Why don't you guys realise that how 'sociable' your accommodation is and how well you get on with your flatmates depends entirely on you and the people you live with? And no-one knows who that will be. If you want an en-suite (and can afford it), go for an en-suite. If you want to save money or can't afford one, don't go for an en-suite.
And if you think Northfield is far then you're in for a shock when you move into a house in second year.