City Guides

Kensington Student Area Guide

Kensington in Liverpool is one of the most popular places in the city. It's a lively and diverse neighbourhood, perfectly situated for students who want to enjoy the best of what Liverpool has to offer. Learn more about this area...
Kensington Student Area Guide
Published on: 22 Oct 2023
Liverpool Kensington for students

If you're considering living and studying in Liverpool, Kensington is a vibrant area that's becoming increasingly popular among students. It's a lively and diverse neighbourhood, perfectly situated for students who want to enjoy the best of what Liverpool has to offer. Sanctuary Students provide a range of affordable student accommodation options in Kensington, Liverpool to ensure you have a comfortable and secure place to call home whilst you’re here.

About Kensington in Liverpool

Located just a stone's throw east from Liverpool city centre, Kensington is a bustling place that attracts students from all over the world. It is bordered by Edge Hill to the south, Everton to the north and the city centre.


With its rich history and unique character, it's no wonder why many choose to live here, especially since it's one of the cheapest places to live for students as rents are some of the cheapest in the city, and Liverpool Hope University and The University of Liverpool are just a short walk away. 


It’s mainly students from University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University students that live in Kensington. This area offers the benefits of city-centre living without the premium prices, making it a popular choice for students. With great transport links to get across the city and further afield, students living in Liverpool Kensington are always close to class and everything else this place has to offer.


Liverpool itself is renowned for its cultural heritage, boasting iconic landmarks such as The Beatles Story, the Royal Albert Dock, and the stunning architecture of its cathedrals. You’ll also find a series of streets named after the Beatles in Kensington. John Lennon Drive, Paul McCartney Way, George Harrison Close, Ringo Starr Drive, Epstein Court, Apple Court and Cavern Court are all northwest of Kensington and were renamed in honour of Liverpool’s biggest export.


Living in Liverpool Kensington means you're never far from the excitement and energy of this fantastic city.

Accommodation in Kensington, Liverpool

Kensington offers a variety of student accommodation options to suit different needs and budgets, including some of the cheapest rents in Liverpool. Kensington Fields is particularly popular with students, and is one of the largest Victorian housing estates outside of London. Whether you're looking for a cosy studio or a shared flat, there's something for everyone.


When searching for affordable rentals, it's a good idea to start early and consider your preferences regarding location and amenities. Remember to factor in costs like utilities and transportation.


Tips for Finding Affordable Rentals

  1. 1. Start Early: Begin your search well before the academic year starts to secure the best deals.

  2. 2. Set a Budget: Determine your budget, including rent and other living expenses, to avoid overspending.

  3. 3. Visit Properties: If possible, visit properties in person to get a feel for the place and the neighbourhood.


Living in Liverpool Kensington has its pros and cons. On the positive side, you'll enjoy a lively community, proximity to the city centre, and a range of amenities. However, like any urban area, it can be busy, and you may experience noise in some parts. 


If you're looking for cheap student accommodation, take a look at the range of student housing in Liverpool available from Sanctuary Students. Our properties offer modern facilities, all-inclusive bills, and a safe, supportive environment. Our award-winning Grenville Street student accommodation in particular is close to Kensington and offers luxury double en-suite student rooms and student studios with a common room and on-site laundry facilities, as well as 24-hour maintenance and security support should you need it.

Universities

Liverpool Kensington is ideally located near several universities and colleges, making it an excellent choice for students. The University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool Hope University, and the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts  are all within easy reach. Additionally, the area has plenty of study spaces nearby, like the Liverpool Central Library, offering a quiet place to hit the books.


Distances to universities:

  • • University of Liverpool: Only 0.7 miles away, a 15-minute walk or a quick 5-minute bike ride.

  • • Liverpool John Moores University City Campus: 1.3 miles, a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bike ride.

  • • Liverpool Hope University: 3.5 miles, a 30-minute bus ride or 20-minute bike ride. The Creative Campus is closer, less than 20 minutes away on foot.

  • • LIPA: 1.5 miles, about a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bike ride.


If you want to be near Kensington but even closer to town, Sanctuary Students has affordable student housing in the heart of the city at Grenville Street. With a central location, it’s conveniently close to campus which means you can maximise your academic pursuits without worrying about long commutes.

Transport

Getting around Kensington and Liverpool is a breeze thanks to the excellent public transport network. Regular buses connect Kensington to the city centre and surrounding areas, while nearby train stations provide links to the wider region. For those who prefer cycling, there are dedicated paths and bike lanes.


