William Penney, London – 59 Verified Student Reviews 🏠
arrow_back_ios Back
William Penney -
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Based on 59 user ratings
Buckhurst Road Ascot Berks, SL5 7PY
💬 What Students Say
William Penney Hall is a budget-friendly accommodation option for postgraduates attending Imperial College London. Located on Buckhurst Road in Ascot, this hall provides a comfortable living environment with a strong sense of community. With a total of 27 bed spaces, William Penney has gained a solid reputation among students, reflected in its overall rating of 4.0 out of 5. The hall is particularly noted for its room quality, WiFi, facilities, location, and value, each scoring an impressive 4.4 out of 5. This makes it an attractive choice for students looking for a reliable and affordable place to live while pursuing their studies.
The overall student experience at William Penney is characterized by a blend of comfort and community spirit. Many students have highlighted the spaciousness of the rooms and the effectiveness of the maintenance team in addressing any issues that arise. The atmosphere is described as positive and friendly, making it easier for students to settle in and forge new friendships. Many reviews indicate that residents appreciate the sense of safety and support they feel while living here. This nurturing environment is especially beneficial for first-year students, who often find it easier to connect with others in a communal setting.
In terms of location, William Penney is conveniently situated close to the Silwood Park Campus, making it ideal for students who want easy access to their classes. The proximity to local amenities, such as a post office and general store, adds to the convenience of living here. Students frequently mention how handy it is to have everything they need within walking distance. Additionally, local bus services run twice daily, and mainline train stations in Ascot and Sunningdale provide further transport links for students looking to explore beyond the immediate area.
When it comes to room quality, students have generally expressed satisfaction with the accommodations at William Penney. The rooms are described as decent and comfortable, with good-quality furniture and amenities. While the hall does have shared kitchens among groups of 14 students, many residents find that this setup fosters a sense of community and shared experience. However, it is worth noting that some students have mentioned that the building can be compact, which may lead to noise during the evenings. This could be a consideration for those who are particularly noise-sensitive.
Value for money is another strong point for William Penney. With competitive rental fees compared to other student accommodations, many students feel they are getting a good deal for the quality of living provided. Reviews consistently highlight that the hall offers decent value, especially for students who are budget-conscious. The overall assessment suggests that William Penney is an excellent choice for those looking to maximize their living experience without breaking the bank.
The social atmosphere at William Penney is often described as vibrant and welcoming. Many residents have shared their experiences of making friends and forming bonds with fellow students. The communal areas, while limited, still serve as a gathering spot where students can hang out and connect. The hall is seen as a place where residents look out for one another, creating a supportive environment that many students appreciate. However, some reviews do mention that the social scene can be a bit overwhelming at times, depending on one's mood, but overall, the community vibe is a significant draw for many.
What sets William Penney apart from other accommodations is its emphasis on community and support. Students frequently mention that they feel looked after, which contributes to a positive living experience. The solid security measures in place, such as key access through university student cards, provide peace of mind for residents. This focus on safety, coupled with a friendly atmosphere, makes William Penney a standout choice for students looking for a balanced living environment.
William Penney is best suited for students who value community living and are looking for a friendly atmosphere where they can easily make connections. It’s particularly ideal for first-year postgraduates or those who may be new to the area and are seeking a supportive place to call home during their studies. Overall, William Penney Hall offers a comfortable and welcoming environment that many students find appealing, especially those who prioritize social interaction and community support during their university journey.
In summary, while William Penney Hall has its strengths, such as good room quality, a strong sense of community, and excellent value for money, there are some caveats to consider, such as potential noise levels and shared facilities. However, for many students, these factors are outweighed by the positives, making it a worthwhile option for postgraduate accommodation near Imperial College London.
▼ See more
The overall student experience at William Penney is characterized by a blend of comfort and community spirit. Many students have highlighted the spaciousness of the rooms and the effectiveness of the maintenance team in addressing any issues that arise. The atmosphere is described as positive and friendly, making it easier for students to settle in and forge new friendships. Many reviews indicate that residents appreciate the sense of safety and support they feel while living here. This nurturing environment is especially beneficial for first-year students, who often find it easier to connect with others in a communal setting.
