Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While that might not appear to be a considerable duration, it has allowed me to accumulate some insightful experiences regarding existence in this remarkable city. London is a vibrant and multifaceted location—not only concerning its populace but also with regard to accommodation options. Whether you’re a student or a working individual, there’s an extensive array of housing types available, from ensuite and shared rooms to studio flats and house shares.
For students, both university-managed and private accommodations provide numerous selections. Home students can seamlessly schedule in-person viewings, whereas international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online. These sites deliver detailed insights about amenities, rental rates, and access to public transport—facilitating informed decisions from overseas.
During my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near Imperial College, as well as the city’s key attractions and social venues. London is organized into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central districts. The city’s superior public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—simplifies commuting. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily inter-zonal fares reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Nonetheless, student concessions on Oyster cards considerably lower commuting expenses.
London’s Overground and National Rail services also stretch beyond the Tube network, extending into outer zones. Fares on these services differ depending on distance and the regulations set by individual train operators.
Residing in Central London comes with a cost, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend from university. This not only helped in reducing rent but also eased my move to a new city. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation because I wanted to interact with individuals from various backgrounds and of similar age—something that can often be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Closeness to essential amenities was another critical aspect of my housing choice. Being near grocery stores like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made everyday life much more manageable. For more economical options, retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Having these stores within reach is particularly beneficial during hectic times such as exam season when time is constrained.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting given the city’s enormous size and diversity. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that resonate with their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community and is famed for its Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a rich variety of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural activities. These neighbourhoods represent just a fraction of the many cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the optimal living location in London hinges on your individual needs and interests. Whether you seek cultural affinity, proximity to university, or affordable rental prices, London has something to offer for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its myriad neighbourhoods, and maximize your experience in this extraordinary place.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s