If you've got an offer from the University of Hertfordshire, you're probably wondering what living in Hatfield is actually like. Here's a balanced, no-spin look at the good and the not-so-good — so you can decide for yourself.
The short answer
Yes — Hatfield is a solid, practical place to be a student, especially if you value affordability and easy access to London over big-city nightlife. It won't feel like Manchester or Leeds, but it's safe, well-connected, cheaper than the capital, and built around a genuinely good modern university campus. Many students love it precisely because it's calmer and more manageable.
What's good about being a student in Hatfield
It's affordable
Rent is significantly cheaper than central London, yet you're only about 35 minutes from King's Cross by train. A bills-included room in a Hatfield house share gives you a fixed, predictable cost each month, and as a full-time student you're exempt from council tax too.
The campus is modern and self-contained
The University of Hertfordshire invests heavily in its facilities. The de Havilland and College Lane campuses have strong sports, library and Students' Union provision, and the SU venue, The Forum, hosts club nights and live events right on campus — handy when the town centre is quiet.
You're brilliantly connected
Fast trains to London, easy access to the A1(M), and nearby towns like St Albans (lively, historic) and Welwyn Garden City all within a short hop. Weekend trips are genuinely easy.
It's compact and walkable
Most things — campus, shops, the station, your house — are close together. You can live without a car, walk or cycle most journeys, and keep costs down.
The honest downsides
Nightlife is limited
Hatfield town itself is quiet in the evenings. The social scene revolves around campus and house parties rather than a strip of clubs. If big-city nightlife is your top priority, you'll be relying on the SU and the occasional trip to London or St Albans.
The town centre is functional, not pretty
Hatfield is a post-war new town built around the old aerospace industry, so the centre is practical rather than picturesque. That said, Old Hatfield (near the station) and Hatfield House and Park are genuinely lovely.
You'll want to make your own fun
Students who throw themselves into societies, sport and a sociable house tend to love Hatfield. If you keep to yourself, it can feel a little sleepy.
Is it safe?
Hatfield is a typical small Hertfordshire town and is generally considered safe, with the usual common-sense precautions you'd take anywhere. Living in a well-run, friendly house share with housemates around adds to that sense of security, particularly for first-time renters and international students.
Who is Hatfield best for?
Hatfield suits students who want value, an easy commute to London, a strong campus, and a calmer place to focus on their degree — rather than a 24/7 party city.
If that sounds like you, you'll get on well here. And finding the right room makes all the difference: a comfortable, sociable, bills-included house turns a "fine" student town into a genuinely great experience.
Looking for a room in Hatfield?
We let furnished, bills-included rooms across Hatfield AL10, close to both campuses and with no agency fees. Take a look at our student accommodation or book a viewing.