There are several types of accommodation commonly used throughout the UK. When first arriving in the UK you’re likely to want temporary accommodation after which you may look for suitable accommodation that fits in with your job, location, earnings etc
Hotels
Most hotels will have en-suite rooms and serve breakfast. Some will also offer other meals throughout the day and usually have a drinks licence. Hotels are often a more expensive choice but you will find a wide range to suite all budgets across the UK.
Hostels
Many hostels offer private rooms for individuals or couples, with en-suite or shared bathroom facilities. More affordable hostel accommodation will be on a sharing basis, with between 4-8 people sharing a room. Hostels are ideal for mid term accommodation, rates are reasonable and you have the chance to meet many more people.
Self-catering
Self catering accommodation is similar to hotels, but self catering provides simple facilities for cooking. Many hotels, hostels, cottages etc& offer self catering options and are sometimes slightly cheaper.
B&B / Guesthouses
Bed & Breakfast accommodation can be found across the UK. Cheap and comfortable accommodation that is usually run by a family, or private organisation. They are smaller then hotels with a few rooms for a few guests.
Flats
One or two bedroom flats are common in the UK. Flats are larger than studios with separate bedrooms, bathrooms and living areas. They are considerably more expensive to rent then flat sharing.
Studios
Studios are larger rooms used as both a living area, with kitchenette and as a bedroom. Studios have en-suite bathrooms and are much smaller and cheaper then flats. Rates and types, like with all accommodation vary, some studios may be very small, others a lot larger but all have just one room with an en-suite.
Serviced Apartments
Similar to flats or studios with the addition of several facilities such as cleaning services, meals or drinks. Serviced apartments are generally more expensive then flats or studios, often much more spacious and luxurious.
House/Flat sharing
One of the most common types of accommodation in the UK and London, especially for those who don’t want permanent or very long term accommodation. Usually rents are paid monthly and tenants have 6-12 month contracts. A flat or house with 2-4 bedrooms is shared and each tenant pays rent and shares household bills, including gas, electricity, broadband, council tax etc.
Buying
The UK has accommodation to suit almost anyone, from apartment living in the capital to cottages in the country. When buying a property you must always use a solicitor. They will be able to explain the procedures for buying in the UK. Note that England has slightly different rules to Scotland when buying.
Below are some useful websites if you are searching for accommodation.
www.gumtree.com
Large free network listing all types of accommodation
www.roomads.co.uk
www.moveflat.com
London flat share network
www.net-lettings.com
www.hostelz.com
Hostel listings in various cities
www.rentomatic.co.uk
Helpful assistance on renting accommodation