In terms of location, William Penney is conveniently situated close to the Silwood Park Campus, making it ideal for students who want easy access to their classes. The proximity to local amenities, such as a post office and general store, adds to the convenience of living here. Students frequently mention how handy it is to have everything they need within walking distance. Additionally, local bus services run twice daily, and mainline train stations in Ascot and Sunningdale provide further transport links for students looking to explore beyond the immediate area.
When it comes to room quality, students have generally expressed satisfaction with the accommodations at William Penney. The rooms are described as decent and comfortable, with good-quality furniture and amenities. While the hall does have shared kitchens among groups of 14 students, many residents find that this setup fosters a sense of community and shared experience. However, it is worth noting that some students have mentioned that the building can be compact, which may lead to noise during the evenings. This could be a consideration for those who are particularly noise-sensitive.
Value for money is another strong point for William Penney. With competitive rental fees compared to other student accommodations, many students feel they are getting a good deal for the quality of living provided. Reviews consistently highlight that the hall offers decent value, especially for students who are budget-conscious. The overall assessment suggests that William Penney is an excellent choice for those looking to maximize their living experience without breaking the bank.
The social atmosphere at William Penney is often described as vibrant and welcoming. Many residents have shared their experiences of making friends and forming bonds with fellow students. The communal areas, while limited, still serve as a gathering spot where students can hang out and connect. The hall is seen as a place where residents look out for one another, creating a supportive environment that many students appreciate. However, some reviews do mention that the social scene can be a bit overwhelming at times, depending on one's mood, but overall, the community vibe is a significant draw for many.
What sets William Penney apart from other accommodations is its emphasis on community and support. Students frequently mention that they feel looked after, which contributes to a positive living experience. The solid security measures in place, such as key access through university student cards, provide peace of mind for residents. This focus on safety, coupled with a friendly atmosphere, makes William Penney a standout choice for students looking for a balanced living environment.
William Penney is best suited for students who value community living and are looking for a friendly atmosphere where they can easily make connections. It’s particularly ideal for first-year postgraduates or those who may be new to the area and are seeking a supportive place to call home during their studies. Overall, William Penney Hall offers a comfortable and welcoming environment that many students find appealing, especially those who prioritize social interaction and community support during their university journey.
In summary, while William Penney Hall has its strengths, such as good room quality, a strong sense of community, and excellent value for money, there are some caveats to consider, such as potential noise levels and shared facilities. However, for many students, these factors are outweighed by the positives, making it a worthwhile option for postgraduate accommodation near Imperial College London.
✅ What Students Love
- Strong sense of community and support among residents
- Spacious and comfortable rooms with good quality furniture
- Convenient location close to campus and local amenities
- Responsive maintenance team that addresses issues quickly
- Solid WiFi and laundry facilities available
- Good value for money compared to other accommodations
⚠️ Things to Note
- Shared kitchens among 14 students may lead to overcrowding
- Compact building can result in noise during evenings
- Limited common areas for socializing
- Not the most glamorous accommodation option
- Some students may find the social atmosphere overwhelming at times
🎯 Best For
Postgraduate students looking for a budget-friendly, community-oriented living experience near Imperial College London.
💡 Things to Know
- William Penney Hall offers 27 bed spaces, ideal for fostering a close-knit community.
- Each resident has a set of keys for their room, ensuring personal security.
- Local bus services run twice daily, providing transport options to nearby areas.
- The building is compact, so those sensitive to noise should consider this before booking.
- The accommodation is self-catered, requiring residents to manage their own meals.
❓ Common Questions
Is William Penney good value for money?
Yes, residents generally feel that William Penney offers good value for money, especially given its quality and location.
How is the location?
William Penney is conveniently located near the Silwood Park Campus, with easy access to local shops and transport links.
What are the rooms like?
Rooms at William Penney are described as decent and spacious, with good-quality furniture and amenities.
What is the social life like at William Penney?
The social life is vibrant, with many residents forming friendships and enjoying a supportive community atmosphere.
Are there laundry facilities available?
Yes, there are laundry facilities available for residents to use.
Reviews
1 of 59
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Walking into my room at william penney was a nice surprise; it felt more spacious than expected. on the flip side, the wifi could use some improvement for streaming late-night study sessions .
