The Shakespeare Institute, unlike the Edgbaston campus at the University of Birmingham, does not have its own accommodation. There are, however, many sources of accommodation in Stratford-upon-Avon and we give as much assistance as we can to help students find somewhere to live.
Should I live in Stratford or Birmingham?
Most of our students choose to live in Stratford and we would recommend that choice as it facilitates participation in all the activities of the Institute. All these things can help students feel more involved in the Institute community.
Students will also be sent details about postgraduate accommodation on the University of Birmingham campus. We generally don’t recommend this option because of difficulties with transport and distance from the Institute. However, please read the information provided by Housing Services (on the Edgbaston campus) as this provides very useful general advice for you about issues affecting students such as council tax.
Some students decide to live at home and commute in, especially those who are studying part-time. The University of Birmingham will also send you information.
Cost and types of accommodation available
Stratford is quite an expensive place to live in comparison with other areas of the UK. Costs depend on type of accommodation, location and whether or not utilities are included. There are several types of accommodation available to rent in Stratford:
• Bedsit: A bedsit is usually a room in a house, which will be the private home of an individual, couple or family, and they will also live there.
• Shared houses: Students are often keen to live with other students while they are studying and are keen to find houses to rent together.
• Flats: Flats can be one or two bedrooms and have separate bedrooms, living rooms, kitchen etc. Flatlets / ‘granny flats’ or ‘annexes’ are very compact flats attached to a private house.
• Private houses: If you are bringing your family/partner to the UK with you, you may want to find a house to rent.
Most bedsits, flats, etc. are offered as long term lets (6 months or a year) and you may be required to pay a deposit. More information about properties in the area can be found on www.rightmove.co.uk, www.spareroom.co.uk or in the local paper, The Stratford Herald.
Letting agents
Local letting agents will often only deal with applicants when they are physically in Stratford. If you are keen to find a flat or house through a letting agency, often the best thing to do is book a guest house for a few days and book appointments with agencies to view available properties when you arrive in Stratford.
Connecting with other students
New students to the Institute will receive information about registering for their modules in the summer before they arrive. At this time they will also get information about how to connect with other incoming students before they arrive.