Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gleaned several perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, enriched not just by its multitude of housing options but also by its varied communities. Students are presented with a wealth of choices. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential rentals online, verify available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a robust transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to keep travel costs low, as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have enabled more affordable commutes to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside central London. Fare prices for these services differ based on distance and the pricing schemes of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London add to the high living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room and considerably reduce rental costs. I preferred university-affiliated accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s multicultural communities are crucial to its cultural identity, offering a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a semblance of their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a considerable South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London has a reputation for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent only a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new housing in London, embrace the city’s diversity and abundance of accommodation possibilities, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.