Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that may not appear to be an extensive period, it has provided me with sufficient insight into life in this lively city. London is remarkably animated—not only in terms of its varied living arrangements but also due to the rich blend of communities that reside here. For students, the options for housing are plentiful. Whether your preference is student accommodations or private rentals, a range of choices exists from ensuite rooms and studio flats to shared apartments and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize in-person viewings, while international students can depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, evaluate amenities, and consider proximity to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. My goal was to remain near the key attractions, social hubs, and crucially, Imperial College London. The city is segregated into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s public transit system—encompassing the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nevertheless, commuting across zones can be pricey, with costs reaching up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. However, student discounts on Oyster cards have significantly reduced commuting costs to university. The London Overground and National Rail services also extend beyond the Underground network, reaching further zones with varied fare systems based on the operator and distance.
Residing in Central London does entail a higher cost. Thankfully, I managed to share a room with a friend, which greatly helped lower our rental expenses. I chose intercollegiate student housing in hopes of connecting with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be harder to achieve with private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another essential factor for me. Major supermarket brands like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent deals. Having essential retailers close by is a tremendous time-saver, particularly during hectic exam seasons.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s multicultural communities are integral to its character, showcasing a vast range of culturally rich areas. Many international students are drawn to neighbourhoods that mirror their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian population and features Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean influences and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural festivities. These examples highlight just a fraction of the many diverse communities that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re attracted to cultural communities, wish to remain near your university, or seek budget-friendly rent, London caters to all. Embrace the city’s plurality, explore its myriad neighbourhoods, and maximize your experience in this remarkable metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s