Derwent College , York – 73 Verified Student Reviews 🏠

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Derwent College  — student accommodation photo
Derwent College  — student accommodation photo
Derwent College  — student accommodation photo
Derwent College  — student accommodation photo
Derwent College  — student accommodation photo

Derwent College -

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Based on 73 user ratings

University Rd, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom

💬 What Students Say

Derwent College, part of the University of York, is a well-regarded accommodation choice for students seeking a blend of comfort, community, and convenience. Situated on Campus West, this college boasts a rich history as one of York’s oldest colleges, providing a welcoming environment for undergraduates. The college is designed to cater to various student needs, offering both catered and self-catered options, making it suitable for different lifestyles. With a mix of room types and shared facilities, Derwent College provides a balanced living experience that many students appreciate.

The overall student experience at Derwent College is highly positive, with many students noting the sense of community and support available. The college has a rating of 4.0 out of 5 overall, which reflects the satisfaction of its residents. Students frequently mention the friendly atmosphere and the ease of making connections with fellow residents. This sense of belonging is vital for many students, especially those who are new to university life. The shared kitchen and dining facilities encourage social interactions, allowing students to bond over meals and shared experiences. Many reviews highlight the memorable moments created during their time at Derwent, emphasizing the fun and laughter shared among peers.

Location is a significant advantage of Derwent College, as it is just a short walk from the main university campus. This proximity makes it easy for students to attend lectures and access university facilities without the hassle of long commutes. The college is located at University Rd, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, and the nearby bus stops, including the University Library, facilitate convenient transportation options around York. Students also appreciate the nearby amenities, which contribute to a comfortable living experience.

The quality of rooms at Derwent College is another highlight, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5. Many students find the rooms to be clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, providing a pleasant living environment. The layout of the accommodation is designed to encourage socialization, with open corridors that foster interaction among residents. While some students note that the rooms may not be extravagant, they generally agree that they meet the essential needs of university life. The presence of shared bathroom facilities can be a consideration for some, but many find it manageable and conducive to a communal living experience.

Facilities at Derwent College are rated highly, with a score of 4.5 out of 5. The college features laundry facilities, bike storage, and free Wi-Fi, ensuring that students have access to the essentials for daily life. The presence of on-site staff and security personnel enhances the safety and comfort of residents, with many students expressing that they felt secure living there, even at night. This attention to safety is a crucial aspect for students and their families when choosing accommodation.

In terms of value for money, Derwent College receives a solid rating of 4.4 out of 5. Students often comment on the reasonable cost of living in the college, especially considering the quality of the facilities and the supportive community environment. While it may not be the most luxurious option available, many feel that it offers a good balance of affordability and comfort, making it a popular choice among students.

The social atmosphere at Derwent College is vibrant and engaging. Students frequently mention the strong sense of community, which is bolstered by the college’s shared spaces and organized events. The presence of two Students' Union-run bars and cafes adds to the social scene, providing students with casual spots to unwind and connect with others. Many reviews highlight the energetic vibe of the college, making it an enjoyable place to live and study.

What sets Derwent College apart from other accommodations is its combination of history, community spirit, and convenient location. It is an ideal choice for students who value a supportive environment and want to create lasting memories during their university years. The college is particularly suited for undergraduates who are looking for a friendly and relaxed place to call home while pursuing their studies.

However, it’s essential to consider some potential drawbacks. While the shared facilities foster a sense of community, they may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer more privacy. Additionally, while the rooms are generally well-maintained, some students may find them to be basic compared to other accommodations. The reliance on shared bathrooms can also be a consideration for students who prioritize individual facilities. Despite these points, many residents feel that the positives outweigh any minor inconveniences, making Derwent College a worthwhile option for student accommodation.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Strong sense of community with friendly residents
  • Convenient location close to the University of York
  • High-quality room conditions and comfortable living spaces
  • Excellent facilities including free Wi-Fi and laundry services
  • Safe environment with on-site staff and security measures
  • Affordable living options for students

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Shared bathroom facilities may not suit everyone
  • Rooms may be considered basic compared to other accommodations
  • Limited privacy due to shared living arrangements
  • Some students may find the 1960s building style less appealing

🎯 Best For

Students who value a supportive community and convenient access to university facilities.