You can take a train from nearby Edge Hill or Lime Street stations or catch the 79, 10A, or 61 buses which run through Kensington, but these may change. You can also use the Merseytravel journey planner to help you get around.


Our student accommodation near Kensington, Liverpool is perfectly positioned so you're never far away from the action in the city centre. Whether you're exploring the city or commuting to lectures, you'll find getting around is easy and convenient.

Shopping

There are supermarkets like Tesco, Iceland, Lidl and Asda for life’s essentials and a whole street of restaurants and takeaways on Prescott Road. You’ll find a variety of international foods at the local Kensington Superstore, too.


For those seeking retail therapy without the city centre crowds, Liverpool Shopping Park on Edge Lane is a short walk away. It’s the largest retail park in Liverpool, featuring stores like River Island, TK Maxx, and M&S, as well as eateries like Subway and Chiquito.


Liverpool city centre is close, boasting a wide variety of shops for books, clothes, and homeware at places like Liverpool ONE and Bold Street. To make the most of your student budget, consider getting a student card like the TOTUM card and signing up for student savings websites like MyUnidays and StudentBeans for exclusive discounts and deals.

Eating Out

You'll find plenty of student budget-friendly cafes and restaurants in Kensington. Anar Turkish BBQ and Chunkies offer delicious meals without breaking the bank, while The Watering Can on Greenbank Road provides a cosy spot for coffee and brunch. For a taste of international cuisine, Cafe Naz is a local favourite for Indian food.


Just a short walk from the student area is Akshaya on Prescot Road, offering authentic Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine at unbeatable prices. If you're in the mood for some home-baked goods, visit the Kensington Bread Company for delicious sourdough.


For lighter fare, The Croissant of Inequality serves up fantastic veggie options and coffee, perfect for those days with morning lectures and free afternoons.


There are lots of fail-safe options to choose from if you’re looking for cheap takeaway food on a budget as well, including a McDonalds, Greggs and Dominos all within walking distance.


Keep an eye out for student discounts or deals as many places offer special prices on certain days of the week.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Kensington and Liverpool are renowned for their vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. Popular student bars like The Brookhouse on Smithdown Road and The Font near the university area are great places to unwind and socialise. Don't forget to keep an eye out for all the Freshers events taking place in the city to get involved with – lots of fun and new friends await!


For those interested in cultural experiences, Liverpool boasts a variety of theatres, music venues, and cinemas. The Everyman Theatre and Philharmonic Hall are nearby for an enriching cultural experience. 


If you are looking for a change of scenery, you can explore nearby areas such as Bold Street, known for its independent stores, bohemian bars, and eclectic restaurants. Another area to explore is The Baltic Triangle, where you can enjoy live music and indie bars. Finally, you can dive into Liverpool's music history in the Cavern Quarter, which offers vibrant bars and tribute acts.

Health and Wellbeing

Kensington provides access to a range of local health services, including hospitals like Royal Liverpool University Hospital and medical centres such as Kensington Neighbourhood Health Centre and Kensington Park General Practice. For those keen on staying active, there are gyms like Kensington Fields Community Centre Gym and recreational areas like Newsham Park for outdoor activities.

Is Kensington, Liverpool safe?

Safety is a top priority for any student. While Kensington is generally considered a safe area for students, it's always wise to take precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing your belongings. Like any urban area, it's important to stay vigilant and take basic precautions, such as locking your doors and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. The presence of local police and community centres helps maintain a secure environment.


 

Liverpool Kensington has a strong sense of community, with numerous events and activities to get involved in. Sanctuary Students regularly organise social events for our residents, providing a great way to get to know each other and make new friends. We also offer 24-hour CCTV and security at our nearby student accommodation on Grenville Street to ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone.

Conclusion

Choosing to live and study in Kensington, Liverpool, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant student community while enjoying all the benefits of city life. With its vibrant community, excellent amenities, and convenient location, Kensington is the ideal place to enjoy your student years. 


There’s no doubt that Liverpool Kensington is an excellent place to live as a student. It’s close to the city centre, convenient to services and not far from class. However, we believe that the city centre is still the best place to live for students, as it’s in the heart of the city with everything on your doorstep - meaning you can save money on bus fares and spend a lot less time walking too!


So, if you want student accommodation in a more central location and close to the best shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs, bars and clubs, Liverpool city centre is the place to be. Why not explore the range of affordable, all-inclusive student housing in Liverpool from Sanctuary Students?

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