Shirley House, Leicester – 53 Verified Student Reviews 🏠

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Shirley House -

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Based on 53 user ratings

Gilbert Murray Hall, Manor Road, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 2ND

πŸ’¬ What Students Say

Shirley House is a distinctive accommodation option located in the heart of The Village, just a short bus ride from the University of Leicester. This characterful building is surrounded by trees and lawns, providing a refreshing environment for students. With a mix of standard shared bathrooms, ensuite private bathrooms, and studio flats, Shirley House caters to a variety of living preferences. The communal spaces, including shared kitchens and dining areas, foster a sense of community among residents, making it a popular choice for undergraduate students.

The overall student experience at Shirley House is highly regarded, with many reviews highlighting the friendly and supportive atmosphere. Students frequently mention that the sense of community is one of the accommodation's strongest features. It's not just a place to live; it's a place where friendships are formed, and memories are made. The residents often describe it as a 'little family' where they can easily connect with others, which significantly enhances their university experience. The accommodation is also noted for its reliable Wi-Fi, comfortable rooms, and decent heating, all of which contribute to a pleasant living environment.

When it comes to location, Shirley House is ideally situated for students attending the University of Leicester. The accommodation is conveniently located across the road from The Village Reception, making it easy for residents to access essential services. The extensive bus network in the area ensures that students can reach the university campus in about 20 minutes, providing a hassle-free commute. Additionally, the location is praised for its balance between being close to campus and offering a quieter atmosphere at night, making it suitable for both studying and socialising.

The quality of the rooms at Shirley House is generally well-received. Reviews indicate that the rooms are decent, with many students appreciating the comfort of the beds after long days of lectures and study. The shared kitchen, while noted as a bit small, remains functional and well-kept, which is essential for students who enjoy cooking or socialising over meals. The presence of laundry facilities and bike storage adds to the convenience of living in this accommodation.

Value for money is another strong point for Shirley House, with many students expressing that the pricing is solid considering the location and amenities provided. The overall rating for value is particularly high, suggesting that residents feel they are getting a good deal for the experience they receive. This affordability is a significant draw for students who are often on tight budgets during their university years.

The social atmosphere at Shirley House is lively and engaging. Many students appreciate the diverse mix of personalities, which adds to the overall experience. While some nights may be more fun than others, the general consensus is that the environment is friendly and welcoming. Residents often describe the community as easygoing and supportive, making it an ideal place for those looking to make new friends and enjoy their university experience. The communal areas play a vital role in this, as they provide spaces for students to gather, study, and unwind together.

What sets Shirley House apart from other accommodations is its unique blend of comfort, community, and convenience. The building is well-maintained, and students often comment on how clean and tidy it is, reflecting the effort put into maintaining the property. The security measures in place, including key card access and on-site staff, ensure that residents feel safe and secure, which is a significant consideration for many students.

Shirley House is best suited for students who value a friendly and social living environment while still needing a quiet space to study. It is particularly appealing to undergraduates who are looking for a balance between academic responsibilities and social activities. The sense of community, combined with the practical amenities and supportive staff, makes it a top choice for those starting their university journey.

However, there are a few caveats to consider. Some students have noted that the kitchen space can feel a bit cramped, which might be a concern for those who enjoy cooking regularly or hosting gatherings. Additionally, while the atmosphere is generally positive, the mix of personalities means that some nights can be quieter than others. This variability might not suit everyone, especially those who prefer a more consistent social scene. Furthermore, while the accommodation is well-kept, it may not offer the extravagant features that some students might expect from more upscale housing options.

In summary, Shirley House is a fantastic choice for students looking for a supportive community, good value for money, and a convenient location near the University of Leicester. With its friendly atmosphere, reliable amenities, and focus on student well-being, it’s a place where many students feel at home during their university years.