💡 Things to Know

  • Derwent College offers both catered and self-catered accommodation options.
  • The college is known for its vibrant social atmosphere and community events.
  • Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the accommodation.
  • Laundry facilities are provided on-site for student convenience.

❓ Common Questions

Is Derwent College good value for money?

Yes, Derwent College is highly rated for value, offering affordable accommodation with good facilities and a strong sense of community.

How is the location?

Derwent College is conveniently located just a short walk from the University of York, making it easy for students to attend lectures.

What are the rooms like?

Rooms at Derwent College are generally clean and comfortable, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5. They are practical for student living.

What is the social life like at Derwent College?

The social life is vibrant, with a strong community atmosphere and access to on-site bars and cafes for casual gatherings.

Are there security measures in place?

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

Derwent College  — student accommodation photo
Derwent College  — student accommodation photo
Derwent College  — student accommodation photo
Derwent College  — student accommodation photo
Derwent College  — student accommodation photo
Reviews
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Ideal for students who appreciate structure and straightforward living without unnecessary complications or distractions.
By user785374 (York) on Jul 16th 2026
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Location makes all the difference at Derwent College. Being just a stone's throw from the great campus facilities means you can pop back for a quick study break or grab something to eat without any hassle. It's really nice to feel connected to everything happening around you while still having a comfortable space to call home.
By user681468 (York) on Jul 11th 2026
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Having a quiet study area nearby was such a relief during exam season. it made all the difference when trying to concentrate and balance my nursing schedule without too much distraction.
By user988276 (York) on Jul 6th 2026
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Wouldn’t choose this place again, mainly due to the lack of community feel. privacy is there, but sometimes it feels isolating, and after weeks of quiet, you start craving a bit more social interaction.
By user658746 (York) on Jul 1st 2026
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Finding a quiet study space here is a game changer when deadlines loom, helping me concentrate and get work done.
By user426958 (York) on Jun 26th 2026
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Stumbling into this place late at night, the reliable wifi was such a relief while trying to finish assignments. quiet rooms helped me focus without distractions, making it a surprisingly nice environment for staying up late and getting things done.
By user518737 (York) on Jun 21st 2026
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Living here is surprisingly affordable considering the quality of facilities and community atmosphere.
By user794419 (York) on Jun 15th 2026
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Living at derwent college really made settling into uni life easier with good facilities and a lively atmosphere, plus it’s a quick reach to everything you need around campus.
By user648813 (York) on Jun 10th 2026
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Wifi here is solid, which is a huge relief during exam season. late-night coding sessions are way easier without constant dropouts. plus, having quiet areas nearby helps when you really need to focus.
By user854835 (York) on Jun 5th 2026
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Living at derwent college has its perks, especially being right by the campus. It’s easy to pop back between classes for lunch or to grab something forgotten, which is nice when budgets are tight. Plus, being close to friends makes it feel like home, even during the stressful times of uni life.
By user658345 (York) on Jun 1st 2026
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Living here has been a surprise in terms of the community vibe; people genuinely seem to care about each other, and it's nice to find friendly faces around. what caught me off guard, though, was the kitchen setup; it could use a bit more space for cooking and hanging out. despite that, the overall atmosphere makes it feel like home away from home.
By user706285 (York) on May 26th 2026
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Staff here really make a difference in creating a warm and welcoming environment. they're approachable and genuinely care about the residents, which brings a sense of community that feels essential for student life. it’s nice knowing that any issues are dealt with promptly and that there's always someone around who understands the challenges of living away from home.
By user139333 (York) on May 21st 2026
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Lots of little touches here make you feel like it’s a place people care about. staff actually remember your name and seem to genuinely want to help, which is refreshing in a sea of impersonal student digs.
By user662745 (York) on May 16th 2026
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Fresh air from the nearby park surprised me, it felt nice to unwind outside. i wasn’t as impressed with the shared kitchen though; it gets a bit crowded during meal times
By user272903 (York) on May 11th 2026
