Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that may not feel like an extended period, it has provided me with essential insights into living in this vibrant city. London is not only steeped in culture and history but also presents a broad range of housing options and lively communities that facilitate settling in for students.
Regarding accommodation, students have an abundance of choices. Whether you are searching for student-specific housing or private rentals, there are options for everyone—ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares are all readily accessible. For domestic students, arranging an apartment viewing is fairly simple. Conversely, international students can leverage online resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to examine available properties, review amenities, and evaluate access to public transportation.
During my own housing hunt, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My goal was to be near the city’s major attractions, social spots, and most importantly, Imperial College’s campus. London is sectioned into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 representing the most central areas. The city’s comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—enables manageable commuting across zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares climbing to £5.25. To economize, I frequently walked shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. That being said, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lower commuting expenses. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail broaden transport options beyond the Underground, though fares differ based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London comes with a hefty price tag, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which alleviated the rent burden. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, anticipating opportunities to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something that is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
Another crucial consideration for me was the proximity to grocery stores. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made managing daily tasks more convenient. For more cost-effective alternatives, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent choices. Having essential shops nearby proves especially beneficial during busy times such as exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s multicultural communities are a hallmark feature, offering a sense of belonging to international students. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its significant South Asian population and features Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. In the West End, Chinatown showcases a diverse array of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods provide a comforting cultural anchor for many students far away from home.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent on your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, closeness to your university, or budget-friendly choices, London has something to provide. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its numerous neighborhoods, and relish all that this remarkable place has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s