For prospective students considering Shirley House, here are a few practical tips:
1. Make sure to explore the local bus routes to find the most convenient options for your daily commute to the university.
2. Engage with your housemates early on to establish a friendly atmosphere and make the most of communal living.
3. Take advantage of the shared kitchen facilities to bond with others over meals or study sessions.
4. Keep an eye on the cleanliness of communal areas; a tidy space contributes to a more pleasant living experience.
5. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the accommodation staff if you have any concerns or need assistance during your stay.
6. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends, but also appreciate the quieter moments that allow for study and relaxation.
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βœ… What Students Love

  • Strong sense of community with friendly residents
  • Convenient location near the University of Leicester
  • Reliable Wi-Fi and comfortable room conditions
  • Good value for money based on student feedback
  • Well-maintained and secure accommodation
  • Functional communal kitchen and dining areas

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Kitchen space can feel cramped at times
  • Social atmosphere may vary from night to night
  • Not the most extravagant accommodation available
  • Some residents may prefer a quieter living environment
  • Limited reviews on food/catering options
  • Shared bathrooms may not suit everyone's preferences

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a vibrant and social living environment close to the university.

πŸ’‘ Things to Know

  • Located in The Village, with easy access to local bus routes.
  • Offers a mix of room types, including shared and private bathrooms.
  • Security measures are in place to ensure resident safety.
  • The atmosphere is friendly and conducive to meeting new people.
  • Move-in process is generally smooth and straightforward.

❓ Common Questions

Is Shirley House good value for money?

Yes, students frequently mention that the value for money is solid, especially for the location and amenities provided.

How is the location?

Shirley House is conveniently located across the road from The Village Reception, with a bus journey of about 20 minutes to the university campus.

What are the rooms like?

Rooms are generally described as decent and comfortable, with reliable Wi-Fi and good heating.

What is the social life like at Shirley House?

The social life is vibrant, with a friendly atmosphere that makes it easy to connect with others and form friendships.

Are there any security measures in place?

Yes, Shirley House has security measures such as key card access and on-site staff to ensure residents' safety.

