Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration might not appear lengthy, it has been sufficient to gather some significant perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is abundant in culture and history, in addition to providing a wide array of housing selections and lively communities. For students, there is no shortage of accommodation options—from student housing to private rentals—including choices like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while international students can browse properties online through sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These platforms also supply details about amenities and public transport connections.
During my hunt for a residence, I concentrated on Central London to remain near the city’s key attractions, social hubs, and the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s comprehensive public transport system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates relatively easy commuting across zones. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares climbing to £5.25. To conserve funds, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Nonetheless, student Oyster cards provide discounted fares, making commuting more budget-friendly. In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach outer zones, with ticket prices differing based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London does incur a higher cost. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend from university, which considerably lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation because I aimed to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges—a quality that can be scarce in private rentals.
The proximity to grocery stores was another important element in my choice. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely accessible, while more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic periods like exam season.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can prove challenging due to the city’s expansive and varied landscape. London’s multicultural communities are a vital component of its character, presenting different neighborhoods that mirror various cultures. Numerous international students look for areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian population and features Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a thriving center of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of the city’s rich cultural pockets.
Ultimately, the ideal location to live in London hinges on your individual tastes and lifestyle. Whether you desire cultural familiarity, affordability, or closeness to university, London caters to everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore the neighborhoods, and relish all that this amazing city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s