Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It’s been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not seem lengthy, it has provided ample opportunity to gain insights about residing in this vibrant city. London is renowned not only for its wide variety of housing options but also for the multicultural communities that inhabit it. For students, there are numerous housing alternatives available right at their fingertips. Whether you seek student accommodation or private rentals, you’ll discover everything from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio flats and shared houses. Local students can easily arrange in-person viewings, while international students can investigate options online through websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom. These platforms also provide details on amenities and proximity to public transport.
During my housing search, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. I wanted to be near major attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is divided into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—makes navigating the area easy. However, daily travel between zones can reach up to £5.25, so I often opted to walk shorter distances to save money. Luckily, student discounts on Oyster cards help lessen commuting expenses. In addition to the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail cover outer zones, with fares varying by distance and service provider.
Residing in Central London can be pricey, but I was fortunate to be studying alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room. This significantly reduced our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation as I wanted to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and age groups—something that’s trickier to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another essential consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is extremely convenient, especially during hectic exam times.
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be daunting, but London’s rich cultural diversity presents something for everyone. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror their cultural origins. For instance, Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling hub of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of the city’s numerous cultural enclaves.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you’re attracted to the cultural vibrancy of its neighbourhoods or the convenience of living close to your university, London presents a vast array of housing options. Embrace the diversity, explore the communities, and fully enjoy everything this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s