I Agee living in dorm Is not recommended and an alcohol free home is the way to go. When people know you don't drink the partiers will drop you like a hot potato.
This is what I'm worried about too. My student loan will only cover student hall accommodation, so I haven't got the option to live in a separate house. This is making me extra nervous because I'll already be, on average, 8 years older than the majority of the students, and by not drinking, I fear I'll become the 'old, boring guy' (I've never been known as boring or old before!)
On the upside, I will be able to move into my own accommodation in the second year.
Thanks again for sharing your views and advice.