Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While that might not seem extensive, it has provided plenty of time to gain insights into life in this vibrant city. London is not only recognized for its diverse range of housing options but also for the lively and varied communities that reside here. For students, the possibilities are abundant—spanning from university-owned accommodations to private leases. Choices include ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares. Students from the UK can easily schedule in-person viewings, while international students can browse listings and amenities online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, making the search process more feasible from overseas.
During my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key attractions, social hubs, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between zones. However, daily cross-zone travel can cost up to £5.25, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to save on expenses. Fortunately, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lower commuting fees. Beyond the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, with fares varying depending on distance and service provider.
Residing in Central London does entail a steeper price point, but I was lucky to attend university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room. This helped us greatly reduce our rent. I decided to live in intercollegiate student housing, anticipating the chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be more difficult to achieve in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was also a crucial consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely present, while budget-conscious alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide more economical selections. Living near essential facilities like supermarkets and pharmacies is extremely convenient, particularly during hectic times such as exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s cultural abundance and variety. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that resonate with their cultural identities. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its large South Asian population and boasts numerous Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese dining, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods provide a sense of familiarity and community for students who are far from home.
Ultimately, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and needs. Whether you seek cultural connections, convenience, or affordability, London has something to cater to everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its distinctive neighborhoods, and maximize your experience in this remarkable location.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s