Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it might not appear to be an extended duration, it has afforded me the opportunity to gather some meaningful experiences. London is an energetic and vibrant city, not only due to its varied housing choices but also because of the spirited communities that reside within it. Students have an abundance of options when it comes to securing accommodations. Whether you’re in the market for student-specific housing or private rentals, you can choose from ensuite rooms, studios, shared flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings in person, while international students can browse properties online through sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, allowing them to examine amenities and transport connections remotely.
During my housing search, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, entertainment zones, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is structured into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. Thanks to London’s exceptional transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—navigating the city is fairly simple. To manage travel expenses (which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zone commutes), I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transport. Nonetheless, the student discounts available on Oyster cards significantly reduce commuting costs. In addition to the Tube, services such as the London Overground and National Rail go out to outer zones, with ticket prices varying based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London has the advantage of being near everything—but it also comes with increased living expenses. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, which allowed us both to save considerably on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation because I wanted to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s less common in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Major supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are quite common, while budget options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also present. Being near essential stores and pharmacies can save a significant amount of time, especially during hectic exam seasons.
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be a daunting task. London’s vibrant cultural diversity is showcased in its numerous ethnic communities, each providing a distinct atmosphere. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, boasting numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean influences and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the heart of the West End, is a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of the many community-oriented neighbourhoods you can delve into.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. As you seek your new home, embrace the city’s diversity, venture into its cultural neighborhoods, and relish everything this remarkable city has in store.