Reviews
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Staff were surprisingly helpful, always ready to lend a hand when I needed something sorted. on the flip side, the wifi could be spotty during peak times, which made focusing on assignments a bit challenging.
By user422765 on Apr 28th 2026
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Walked into shirley house and instantly felt the relaxed vibe. the trees and lawns around gave it a calming touch, like a bit of nature right at your doorstep. everyone seemed at ease, making it feel like more than just a place to crash after lectures.
By user238285 on Apr 22nd 2026
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Walking into shirley house for the first time, i felt like i was stepping into a place that had stories tucked away in its corners. the combination of the old building charm and the lush surroundings gave off a comforting vibe. it quickly felt like a sanctuary amidst the hustle of uni life.
By user683437 on Apr 17th 2026
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Never thought i'd enjoy shared bathrooms, but it actually led to some hilarious moments and unexpected friendships. weird how small things make such a difference
By user480500 on Apr 13th 2026
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Look back at how the common room always seemed to buzz with life but never felt overcrowded. staff seemed to genuinely care and quickly tackled any issues, which made settling in a lot smoother than anticipated πŸ˜….
By user310205 on Apr 9th 2026
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Would definitely return to shirley house. it felt like a little oasis with all those trees. plus, the communal vibe was genuinely welcoming.
By user848318 on Apr 6th 2026
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Shaded by the trees surrounding it, shirley house has a really tranquil vibe, especially when you need a break from studying. the common rooms feel lively without overwhelming you, like a collective living room where everyone’s in a good mood.
By user208879 on Apr 2nd 2026
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Trees around shirley house make it feel a bit like living in a park.
By user679462 on Mar 30th 2026
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Remember the first time the fire alarm went off in the middle of the night? everyone was groggy and annoyed, but somehow it turned into a bit of a bonding moment with my flatmates. as we stood shivering outside, sharing laughs and grumbles, it suddenly felt like home despite the late hour and chaos.
By user167278 on Mar 27th 2026
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Staff here are always up for a chat and quite approachable, making life a bit easier for freshers who might feel overwhelmed 😊
By user101135 on Mar 24th 2026
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Sundays at shirley house mean lazy afternoons on the lawns, a welcome break from intensive lecture prep. its character combined with a peaceful atmosphere helps recharge one's academic stamina for a new week ✌️
By user162851 on Mar 19th 2026
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Walls are pretty thin here so you can hear almost everything going on next door. makes it tough if you're trying to study or just need some quiet time.
By user368337 on Mar 14th 2026
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Getting to Shirley House midweek is a breeze, and it's like a calming reset button with the green surroundings. this place slots into my routine perfectly without any fuss when I need a break from drafting plans and models.
By user831515 on Feb 28th 2026
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Walking back to Shirley House from lectures meant crossing through a leafy path, which felt like a sneaky shortcut πŸ˜…. sometimes you'd catch fellow students sitting around, books open, enjoying the occasional sunshine , kinda nice to see people making it their own personal study spot.
By user935093 on Feb 26th 2026
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Always said i'd go back to shirley house. it's got this laid-back vibe with a nice balance of greenery that makes it feel not too cramped, and everyone seems chill.
By user733594 on Feb 25th 2026
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Didn't think much of it initially but living surrounded by greenery was a pleasant surprise. somehow the location balances being central with a peaceful vibe, which is not what i'd expected. turns out it's a solid mix for both hitting up the campus and winding down after a day.
By user630131 on Feb 24th 2026
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Could use a bit more attention to kitchen cleanliness, but you get to meet loads of different folks which makes it worthwhile. there's a real variety in personalities that keeps things interesting, even if the facilities aren't always spotless.
By user701115 on Feb 23rd 2026
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Could use more laundry facilities because waiting gets annoying, especially on weekends. apart from that, the communal vibe makes up for it and really feels like everyone's looking out for each other πŸ™Œ
By user561028 on Feb 22nd 2026
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Told my mate how much I liked the calm, green surroundings at Shirley House. perfect for getting some fresh air before diving back into notes and textbooks.
By user434277 on Feb 21st 2026
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Surprisingly tranquil given how close it is to the buzz of The Village, and the trees around it give a nice break from the typical concrete surroundings. a really refreshing place to retreat after morning training sessions.
By user607363 on Feb 20th 2026
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Walking through the doors of shirley house felt like discovering a little sanctuary amidst the bustle πŸ˜….
By user769550 on Feb 19th 2026
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Woke up one morning to the sunlight streaming through those enormous windows and felt a mix of peace and excitement. living among lush greenery with lively conversations in shared kitchens made shirley house feel like a real community.
By user422902 on Feb 18th 2026
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Always found it easy to unwind after lectures with a stroll around the grounds, even squeezed in some revision outdoors when the weather was decent. loved grabbing a quick breakfast in the kitchen before dashing out to catch the bus, never felt too rushed for classes.
By user490369 on Feb 17th 2026
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Sat under the big old tree out front at dusk and had an impromptu chat with a fellow architecture student about design inspirations πŸ˜…. those moments are the kind that just happen naturally at shirley house and make living there worthwhile.
By user208354 on Feb 16th 2026
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Staff here are pretty reliable and make settling in easy, always ready to help with any issues like when my heater was acting up
By user845358 on Feb 15th 2026
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Students there really seemed to enjoy hanging out in the common areas, always chatting and laughing over meals. it was easy to strike up conversations or join a game, making it feel like a welcoming community.
By user624666 on Feb 14th 2026
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Trees casting cool shadows over the lawn made it my favourite study spot when the weather cooperated. people often gathered there, so it was easy to strike up a chat while pretending to be productive. small things like that truly shaped the experience.
