Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of my time living in London. While it might not appear to be an extensive duration, it has provided me with valuable perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is famed not only for its broad selection of housing options but also for the varied communities that inhabit it. Students, in particular, have an abundance of choices when seeking a place to stay. Whether you are after student accommodations or private rentals, numerous options await—from ensuites and shared bathrooms to studio flats and house shares. Local students can effortlessly coordinate viewings, while international students can depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and consider closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. My priority was to be near the city’s main attractions, popular social spots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 constituting the city’s nucleus. With its extensive public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—navigating is generally straightforward. However, traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to save money. That being said, the student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lessen commuting costs. In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services link areas beyond central London, though ticket prices differ based on distance and the train service provider.
Residing in Central London comes with a steep cost, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which alleviated the rent burden. I opted for intercollegiate student housing because I was eager to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and around the same age—something that can be harder to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was another significant consideration for me. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Living close to essential shops and pharmacies is particularly convenient during hectic exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can be tough, but London’s rich cultural variety eases the search for a place that feels like home. Numerous international students gravitate toward areas that echo their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling hub of Chinese culinary delights, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are just a glimpse into the city’s multicultural tapestry.
In the end, the finest area to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and way of life. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, convenience, or closeness to your university, London has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its numerous neighborhoods, and make the most of your experience in this extraordinary metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s