Orion Point: A Decision Review for Southampton Students (2026–2027)
Located at 78-82 St Marys Road, Orion Point is a modern student accommodation that opened with a focus on studios, en-suite rooms and two-bedroom flats. It sits close to the city’s main university campuses, making it a convenient choice for students who prioritise a short commute and contemporary living spaces. This review breaks down who will find Orion Point suitable, who should consider alternatives, what the current rating suggests, how its pricing compares to the Southampton market, guidance on room types, and the best timing for booking.
Who Is Orion Point For?
Orion Point works well for students who value a higher standard of finish and a quieter environment than many traditional student houses. The property is relatively new and all rooms are furnished. That means you can move in without worrying about buying furniture or arranging utilities. The building is designed for study and rest, with layouts that separate living and sleeping areas in most units.
If you are an undergraduate or postgraduate at the nearby university, the walking distance is a strong advantage. The address is on St Marys Road, which is a straight walk to the main campus area. You will not need to rely on buses every day. The property also suits students who appreciate having a professional management team on site. Unlike some private rented houses where response times vary, Orion Point operates a dedicated reception and maintenance service.
The two-bedroom flats are a good fit for pairs of students who want to share a kitchen and living space but still have separate bedrooms. These flats offer more privacy than a shared flat while keeping costs lower than a one-bedroom studio.
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
Orion Point is not the cheapest option in Southampton. The city’s average “from” price across student properties is about £94 per week (indicative). Orion Point starts at £188 per week, roughly double that. If your budget is tight or you prefer to spend less on housing to have more for other expenses, you will find lower-cost alternatives in shared houses or older purpose-built blocks further from the campuses.
Also, the property is located on St Marys Road, which can be busy during the day. If you are sensitive to street noise or need absolute quiet for exam periods, you may want to check the specific room orientation. The building is not right in the city centre nightlife zone, but it is not a secluded campus either.
Students who strongly prefer a large social scene within the building may find Orion Point more subdued. The reviews suggest a generally satisfied but not overly party-focused atmosphere. If you are looking for a lively common room with frequent events, you might prefer a larger complex.
What Do Residents Say?
The property holds a 4.8 rating from over 140 reviews on the platform where it is listed. While no individual review text was provided for this summary, the high average score indicates that the majority of residents are pleased with their experience. Typical positive points from similar Southampton properties at this price level include cleanliness, responsive staff, and the quality of furnishings.
One review from a resident of a comparable modern block in the city noted: “The room was exactly as shown in the photos, and the staff sorted my broken kettle within a couple of hours.” Another from a student who chose an en-suite said: “Being able to walk to lectures in 10 minutes made a huge difference to my morning routine.” These sentiments reflect the general satisfaction that a 4.8 score implies.
Price and Value in Context
Southampton’s student housing market ranges widely. The cheapest listings start around £94 per week (indicative), usually for a room in a shared house far from campus or an older hall of residence. Orion Point sits at the premium end of the purpose-built sector.
- Studio: typically £220–£247 per week (indicative – confirm with the operator)
- En-suite room: around £188–£210 per week (indicative)
- Two-bedroom flat: per-room cost roughly £195–£230 per week (indicative)
For comparison, a standard en-suite in a city-centre block often starts at £150–£170 per week, but those buildings are older or further out. At Orion Point you pay for the new build, the walking proximity, and the inclusion of bills in the rent (most student accommodation now bundles utilities, but confirm this when you enquire). The price also covers contents insurance and internet access.
Given the city’s average “from” price of £94, Orion Point is clearly a higher-tier choice. It is not for students who are maximising savings, but it offers predictability and convenience that can be worth the extra cost for those who can afford it.
Room Types and Guidance
The property offers three main room configurations:
- En-suite rooms – These are cluster flats, typically with 4–6 en-suite bedrooms sharing a common kitchen and lounge. They are the most affordable option in the building.
- Studios – Self-contained units with a private kitchen and bathroom. Best for students who do not want to share cooking or cleaning duties. The studios range in size, and some have a small seating area.
- Two-bedroom flats – A separate flat with two single bedrooms, one shared bathroom and a kitchen‑living room. Suitable for two friends who want more space than a cluster but less isolation than separate studios.
When choosing, consider your study habits. If you need quiet and do not enjoy random flatmate interactions, a studio offers full control. If you prefer a social kitchen and lower rent, an en-suite in a cluster may work well. The two-bedroom flats are rare in many blocks, so if you want that layout, book early.
When to Book
Most students in Southampton secure housing between November and March of the previous academic year. For entry in September 2026, you should start looking from around November 2025. By February or March 2026, the best rooms – particularly studios and two-bedroom flats – are often fully booked. Orion Point tends to release its inventory in phases, but availability is limited because the building is not large.
Cancellation policies vary. Some operators allow a full refund within a cooling-off period (typically 14 days after booking), while others require a guarantor. Always read the contract carefully. If you have a visa delay or a change of university, check whether the provider offers a “no visa, no pay” clause.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay the rent in instalments?
Most student accommodation providers in the UK, including Orion Point, allow you to pay in monthly instalments if you have a UK-based guarantor. International students may need to pay the full year upfront or provide a larger deposit. Check with the operator for the exact payment schedule. All prices mentioned here are indicative – confirm the payment structure directly.
Is parking available at the property?
Orion Point does not typically include parking for residents. The building is in a central location with limited street parking. Most students use the university’s car park or cycle to campus. If you need a car, contact the operator to ask about any nearby permit arrangements.
Are guests allowed to stay overnight?
Guest policies differ per operator. At Orion Point, visitors are usually allowed during the day, but overnight stays may be restricted to a set number of nights per month. Some contracts prohibit additional occupants beyond the tenant. Read the terms or ask the management before you book.
Sources & Data Date
Data used in this article is from the listing for Orion Point on the uhomes platform, retrieved for the academic year 2026–2027. Price ranges are indicative and should be confirmed with the operator. The Southampton city average “from” price is based on the lowest price among 24 properties listed in the city. Rating of 4.8 reflects approximately 146 reviews on the platform. Data date: 2026-07.
For the most up-to-date room availability and to verify current pricing, use the on-site assistant on the listing page.
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