Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days back, I reached the nine-month mark of living in London. While that might not appear to be an extensive period, it has certainly provided me the opportunity to discover a wealth of knowledge about life in this remarkable city. London is renowned not only for its array of housing alternatives but also for its lively and diverse communities. As a student, the housing options available to you are abundant right at your fingertips. Whether you’re in search of student halls or private properties, there’s a variety of choices for all—from ensuite and shared facilities to studio flats and shared houses.
For home students, setting up a property viewing is fairly simple. Meanwhile, international students can make use of platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online. These sites offer comprehensive details about the amenities available and their closeness to public transportation, facilitating informed decision-making from overseas.
When I embarked on my personal housing journey, my primary goal was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s main attractions, lively spots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—ensures ease of movement. However, daily travel between zones can cost as much as £5.25, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transit. Nonetheless, student discounts and Oyster card options greatly help in minimizing travel expenses.
In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the central zones, enhancing connectivity even further. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policies of each operator.
Living in Central London does come with a hefty cost, but I was lucky to be studying with a friend. We made the decision to share a room, which allowed us to cut down on rent significantly. I decided on intercollegiate student accommodations, as I was eager to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s often more challenging in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was another important element for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely present, while economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide great bargains. Having essential shops and pharmacies in proximity is especially helpful during busy times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city is a rich tapestry of ethnic communities, each contributing to its vibrant cultural scene. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that resonate with their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a strong South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean populace and vibrant music culture. On the other hand, Chinatown in the West End buzzes with Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities.
Ultimately, the best residential area in London is determined by your personal tastes and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to cultural neighborhoods, student communities, or central spots, London has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s variety, explore its numerous housing choices, and make the most of your time in this wonderful place.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s