Authored by Emilio (Spain), MSc in Applied Mathematics
Making the decision to relocate from a rural island in Spain to the largest city in Europe was intimidating. Yet, the last 18 months spent in London have been the most rewarding and exhilarating of my entire life.
London is a dynamic, multicultural, historic, and bustling metropolis with an extensive selection of restaurants, events, and attractions—navigating it is always a thrilling experience! However, adapting to the routine of a new country can prove to be a challenge. Here are some insights I gained as an international student moving to London, along with helpful tips and suggestions for when you’re all settled in.
Relocating to London as a postgraduate student
The initial step in moving to London is identifying the perfect place to make your home. Utilizing Instagram, TikTok, and online forums, I explored different areas of London that could be enjoyable to reside in. I found that Camden Town boasts a vibrant nightlife, Hackney is a developing area in east London, and Putney offers a serene, green residential environment.
I was lucky enough to visit London prior to commencing my Master’s program, which allowed me to personally explore these neighborhoods before making a decision on where to settle. After selecting Putney, my flatmates (whom I connected with during my undergraduate studies) and I utilized accommodation search platforms like SpareRoom and Rightmove to find budget-friendly house shares, arranged online viewings with landlords, and ultimately secured a lovely flat near Putney Heath.
Activities to enjoy in London
After you’ve unpacked and personalized your new space, a plethora of opportunities and events is at your fingertips—the challenge of living in London lies in selecting which activities to partake in and finding the time for all of them!
Imperial’s South Kensington Campus is located in the Albertopolis area, a district that commemorates art, industry, and science. Close by, you’ll find fantastic museums such as the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the V&A Museum. These museums are wonderful to explore, and some even operate late on Fridays. On the last Friday of every month, the V&A hosts a V&A Late, a public celebration where the museum transforms into a mini rave with beverages and live music!
In addition to visiting museums, I take pleasure in discovering East London neighborhoods like Canary Wharf, Hackney, and Isle of Dogs. This area is rich in historical treasures and artistic endeavors, making it an exceptional place to stroll and uncover surprises. My favorite location is Trinity Buoy Wharf—constructed on the site of a former canning warehouse, it now accommodates a Series B startup that creates temporary structures from shipping containers. The complex honors creative manufacturing and is home to several art studios, including the original lighthouse lab where Michael Faraday conducted his work!
Dining out in London
London has fantastic deals if you know where to search, with plenty of options for affordable yet high-quality food. During my time in London, I compiled a list of eateries offering various promotions throughout the city, making dining out more budget-friendly.
One noteworthy location is in South Kensington, where an excellent seafood restaurant called Wright Brothers has an Oyster Happy Hour, offering oysters for only £1 each! It’s an incredible deal, especially if you’re craving the taste of home’s seafood and wish to indulge in oysters to your heart’s (and wallet’s) content!
Tooting in South London is also recognized for its culinary scene. Tooting Market and Tooting Broadway Market are extensive indoor street food markets featuring a diverse range of cuisines. If you’re in search of food that brings back memories of home, I highly suggest checking out Tooting’s food markets!
Escaping the city
While the city’s pulse is part of London’s allure, there are moments when the Tube becomes too noisy or the streets are oversaturated with crowds. Luckily, London is centrally located within an excellent network of trains and coaches, making it easy to venture outside the city for a weekend escape.
My preferred destinations are Surrey and Kent. Canterbury is a stunning medieval town in southern England bursting with history and accommodating for students. In Surrey, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) boasts a large botanical garden in Wisley, which is a delightful day trip, especially in the summer.
In summary, London is a lively city brimming with opportunities and places to discover, so take your time to uncover everything it has to offer during your stay at Imperial!
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