | £100–£150 | Nationwide |
| Private Room (House Share) | £120–£250 | All major cities |
| Studio Flat | £200–£350 | London, Manchester, Bristol |
| Student Hall (Off-Term) | £150–£250 | University cities |
| Serviced Apartment | £300–£600 | London, Edinburgh, Birmingham |
Cost varies by season, demand, and location, so always compare multiple options.
Booking Platforms to Explore
- Airbnb
- SpareRoom
- Booking.com
- Homestay.com
- University accommodation portals
- OpenRent
Use filters like “short let,” “furnished,” and “bills included” to narrow your search efficiently.
Connecting Global Trends in Housing
If you’re comparing international options, check out:
- Top 5 Affordable Areas to Buy Flats in the UK
- Top 5 Affordable Areas to Buy Flats in the UAE
- Best Cities in UK to Invest in Real Estate
- Best Cities in UAE to Invest in Real Estate
These resources help travelers and investors understand broader trends in housing and real estate.
FAQs
Q: What is considered short term accommodation in UK?
Typically, it refers to stays under 6 months, often from a few days to 3 months.
Q: Is it cheaper to stay in a hotel or Airbnb for a month?
Airbnb often provides better rates for monthly stays, especially when booked in advance.
Q: Are utilities included in short term rents?
Yes, in most cases. Always check the listing or contract to confirm.
Q: Do I need a visa for short term stays in UK?
Depending on your nationality and length of stay, a tourist or temporary visa may be required.
Q: Can students rent short term accommodation in UK?
Absolutely. Many universities offer temporary housing during off-peak periods.
Q: How do I avoid rental scams?
Book through reputable platforms, ask for a written contract, and avoid cash-only deals.
Q: Can I extend my stay once I move in?
It depends on availability. Always communicate with your landlord or host early if you plan to extend.
Affordable short term accommodation in UK is within reach if you know where to look, what to expect, and how to act quickly. Whether you’re visiting for a month or settling in for a season, the UK’s housing landscape offers solutions for every lifestyle and budget.
