Do I pay to join HostFamily.uk as a Norwich host?

No. Host families register for free, and there are no subscription or placement fees.

Which areas are convenient for the University of East Anglia?

Earlham, Eaton, Cringleford and the Golden Triangle are close to the UEA campus, and buses link it with most of the city.

Is Norwich easy to get around without a car?

Yes. The centre is compact and walkable, buses serve the suburbs, and trains run to London, Cambridge and the coast.

What do students enjoy doing in Norwich?

Exploring the cathedral, castle and market, walking the lanes and riverside, and trips out to the Norfolk Broads are all popular.

Become a Host Family in Norwich

Why Norwich needs host families

Norwich has a Norman cathedral and castle, cobbled streets such as Elm Hill, and a large, colourful open-air market in the heart of the city. The River Wensum winds through the city, and the Norfolk Broads and coast are close by.

The University of East Anglia and Norwich University of the Arts bring students from overseas, and many of them value time living with an English family. A home in Norwich can help them settle in and build their confidence. Homes across the city and its suburbs are well placed for both.

Hosting is a way to open your home and share your city. Whether it is a Sunday roast or directions to the market, everyday moments help a student feel welcome, and you decide which placements suit your family. Schools and other organisers contact you directly, so you can ask questions before agreeing.

Host family sharing a meal with an international student in Norwich

Who you could host in Norwich

You choose the ages, lengths of stay and dates that suit your household.

University newcomers

International students arriving at UEA or the arts university may want a family home for their first weeks or term.

English for academic study

Students improving their English before or alongside degree courses often benefit from the daily practice a host family provides.

Short summer stays

In the summer, short visits to Norfolk can include Norwich, with days out to the Broads and the coast.

Where you could host

Schools look for homes within easy reach of their classes. These are some of the areas in and around Norwich.

Norwich city centre

Golden Triangle

Eaton

Earlham

Cringleford

Lakenham

Thorpe St Andrew

Sprowston

Old Catton

Hellesdon

Costessey

Taverham

How it works

1. Register for free

Create your host profile in a few minutes. There are no fees or subscriptions.

2. Get found by schools

Language schools that place students in and around Norwich search for hosts by location, rooms and availability.

3. Welcome your student

A school contacts you directly to arrange a placement. You decide which students you accept.

Earn up to £7,500 a year tax-free

Under the government's Rent a Room scheme, income from hosting students in your Norwich home is tax-free up to £7,500 a year.

Applies whether you own or rent (with your landlord's permission)
Claim it with a single tick box on your tax return

General guidance only. Read more on GOV.UK

Hosting in Norwich: common questions

Ready to host in Norwich?

Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Language schools can find you as soon as your profile is live.

Host families are also needed near Norwich