David Russell Apartments, St Andrews – 79 Verified Student Reviews 🏠

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David Russell Apartments β€” student accommodation photo

David Russell Apartments -

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Based on 79 user ratings

Buchanan Gardens St Andrews Fife KY16 9LY

πŸ’¬ What Students Say

David Russell Apartments is the largest and most diverse student residence at the University of St Andrews, providing a welcoming environment for undergraduates from over eighty countries. This accommodation features self-contained apartments with en-suite facilities, ensuring a comfortable living space for students. With a strong focus on community, residents often find themselves forming lasting friendships and creating memorable experiences in this lively setting. Students frequently highlight the spaciousness of the rooms, the reliability of the WiFi, and the overall atmosphere as key aspects of their positive experiences here.

Located at Buchanan Gardens, St Andrews, the apartments are conveniently situated within walking distance of the main campus, with a pleasant 15-20 minute walk or a quick 5-7 minute bike ride to the academic buildings. The area is well-connected by local bus services that link the accommodation to the town centre and university, making it easy for students to access everything they need. The location strikes a balance between being close enough to campus to feel secure and far enough away to enjoy some peace and quiet at night, which students appreciate.

The quality of the rooms at David Russell Apartments is often praised, with many residents noting that they are spacious and comfortable. The en-suite facilities add a level of convenience that many students find appealing. Additionally, the apartments are kept in good shape, which contributes to a positive living experience. The building also features several communal areas, including a well-liked bar, a Bistro that offers catering seven days a week, a cinema room, a music room, and an activities room equipped with a full-size projector for films and games consoles. These amenities provide students with plenty of opportunities to socialize and unwind after a long day of studying.

In terms of value for money, David Russell Apartments is considered a solid choice. While it may not be the cheapest option available, students report that the quality of living and the range of facilities justify the cost. Many residents feel that the convenience and overall experience are worth the price, especially when compared to other accommodations. The supportive staff and quick maintenance response times further enhance the value, ensuring that students can focus on their studies without the stress of housing issues.

The social atmosphere at David Russell Apartments is another highlight. Students frequently mention the friendly and chill vibe, which makes it easy to connect with others. The communal spaces encourage interaction, and many residents enjoy spending time together, whether it’s studying in the common area or enjoying a night out. The sense of community is strong, with many students feeling that they belong and can be themselves in this environment. This supportive atmosphere is particularly beneficial for first-year students who may be adjusting to university life.

However, it's important to acknowledge some of the potential downsides of living at David Russell Apartments. While many students enjoy the lively social scene, some may find that the communal living can occasionally lead to noise or disruptions. It’s also worth noting that while the apartments are generally clean and organized, maintaining this can sometimes depend on the residents themselves, and there may be instances of messiness. Additionally, while the amenities are extensive, some students may desire more variety in food options beyond what the Bistro offers.

Overall, David Russell Apartments stands out as a top choice for students at the University of St Andrews who value community, convenience, and comfort. Its combination of quality living spaces, strong social atmosphere, and proximity to campus makes it an appealing option for those looking to make the most of their university experience. Whether you're a first-year student or someone looking for a welcoming community, this accommodation provides a solid foundation for your studies and social life.

In summary, David Russell Apartments is an excellent choice for students who prioritize a friendly community and a comfortable living environment. With spacious rooms, reliable WiFi, and a range of communal facilities, it offers everything you need to thrive during your time at university. If you're looking for a place that feels like home while also providing opportunities for socializing and making lasting memories, this could be the perfect fit for you.
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βœ… What Students Love

  • Spacious and comfortable rooms with en-suite facilities.
  • Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere.
  • Convenient location within walking distance to campus.
  • Reliable WiFi and well-maintained facilities.
  • Variety of communal spaces for socializing and relaxation.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can be noisy at times due to communal living.
  • Maintaining cleanliness can depend on residents.
  • Limited food options beyond the Bistro.
  • Not the cheapest option available, but considered worth it by many.

🎯 Best For

Students who enjoy a vibrant community and value convenience in their living arrangements.

πŸ’‘ Things to Know

  • The accommodation is self-catered, allowing for flexibility in meal preparation.
  • Local bus services connect the area to the town centre and university.
  • Building security includes key fob access and individual room keys.
  • The apartments are popular among both first-year and returning students.

❓ Common Questions

Is David Russell Apartments good value for money?

Many students feel that the quality of living and range of facilities justify the cost, making it a solid choice.

How is the location?

David Russell Apartments is conveniently located within walking distance of the University of St Andrews and well-connected by local bus services.

