Student Accommodation London

London doesn’t do average and neither will your student life here. And if you’re moving here for uni, congrats, you’re about to live the plot of your own indie film. Let’s break down everything you need to know about London student accommodation, London student life, and where to find the best vibes. 

London is home to over 40 universities and hundreds of thousands of students from all over the world. Whether you're heading to University College London (UCL), King’s College London, or the London School of Economics (LSE), the city offers something for every kind of student. Dreaming of an en-suite studio near Imperial College London or a shared flat close to Queen Mary University of London? The options are endless—you just need to know where to look, what to expect, and how to avoid overpaying or falling for shady listings.

Student accommodation in London can range from en-suite student rooms in buzzing neighborhoods like Shoreditch to budget-friendly shared flats near key universities. There are also purpose-built student housing options in London offering all-inclusive packages and flexible contracts. If you're wondering where to begin, our curated listings are a great place to start your journey. 

Looking for something quieter or more luxe? London student apartments come in all shapes and budgets—from sleek high-rise studios to heritage buildings full of charm. Many student homes in London come fully furnished, with bills included, and are within walking distance from your campus or the Tube. Whatever your preferences, you’ll find something that fits your academic and personal vibe. 

There’s no such thing as a “typical” day in London and that’s exactly why students love it. One moment, you’re in a 200-year-old library. The next, you’re chasing pigeons in Trafalgar Square or discovering a Korean bakery hidden behind a vintage bookshop. London student living is chaotic, iconic, and wildly student-friendly. 

Whether you're spending your mornings at university lectures or exploring the city's cultural gems, being a student in London means you're always one Tube stop away from your next adventure. With endless cafés, co-working spots, and Instagram-worthy corners, every street can feel like your own campus. 

The best part? You're never far from someone else who's also figuring it all out—flatmates, classmates, even that barista who knows your order by heart. Being a student in London is like joining a club that meets everywhere, all the time. 

London also offers a fantastic blend of tradition and modernity. You can attend a Shakespeare play at The Globe one day and an NFT exhibition the next. The city's cultural diversity means you’ll feel right at home no matter where you’re from. 

For those diving into student life in London for the first time, there's a sense of independence that hits different. Late-night grocery runs, navigating the night bus, or cheering with strangers during a local football match—all become part of your student story. This city doesn’t just host your uni life—it becomes your playground, mentor, and sometimes, your chaos buddy. 

London is where your degree meets drama, dumplings, and deep convos at 2AM. 

Student living in London is equal parts brainy and buzzy. Want free gallery hopping in Shoreditch? Done. Bookstore-hopping in Notting Hill? Say less. Cosy study cafés in Bloomsbury? They’ll even spell your name right. 

Nightlife: From £2 pint pubs to neon-lit clubs 

Diversity & Culture: 100,000+ international students can’t be wrong 

Cafés, libraries, hangout zones: Sorted 

Whether you’re a bookworm or a social butterfly, student homes London give you the base. You bring the energy. 

Add to that London's seasonal festivals, art shows, music gigs, and pop-ups—your calendar will be as full as your class schedule. With student discounts at theatres, museums, and comedy nights, there's no reason to stay in. 

Want a taste of every global cuisine? London’s got you. From Soho’s Chinatown to Banglatown on Brick Lane, you’ll never run out of places to try. Weekends are made for brunch, markets, park picnics, and walks along the Thames. 

And yes, even rainy days have their charm—perfect for museum-hopping or people-watching with a hot coffee. 

London student life also comes with the bonus of personal growth. You learn to budget, navigate a global city, cook (or at least survive off cereal), and meet people from every corner of the world. It's like a crash course in adulting—with way better views. 

With so many universities in London, every neighborhood comes with its own student culture. Whether you choose to live in North, South, East or West London, you’ll find a student rhythm that fits your personality. 

For students seeking more than academics, London delivers. There’s always a street performance, community event, or art walk around the corner. You’ll never feel like you're missing out on the action. 

Because where you live = who you become. 

Camden: Vintage markets and live music. 

Shoreditch: All about street art and oat lattes. 

Bloomsbury: Ideal for UCL students. 

Stratford: Great value, big malls. 

Whitechapel: Near Queen Mary, spicy eats. 

King’s Cross: Insta-perfect and well-connected. 

Wembley: Affordable, modern, well connected, new playground for thousands of students at one place.  

All these zones offer excellent student housing London options, whether you're hunting for affordable student accommodation, student flats or shared student apartments in London. Proximity to unis, food spots, and transport hubs? Check, check, and check. 

If you're looking for a social vibe, Camden and Shoreditch are your go-tos. Prefer something quieter and green? Hampstead and Ealing might be a better fit. The best part? We’ve got verified London student accommodation in all of these areas with zero platform fees and expert support. 

These areas are also hotspots for vibrant student life in London—with access to study-friendly cafés, cheap eats, and everything from vintage stores to wellness studios. Choosing the right zone is about matching your lifestyle: academic, social, or somewhere in between.

Let’s be real: London isn’t the cheapest. But there are workarounds. And noodles. 

