Best Student Accommodation in Folkestone, United Kingdom

Folkestone does not currently have a large conventional university campus. However, several universities are within easy travelling distance, making student housing in Folkestone a possible option for students who prefer coastal living.

University of Kent

Established in 1960, the University of Kent is one of the closest major universities to Folkestone, with its Canterbury campus around 30 km away. According to Times Higher Education, the University of Kent ranks 41st among the UK's top universities. The university has strengths across subjects, including business, economics, computing, engineering, law, psychology, sciences, humanities and the arts. It is also known for its research and international outlook, welcoming students from many countries.

The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, alongside a large selection of societies, sports clubs and student activities. Its Canterbury campus provides modern academic facilities and green spaces, making it a popular choice for students considering student accommodation in Folkestone while commuting to this campus.

Canterbury Christ Church University

Canterbury Christ Church University was established in 1962. It ranks 99th among the top universities in the UK, according to THE. The university is approximately 27-30 km from Folkestone, which makes it a good choice for students.

The university offers courses across areas including health and social care, education, business, computing, engineering, science, humanities and the arts. It focuses strongly on professional and career-orientated education, with specialist facilities supporting a range of subjects.

The university welcomes students from the UK and overseas and provides a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Its Canterbury campus is within commuting distance of Folkestone student accommodation, making the town an alternative for students who prefer a coastal setting while studying nearby.

Folkestone student accommodation ranges from private rooms and shared apartments to studios and en-suite rooms. This variety gives students plenty of options to find the most suitable fit.

• Welcome to Sunny Folkestone: This Folkestone student accommodation offers single rooms with amenities, such as Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, a pool, a CCTV system, and car parking.

• Check the distance from university: If you study in Folkestone, compare total journey time, not distance alone. Living close to Folkestone Central or a convenient bus route can make commuting easier.
• Set your budget: Compare rent with food, transport, phone bills and other monthly costs. Students looking for affordable student accommodation in Folkestone should check the full monthly cost rather than focusing only on headline rent.
• Consider transport: Check the nearest bus stops and railway station before booking. Folkestone Central provides direct connections towards Canterbury, Ashford and London.
• Check what bills include: Some rooms include electricity, water, heating and Wi-Fi, while others charge these separately. Always check the tenancy agreement.
• Look at safety: Consider secure entry, CCTV, property condition, smoke alarms, lighting and the reputation of the accommodation provider before choosing student housing in Folkestone.

Folkestone typically has lower living costs than London; however, accommodation prices can vary significantly depending on the property and room type. Recent data from Numbeo provides insights into the average monthly expenses, helping you estimate your budget. Please be aware that prices may fluctuate due to currency changes and inflation.

Student Accommodation

Groceries

Utilities

Transportation

Folkestone has a compact local transport network, with buses covering the town and surrounding areas and railway services connecting students to Canterbury, Ashford, Dover and London. Folkestone Central and Folkestone West are the town's main railway stations.

Bus

Stagecoach mainly operates local buses. Students can use single, day, weekly and 28-day tickets, while the 2026/27 Folkestone StudentRider provides unlimited travel across the relevant Folkestone network for £665 for the academic year.

The StudentRider is particularly useful for students travelling regularly between Folkestone student accommodation, the town centre, the railway station and nearby areas. Students need valid identification when activating student tickets.

Trains

Folkestone Central is managed by Southeastern and offers regular services towards London St Pancras, Ramsgate and other Kent destinations. A direct Folkestone to Central to London St Pancras journey can take around 54-56 minutes. Southeastern currently lists Anytime Day Single fares are from £35.60 on this route, although cheaper off-peak and super off-peak fares may be available. Students aged 16-25 or those in eligible full-time education can use a 16-25 Railcard to receive discounted rail fares; national Railcards can save up to one-third on eligible journeys.

• Libraries: Folkestone Library offers books, reading and study areas, free public Wi-Fi, computers, community events and adult-learning facilities, making it useful for students who want a quiet place to work.
• Cafés: The Coffee Corner is near Kent University and is a cosy café in Folkestone where students can grab coffee, light snacks and pastries in a relaxed setting.
• Parks: The Labyrinth Park is a peaceful green space in Folkestone, offering students a relaxing place to walk, unwind and enjoy the outdoors. It is a good spot for a quiet break away from the town centre.
• Events: Creative Folkestone lists exhibitions, workshops, performances, festivals and cultural events throughout the year. The Folkestone Harbour Arm also hosts food, drink and events by the sea, while the town's Creative Quarter adds regular markets and arts activities.
• Student discounts: Students can use platforms such as TOTUM to access discounts across food, fashion, technology, entertainment and travel. TOTUM offers a free digital membership for eligible students, while TOTUM+ provides additional deals and benefits.