Hi, I've been accepted as an international student to the UCL Institute of Archaeology and Durham - both are MSc degrees mainly in bioarchaeology. I'm absolutely thrilled, but now I haven't a clue as to which I should choose. Any thoughts? I'd appreciate anything in respect to the courses, tuition, research opportunities and living expenses (although I'm fairly certain London massively fails with expenses).

I'm at UCL, but I have a friend who is at Durham. Durham is definitely cheaper, and to tell the truth my friend seems to enjoy his MA at Durham more than I enjoyed mine at UCL. Of course there is a huge difference from department to department, but I would go with Durham, on the basis of what I heard from him. Btw, he is doing an MA in History.

I can only offer advice based on location, but Durham is very small and sedate, if you're looking for anything more exciting I'd pick UCL. It will also be easier to get any part time work there too as Durham is limited on that front. UCL is higher rated (I think) in the times tables. As you've already pointed out London massively fails with regard to living expenses, although accommodation in Durham City (not in college) is actually relatively costly. Saying that I had some wonderful lecturer's at Durham (even if my experience wasn't the most positive) who were really inspiring and the facilities are really good in general.

Well, I think UCL is more famous.

The 'best' option depends on your personal circumstances & your career aspirations. For example:

1) what do you need the MSc for? If you will go straight into employment & aren't thinking of doing a PhD, then it all depends on which university your potential employers will regards more highly. There are some universities which are highly regarded outside the uk, but in terms of your area of specialization they might not be ranked very highly. If you want a job at the end of it, a high ranking university is all that matters; but if you want to do a PhD then the department where you did your MSc could play a significant role in where you are accepted to do your PhD.
2) as the previous posters said, look online for the cost of living at both locations. London is expensive but then again it's cheaper if you want fly home regularly from heathrow or gatwick airport of your family plan to visit you regularly. London is far more cosmopolitan and a very busy city - do you prefer the calm and quiet of the countryside (Durham campus) or being bang in the middle of one of the busiest cities in the world (UCL campus)? Will London be too much of a good thing - I.e too much of a destraction, or are you quite s disciplined person?

From what you say, it sounds like UCL is a better option for you.