Student Accommodation near Edinburgh College Of Art (ECOA)

Edinburgh College of Art is one of the eleven art schools of University of Edinburgh. Established in 1760, Edinburgh College of Art boasts a rich history, culture and tradition. It offers 80 ground-breaking programs for its students. The QS World University Rankings has placed Edinburgh College of Art at the 17th position.

A few of the most famous artists and architects who graduated from Edinburgh College of Art include Sir Robert Matthew, Theodore S. Clerk, Patrick Nuttgens, Sarah Gough Adamson, Barbara Balmer and Violet Banks. Edinburgh College of Art commonly referred to as ECA, located in Edinburgh is an art, design, creative and performing arts school. It enjoys the reputation of being the oldest as well as the largest in Scotland for providing further education in architecture, art & design, music disciplines and history of art to more than two thousand students enrolled at the University of Edinburgh. The main mission of ECA is to promote critical enquiry through learning, scholarly research, teaching as well as education in creative practice, which has made it one of the most successful colleges in all of Europe.

According to The Complete University Guide Rankings of 2012, ECA was ranked 1st in Art and Design in the UK. Although founded in 1760, the college gained its current name and site in the year 1907. Earlier it was associated with Heriot-Watt University and since 2004, the degrees have been awarded by the University of Edinburgh. The merger between the College and University took place on the 1st August 2011 and combined with the School of Arts, Culture and Environment; it still exists in the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences with the name of Edinburgh College of Art. Professor Chris Breward was appointed Principal of Edinburgh College of Art as well as the Vice Principal Creative Industries & Performing Arts of the University of Edinburgh in September 2011.

Students will find plenty of Edinburgh off campus student accommodation options near the campus. All our Edinburgh College of Art properties are located close to public transportation, have amazing facilities (like gyms, Instagrammable rooftop terraces, gaming lounges, theater rooms, and more), and a range of apartments. Share your accommodations with roommates, enjoy the luxury of an en suite room, or live solo in a studio. Students typically enjoy finding Edinburgh College of Art student accommodation at places like Sugarhouse Close, Student Castle Edinburgh, Portsburgh Court, The Old Printworks, Goods Corner, The Bridge House, and more.

Each area has unique qualities, but all offer excellent student accommodation choices close to Edinburgh College of Art. Let House Of Student help you find, compare, and book the ideal spot for your student housing. You can select a suitable student room from the wide variety of Edinburgh College of Art student accommodations, once you have made up your mind to study in Edinburgh. You could decide to live near the university campus or near the Edinburgh city centre, as per your preference.

Heading to college at Edinburgh College of Art? Congrats! Students from around the world come to Edinburgh College of Art thanks to its top-rated programs and central location. Edinburgh College of Art boasts a beautiful campus, wide selection of majors, and various campus clubs, so you’ll always have something to do

Getting to Edinburgh College of Art (Lauriston Place & Grassmarket):

Both main ECA buildings are centrally located and easily accessible:

Walking: Both Lauriston Place and the Grassmarket are within easy walking distance (10-20 minutes) from many parts of Edinburgh city centre, including Waverley and Haymarket train stations and the main bus station (St Andrew Square).

Bus: Edinburgh has an extensive bus network operated primarily by Lothian Buses. Numerous routes serve the city centre and stop near ECA's campuses.

Key Routes (General): Look for buses heading towards the city centre, Tollcross, Meadows, and areas south and west of the centre. Many routes stop along Lauriston Place, George IV Bridge, and Grassmarket.

University Buses: The University of Edinburgh often has its own bus services or works with Lothian Buses on routes that are particularly useful for students. Check the University of Edinburgh student portal and the Lothian Buses website for information on these routes.

Travel Planner: Use the Lothian Buses website or apps like Citymapper or Google Maps to plan your specific journeys.

Train:

Waverley Station: The main train station in Edinburgh, located in the city centre and within walking distance (15-20 minutes) of ECA's campuses.

Haymarket Station: Another major train station to the west of the city centre, also within walking distance (15-20 minutes) or a short bus ride to ECA.

Cycling: Edinburgh is becoming increasingly cycle-friendly, although there are some hilly areas. Cycling to ECA is a popular option for many students. The University and city have bike storage facilities.

Student Travel Within Edinburgh:

Walking and Cycling: As mentioned, these are primary modes of transport for many students due to the central location of the University and ECA campuses.

Buses: Lothian Buses offers various ticket options suitable for students, including day tickets, weekly passes, and termly/annual passes. Look for the Ridacard, which offers unlimited travel. Check the Lothian Buses website and the University student portal for student-specific ticket information and discounts.