By user336938 on Feb 13th 2026
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Shaped more like a house than typical student accommodation, shirley house has this unique charm that makes it stand out. the trees and lawns around mean you don't feel boxed in like some other places. kind of feels more homely and personal, which is hard to find in the usual blocky dorms.
By user849371 on Feb 13th 2026
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Found it surprisingly quiet for a place so close to the university. thought it would be busier, but the surroundings are really peaceful, which is perfect for studying without constant distractions.
By user634868 on Feb 9th 2026
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Met some of the best people here, all crammed in the common room with mismatched chairs, studying or procrastinating together. really felt like a second home being surrounded by everyone.
By user411508 on Feb 3rd 2026
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Walking into shirley house felt like entering a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature. the leafy environment and characterful vibe instantly made it feel like a home away from home.
By user239303 on Jan 29th 2026
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Expected something run-down, but the lawns and trees really made shirley house surprisingly chill.
By user820121 on Jan 24th 2026
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Fell asleep on the lawn after an exhausting day at placements, and it felt like a mini vacation under those trees. woke up surrounded by other students doing the same, and someone had even brought snacks to share. it's rare to find a place where people genuinely unwind so naturally together.
By user695248 on Jan 20th 2026
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Walking into shirley house felt like being wrapped in a blanket of nature with all those trees and green around it 🌟. i honestly felt like i'd found a bit of peace amid the uni chaos.
By user280052 on Jan 17th 2026
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Moving into shirley house felt like joining a quirky family 🌟, with everyone super chill and eager to hang out.
By user218509 on Jan 13th 2026
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Having early morning lectures meant i got to enjoy the quiet start at shirley house before anyone else was up. it was kind of peaceful being surrounded by all the trees right there. the fresh air gave me a bit of a boost to start the day.
By user241679 on Jan 10th 2026
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Ended up loving the green spaces around shirley house way more than expected. coming from a cramped town, it was a nice surprise to have somewhere peaceful to chill right outside my door.
By user117514 on Jan 6th 2026
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Having trees and lawns all around really helps clear my head during study breaks. shirley house is right in the village, so grabbing a coffee or doing a bit of food shopping is mad convenient. makes the week a bit less chaotic, which is always a win.
By user965244 on Jan 3rd 2026
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Expected something more cramped, but it's quite spacious for uni accommodation. the old building's charm is a bonus, feels like living in a bit of history. definitely not your average halls, which was a pleasant surprise.
By user685208 on Dec 30th 2025
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Everyone seemed genuinely chill and open, which made meeting people and forming friendships surprisingly easy. it's such a relief because having a supportive community at home has made balancing studying and social life feel way less stressful.
By user404830 on Dec 26th 2025
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Staying at shirley house was super chill with the greenery all around, really made it feel more like a home. the people there are pretty approachable, which just adds to the relaxed vibe of the place.
By user477678 on Dec 21st 2025
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Crowd's solid and location's right in the village, but those shared bathrooms are really showing their age πŸ˜…. could use a bit of a spruce up to match the lovely surroundings.
By user628054 on Dec 19th 2025
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Moving into shirley house, i didn't expect how refreshing morning walks around the lawns would be. having come from a small town, the greenery and space really hit different here. it's become my favourite way to start the day before heading off to lectures.
By user491969 on Dec 15th 2025
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Noticed how the trees around Shirley House create this really calming vibe. they'd sway softly whenever the wind picks up, which was kind of reassuring, especially after a hectic day. it's just a chill spot to come back to, where everything feels a bit more relaxed.
By user407232 on Dec 11th 2025
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Nestled among trees, shirley house feels more like a peaceful retreat than typical student digs. it's got this unique vibe that just clicks.
By user224907 on Dec 8th 2025
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Kinda thought it would be noisy given its central location, but it’s actually pretty chill , the trees and lawns around make it feel calm despite being in the heart of the village 🌟
By user377754 on Dec 3rd 2025
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Staff here are always up for a chat and seem genuinely interested in making sure you're comfortable. i didn't expect such a friendly atmosphere in student accommodation, but it's warming to know help is just around the corner. makes settling into a new place way easier.
By user838036 on Nov 29th 2025
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Find shirley house to be the perfect escape whenever I need a little study break. hanging out on the lawns with mates is always refreshing.
By user207432 on Nov 29th 2025
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Spent ages finishing up an essay that was due, and just as i needed a break it started drizzling outside. took my laptop out to the lawn, and watching the rain while typing felt oddly calming πŸ˜…. this spot's brilliant for finding a breath of fresh air when you're swamped with assignments.
By user482140 on Nov 25th 2025
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Found the location super handy, considering i'm constantly running between lectures. the trees and lawns around gave it a chilled vibe that really helped unwind after a long study session. even if everyone's on their own schedule, the place never feels isolating or dull.
By user286861 on Nov 20th 2025
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Being surrounded by greenery and friendly neighbors made shirley house feel like more than just a place to sleep.
By user995970 on Nov 14th 2025
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Really appreciated the peaceful surroundings at shirley house when trying to get my head into textbooks. walking outside to fresh air and trees felt like an escape from cramming inside, making study breaks more refreshing.
By user365749 on Nov 9th 2025
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Staff here are always helpful and approachable, which makes everything from moving in to sorting out any issues feel so much less stressful. their friendly faces are great when you're knee-deep in assignments.
By user987165 on Nov 1st 2025