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Heriot-Watt University Accommodation

Heriot-Watt University is one of the oldest higher-education institutes in the UK, having been established in 1821 as a mechanics’ institute. As such it is the second oldest of the major Edinburgh universities, and second to be granted university status – which it achieved in 1966.

The University is the third largest in Edinburgh, but has a massive reach beyond the capital, with over 20,000 students studying at its campuses in Dubai, Malaysia, the Borders and Orkney. It was named after the illustrious inventor and engineer, James Watt, shortly after his death. The name of George Heriot was added later in 1885, due to the Trust of the 17th Century philanthropist merging with the University.

Unlike the University of Edinburgh and Napier, Heriot-Watt is centred on a campus that exists outside the City Centre – instead it is in the Riccarton to the South-West of the City. Student accommodation is located on this campus, with facilities and shops all located within. The University only guarantees student halls for first years and postgraduates, however, so others may want to think about moving into the city.

Edinburgh’s main areas for student property - Marchmont, Morningside and Bruntsfield – are all a short bus ride away for anyone looking for a slice of Edinburgh life after their first year. Newington and northern Edinburgh are further afield, but if you have transport then they are still well within reach. So choosing a University outside of the centre need not limit your options when it comes to choosing a student house.