Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, it’s sufficient for me to gather some key insights. London is a remarkably dynamic metropolis, not only due to its extensive variety of housing options but also because of its lively and diverse populations. Students have numerous choices available to them. Whether in need of student accommodation or private rentals, you’ll discover a range of alternatives such as ensuite rooms, private studios, shared flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule in-person viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to research properties online, evaluate amenities, and consider their proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I prioritized securing a room in Central London. Proximity to the city’s major landmarks, social venues, and particularly, the campus of Imperial College was crucial. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the core areas. Thanks to the city’s excellent public transport system — featuring the Underground (Tube), buses, and rail services — navigating the city is fairly simple. However, inter-zone travel can accumulate costs, reaching up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or Tube. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly reduce commuting expenses. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services provide even broader connectivity, though fares differ based on distance and train operators.
Residing in Central London comes with a significant financial burden, but I was able to lower expenses by sharing a room with a fellow Imperial student. We selected intercollegiate student accommodation, which allowed us to interact with a diverse array of students from various backgrounds — a chance that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Another important factor for me was proximity to grocery stores. Having supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op nearby greatly simplified daily errands. For more affordable options, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent choices. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies proved especially beneficial during the busy exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s rich cultural diversity is mirrored in its numerous ethnic enclaves, providing a sense of belonging for many international students. For example, Southall in West London boasts a vibrant South Asian community with an array of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End offers a bustling mix of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples illustrate the many lively communities that can be discovered throughout the city.
Ultimately, the optimal living location in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and requirements. As you look for your new residence, embrace the city’s diversity, investigate its unique neighborhoods, and take full advantage of all that this remarkable city provides.