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Walking through the hallways here, the mix of laughter and late-night study sessions reminded me of my own university days back home, creating a sense of camaraderie that felt comforting and familiar.
By user791733 (York) on May 5th 2026
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Staff genuinely care about student life, which makes a big difference; they've organised events that really help bring people together and create a sense of community within derwent college.
By user761217 (York) on May 1st 2026
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Being right next to campus made it so much easier to attend late-night study sessions and pop over for early morning lectures. The convenience made everything feel a bit more manageable and less stressful.
By user707404 (York) on Apr 27th 2026
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Living in derwent fits seamlessly into my routine since i love heading out a few nights a week. it's nice knowing that after a night out, i'm not trekking too far and can quickly collapse into a comfy bed.
By user202919 (York) on Apr 22nd 2026
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Settling into derwent felt surprisingly easy, especially when i discovered the communal kitchen vibe. people actually bothered to chat while cooking, which made it feel less like just a place to sleep and more like where you belong. made the initial awkwardness of uni life vanish a bit faster, which i didn't really expect.
By user295259 (York) on Apr 17th 2026
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Stepping into derwent college, you instantly feel the buzz of student life all around. the welcoming environment and communal spaces make it a place where you naturally want to be, not just a place to stay.
By user422416 (York) on Apr 13th 2026
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Walking to lectures is pretty peaceful down the leafy paths surrounding Derwent. something calming about starting the day with a short stroll through the greenery. not something you'd appreciate until you're there
By user877659 (York) on Apr 9th 2026
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Location is key at derwent college, seriously makes getting to lectures a breeze. rooms aren’t anything to write home about, but they're comfy enough for student life. not having to go far for classes or the library is a big plus.
By user959552 (York) on Apr 6th 2026
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Expected it to be a bit stuffy, given its age and reputation, but it's actually laid-back and friendly. roommates quickly turned into pals and the whole place has a sense of community you wouldn't get in some modern, anonymous flat complex.
By user890332 (York) on Apr 5th 2026
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Caught a spontaneous game night in the common area and the energy was just brilliant, everyone was so friendly and welcoming. it turned an average weeknight into a proper laugh.
By user335125 (York) on Apr 4th 2026
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Didn't expect the social scene here to be so lively. always something happening, and it's a great spot for making new mates. definitely gives you a good mix of chill evenings and a proper good time.
By user135590 (York) on Apr 2nd 2026
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Coming from a smaller city, was surprised by how lively derwent college is. even on weekdays, there's always something going on and loads of people to meet. definitely makes settling in a lot easier when you're not constantly stuck in your room.
By user783621 (York) on Apr 1st 2026
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People at derwent seem to genuinely enjoy being there, which is quite reassuring. met a variety of students when i first moved in, all eager to help each other out. the vibe's pretty laid back, and you'll find someone to chat with in the common areas most days.
By user356640 (York) on Mar 31st 2026
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Took a bit of time to adjust to Derwent's quirky charm, but eventually it started feeling like home.
By user201392 (York) on Mar 30th 2026
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Got woken up by a fire alarm at 3am one night, everyone groggily shuffled outside in their pajamas. but hey, at least it meant i got to meet some of my neighbors and we all had a laugh about it after. having everyone huddle together on the lawn at ridiculous hours is oddly a good bonding experience.
By user930989 (York) on Mar 30th 2026
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Settling into derwent college was pretty smooth really since the community vibe helps you feel part of things right from the start.
By user638813 (York) on Mar 27th 2026
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Living at derwent was like being part of this never-ending social experiment. late-night chats in the corridors turned strangers into mates quickly. the common areas somehow always felt alive, which made even gloomy york evenings a bit brighter.
By user130665 (York) on Mar 24th 2026
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Walking back after late-night library sessions, it's comforting how the path's always lit and well-maintained.
By user498170 (York) on Mar 19th 2026
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Noticed how chill everyone was in the common areas, even late at night, which made it feel like a second home.
By user562010 (York) on Mar 17th 2026
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Walking into derwent felt like putting on a comfy sweater. nothing too fancy, but you immediately feel at ease and part of something friendly. it's like everyone there knows it's home without having to say it out loud.
