Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residency in London. Although it may not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient for me to acquire some significant understandings of life in this vibrant city. London is not just steeped in culture and history but also boasts a wide array of housing options and diverse communities. Whether you’re a student or a working individual, there’s something for everyone—from ensuite and shared accommodations to studio apartments and house shares.
For students, securing housing is quite manageable. Domestic students can readily organize in-person viewings, while international students can investigate choices online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites offer comprehensive listings that include amenities and closeness to public transport, allowing for more informed decisions from overseas.
When I started my housing search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key attractions, social venues, and most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s vast public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy mobility. Nevertheless, inter-zone travel may cost up to £5.25 each day, so I preferred walking shorter distances whenever feasible. That being said, student discounts on Oyster cards greatly lessen commuting expenses.
Beyond the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the central zones, enhancing connectivity. Fares on these services vary according to distance and the pricing framework of the operator.
Residing in Central London can be costly, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to lower our rent expenses. We opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, enabling us to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to essential shops was also a key consideration for me. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly stores such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent for students. Being near grocery stores and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic exam periods when time is scarce.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be a daunting task. London’s multicultural communities are a hallmark of the city, providing a sense of comfort for many international students. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a rich variety of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods create a reassuring sense of home away from home.
In the end, the optimal living situation in London relies on your individual preferences and necessities. Whether you’re attracted to cultural hubs, student-centric areas, or central spots, London has an abundance of choices. Embrace the diversity, venture into the neighbourhoods, and take full advantage of everything this remarkable city has to provide.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s