The Safest Areas in Bristol: A Student’s Guide

Choosing where to live is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a student. Bristol is welcoming city with plenty of neighbourhoods to explore and visit, but safety and comfort are often top priorities when looking for student accommodation and a place to live. Whether you’re moving to Bristol for the first time or considering a new area to live in, here’s our guide to the safest areas in Bristol.

Clifton 

When it comes to safe student accommodation in Bristol, Clifton stands out above the rest. Known for its Georgian architecture, green spaces, and village-like feel, Clifton offers a perfect mix of community and convenience.

• Safety: Clifton is regarded as one of the safest neighbourhoods in Bristol. Streets are well-lit, and the area has a welcoming atmosphere, making it ideal for students who want peace of mind.
• Student life: With cafés, independent shops, and the University of Bristol campus close by, Clifton strikes the balance between a quiet residential vibe and a lively student scene.
• Transport: Good transport links connect Clifton to the rest of the city, but many students love that it’s easy to walk or cycle into the city centre.

If you’re looking for student housing in Clifton, Urban Student offers a range of secure, modern and affordable accommodation designed with student living in mind.

Redland 

Redland is another area that regularly ranks as one of the best neighbourhoods in Bristol for students. It has a safe, residential feel, with plenty of student houses and easy access to the university.

• Safety: Redland is considered one of the more secure areas of Bristol, especially for young people and students.
• Location: Its proximity to Clifton and the city centre makes it convenient for both studying and socialising.

Stoke Bishop

Stoke Bishop is a little further out, but it’s home to one of the University of Bristol’s main student villages.

• Safety: This area is well known for its safe, suburban setting, which is popular with first-year students.
• Green space: The Downs, one of Bristol’s largest open spaces, is right on the doorstep.

Harbourside

If you prefer to live closer to the action, the Harbourside and parts of the city centre are also considered safe for students, particularly in managed student accommodation blocks.

• Lifestyle: Here you’ll find modern apartments, waterside walks, and some of Bristol’s best restaurants.
• Safety tip: While central areas are safe, they are busier, so always stay aware of your surroundings.

Why Clifton is the Top Choice for Student Safety

While each of these neighbourhoods offers something unique, Clifton remains one of the safest areas in Bristol for students. Its combination of security, location, and student-friendly atmosphere makes it a standout option. For students looking for peace of mind alongside an exciting university experience, student accommodation in Clifton is hard to beat, that’s why we’ve placed all our student accommodation offerings in this area.

At Urban Student, we’re proud to provide high-quality, secure student accommodation in Clifton, ensuring that you can focus on your studies and enjoy everything Bristol has to offer.

Bristol is one of the UK’s most popular student cities, and knowing where to live can make a huge difference to your university experience. Wherever you choose, safety is always an important factor.

If you’re looking for safe student housing in Bristol, Clifton is a fantastic choice – and Urban Student has the perfect place for you to call home.

Check out our apartments here.

Published: 15.09.25 by Phoebe Clutton