Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a handful of days ago, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. While it may not appear to be an extended period, it has proven sufficient for me to gain some valuable perspectives on living in this lively city. London is renowned not only for its diverse range of accommodation options but also for the vibrant communities that inhabit it. For students, the selection is ample—spanning student halls to private rentals, with offerings such as ensuite rooms, studios, shared flats, and house shares.
Domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while international students often depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse listings online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities, pricing, and access to public transport, thus making the search process from overseas more straightforward.
When I embarked on my own housing hunt, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social venues, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 representing the most central areas. The city boasts an extensive and efficient public transport system—including the Tube, buses, and trains—simplifying travel between zones. However, daily travel could set one back by up to £5.25, prompting me to frequently walk shorter distances rather than utilizing public transport. Nonetheless, the student discounts available on Oyster cards significantly lessen commuting expenses.
In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the central zones. Fares on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of the operating companies.
Residing in Central London does come with a financial premium, yet I was fortunate to be studying with a friend, and we chose to share a room. This choice allowed us to substantially cut our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that’s often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores also played a significant role in my decision-making. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op streamlined my everyday errands. For more economical options, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Having essential stores nearby is particularly beneficial during hectic exam periods when every minute counts.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s rich multicultural fabric is represented in its numerous ethnic enclaves, each delivering a distinctive cultural experience. For example, Southall in West London is well-known for its substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a lively array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These areas offer a sense of belonging and community for many international students.
Ultimately, the optimal living situation in London hinges on your personal requirements and lifestyle. Whether your interests lie in cultural diversity, convenience, or affordability, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s rich array of housing options, delve into its distinct neighbourhoods, and make the most of your time in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s