By user963056 (York) on Mar 13th 2026
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Had some minor issues at first but the reception staff were really helpful and sorted them quickly
By user897094 (York) on Mar 10th 2026
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Settling into derwent was easier than expected because of its genuine community feel. it's a place where you quickly go from just another student to feeling part of a longstanding tradition.
By user894337 (York) on Feb 28th 2026
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Memories of late-night chats with flatmates in the common room still stick with me 🌙. somehow, all of us ended up laughing way too much on most nights.
By user204070 (York) on Feb 11th 2026
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Staff at derwent are kind of laid-back but still get things done. 💪 needed help with my radiator once and they actually listened and sorted it by the next day.
By user502377 (York) on Feb 6th 2026
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Never expected the social scene in derwent to be so lively. i usually keep to myself, but the common areas are always buzzing with new faces, and it's surprisingly easy to get pulled into a random conversation. even though it's one of the older colleges, it really has that vibrant uni feel.
By user541187 (York) on Feb 1st 2026
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Ran into a couple of people i wasn't overly keen on during my time at Derwent, but the social events kind of made up for it. you'll find yourself caught up in so many activities, it's hard to avoid meeting someone new. perfect spot if you're up for making friends without trying too hard.
By user471625 (York) on Jan 27th 2026
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Staff here are always up for a chat, which is such a bonus after a bike ride back from town. they really create a warm atmosphere, making it a home away from home.
By user563323 (York) on Jan 23rd 2026
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You can always find someone to chat with at the common areas without it feeling overcrowded. it's amazing how the college always feels sociable yet calm.
By user145588 (York) on Jan 19th 2026
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Didn't expect the common areas to be so lively and buzzing with people all the time. it's a great spot for meeting new friends, even if you're an introvert like me 😬. the overall atmosphere is just so inviting and warm that settling in was easier than i thought.
By user943088 (York) on Jan 15th 2026
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Felt surprisingly at ease the moment i stepped inside, like i'd found my own little piece of home away from home. everyone seemed genuinely chilled, like they were just as new as i was, making it simple to slide right in.
By user943734 (York) on Jan 13th 2026
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Sometimes it gets a bit noisy, especially on weekends when people are hanging out in the common areas late at night. it's not a dealbreaker but if you have early classes, it can be a bit annoying. definitely bring some earplugs just in case you need a good night's sleep.
By user368769 (York) on Jan 10th 2026
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Arriving at derwent, the combination of the college's historic charm and modern facilities was unexpected and oddly comforting, like a nice blend that effortlessly settled any initial nerves about moving in
By user961480 (York) on Jan 5th 2026
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Communal kitchen here feels just right for hanging out while cooking something quick, which made it surprisingly easy to get to know others. always seemed like people were swapping stories or making plans over late-night snacks.
By user236318 (York) on Jan 2nd 2026
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Commuting by bike is a breeze since everything’s so close, and i love dropping into the common room after lectures just to unwind a bit. kind of feels like a hub where life happens, making it integral to my student life at york.
By user615563 (York) on Dec 30th 2025
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Seems like everyone ends up passing through derwent college at some point. all the events they hold make it a social hotspot, so it's easier to meet people compared to other places 😅 good mix of academics and fun, and you don't have to worry about being bored for long.
By user593187 (York) on Dec 25th 2025
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Hanging out on the grassy quad with everyone on a rare sunny day is when derwent feels its most alive. you get a real sense of belonging hearing laughter and seeing friends lounging around,definitely adds an unexpected layer of enjoyment to my first year.
By user933690 (York) on Dec 21st 2025
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There's always someone around to chat with, which makes settling in much easier.
By user551985 (York) on Dec 19th 2025
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Definitely would go back to Derwent College. the comfort and sense of community just made everything feel right. living there truly enhanced my first year experience and that's something worth repeating.
By user807651 (York) on Dec 16th 2025
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Always thought living here was about more than a room, it really felt like home. the community vibe made it super easy to strike up conversations, and I even got into board games thanks to the common area gatherings. being part of derwent shaped my year in ways i hadn’t expected.
