Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc Applied Mathematics
Choosing to relocate from the picturesque countryside of a Spanish island to Europe’s most populous city was intimidating. Nevertheless, the last 18 months spent in London have been the most rewarding and enjoyable of my life.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, historic metropolis brimming with a diverse selection of restaurants, events, and attractions—every exploration is an adventure! However, adapting to life in a new country can pose its challenges. Below are some insights I’ve gained from relocating to London as an international student, along with tips and suggestions for settling in smoothly.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in moving to London involves identifying the ideal place to call home. I utilized Instagram, TikTok, and online forums to investigate various London neighborhoods that might be enjoyable to reside in. I discovered that Camden Town boasts a lively nightlife, Hackney is a burgeoning area in east London, and Putney offers a peaceful, green residential environment.
I was lucky to visit London prior to starting my Master’s, which allowed me to personally explore these neighborhoods before deciding on a place to live. I opted for Putney, and together with my flatmates (whom I met in undergrad), we used accommodation websites like SpareRoom and Rightmove to locate affordable house shares, coordinated online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
Once you’ve settled in and personalized your new space, a plethora of opportunities and events await you—the real challenge in London is deciding which activities to partake in and how to fit them all into your schedule!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is situated in the Albertopolis district, an area that honors art, manufacturing, and science. Close by are fantastic museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are wonderful places to explore, and some even have late-night openings on Fridays. On the final Friday of each month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, turning the museum into an exciting event complete with drinks and live entertainment!
In addition to museums, I love discovering East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is rich in historical and artistic sites, making it a perfect place to stroll and uncover hidden gems. My favorite spot is Trinity Buoy Wharf, established on a former canning warehouse, now home to a startup that builds temporary structures using shipping containers. The complex fosters creative manufacturing and houses several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London is full of great deals if you know where to search, with plenty of options for affordable yet delicious dining. Throughout my time in the city, I’ve curated a list of eateries with various discounts that make eating out more economical.
One notable place is in South Kensington, where Wright Brothers offers an Oyster Happy Hour, allowing you to savor oysters for just £1 each! This is a remarkable bargain, especially if you’re longing for the taste of home seafood and wish to treat yourself to oysters without overspending!
Tooting in South London is also renowned for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are extensive indoor street food markets featuring a wide assortment of cuisines. If you’re craving food that reminds you of home, I highly suggest checking out the Tooting food markets!
Escaping the city
While the city’s pace is part of London’s allure, at times the Tube can become overwhelming, the streets too congested, and crowds too large. Luckily, London is positioned centrally within a great network of trains and coaches, making weekend escapes from the city quite convenient.
My favorite places to explore are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England, rich in history and offering student-friendly spaces. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a vast botanical garden in Wisley, which is a delightful day trip, especially during the summer.
Overall, London is a lively city teeming with opportunities and places to discover, so take your time to explore all that the city has to offer while you’re at Imperial!
To learn more about my adventures, read my Imperial story.