Rent: £180–£320/week (depending on area + amenities) 

Food: £150–£200/month if you cook, more if you UberEats your life 

Travel: £100/month with a Student Oyster Card 

Extras: £50–£100/month (yes, bubble tea counts) 

Pro tip: Most London student flats come with all bills included. Student discounts are everywhere. Apps like UNiDAYS and Student Beans = financial survival. 

Budgeting tip: Explore outer zones like Stratford and Wembley for lower rent. Also, many student housing London providers run cashback deals or early-bird offers—use them! 

Many student accommodation London properties also come with free access to gyms, game zones, and laundry—saving you extra monthly costs. Shared flats are usually more economical than studios. Shop local, use student deals, and cook in bulk to stretch that student loan.

From shared flats to private studios, there's something for every lifestyle and budget. Here are your main options for student rooms in London: 

Ensuite Rooms in Shared Flats: Your own bathroom + a shared kitchen/living space. Perfect mix of privacy and social life. 

Non-Ensuite Rooms in Shared Flats: More budget-friendly. You’ll share both the bathroom and common spaces with flatmates. 

Studios: Fully private space—bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette. Ideal for focused study or if you're more introverted. 

Shared Rooms: Two beds in one room. Cheapest option and ideal if you’re moving with a friend. 

1-Bed Apartments: Great for couples or students who want separate rooms and kitchens. 

2-Bed Apartments: Shared with a friend, often with private bedrooms and a common area. 

Whether you're searching for London student rooms that are buzzing with energy or more zen and solo, you’ll find what fits you. 

These student housing types cater to different needs—some come fully furnished, some offer dual occupancy options, and most include bills. Choose what suits your budget, privacy level, and uni commute best. 

London offers a lot—so how do you pick the right one? 

Commute Time: Check distance to your uni (bonus if it’s walkable!) 

Bills Included: Most London student accommodation includes utilities—confirm before you sign. 

Amenities: Do you need a gym, cinema room, study lounge? 

Social Life: Prefer living solo or with flatmates? 

Safety: Look for CCTV, secure entry, and well-lit areas 

Pro tip: Don’t just look at pics—read full details, check cancellation policies, and always book verified listings. Some students prioritise being near campus, others want nightlife nearby, and some want a peaceful study sanctuary. 

Choosing the right London student accommodation isn’t just about the price. Think about your academic schedule, social preferences, and lifestyle habits. Want quiet nights and yoga rooms? Choose a studio. Want Friday night pizza with flatmates? Pick a shared flat in a lively student zone. 

At House of Student, you can filter all of this easily—from ensuite preferences to walk-to-campus options. Our listings also show room-level details, floor plans, and distance to uni. Finding the right student accommodation London just got easier. 

Fuel your study marathons and chill breaks with these spots: 

Monmouth Coffee – A student favorite near Covent Garden. 

The Book Club, Shoreditch – Coffee, brunch and late-night hangs. 

The British Library Café – For those who live to study. 

Timberyard, Seven Dials - Power sockets, great WiFi, and baked goods. Enough said. 

Farm Girl, Notting Hill – Trendy and wholesome. 

The Roasting Shed – East London espresso heaven. 

Grind – All-day café and work spot with the perfect student vibe. 

Flat White, Soho – Small, strong, and iconic. Great espresso, low-key study vibe. 

Ozone Coffee, Shoreditch – Spacious, stylish, and ideal for a laptop day. 

Maison Bertaux, Soho – For students who want pastries with personality. 

Look Mum No Hands!, Old Street - Bikes, baristas, and bookshelves. 

The Wren, St. Paul’s - For when you want peace, art, and caffeine under one roof. 

Ginger & White, Hampstead - A North London gem with good vibes and great toasties. 

Other notable mentions include Origin Coffee in Southwark for ethically sourced beans, Kaffeine in Fitzrovia for a proper Aussie-style flat white, and WatchHouse in Marylebone if you're in the mood for beautiful interiors and serious coffee. 

London’s café culture is student life’s unofficial sponsor. Whether you're cramming for exams or catching up with your flatmate, there's always a cosy corner and a good brew waiting for you. 

You’ll also love Store Street Espresso, a gem near UCL with plenty of seating and study vibes, or Attendant, a converted Victorian loo turned Instagrammable hangout. If you're living in student accommodation in London near Southbank, Terry's Café is your go-to for a classic English breakfast and proper tea. 

Looking for a more social vibe? Department of Coffee and Social Affairs has the buzz. Craving cookies with your coffee? Try Ben's Cookies at Oxford Street. Into minimalist interiors? Head to Lanark Coffee or The Gentlemen Baristas. 

These places don’t just serve coffee—they serve community, focus, and comfort in equal parts. Because sometimes, the best ideas (and friendships) start over a flat white. 

And if you’re after a cheeky pint or chill bar: 

The Big Chill (King’s Cross): DJs, chill vibes, terrace. 

The Old Blue Last (Shoreditch): Iconic pub with music heritage. 

The Camden Assembly (Camden): Great for gigs and dancing. 

