Neighbourhood Guide: Sandyford

Looking for a perfectly situated and affordable area to live in? Sandyford might be the place for you!

Just a short 10-minute walk to campus and situated between Heaton, Jesmond and Ouseburn, Sandyford is a beloved student area.   

Hi, I’m Esme, a media student at Newcastle and I’m here to tell you a bit about the area where I live: Sandyford! 

What sort of accommodation is available?

As a popular student area, Sandyford has a great choice of places to live. Similar to Jesmond and Heaton, most housing is terraced, making it a great place to move with friends.

With a mix of students, young professionals, and families, the area is quieter than the busyness of the city centre but is only a short distance away. 

What are the transport links like?

Despite not having its own metro stop, it is only a 10-minute walk from Jesmond or Manors depending on which direction you are headed.

Alternatively, it has several bus routes running through the area which are frequent and reliable, with stops dotted around the area for more options.

Although, in all honesty, the city centre, university campus and even Jesmond Dene and Heaton Park are all within comfortable walking distance. 

How long does it take to walk to Haymarket?

From the heart of Sandyford, it is only a 15-minute walk from Haymarket making it ideally located for a student house.  

Are there good cycle routes towards Haymarket?

You can cycle from Sandyford to Haymarket in 5-7 minutes by heading straight down Sandyford Road, however, it can be quite a busy road so if you prefer a quieter route you can go through Shieldfield and Northumbria Campus in a similar time, both of which have cycle lanes. 

Is there parking available? Do I need a permit?

As many streets in Sandyford are residential, on-street parking is available. However, there are restrictions and will need permits, so it is worth checking to see if your street needs one, if you plan on bringing a car. 

Are there amenities nearby (i.e. supermarkets)?

There are plenty of amenities in and around Sandyford, with multiple convenience stores dotted throughout and Tesco Express located underneath Portland Green Student Accommodation for all your day-to-day needs.

If you are looking to do a bigger shop, then the Morrisons in Byker and shops in the city centre are both only a 15-minute walk away.  

How about places to go out for food and drinks?

Sandyford is full of great places to go for delicious food and drink. Whether you’re going for brunch, lunch or dinner there are loads of places with all different types of cuisine.

From Italian, Indian, Mexican or classic fish and chips, there is something for everyone. My particular favourites are Aidan’s Kitchen for a coffee or brunch, pizza at Scream for Pizza or Little Lobo for a burrito, but with so many options it’s hard to pick! 

Is there anything else unique about this area?

Sandyford is the perfect in-between place for a chilled and residential area that is so close to fun things to do both in the neighbourhood and outside of it. Sandyford’s City Stadium provides the perfect place for a walk, picnic or kickabout, it’s ideal for upcoming summer days.  

Sandyford really does have it all—affordable housing, a relaxed vibe, and plenty to see, do and eat. Whether you’re after green space, great food, or just a short walk to campus, it’s an ideal spot for student life in Newcastle.

Find out more about other areas to live in and around Newcastle by reading our Jesmond and Ouseburn Neighbourhood Guides,

By Esme, third-year Media student and Student Content Creator