Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives. London is an energetic city, renowned not only for its range of housing alternatives but also for its eclectic communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently book viewings for apartments, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, including amenities and their distance from public transport.
As I sought a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train service. Central London is home to significant attractions, leading to higher living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly lower our rent costs. I preferred living in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar age, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence, embrace the diversity and wealth of London’s housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.