Welcome to London Big Ben Tower Bridge Hyde Park The Thames Notting Hill Covent Garden The Shard Buckingham Palace Welcome to London Big Ben Tower Bridge Hyde Park The Thames Notting Hill Covent Garden The Shard Buckingham Palace
London, United Kingdom

Your New City Awaits You

The ultimate local guide for international students and visitors arriving in London. From navigating the Tube to finding your favourite chippy — we have got you covered.

500k+ Students in London
200+ Universities & Colleges
33 Boroughs to Discover
Quick Essentials

Everything You Need
On Arrival

The Tube & Transport

Get your Oyster card or use contactless. The London Underground runs 24/7 on weekends. Download the TfL Go app for live updates.

Transport Guide

Finding Accommodation

From university halls to private rentals — understand your options and know your rights as a tenant in the UK.

Housing Guide

Banking & Finance

Open a UK bank account, manage your student finances, and discover student discounts with your NUS card.

Finance Tips

NHS & Healthcare

Register with a local GP as soon as you arrive. As an international student you are entitled to NHS healthcare.

Health Info

SIM & Connectivity

Get a UK SIM from Vodafone, EE or Three. Most student areas have excellent 5G coverage and affordable plans.

Connectivity

University Life

Join societies, visit the student union, and make the most of campus life. London's universities are world-class.

Campus Life
Neighbourhoods

Best Areas
For Students And Visitors

Zone 1

Bloomsbury

Home to UCL and the British Museum. Academic atmosphere with great cafes, bookshops and literary history.

UCL Quiet Academic
Zone 1–2

Shoreditch

East London's creative hub. Street art, vintage markets, tech startups and buzzing nightlife.

Trendy Arts Nightlife
Zone 2

Hackney

Vibrant, diverse and affordable. Victoria Park, Broadway Market and a thriving food scene.

Diverse Affordable Parks
Zone 2

Brixton

Cultural melting pot with amazing food markets, live music venues and strong community spirit.

Culture Food Music
Insider
Knowledge

Tips from students and visitors who have been exactly where you are.

Student Tips

Local Know-How
That Really Helps

  • Always Tap In AND Tap Out

    On the Tube always touch your Oyster or card both entering and exiting or you will be charged the maximum fare automatically.

  • Free World-Class Museums

    The British Museum, V&A, Natural History Museum and Tate Modern are all completely free to enter any day of the week.

  • Carry Your Student ID Always

    Most theatres, cinemas, restaurants and shops offer generous student discounts. Never leave halls without it.

  • Try a Sunday Roast

    It is a beloved British ritual. Find a good local pub for a Sunday roast — affordable, filling and very cultural.

  • Pack for Rain Every Day

    London weather is unpredictable. Buy a compact umbrella and a waterproof jacket during your very first week here.

  • Night Tube on Fridays & Saturdays

    The Tube runs all night on key lines at weekends — a safe and affordable way to get home after a late evening out.

Ready to Explore
Your New Home?

Join thousands of international students and visitors who have settled into London life with our help.

Start Exploring