By user193313 (York) on Dec 12th 2025
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Living here really opened up my social circle , got to know so many people just while grabbing snacks in the common room.
By user530959 (York) on Dec 8th 2025
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Settling in at derwent was effortless, it had such a friendly and laid-back atmosphere. i enjoyed how the older buildings met newer facilities seamlessly, creating a vibe that was both homey and modern.
By user174012 (York) on Dec 4th 2025
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Being one of the oldest colleges adds a certain character to derwent that newer places just can't match. it feels like history is in the walls, and it definitely makes it a unique spot compared to other accommodations around campus. kind of nice to feel a part of something with a bit of a legacy, you know?
By user686853 (York) on Dec 4th 2025
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Moving in was a bit overwhelming, but after a few weeks, it felt like home. there's always someone around you know, which makes settling in easier
By user162392 (York) on Dec 1st 2025
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Really thought the age of the place would mean it felt a bit outdated, but everything's surprisingly well maintained and the community vibe is just so lively. it’s got that classic college charm without feeling dingy or worn out.
By user245828 (York) on Nov 27th 2025
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Didn't expect to find so much green space and peaceful spots to study around here.
By user615740 (York) on Nov 24th 2025
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Every weekday morning it’s bustling with students heading to lectures, giving it a vibrant feel without getting too frenetic. it’s become my little morning ritual to grab a quick chat and then wander to the labs, feeling noticeably more awake.
By user204890 (York) on Nov 19th 2025
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Moving into Derwent College was way better than I imagined. it's got such a friendly community vibe, which made settling in much easier than expected. plus, being on campus meant everything was within a short stroll, so university life was a breeze.
By user932392 (York) on Nov 14th 2025
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Saturday nights at Derwent College feel like everyone's in on a secret, with music and laughter spilling out from the common areas. Bumping into friends left and right created a sense of belonging I hadn't expected when I first moved in.
By user966597 (York) on Nov 9th 2025
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Meeting people at derwent was so chill, especially in the common areas where everyone just gathers to chat and laugh 😊. honestly, it made me feel at home even when everything else was a bit overwhelming.
By user161468 (York) on Nov 2nd 2025
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Stood out at derwent college was just how easy it was to bump into someone interesting in the corridors or shared spaces. never felt like you were just returning to a room, but more to a place filled with stories and friendly faces. really felt like part of a lively tapestry rather than just a student passing through.
By user398086 (York) on Oct 28th 2025
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Community feel is unique compared to other accommodations, with plenty of student-run events and shared spaces. makes it easier to make connections even if you're introverted
By user901996 (York) on Oct 25th 2025
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Mate, derwent feels like a proper home away from home, always welcoming and chill. perfect if you want something with a bit of history and community vibe.
By user262957 (York) on Oct 22nd 2025
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Rooms are a bit dated and could do with a refresh to match the friendly vibe throughout.
By user149973 (York) on Oct 19th 2025
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Compared to my old digs back in the small town, the vibe here kind of surprised me 😮. everyone's super laid-back and there's this sense of community that's hard to find elsewhere. it's not just a place to crash at night but somewhere you actually get to know people.
By user459097 (York) on Oct 16th 2025
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Expected a lively atmosphere but ended up appreciating the peaceful spots for late-night study sessions.
By user618823 (York) on Oct 14th 2025
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Found myself constantly running into people i knew in the common areas, which turned into quite a few spontaneous hangouts. this place really nailed that sense of community without making it feel forced at all.
By user879078 (York) on Oct 11th 2025
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Chilling with friends on the lawn, just before sunset, made derwent feel like a second home.
By user874975 (York) on Oct 7th 2025
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Noise can be a bit much sometimes, especially when you need to focus on assignments. wish the walls were thicker to help with that.
By user468114 (York) on Oct 1st 2025
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Never thought i'd enjoy history talks, but some of the events here made it unexpectedly fascinating. meeting people with shared interests in such an old college felt oddly comforting.
By user574801 (York) on Sep 26th 2025
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People constantly raving about the close-knit community made me appreciate the sense of belonging right away.
By user904194 (York) on Sep 21st 2025