Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it might not seem like a lengthy period, it has been sufficient for me to gain considerable insight into life in this vibrant city. London boasts not only a wealth of culture and history but also offers a myriad of housing options and communities. Regardless of whether you’re a student or a working professional, there’s something available for everyone—from student accommodations to private rentals, encompassing ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares.
For students, locating a residence can be comparatively easy. Domestic students can readily schedule in-person viewings, while international students can browse listings online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities, pricing, and distance to public transport, simplifying the decision-making process from overseas.
During my accommodation search, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s main attractions, social hubs, and most importantly, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s vast public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting between different zones. However, daily inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25, so I often opted to walk shorter distances to save money. Thankfully, student discounts and Oyster cards significantly decrease travel costs. Services like the London Overground and National Rail provide access beyond the Underground, reaching farther zones with different fare systems.
Residing in Central London entails a steeper cost, but I managed to lower my expenses by sharing a room with a friend. We selected intercollegiate student accommodation, which not only allowed us to save on rent but also enabled us to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near essential shops was another key factor for me. Proximity to supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made running daily errands much more manageable. Affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also readily accessible. Having these stores in close vicinity is particularly beneficial during hectic times like exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can prove challenging, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that resonate with their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a rich assortment of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods offer a sense of familiarity and community for newcomers.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re attracted to cultural areas, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, London provides a broad spectrum of options. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its neighbourhoods, and relish all that this extraordinary location has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s