By user521477 (Imperial) on Aug 10th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
The attentiveness of the staff here really makes a difference. They're always on top of things, ensuring everything runs smoothly and that everyone feels supported. It’s more than just student accommodation; it genuinely feels like a close-knit community where settling in is easy. You can tell people care about the environment and each other here, which makes it feel like home.
By user933317 (Imperial) on Jul 29th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Always met a diverse group of people here, from freshers to postgrads, which made for some interesting conversations. tons of late-night chats in the common area over video games or study sessions, and everyone seemed to respect each other's space when it got too quiet. the mix of personalities really brought this place to life, where you could always find someone to connect with, whether it was for a laugh or a study buddy.
By user855831 (Imperial) on Jul 24th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Living at william penney has its perks, especially the location near my classes, but the internet can be a bit patchy during peak hours. it’s frustrating when you're trying to study or watch something before bed and the connection drops. overall, though, it’s manageable and doesn't take away from the experience of being here.
By user183297 (Imperial) on Jul 19th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Living at william penney was a mixed bag, but the affordability made it hard to resist returning. even if the atmosphere wasn’t always lively, the chance to meet fellow students was worth it for my uni experience.
By user952971 (Imperial) on Jul 14th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Comfortable enough for a student, but it lacks character and feels somewhat generic. I find myself missing places that spark creativity or conversation, which this place doesn’t quite offer. Still, if I need a reliable space to study and rest, I'd come back, though I'd keep searching for something a bit more dynamic.
By user482184 (Imperial) on Jul 8th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Location plays a big role here, with everything you need just a stone's throw away. It's refreshing to have shops, cafes, and my university within walking distance, making it super easy to balance study and social life without feeling too overwhelmed.
By user706316 (Imperial) on Jul 3rd 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Finding a place like William Penney with staff that genuinely care makes a difference when you’re trying to balance studies and social life. they’re always on hand to help with any issues and seem to understand what students need. their willingness to listen and respond really creates an environment that's supportive and makes all the chaos of uni feel a bit more manageable.
By user626035 (Imperial) on Jun 28th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Finding a quiet corner here to practice late at night has made all the difference for me
By user163286 (Imperial) on Jun 23rd 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Location really works for student life. being just around the corner from the library and cafes makes late-night study sessions and quick coffee runs a breeze. it feels like i’m always surrounded by mates, which is exactly what you want during uni.
By user545796 (Imperial) on Jun 17th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Finding a shared kitchen stocked with plenty of utensils really made cooking my own meals a lot smoother. It might sound minor, but that little detail turned chaotic evenings into a breeze when it came to whipping up something quick between study sessions.
By user690702 (Imperial) on Jun 13th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
People here really seem to care about creating a welcoming space, which is rare in student accommodation. it feels like everyone genuinely wants to make this place feel like home, and that's such a nice change from some of the other options around.
By user101250 (Imperial) on Jun 8th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Students who value their sleep and need a reliable wifi connection will find this place suits them well. it’s quiet enough to focus at night while still having a social vibe when you want a break from studying.
By user966540 (Imperial) on Jun 3rd 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Defying the typical image of basic student housing, it feels lively and community-driven. A mix of residents and common areas creates an easy atmosphere to unwind after studio hours, making it surprisingly welcoming.
By user896187 (Imperial) on May 29th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Noticing the bright common areas really lifted my spirits; it’s nice to have a place where everyone gathers, unlike the quieter spots back home that can feel isolating. it feels welcoming and friendly here.
By user299213 (Imperial) on May 24th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
The care put into this place is clear, from the attentive staff to the well-maintained facilities. It offers more than just accommodation; it feels like a community, which makes settling in much more straightforward.
By user538060 (Imperial) on May 19th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Finding a little corner with a comfy chair in my room made all the difference for late-night study sessions. it’s those small touches that keep me motivated when the deadlines start piling up
By user628266 (Imperial) on May 14th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Finding a spot in the kitchen to prep meals felt like home, with everything you need handy and a decent atmosphere that made even cooking late at night less of a chore at william penney.
By user720416 (Imperial) on May 9th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
William Penney Hall offers a practical environment for students with demanding schedules. As someone with early nursing shifts, I've found it refreshing not to be disturbed by noise. For those who prioritize undisturbed study or rest, this place meets the mark without any frills.