What are the rooms like?

The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and feature en-suite facilities, making them ideal for student living.

What is the social life like at David Russell Apartments?

The social atmosphere is friendly and chill, with plenty of communal areas encouraging interaction among residents.

Are there any amenities available?

Yes, the accommodation features a bar, Bistro, cinema room, music room, and activities room with a projector.

David Russell Apartments β€” student accommodation photo
Reviews
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Location makes a big difference here, with everything you need just a short walk away. it's nice to have that convenience while studying, especially when you just want to grab something quick.
By user105010 (St Andrews) on Sep 8th 2026
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Was thinking it'd be cramped but it's actually spacious and chill. Meeting people from different cultures has been unexpectedly amazing too!
By user304656 (St Andrews) on Sep 3rd 2026
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Reception staff here are super friendly. Common area is cosy too!
By user952870 (St Andrews) on Aug 30th 2026
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nice place but can be warm inside.
By user850309 (St Andrews) on Aug 17th 2026
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We often used the kitchen together, swapping recipes, plenty of room for all in there.
By user664287 (St Andrews) on Aug 10th 2026
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near sports, convenient for staying active
By user337498 (St Andrews) on Aug 5th 2026
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Convenient location for travelling into town.
By user948857 (St Andrews) on Jul 31st 2026
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closest town isnt far
By user925736 (St Andrews) on Jul 26th 2026
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Living next to a sports centre motivated me to stay active.
By user952457 (St Andrews) on Jul 22nd 2026
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consider own utensils for the kitchen
By user502986 (St Andrews) on Jul 16th 2026
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Rooms had all the necessary mod cons and were reasonably priced for tight student budgets.
By user688268 (St Andrews) on Jul 11th 2026
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location is handy
By user449887 (St Andrews) on Jul 6th 2026
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Convenient location compensates for the smaller room sizes.
By user129324 (St Andrews) on Jul 1st 2026
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Air-con would have been nice, but practical living set-up.
By user283880 (St Andrews) on Jun 26th 2026
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having a kitchen area was ace for hosting friends. really sociable spot.
By user826240 (St Andrews) on Jun 21st 2026
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Kitchen had no cooking tools, so packing own is recommended.
By user485572 (St Andrews) on Jun 15th 2026
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good for students, lots of shared space.
By user681660 (St Andrews) on Jun 10th 2026
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location makes popping into town easy
By user173765 (St Andrews) on Jun 5th 2026
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Basic living, but everything you really need πŸ‘Œ
By user517639 (St Andrews) on Jun 1st 2026
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Room was clean, but preparing for warm temperatures is advised.
By user470554 (St Andrews) on May 26th 2026
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Clean amenities, decent size rooms for students.
By user621862 (St Andrews) on May 21st 2026
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Handy location near the bus for grocery runs.
By user811494 (St Andrews) on May 16th 2026
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WiFi can be unreliable
By user147778 (St Andrews) on May 11th 2026
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WiFi signal could have been stronger.
By user758722 (St Andrews) on May 5th 2026
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Close to a sports center, great for those chill autumn jogs I fondly remember.
By user499155 (St Andrews) on Apr 30th 2026
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double check the wifi situation before moving in
By user550684 (St Andrews) on Apr 25th 2026
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Shared kitchen with fridge and stove was convenient for late-night meals with friends.
By user323862 (St Andrews) on Apr 19th 2026
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TV in living room didn't have channels
By user356637 (St Andrews) on Apr 14th 2026
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Bed might not be fit for two, but single occupancy's fine. Be cautious about the WiFi.
By user713240 (St Andrews) on Apr 11th 2026
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TV was small, but functional.
By user928825 (St Andrews) on Apr 10th 2026
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Loved the living room, even with the small TV.
By user222512 (St Andrews) on Apr 8th 2026
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decent for students
By user830940 (St Andrews) on Apr 4th 2026
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Good value with a decent bedroom for a student budget.
By user439785 (St Andrews) on Apr 3rd 2026
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Consider bringing a portable fan - gets warm in summer
By user353226 (St Andrews) on Apr 2nd 2026
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Good spot if you’re looking for basics without much luxury.
By user562032 (St Andrews) on Mar 30th 2026
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Conveniently situated; didn't have to break the bank.
By user769963 (St Andrews) on Mar 26th 2026
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stationary fan in rooms would help heat
By user271853 (St Andrews) on Mar 23rd 2026
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handy location to town with good walk.
By user227100 (St Andrews) on Mar 18th 2026
