Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has provided ample opportunity to gather some valuable perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is not just abundant in culture and history, but it also presents a wide range of housing options that cater to various lifestyles and budgets. Whether you’re a student or a professional, there’s a little something for everyone—from ensuite and shared rooms to studio apartments and house shares.
For students, there is a good availability of both university-managed housing and private rentals. Home students can easily arrange in-person viewings, while international students can look for options online through websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These platforms offer in-depth details on amenities, pricing, and location relative to public transport, simplifying the search considerably.
When I initiated my housing search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to be near Imperial College, as well as the city’s notable landmarks and social hubs. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an extensive public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—making navigation easy. However, daily inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25, prompting me to often walk shorter distances to economize. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lessen commuting expenses.
Besides the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the central zones, providing even greater connectivity. Fares on these services differ depending on distance and the operator, but they are a practical choice for those residing further away.
Residing in Central London is costly, but I managed to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a fellow university student. We selected intercollegiate student accommodation, which not only helped us save money but also allowed us to connect with other students from varied backgrounds—a privilege that’s less accessible in private rentals.
The availability of essential shops was another vital consideration in my choice. Being in close proximity to supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily tasks more straightforward. For more economical options, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. Having these stores close by was particularly beneficial during exam seasons when time is scarce.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s remarkable diversity. Numerous international students gravitate toward areas resonating with their cultural identities. For instance, Southall in West London is famed for its lively South Asian community, brimming with Indian restaurants and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods provide newcomers with a sense of familiarity and community.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to reside in hinges on your individual preferences and needs. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, student communities, or central locations, London has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s richness, discover its various neighbourhoods, and relish all that this remarkable place has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s