The Ten Bells (Spitalfields): History + cocktails. 

Bar Elba (Waterloo): Rooftop sunsets and student-friendly happy hours. 

Study breaks? Sorted. If cities had Bumble bios, London’s would be: “Chaotic good, drinks tea, changes your life.” 

British Museum (free) – Time travel without the student loan. 

Sky Garden – Killer skyline views and it’s free with a booking. 

Camden Market – Food coma incoming. 

Hampstead Heath – Deep thoughts and perfect walks. 

Columbia Road Flower Market – Flower therapy for £5. 

Tate Modern – Art and existential musings on the Southbank. 

Brick Lane – Curry capital and vintage haven. 

Hyde Park – Sunny picnics and pedal boats. 

Greenwich – Observatory, park and Thames-side calm. 

Little Venice – Romantic boat strolls in Zone 2. 

Want more offbeat picks? 

God’s Own Junkyard – Neon wonderland in Walthamstow 

Daunt Books – For travel-book lovers in Marylebone 

Wilton’s Music Hall – One of the oldest surviving music halls 

Mercato Metropolitano – Global food hall and hangout in Elephant & Castle 

Hackney City Farm – For the countryside fix without leaving London 

And yes, many of these places offer discounts or freebies with your student ID. Don’t leave your room without it. 

Uni life isn’t just about classes—it’s about finding your people. 

Whether you're into poetry slams, football leagues, anime meetups, or AI clubs, London’s student communities are thriving across unis and neighbourhoods. 

Here’s how to plug in: 

University societies: Everything from law to LARPing 

Student Union events: Quiz nights, debates, career talks, freshers' fairs 

Local Meetup groups: From salsa to coding 

Area-specific Discords & Reddit threads: Real talk, virtual vibes 

Volunteer groups: Give back while making new friends 

Local pubs, gyms, and cafés often double as low-key hubs for niche communities. And with 100,000+ international students in London, you’ll find both global perspective and local bonding. 

You can also explore more Community options here.

The travel system is chef’s kiss. Get to lectures or last-minute gigs easily: 

Tube & Overground: Everywhere you need 

Buses: Cheap & reliable 

Santander Bikes: From £1.65, and perfect for a sunny day spin 

Walking: Many uni zones are pedestrian-friendly (and scenic) 

Use your Student Oyster Card or contactless card to save on fares. Most London student housing options are located near stations. We make sure to highlight travel-friendly listings so you can be where the action is—without the stress. 

Live in Stratford? Quick DLR to East London unis. Camden? One hop to UCL. King's Cross? You’re basically at the transport HQ. Wherever you book, London’s public transport has you covered. 

London is mostly safe—but, y'know, use your head. 

Keep your stuff close on the Tube, avoid walking alone at 3AM, and maybe don’t flash your iPhone 16 in dark alleys. 

Healthcare? The UK’s got you. You’ll have access to the NHS (National Health Service) as a student—register with a GP near your London student accommodation once you land. Most areas near student homes will have multiple NHS clinics and pharmacies nearby. 

Mental health support? Check out your uni’s counselling services. Many offer free sessions, mindfulness workshops, and peer support groups. You can also explore support options via our wellbeing partners available on the House of Student platform. 

London = land of internships, side hustles, and TikTok-worthy office views. 

Part-time gigs in retail, events, and hospitality 

Uni career fairs = goldmines 

Internships at startups and big global brands 

Freelance gigs in writing, design, and tutoring 

Many unis have career centres, so use them. Manifest your £££ and your LinkedIn glow-up. 

Since many London student housing options are in the main city locations, you can stay close to the work opportunities with the right choice of your student accommodation in London. 

London’s part-time job scene is also ideal for students who want to gain work experience while keeping studies in check. Common student-friendly jobs include: 

Barista or café assistant – especially in student-heavy areas like Bloomsbury and Camden 

Retail associate – at high-street favourites like Zara, H&M, and Uniqlo 

Event crew – flexible shifts at music gigs, football matches, and exhibitions 

Library or campus assistant – right on uni grounds 

Tutoring – earn by teaching school-level subjects or language skills 

Delivery riders – for apps like Deliveroo or Uber Eats with flexible schedules 

Make sure to apply for your National Insurance Number early, as you’ll need it to work in the UK. Sites like Indeed, StudentJob UK, and your uni portal will become your part-time hustle HQ. 

International students on a Tier 4 visa can work up to 20 hours/week during term and full-time during holidays — a massive plus in a city like London.

Looking for London student properties that don’t break the bank or your spirit? We’ve got verified listings, best prices and deals, and zero platform fees. 

Book your ideal student accommodation London now with House of Student, from the creators of the world’s first student housing marketplace—15+ years of experience, trusted by 10M+ students from 150+ countries. 

Verified listings 

Zero platform fee 

Cashbacks and deals on every booking 

Local support, global reach 

Dedicated student advisor from search to move-out 

Available 24/7, 365 days 

Trusted by top universities and students alike 

Whether you’re booking from the UK or overseas, we make the process stress-free, transparent, and trustworthy.