Trams: Edinburgh has a tram line that runs between the airport and the city centre, with stops along Princes Street and near Haymarket. It can be useful for getting to and from the airport and some parts of the city.

Student Discounts on Travel:

Lothian Buses Ridacard: A key discount for University of Edinburgh students, offering unlimited bus and tram travel within the city zone. Purchase details and eligibility are usually available through the University or Lothian Buses.

ScotRail 16-25 Railcard: If you plan to travel by train within Scotland and the UK, this railcard offers a 1/3 discount on most fares.

ECA's central location provides excellent access to Edinburgh's rich cultural and historical attractions:

Within Walking Distance (15-20 minutes):

Edinburgh Castle: An iconic landmark perched atop an extinct volcano, offering breathtaking views.

The Royal Mile: A historic thoroughfare connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

National Museum of Scotland: Explore Scotland's history, natural world, science, and art.

Scottish National Gallery: Houses an impressive collection of Scottish and international art.

Princes Street Gardens: Beautiful gardens located in the valley below Edinburgh Castle.

Grassmarket: A historic marketplace with pubs, shops, and a lively atmosphere.

Greyfriars Kirkyard: A historic cemetery with interesting stories and connections to Harry Potter.

The Meadows: A large public park popular with students for recreation.

Numerous other historic buildings, museums, galleries, shops, cafes, restaurants, and traditional pubs.

A Short Bus Ride Away (Within 30 minutes):

Arthur's Seat: An ancient volcano offering panoramic views of Edinburgh.

Calton Hill: Home to several impressive monuments and stunning city views.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: A tranquil oasis with diverse plant collections.

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art: Two galleries showcasing modern and contemporary art.

Considering the central location of ECA's campuses, here are some popular and convenient areas for student housing:

Tollcross:

Proximity to ECA: Excellent. Located immediately south of the Lauriston Place campus and within easy walking distance (5-10 minutes) of both main ECA sites.

Amenities: A vibrant area with a diverse mix of shops, restaurants, cafes, pubs, and theatres.

Transport Links: Excellent bus connections throughout the city.

Affordability: Generally moderately priced for central Edinburgh, offering a mix of shared flats and some student-specific accommodations.

Student Atmosphere: Very strong student presence due to its proximity to ECA and other University of Edinburgh departments.

Marchmont & Bruntsfield:

Proximity to ECA: Very Good. Located south of The Meadows, within a comfortable walking distance (15-20 minutes) or a short bus ride to ECA.

Amenities: Leafy and popular residential areas with a good selection of local shops, cafes, and green spaces.

Transport Links: Excellent bus connections to the city centre and the University.

Affordability: Can be moderately expensive due to their desirability, offering a mix of shared flats and tenement properties.

Student Atmosphere: Traditionally popular student areas with a strong sense of community.

Newington:

Proximity to ECA: Good. Located further south than Marchmont and Bruntsfield, requiring a slightly longer walk (20-25 minutes) or a bus ride to ECA.

Amenities: A more relaxed atmosphere with local shops and amenities.

Transport Links: Excellent bus links along the main road (A7) to the city centre and the University.

Affordability: Generally slightly more affordable than Marchmont and Bruntsfield.

Student Atmosphere: A solid student community with a slightly quieter vibe.

City Centre (Old Town & New Town):

Proximity to ECA: Excellent. Offers the shortest commute to ECA's central locations.

Amenities: Unparalleled access to all city centre amenities, including shops, restaurants, nightlife, and transport links.

Transport Links: Outstanding bus, tram, and train connections.

Affordability: Generally the most expensive option due to its prime location.

Student Atmosphere: Very vibrant with a large student population from all Edinburgh universities.

Haymarket:

Proximity to ECA: Good. Located to the west of the city centre, within walking distance (15-20 minutes) or a short bus/tram ride to ECA.

Amenities: A bustling area with shops, restaurants, and a major train station.

Transport Links: Excellent train, tram, and bus connections.

Affordability: Can be moderately expensive.

Student Atmosphere: A mix of students and young professionals.

Book with House of Student and become a part of the largest global community of students accomodation with us. Know why students love us!

Safe Spaces, No Exceptions
Student-only, fully vetted homes

365 days, 24/7 genuine support
Your concierge aka ivey.ai and our global team of real humans are there to help you.

Lowest Prices, Best Deals Guaranteed
No hidden costs or platform fee

Thrive Inside Out
Mental health & wellbeing support always available throughout your tenure.

Grow Anywhere
More than 1 million student rooms across 1000+ student cities
Reserve now.

Pay Later, Free Cancellations
Change of mind? No questions asked cancellations within the specified period