Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Nine months ago, I relocated to London to start my postgraduate studies, and while it may not sound like a significant duration, it has been sufficient for me to gather some insightful experiences regarding life in this vibrant city. London is renowned not only for its rich culture and historical backdrop but also for the diversity among its inhabitants and the extensive variety of housing options available for students.
Whether you’re in search of student accommodations or private leases, there’s something suitable for everyone—ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares are all easily accessible. For local students, arranging viewings is quite simple, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, verify amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my search for a place to reside, I concentrated on Central London to remain near Imperial College, as well as the city’s primary attractions and social venues. London is segmented into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—making navigation straightforward. However, inter-zonal travel on a daily basis can reach up to £5.25, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to economize. Luckily, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lower commuting expenses. The London Overground and National Rail services furthermore extend beyond the Underground, reaching outer zones with varying ticket prices based on distance and transport provider.
Residing in Central London does come with higher costs, but I managed to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a friend. We decided to live in intercollegiate student accommodations, which provided us the chance to connect with other students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something less common in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial element for me. Large supermarket brands like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundantly available, while budget-friendly stores such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent for students aiming to cut costs. Being near essential stores and pharmacies proves especially beneficial during hectic times, such as exams.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood can be daunting, but London’s cultural diversity simplifies the process of finding a place that feels like home. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that resonate with their cultural identities. For instance, Southall in West London is notable for its vibrant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean legacy and energetic music culture. Conversely, Chinatown in the West End showcases a plethora of Chinese culinary delights, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples from the many culturally distinct neighbourhoods across the city.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London relies on your personal tastes and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to cultural communities, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, London presents an abundance of choices. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its distinctive neighbourhoods, and make the most of all that this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s