Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. Although this period is relatively brief, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, notable not only for its array of housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available, spanning from student residences to private lodgings, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while those from abroad may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, verify amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transit.
In my quest for a residence, I intended to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features a remarkable transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, which could amount to as much as £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I decided to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground area, reaching regions outside central London, with fares differing according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living expenses associated with the major attractions in Central London can be daunting. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly cut our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich assortment of diverse areas. Many international students look for connections to their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, in the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a handful of examples of the community neighborhoods available.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the vibrancy and diversity of its housing selections, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.