Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It’s been nine months since my relocation to London, and although that might not appear to be a considerable duration, it has been adequate to acquire some insightful perspectives on life in this energetic city. London boasts an astonishing vibrancy—not just with its varied housing possibilities, but also due to the rich assortment of communities that reside here. For students in particular, housing options are abundant. Ranging from student halls to private rentals, choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms as well as studio apartments and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange in-person viewings, while international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, examine amenities, and evaluate their distance to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on finding a room within Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key attractions, social scenes, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six circular travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transport network—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—is vast and efficient, facilitating easy movement throughout. However, travelling between zones can prove to be expensive, with daily fares climbing up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking public transport. Nonetheless, discounts for students on Oyster cards considerably decrease travel costs. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, although fares differ based on the operator and distance.
Residing in Central London does carry a high cost, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which alleviated the financial burden. I chose intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that’s trickier to achieve in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another key factor for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Having essential shops close by is particularly advantageous during busy times like exam season, saving both time and reducing stress.
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be a challenging choice. London’s multicultural communities are a hallmark of the city, offering a sense of belonging for many international students. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a rich variety of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These areas are merely a few illustrations of how London’s cultural plurality is evident in its living spaces.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether you seek convenience, cultural familiarity, or a vibrant social atmosphere, London has a diversity of opportunities to offer. Embrace the city’s richness, explore its distinct neighbourhoods, and maximize your experience in this remarkable place.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s