Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, this period has provided me with valuable insights into life in this dynamic city. London boasts rich cultural diversity and presents a myriad of housing options for students. Whether you’re in search of student accommodations or private rentals, there’s a suitable choice for everyone — ranging from ensuite rooms and shared flats to studio apartments and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students can browse online through platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, allowing them to review amenities and public transport links from a distance.
In my quest for living arrangements, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. Proximity to key attractions, social venues, and, importantly, Imperial’s campus was essential for me. London is geographically organized into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s superb transport system — featuring the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains — simplifies navigation. However, travel expenses can accumulate, with inter-zonal trips costing up to £5.25 each day. To save on costs, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than take public transport. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards help make commuting more budget-friendly. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond Central London, with fares differing based on distance and operator.
Residing centrally brings advantages but also entails higher living expenses. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, which greatly reduced our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, aiming to connect with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages — often a challenge in private rentals.
Additionally, living near grocery stores was a key consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies greatly simplified daily tasks, particularly during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s remarkable cultural diversity is mirrored in its numerous ethnic enclaves, each exuding its own unique ambiance. For example, Southall in West London is famed for its vibrant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and thriving music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of the West End, showcases a bustling mix of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few of the numerous community hubs scattered throughout the city.
Ultimately, the ideal location to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and needs. When searching for a residence here, embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London has to offer.