A guide to living in East Midlands

Easy access to London and the national motorway network ensures the economic prosperity of the East Midlands, UK. A dedicated airport also serves to connect this central region to Europe and the world, with key cities Leicester and Nottingham also providing financial stimulus and good value options for housing. The county of Derbyshire includes much of the Peak District National Park, while culinary highlights from this corner of England include Red Leicester and Stilton cheeses. Manufacturing industries form a significant chunk of the local economy, and Rolls Royce recently invested £90 million in a new test facility in Derby.

Excellent

66.7

Very Good

24.3

Average

6.4

Disappointing

1.3

Very poor

1.2

Best places to live in East Midlands

How is ranking calculated?

Viewing 1-5 out of 171

Rental Only

British Waterways, NG1

By Native Communities

4.91

(22 reviews)

A vibrant community of residents that feels like family, with the freedom to join in as much or as little as you like. Easy access to neighbourhood bars and restaurants in Nottingham. And a unique, Grade-II listed apartment that you’re proud to call home in an iconic location. Find it all at British Waterways.

1st

Ranked 1st out of 115 in East Midlands

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Rental Only

Award Winner 2024

The Saxons, LE1

By Centrick - Built for Renters

Award winner 2024

4.82

(58 reviews)

The Saxons comprises one and two bedroom apartments, with light from large, wrap-around windows. Although the development is in one of the most central locations in the city, each unit has been designed to offer privacy that feels removed from the hustle and bustle outside. With the city’s largest shopping centre located just across the road, those living at The Saxons can not only enjoy all of the on-site amenities, but also have easy access to a range of dining, entertainment, and retail options right on their doorstep.

2nd

Ranked 2nd out of 115 in East Midlands

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Lloyds Living at Gedling, NG4

By Lloyds Living

Award winner 2025

4.7

4.70

(22 reviews)

Lloyds Living at Gedling is a brand-new development of 2 and 3 bedroom homes. All the homes on this site benefit from solar panels. The development is boarded by the 240-acre Gedling Country Park and is just a couple of miles away from the bustling market town of Arnold which has a number of high street shops, independent retailers, banks, pubs, restaurants, a leisure centre and theatre. It is also only 5 miles from the centre of Nottingham and a bus network connects the development to the local towns and cities. There are also a number of local schools (nursery, primary and secondary) and a hospital nearby.

3rd

Ranked 3rd out of 115 in East Midlands

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Queen Street Quarter, LE1

By BTR Operating Ltd.

4.59

(93 reviews)

A blend of classic and contemporary flats. A friendly, welcoming community of 230 homes. A prime city centre location. And a refreshing approach to renting. We think you’ll find that Queen Street Quarter is a special place to live. Imagine coming home to take a dip in the pool, relax in the coal-fired sauna, or a workout in our fully equipped, premium gym. Our stylish lounge and games room are perfect for unwinding when you’re feeling sociable. While the workspace makes working from home a pleasure. It’s central Leicester location means everything is a short walk away.

4th

Ranked 4th out of 115 in East Midlands

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The Arches, LE3

By Native Communities

4.4

4.40

(63 reviews)

The Arches will transition its management from Cortland to Native on 30th June 2025.The Arches offers 184 brand new ready-to-rent apartments, close to Leicester city centre. With a choice of courtyard and riverside views, the studio, one and two bedrooms feature high quality appliances and are finished to a high standard. Amenities on offer include a resident's lounge, gym, media room and work space as well as secure underground parking and bike storage.

5th

Ranked 5th out of 115 in East Midlands

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Page 1 of 35

Featured developments in East Midlands

Latest Reviews in East Midlands

2362 total reviews

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Viewing 1-5 out of 2362

Sara M (Tenant)

Unverified

The Barnum, NG2

Dec 2025

This is rated 4.00 out of 5.00.

It’s well designed. It’s only a small flat but uses the space well

Sara M (Tenant)

Unverified

The Barnum, NG2

Dec 2025

It’s well designed. It’s only a small flat but uses the space well. It has good storage and everything you need. The shared spaces are a problem. The door locks have all been broken since we moved in in March. This is a security risk and as a female makes me feel unsafe. The rear area near the bike stores is a mess and I think has been cleaned once since we moved in. The bin storage area is also unacceptable. It generally feels like management only cares about keeping up appearances (ie the bits the general public can see like reception and the gym are lovely but the bits that only affect the residents are not well maintained)

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

The area is great. Super close to the trains, trams and buses. Parking at the station is super handy. Lots of local shops and restaurants, and very close to the centre of town. The new shop downstairs is nice

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

The ticket system is ok but very slow. Everything internal to the flat has eventually been resolved but it took a long time

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

I wish I knew about the issues with security and the state of the out of sight public areas

・・

HomeViews

KTP (Tenant)

Unverified

The Arches, LE3

Dec 2025

This is rated 5.00 out of 5.00.

