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Needs 2 more reviews to show StudentCrowd score
0.4 mi from nearest campus View map
  • 9 mins
  • 3 mins
  • 9 mins
Most helpful review

A very nice city block which is safe and has a great view throughout

Value for money
Location
Property management
Cleaning
Social spaces
Social experience
Internet / Wifi
By member1084702
On 21st April 23
verified Verified student
Read all reviews

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All the Answers You Need About Student Accommodation

What tenancy length do I need?

Some students choose to stay during the academic year, whilst others – particularly international students – require a tenancy that covers the entire year. You can also find student accommodation that is available for one or two terms, classified as a “short stay” on our search filters.

Should I stay in catered student accommodation?

This is totally up to you! Catered accommodation means you will be served meals at set times in a dining hall, and you’ll likely have access to fewer kitchen facilities than if you were to stay in self-catered accommodation.

What is a guarantor and do I need one?

A guarantor is a person who signs a contract to agree to pay your rent if you are unable to. Most university accommodation requires a guarantor, and this applies to both domestic and international students.

Will I need to pay a deposit on student accommodation?

Most likely, yes, you’ll need to pay a deposit. This will be refunded at the end of your stay as long as there is no damage to the room or property.

What bills will my rent include?

If you are staying in university-run accommodation or private halls, your rent should include any utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and internet. Students are not required to pay council tax, however you may need to fill in an exemption form so make sure you check with your local council.

What is purpose-built student accommodation?

Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) are residential buildings designed for students. They are often located close to campus, boast modern facilities, include all bills, and often have staff on site to assist residents.

Will my student accommodation be furnished?

Student accommodation is typically fully furnished. Your room should include at least a bed, clothes storage, desk and chair. You’ll likely need to bring things such as bedding and kitchen utensils, but we have a full list here of everything you’ll need.


Read CityBlock Reading Reviews


Student Review: 3 /5
By member12121167 On 20th October 24 verified Verified student

Very good. I like it very much

Value for money
Location
Property management
Cleaning
Social spaces
Social experience
Internet / Wifi
All reviews are the views of StudentCrowd members, not of StudentCrowd Limited
Student Review: 4.4 /5
By member4120521 On 17th October 24 verified Verified student

Excellent university, love the campus so lovely walking around the green campus

Value for money
Location
Property management
Cleaning
Social spaces
Social experience
Internet / Wifi
All reviews are the views of StudentCrowd members, not of StudentCrowd Limited
Student Review: 2.3 /5
By member10108616 On 14th May 24 verified Verified student

I have stayed in Cityblock since September 2022 until July 2024. My first academic year was very pleasant. Unfortunately, there has been a new staff building manager which has dramatically declined my experience. Under the supervision of this new building manager my flat has been flooded by a water pipe issue, there has been no running water for 2 days, there was no electricity power for 24hrs and over 50 fire alarms incidents during the night because there is an “internal fault”. Staff members such as letting assistants, maintenance and cleaners are trying there very hardest to go above and beyond and do there best with no credit, but the new Building Manager is hindering the upkeep of this building. Currently, I am paying £1,050 for the cheapest room and not satisfied. Cityblock advertise 24/7 CCTV but this is only for the main entrance. There is no cameras by the bins, in the lift or in the corridors so lots of social incidents take place and there is insufficient security.

Value for money
Location
Property management
Cleaning
Social spaces
Social experience
Internet / Wifi
All reviews are the views of StudentCrowd members, not of StudentCrowd Limited
Student Review: 4.7 /5
By member1084702 On 21st April 23 verified Verified student

A very nice city block which is safe and has a great view throughout

Value for money
Location
Property management
Cleaning
Social spaces
Social experience
Internet / Wifi
All reviews are the views of StudentCrowd members, not of StudentCrowd Limited
Student Review: 4.6 /5
By member1084629 On 20th April 23 verified Verified student

All great at this accommodation

Value for money
Location
Property management
Cleaning
Social spaces
Social experience
Internet / Wifi
All reviews are the views of StudentCrowd members, not of StudentCrowd Limited
Student Review: 5 /5
By member1162377 On 17th September 21 verified Verified student

Cityblock Berkshire House exceeded my expectations!! The room was so cosy and nice and the people were so friendly , smiley and always keen to offer support. Highly recommend it!!

Value for money
Location
Property management
Cleaning
Social spaces
Social experience
Internet / Wifi
All reviews are the views of StudentCrowd members, not of StudentCrowd Limited
Student Review: 5 /5
By becsmith On 2nd May 19 verified Verified student

I love living at CityBlock! The team here are so friendly and I feel so at home. The space we have downstairs with the gym, study room and kitchens is amazing for when friends come over. Would 100% recommend to anyone!

Value for money
Location
Property management
Cleaning
Social spaces
Social experience
Internet / Wifi
All reviews are the views of StudentCrowd members, not of StudentCrowd Limited
Student Review: 4.7 /5
By Jethro Clark On 25th March 19 verified Verified student

The location of CityBlock is ideal as it is between the town center and the University. There is easy access to transport services with a bus stop just outside your front door as well as bike storage within the accommodation if you have a bike. The staff are all very friendly and accommodating and are more than happy to help with any issue. The rooms are much nicer than the majority of private halls in Reading and are much better value for money. The communal areas are great also with a variety of amenities such as a gym, cinema room, and communal kitchens.

Value for money
Location
Property management
Cleaning
Social spaces
Social experience
Internet / Wifi
All reviews are the views of StudentCrowd members, not of StudentCrowd Limited

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