By user632074 (Imperial) on May 5th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Check-in was a bit slower than expected, which can be frustrating when you're tired from early classes, but once settled in, the atmosphere at William Penney made it easier to focus on getting to know everyone.
By user825488 (Imperial) on Apr 28th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Studying here is a breeze thanks to the perfect balance this place offers. While the location is on the quieter side, it's actually ideal if you're looking to concentrate on your coursework. The atmosphere is friendly and chatty, making it easy to settle in and feel at home.
By user527376 (Imperial) on Apr 22nd 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
William Penney offers a surprisingly welcoming environment, and the friendly faces around made me feel part of the community right away.
By user419379 (Imperial) on Apr 17th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Rooms aren't massive but do the trick and the internet's solid for streaming or work.
By user117891 (Imperial) on Apr 13th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Heard from a mate that living at William Penney is decent for the price. sure, it's not fancy, but there’s a good vibe and people are chill if you’re up for making mates.
By user829858 (Imperial) on Apr 10th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Room size was surprisingly generous compared to other places i've stayed, which made a big difference for working on projects without feeling cramped. maintenance was always quick to respond to any issues, something i've not always been lucky with elsewhere.
By user296087 (Imperial) on Mar 30th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
William Penney Hall is a small accommodation that offers an unexpectedly chill and welcoming atmosphere. The vibrant community made settling in a lot easier than I anticipated.
By user225737 (Imperial) on Mar 30th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Settling into William Penney was pretty smooth thanks to the welcoming community vibe. adjusted quickly as the locals were kind and the location made getting to campus straightforward.
By user560590 (Imperial) on Mar 27th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
William Penney is unexpectedly welcoming for a student hall. The mix of different nationalities makes for interesting dinner conversations in the shared kitchen.
By user685603 (Imperial) on Mar 24th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Living here feels much more homely compared to other student accommodations I've experienced.
By user151250 (Imperial) on Mar 19th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
One summer evening, I found myself lounging on the small patio, book in hand, surrounded by the soft murmur of fellow students. Those evenings were the perfect blend of serene and social, making this place feel safe and welcoming. It was such a cozy spot to unwind and truly relax.
By user562189 (Imperial) on Mar 13th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Waking up here is a treat with the relaxed atmosphere in the kitchen as everyone gathers for breakfast. Having my own space is a perfect counterbalance to the hectic pace of uni life, and sharing evening chats with flatmates makes each day even better.
By user598527 (Imperial) on Mar 10th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
I was really impressed by how budget-friendly William Penney turned out to be! The atmosphere there is so inviting, which made it a breeze to connect with others. It definitely added to the enjoyment of those early morning training sessions and late evening study groups. 😊
By user542953 (Imperial) on Feb 28th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
People here are pretty down-to-earth and laid-back, making it easy to strike up a conversation or just enjoy the chill atmosphere in the common areas. 😊
By user859650 (Imperial) on Feb 12th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Met some genuinely kind people right from day one which made settling in much easier than i imagined. it's a small place so you really get to know everyone quickly.
By user697969 (Imperial) on Feb 6th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Didn't expect to feel at home so quickly here. thought it might be a bit impersonal since it's on a budget, but everyone was down to chat in the common areas, and it really makes the place feel alive. cool balance of study and socialising, which is honestly rare to find.
By user409917 (Imperial) on Feb 2nd 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
William Penney Hall offers a shared kitchen where casual conversations are a regular occurrence. This environment creates a welcoming atmosphere that's easy to settle into and makes you feel at home.
By user798016 (Imperial) on Jan 28th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
I absolutely love the laid-back atmosphere here. It's perfect for postgrads who want a homey feel rather than flashy extras. Managing campus life can be tough, but this place really makes it easier to unwind and feel at home. Would definitely come back!
By user473474 (Imperial) on Jan 23rd 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
William Penney Hall has a way of keeping you in the loop with your neighbors, like it or not. It's kind of funny how you'll end up knowing who’s watching what or who’s having a late-night chat. 😊 But if you’re trying to catch some z’s before early morning training, the noise level can be a bit trying.
