Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has been sufficient to gain considerable insight into life in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of culture and history and provides a diverse range of housing options for students. Whether you are in search of student accommodation or private rentals, there is something to suit everyone—ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, or house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to check listings online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
When I began my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. My aim was to be near the city’s major attractions, social spots, and, most importantly, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 representing the most central areas. The city has an extensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—making it relatively easy to get around. However, travel expenses can accumulate quickly; for example, commuting across zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards make traveling to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, granting access to more remote areas, though fares differ based on the route and provider.
Residing in Central London can be costly, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. We chose intercollegiate student accommodation, allowing us to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups—something that is tougher to come by in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was another essential consideration for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland help keep living expenses manageable. Proximity to necessary stores and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during busy times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be daunting, but London’s multicultural nature provides options for everyone. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror their home country’s culture. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a lively center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few of the city’s diverse community neighbourhoods.
In the end, the ideal living space in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, searching for affordable housing, or wish to be near your university, London presents an abundance of choices. Embrace the diversity, explore the neighbourhoods, and maximize your experience in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s