The Tab’s Guide To House Hunting

So you’ve picked a group of friends, packed your bags, and now you’re ready to escape the walls of college and dive into freedom! Cue the onslaught of frenzied students running to the estate agents.

Not so fast children. House hunting can get violent. That’s a brief warning to those who haven’t already trawled through the cold Oxford streets, fought off rival students and argued with landlords to avoid homelessness.

Some people, of course, will still have college provided accommodation – and I despise you. All snug in your room with your quick Wi-Fi and your scout! You sicken me.

But some of us have houses to look for, and although you probably won’t end up with a palace, you don’t want to be stuck in a shithole either.

Here are some areas of town you might want to consider…

From college president to homeless resident.

Jericho

Sometimes considered to be the coolest area of town, Jericho is filled with various pubs and classy restaurants. To be honest, you probably won’t be able to eat at any of them with a student loan, but you could always press your nose up against the glass and wish you were there. There’s also the stylish cocktail bar ‘Freud’ and a local cinema if you’re short of things to do.

Cowley Road

A little bit less expensive than Jericho, Cowley Road boasts its fair share of takeaways and restaurants. If you need an excuse to stop working then there’s a plenty of cafés, shops and even the 02 Academy. But obviously the main reason to live here is to be near to G and D’s, the most precious of Oxford institutions.

Phwoar, look at that brickwork.

Iffley Road

There are fewer shops here than on Cowley road but still some pubs for all of your alcohol related needs. The university’s main sport facilities are here, so you can finally get that dream body – or at least tell people you’re getting into shape when you’re actually stuck in the library.

Abingdon Road

A quieter area than the others but still very close to the town centre, there are newsagents and pubs dotted all along the road. It’s also near to the river which is nice if you fancy a stroll or even just want to throw your textbooks away. Then again, considering recent floods you might end up swimming to lectures…

Prime textbook dumping spot.

Ultimately it depends on you and your housemates. Then, once you’ve finally put down the deposit for your new mansion, you can relax and laugh at those who have stayed in college accommodation. Their heating and warm showers are nothing compared to our fearless independence.