By user430706 (Imperial) on Jan 20th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
The staff truly make this place special with their friendly and helpful nature. They're always there if you need assistance or just want a chat, creating a welcoming atmosphere. It's great to feel like people genuinely care about you here 😊.
By user597393 (Imperial) on Jan 16th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
There's a unique charm to this place that I can't quite put my finger on, but it definitely makes an impression. The atmosphere here allows you to settle in and feel comfortable right away.
By user156506 (Imperial) on Jan 13th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Feels like a home away from home when i crash here on weekends. it’s reliable with everything working smoothly and that really matters between my nursing school and weekend job. you get a nice mix of being able to hang out with mates or have some quiet time to hit the books.
By user797460 (Imperial) on Jan 10th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Gradually got used to the place and ended up enjoying the friendly community atmosphere a lot.
By user101341 (Imperial) on Jan 6th 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Wasn't sure what to expect coming here, but it turned out to be quite homely and everyone is genuinely welcoming. ended up being exactly what I needed, and it's surprisingly nicer than some pricier halls I've seen.
By user983004 (Imperial) on Jan 3rd 2026
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Expected it to be a bit more basic and impersonal, but turns out it's quite homely and the people are genuinely nice. no need to worry about feeling isolated here
By user818597 (Imperial) on Dec 30th 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Caught a late-night study session in the common room, felt right at home 😊.
By user551584 (Imperial) on Dec 26th 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Heard from a mate that people there are super welcoming and you never feel isolated 😊.
By user159878 (Imperial) on Dec 22nd 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Feeling part of a tight community made settling in here incredibly smooth.
By user429139 (Imperial) on Dec 20th 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
William Penney feels vibrant and alive, especially during weekend dinners when stories are shared across the table. It's a comforting place, fostering a real sense of belonging, even when minor hiccups arise.
By user461611 (Imperial) on Dec 17th 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Met some great people here. someone told me it really has that community feel and they were spot on.
By user346076 (Imperial) on Dec 13th 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Sounds are a bit of an issue here. walls are thin and you can hear everything going on in the hallway, which gets a bit frustrating. still, the sense of community and being close to everything mostly makes up for it.
By user685401 (Imperial) on Dec 9th 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Warm and welcoming group of postgrads here made settling in much easier than i'd expected. everyone looks out for each other, which makes a big difference when you're away from home.
By user860702 (Imperial) on Dec 5th 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Met some really kind fellow students who helped me settle in quickly.
By user454768 (Imperial) on Dec 2nd 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Living here is a bit like being part of a close-knit family, where everyone knows each other by name. With just 27 people, it’s easy to form genuine connections. Sure, there aren't tons of fancy extras, but the place more than makes up for it with a warm sense of belonging. You won’t easily find this kind of vibe elsewhere.
By user569093 (Imperial) on Nov 28th 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
I’ve been really impressed with William Penney! 😊 The shared spaces are perfect for sparking conversations, and it's so nice that people here take the time to chat. That kind of warm and friendly vibe isn’t everywhere, and it truly makes living here a wonderful experience.
By user451162 (Imperial) on Nov 25th 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Living here again would be a no-brainer because everyone genuinely feels like family.
By user100416 (Imperial) on Nov 20th 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Coming from london, i thought ascot might feel too quiet, but william penney turned out to be unexpectedly lively. the people there are genuinely welcoming, and with just 27 residents, you end up knowing everyone pretty well. it might be budget-friendly, but the sense of community is worth much more.
By user492958 (Imperial) on Nov 15th 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
William Penney has a way of making you feel like you've just stepped into a cozy, oversized family home. I immediately felt at ease, surrounded by relaxed people and a gentle hum of camaraderie. 😊
By user883039 (Imperial) on Nov 9th 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
William Penney Hall stands out for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, especially noticeable when walking back from the nearby park. Even after dark, it maintains a calm and welcoming feel, steering clear of the eerie vibes that some accommodations can have at night.
By user726075 (Imperial) on Nov 3rd 2025
Overall
Room
Wifi
Food
Facilities
Location
Value
Felt instantly at home when I walked in. everyone seemed relaxed and down to earth, which put me at ease😅. it's got this welcoming vibe that makes settling into uni life a bit less daunting.
By user711113 (Imperial) on Oct 29th 2025
Students also viewed 👀
View all →
Review published! ✓