Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be a lengthy period, I have gained a significant amount of insight into residing in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also provides an extensive range of housing options and lively communities, making it a thrilling place to call home—particularly for students.
Regarding accommodation, students have numerous options. Whether you are seeking student residences or private rentals, there is something available for everyone—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For students based in the UK, scheduling a viewing is quite straightforward. International students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, examine amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my personal search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hubs, and most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is segregated into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, traveling between zones may accumulate costs, with daily expenses soaring up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk short distances instead of using public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly alleviate commuting expenditures.
In addition to the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend to regions outside the central zones. Fares on these services vary based on distance and the train operator. While residing in Central London can be costly due to its prime location and attractions, I was fortunate enough to share a room with a friend, which helped in reducing rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Convenience was another critical aspect of my housing choice. Living in proximity to grocery stores like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op simplified daily tasks. For more economical options, stores such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland proved useful. Having essential shops and pharmacies nearby was particularly beneficial during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London is well-known for its extensive South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods are merely a few examples of the numerous cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, closeness to your university, or access to public transport, London presents a plethora of options. Embrace the diversity, explore the neighbourhoods, and appreciate everything this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s