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rooms can get a bit hot, bring a fan.
By user418234 (St Andrews) on Mar 17th 2026
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Bathroom and room were both clean
By user618216 (St Andrews) on Mar 12th 2026
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decent flats for student life πŸ‘
By user202774 (St Andrews) on Mar 9th 2026
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Reasonable price considering we'd access to all modern conveniences needed for student life.
By user828676 (St Andrews) on Feb 27th 2026
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Rooms are adequate for students but could use a better bed.
By user136848 (St Andrews) on Feb 11th 2026
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sports centre is nearby
By user620296 (St Andrews) on Feb 6th 2026
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Shared kitchen, suitable for student use. No utensils, though.
By user156911 (St Andrews) on Feb 1st 2026
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The management were mostly unhelpful, but a couple of staff members were friendly.
By user470372 (St Andrews) on Jan 27th 2026
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super handy location!
By user803810 (St Andrews) on Jan 23rd 2026
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Clean facilities; modern fit helps adjust to the rooms easily.
By user274439 (St Andrews) on Jan 19th 2026
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perfect for catching the bus to the shop
By user616552 (St Andrews) on Jan 15th 2026
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Ear plugs essential, as doors slam loudly.
By user738382 (St Andrews) on Jan 15th 2026
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Decent sized rooms and close to bus routes.
By user697734 (St Andrews) on Jan 13th 2026
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Common area was a good spot for weekend socializing with mates.
By user924374 (St Andrews) on Jan 9th 2026
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kitchen is practical
By user608999 (St Andrews) on Jan 5th 2026
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Great place for those on a student's budget.
By user531376 (St Andrews) on Jan 2nd 2026
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Social atmosphere and the shared spaces make living here really enjoyable and relaxed.
By user669648 (St Andrews) on Dec 29th 2025
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Clean, no frills, functional room
By user430900 (St Andrews) on Dec 25th 2025
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decent living space and super handy for the campus
By user969362 (St Andrews) on Dec 21st 2025
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Handy location with easy walks to explore the town and nearby parks.
By user981319 (St Andrews) on Dec 19th 2025
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Good location and reasonably priced for students, all basic requirements in place.
By user358188 (St Andrews) on Dec 16th 2025
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Rooms aren't vast but cozy for a bit of peace and quiet.
By user992478 (St Andrews) on Dec 12th 2025
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For students, the room size works and the cost is manageable.
By user323998 (St Andrews) on Dec 8th 2025
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beds are ok
By user392381 (St Andrews) on Dec 5th 2025
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deffo recomend checking out the handy kitchen area, though it lacks cooking utensils
By user106199 (St Andrews) on Dec 2nd 2025
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The nearby sports centre was a benefit, but I'd advise bringing a fan in warm months.
By user461595 (St Andrews) on Nov 28th 2025
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easy to live, great social spaces
By user615447 (St Andrews) on Nov 25th 2025
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make sure your flats kitchen has all essentials, as some items may be missing!
By user883107 (St Andrews) on Nov 20th 2025
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Room's tidy and spacious, but it gets warm sometimes.
By user810837 (St Andrews) on Nov 15th 2025
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Proximity to supermarket helped reduce travel and time spent on unnecessary errands.
By user575183 (St Andrews) on Nov 9th 2025
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Space was well-used in the apartment, though bed wasn’t massive.
By user858686 (St Andrews) on Nov 2nd 2025
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i liked having easy market access
By user766281 (St Andrews) on Oct 29th 2025
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Perfect spot! Town and sports centre are just a short walk away.
By user592984 (St Andrews) on Oct 25th 2025
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all essentials provided, good location
By user214928 (St Andrews) on Oct 23rd 2025
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Great place to stay, offers necessary conveniences while being close to central locations.
By user772671 (St Andrews) on Oct 20th 2025
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good spot for students πŸ‘Œ
By user610035 (St Andrews) on Oct 16th 2025
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close to lively spots
By user311384 (St Andrews) on Oct 14th 2025
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Living here had its ups and downs. Walked to town often. Kitchen was shared but functional.
By user208880 (St Andrews) on Oct 12th 2025
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rooms are sound
By user404993 (St Andrews) on Oct 7th 2025
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pretty convenient location
By user645165 (St Andrews) on Oct 2nd 2025
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Bed might be small for two, but manageable for one. Often heard doors slamming, though.
By user192901 (St Andrews) on Sep 26th 2025
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Affordable option, convenient to get to the supermarket on the bus.
By user367027 (St Andrews) on Sep 24th 2025
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The rent to amenities ratio was quite balanced.
By user391105 (St Andrews) on Sep 12th 2025