Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem lengthy, it has been sufficient for me to gain valuable insights into life in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of culture and history, alongside a diverse range of housing options for students. From ensuite rooms and studio apartments to shared houses and private flats, you’ll discover various choices whether you seek student accommodations or private rentals. Home students can arrange viewings in person, while international students can browse options online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which also offer details about amenities and transportation links.
In my quest for housing, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Proximity to the city’s primary attractions, lively social scenes, and, crucially, the Imperial College campus was essential for me. London consists of six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central districts. The city’s excellent public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—simplifies navigation. However, travel expenses can quickly accumulate; daily inter-zone travel may cost as much as £5.25. To economize, I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize public transport. Nevertheless, discounted Oyster card options have significantly reduced commuting costs to university. In addition to the Tube, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, with fare variations based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London is expensive, yet I was fortunate to be studying alongside a friend. We chose to share a room, which substantially lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—an opportunity that can be more challenging in private rentals.
A crucial aspect for me was being near grocery stores. Popular supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent savings. Proximity to essential stores and pharmacies was particularly advantageous during hectic exam times when time was scarce.
Selecting the right neighbourhood can pose challenges. London’s cultural diversity is mirrored in its many ethnic communities, each contributing a distinct atmosphere. Numerous international students prefer areas reminiscent of their homeland. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London showcases a strong Afro-Caribbean influence and a flourishing music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End bustles with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These examples represent just a fraction of the many community-oriented neighbourhoods throughout the city.
Ultimately, the ideal location in London hinges on your individual preferences and needs. As you embark on your housing search, embrace the city’s diversity, explore its cultural enclaves, and revel in all the excitement and convenience that London offers.