Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It’s been nine months since I made the move to London, and while that might not appear to be an extended period, it has given me ample opportunity to gain insight into residing in this lively city. London is exceptionally vibrant—not only in terms of its cultural variety but also in the plethora of housing choices available to students. Whether you’re in search of student housing or private rentals, there’s an option for everyone, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private or shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite simple. In contrast, international students can investigate their options through platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom. These sites offer virtual tours, comprehensive descriptions of amenities, and details about nearby public transport links, simplifying the process of making informed choices from overseas.
During my quest for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. My goal was to be near Imperial College London, in addition to the city’s main attractions and social gathering spots. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between these zones. However, daily inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances to save money. The Oyster card has proven invaluable, dramatically lowering commuting expenses for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach outer zones, with fares varying based on distance and the train provider.
Residing in Central London does come with a greater financial burden. Luckily, I was able to alleviate the costs by sharing a room with a friend, which significantly lessened our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an experience that’s more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Accessibility to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies was another crucial aspect for me. Being near places like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op—or more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland—simplifies daily tasks, especially during hectic exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s vibrant cultural diversity is represented through its numerous ethnic communities, each providing a distinctive experience. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London boasts a strong Afro-Caribbean presence along with a dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods afford a sense of familiarity and community for many international students.
Ultimately, the ideal living situation in London depends on your personal tastes and way of life. Whether you are attracted to the cultural depth of certain neighborhoods or the convenience of being near campus, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore your choices, and relish everything this remarkable city has to provide.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s