Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. Although it’s a relatively short period, I’ve gained valuable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a variety of housing types and communities. Students can choose from several options, including student accommodations and private residences featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and homes to share. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore future living arrangements online, review amenities, and identify public transport links.
In my pursuit of housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near major attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The transport network in London, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and transit between zones. To minimize travel expenses, since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day, I opted for walking short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have reduced costs for university trips. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel differ depending on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to the proximity to key attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was crucial for me. Popular supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, showcasing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students yearn for a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery establishments, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivals. These merely illustrate a few of the community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best neighborhoods to reside in London will vary based on your interests and requirements. As you search for a new residence in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and abundance of housing options, venture into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.