E7 8PF, Shaftsbury Rd, London, london

I had a remarkable experience during my final academic year at SOAS while living at Smart Student Accommodation. After a year-long stay, I can confidently say this is one of the best choices for international students in London. From the moment you step into the building, a beautifully preserved historical structure with more than a century of history, once a textile spinning company—you’re struck by its charm. The spiral wooden staircase and original machinery on display evoke a sense of wonder, transporting you back to the late-Victorian era. I stayed in a shared double flat, where I shared the kitchen and bathroom with a designated roommate. While compact, the space was practical for daily cooking, studying, and relaxing. What I appreciated most was the quiet atmosphere—it offered a peaceful retreat, especially compared to my previous stays near King’s Cross and a busy road in Acton. The quiet enabled me to fully focus on my studies, complete coursework, and ultimately submit my dissertation. I also became more attuned to the changing seasons! From the intense summer heat to the falling maple leaves of autumn, the silent darkness of winter reflected by glowing snow, and the reawakening of nature in spring. Observing this natural rhythm from my window was a quiet privilege that deepened my connection to the environment and supported my academic journey. While there were a few drawbacks: such as a strict stay-over policy, outdated and pricey laundry machines, and limited social opportunities within the residence. Smart still stands out as an excellent private accommodation near central London, offering competitive pricing, reliable security, and well-maintained facilities. Features like commonroom TVs with PS5s, a free-to-use pool table, and the constant presence of supportive staff like Zoe, Johan, and Aqib and many more made my stay welcoming and memorable. I leave here with pride and deep gratitude, and I would highly recommend Smart Student Accommodation to anyone seeking a quiet, safe, and well-organised place to live in London. It was one of the best decisions I made during my three years of study in the city. Thank you so much Smart Student Accommodation and its awesome teams!

Perfect accommodation!! Lovely and friendly staff, with 24 hour security and a stunning building to live in. It’s a short walk from Finsbury Park station, which is on the Victoria and Piccadilly line so has easy travel to major locations in London. It’s right next to a bus stop which takes 20 minutes to get to Camden and is also a short walk to Highbury and Islington which is a nice area. The rooms have everything you need (apart from an oven but my air fryer saves the day), making my stay here being the best 10 months in London!!

Thane Villas served as a very comfortable, fully furnished accommodation for a nearby London university. Used for about two years, we were given excellent maintenance and customer service. Issues were handled promptly if they cropped up. Staff were highly competent and courteous. Couldn’t recommend this place enough.

It is an excellent student accommodation not just because it’s in a very beautiful Victorian brick house, but because the people working here. Unlike those student accommodation ran by big corporations, this family owned businesses really cares about the students living here and works very hard to keep this place clean and safe. The staff here know the students very well. We say hi to each other very frequently. Last month they even brought the whole kebab stall to the accommodation to welcome the new tenants. You can really feel the warmth from them. Here is my home in London.

I always feel so welcome and with the many social events, various students come together to hang out and network. All the communal spaces are clean and the bin area and laundry room are easy to use. My room is comfortable and spacious - a nice place to work, chill and socialise.