The Arches Leicester

KTP (Tenant)

Unverified

The Arches, LE3

Dec 2025

The development is fantastic, and I've been thoroughly impressed with the quality of life here. The design of the building itself is appealing, and the internal layout is very practical. Crucially, the amenities in the house are fantastic; everything is high-quality and works perfectly, making day-to-day living incredibly comfortable and stress-free. Management services have been excellent. Building management is responsive and keeps the communal areas well-maintained. Any minor issues I've had have been dealt with quickly and professionally by property management. The commitment to maintaining a nice, functional living environment is evident throughout the development, making it a truly great place to come home to. The convenience of the location, coupled with the great facilities and attentive management, makes this development a five-star living experience.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

I genuinely love this local area. It is a really nice place to live with great surroundings and an incredibly convenient setup. The range and quality of amenities are a major plus—there are lots of great shops nearby, and the city centre is easily accessible, meaning restaurants, bars, and entertainment are never far away. The location is perfect for work due to the transport links, which are frequent and reliable, making my commute straightforward. Living on my street has been pleasant and quiet. Bin collections are always on time, and I haven't experienced any issues with anti-social behaviour. Parking is generally manageable. Overall, the area combines the benefits of having a peaceful residential base with the massive convenience of having the city and great transport links right on the doorstep.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Promptly, attempting to solve them immediately where possible.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

The sheer amount of community events hosted here; if you want to try something new or meet new people, at one point on any week - there will be an event for you to go to in the foyer.

・・

HomeViews

Shayla Sakora (Tenant)

Verified Resident

The Arches, LE3

Dec 2025

This is rated 5.00 out of 5.00.

Abbie is Wonderful - this place is beautiful!

Shayla Sakora (Tenant)

Verified Resident

The Arches, LE3

Dec 2025

Facilities are impeccable, Abbie is a super star and always willing to help, it’s rare that you find such a community in such a small place - no more evil landlords here. Originally wasn’t first on the list as it was a bit out of budget but after moving into a different (horrid property with awful landlords) we needed somewhere to call home - look the jump and we’re welcomed and moved in so fast!

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Its a beautiful place with houses being build just across the river and a wonderful sunset to standout on the balcony and watch

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Brilliant they come out within a week and by the next it’s sorted!

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Abbie will literally help you with anything! It’s always secure and clean, we love this place!

・・

HomeViews

Vatsal Jhaveri (Tenant)

Verified Resident

Queen Street Quarter, LE1

Dec 2025

Reviewer was offered an incentive for an honest review, regardless of rating

This is rated 5.00 out of 5.00.

Excellent Building and Management Team

Vatsal Jhaveri (Tenant)

Verified Resident

Queen Street Quarter, LE1

Dec 2025

I’ve really enjoyed living at Queen Street Apartments. The building is modern, well maintained, and feels secure at all times. My apartment is comfortable, quiet, and has everything I need for easy day-to-day living. The management team has been consistently helpful and quick to respond whenever I’ve had a question or a minor issue, which has made the whole experience stress-free. The location is also excellent, with shops, transport, and city-centre conveniences just a short walk away. Overall, it has been a great place to live and I’m very happy to call it home.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

The local area is one of the best things about living here. Everything you need is within walking distance - shops, cafés, supermarkets, and great transport links. It feels lively and convenient without being overwhelming.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

The building management has been very responsive and professional whenever I’ve raised any issues. Any minor problems in the apartment or building have been addressed quickly and efficiently. They communicate clearly and follow up to ensure everything is resolved, which makes living here stress-free and reassuring.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

One thing I wish I had known before moving in is how lively the area can be at peak times. While it’s very convenient and central, it can get a bit noisy on weekends or during events. Overall, it hasn’t been a major issue and the benefits of the location far outweigh this minor point.

・・

Reviewer was offered an incentive for an honest review, regardless of rating

HomeViews

S.Umair (Tenant)

Verified Resident

Queen Street Quarter, LE1

Dec 2025

Reviewer was offered an incentive for an honest review, regardless of rating

This is rated 5.00 out of 5.00.

Queen Street Quarter delivers a high standard of modern city living

S.Umair (Tenant)

Verified Resident

Queen Street Quarter, LE1

Dec 2025

Queen Street Quarter delivers a high standard of modern city living. The design of the building and apartments is sleek, well thought out, and practical, with good insulation, natural light, and quality finishes throughout. Facilities and communal areas are always clean, secure, and well maintained, which reflects excellent day-to-day management. The building management team are professional, responsive, and easy to communicate with — any issues are handled quickly and properly, which is rare and highly valued. Property management is organised, transparent, and resident-focused, making the overall living experience smooth and stress-free. The central location adds huge value, with everything within walking distance while still maintaining a calm and secure environment. Overall, Queen Street Quarter sets a strong benchmark for well-managed urban living.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

I’ve had a genuinely excellent experience living at Queen Street Quarter. From day one, the building has felt safe, modern, and well managed. The apartments are bright, clean, and well insulated, and the communal areas are always kept to a very high standard. The management team deserve special recognition ( Keshvi and Izabella) , they are responsive, professional, and genuinely care about residents. Any issues I’ve ever raised have been handled quickly and efficiently, which makes a huge difference to day-to-day living. The location is another massive plus. Everything is within walking distance — shopping, restaurants, transport links — yet the building itself remains peaceful and well controlled. Overall, Queen Street Quarter offers a premium living experience at a fair price. It truly feels like home, and I would confidently recommend it to anyone looking for high-quality city living. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Sorted any complaints with in the shortest period of time

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Wish I had moved in sooner , love all the amenities they have to offer

・・

Reviewer was offered an incentive for an honest review, regardless of rating

HomeViews

Page 1 of 473

These reviews are the subjective opinion of a HomeViews user and not of HomeViews

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