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 appear to be a lengthy period, I have gained substantial insight into residing in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of culture and diversity while providing a varied selection of accommodation options for students. Whether you’re in search of student housing or private rentals, there’s an option for every taste—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio apartments and house shares.
For home students, arranging apartment viewings is fairly simple. In contrast, international students can take advantage of online resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which enable you to explore properties from afar, verify available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
Upon starting my quest for a living space, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most centralized. The city’s comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nevertheless, travel between zones can become pricey, with daily fares hitting as much as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing public transport. That said, student discounts on Oyster cards certainly help in making commuting more budget-friendly. For longer trips, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground network, although fares differ based on the operator and distance.
Living in Central London typically comes with a higher cost, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I also chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is often elusive in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Prominent supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, considering the city’s immense cultural diversity. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that echo their own cultural contexts. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its dynamic South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a bustling nexus of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of the numerous culturally vibrant neighbourhoods throughout the city.
Ultimately, the optimal living area in London hinges on your personal needs and interests. Whether you’re attracted to cultural communities, convenience, or nearness to your university, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its myriad neighbourhoods, and maximize your time in this extraordinary place.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s