When looking for UCL student accommodation in London, there are 3 main options you can explore.

1. Apply for UCL’s halls of residence

2. Look for purpose-built student blocks

3. Go private & professionally-managed

Each of these avenues caters to different needs and budgets - but for the sake of this blog post we are going to explore avenue 3.

Now,University College London (UCL) is one of the most prestigious institutions in the UK, welcoming thousands of international students annually. With a historic campus located in Bloomsbury, Central London, there is high demand for private accommodation options in and around the area, within close walking distance to UCL.

In this article we will explore the neighbourhoods suitable for UCL students, as well some of the best private UCL student accommodation available for both short and long stays.

The best areas to live near UCL

Bloomsbury

First up is Bloomsbury - home of UCL’s main Gower Street campus. Living in this area offers guests an absolutely minimal daily commute time to classes. The area is filled with students, as it houses other prestigious educational institutions as well.

The green spaces, like Russell Square and Bloomsbury Square also make it a charming and tranquil place to live. The area houses beautiful Georgian architecture, and an array of cafes and bookstores that cater to the discerning resident.

Living in Bloomsbury provides a unique blend of culture and convenience, making it an ideal choice for students. There are lots of private apartments available to rent here that are a perfect choice for those with higher budgets seeking a superior stay for their studies.

Holborn

Next up - Holborn. This area brushes shoulders with Bloomsbury, and if you look on Google Maps its sometimes hard to pinpoint exactly where one ends and the other begins. Like it’s neighbour, its hard to get more ‘central’ in London, and students make up a large percentage of the local residents.

Nestled in the heart of London, Holborn is a vibrant area that attracts families, young couples, students, and professionals alike. It’s high in demand for both residential properties and student rentals.

The neighbourhood boasts iconic landmarks and theatres like the Shaftesbury Avenue, the Royal Courts of Justice, the British Museum - and of course - UCL.

For students residing in Holborn, entertainment options, top-notch restaurants, and social venues are just a short walk or a quick ride away. The transport links, numerous social spots & green spaces keep guests extending their stay for years and years, as a place they’re proud to call home.

Fitzrovia

Fitzrovia - renowned for its artistic flair - sits between the bustling streets of Oxford Circus and the serene greenery of Regent's Park. The area is characterised by its charming streets lined with historic architecture, trendy cafes, and art galleries that foster a talented community.

The area suits UCL students perfectly - between a 10-15 minute walk away from the main campus. The area has multiple Underground stations including Goodge Street, Warren Street, and Tottenham Court Road in close proximity. Such connectivity enables students to navigate the city with ease, whether commuting to campus or exploring London's many attractions.

Along with Covent Gaden, Fitzrovia is home to some of London’s best high-end restaurants and casual eateries, so students can enjoy a multitude of culinary experiences without venturing far from home.

Fitzrovia is a firm favorite among UCL students seeking a perfect blend of academics and a lively social scene.

King’s Cross

Once primarily a transportation hub, King’s Cross has transformed into a cultural hotspot, attracting students, young professionals, and families alike.

With iconic landmarks such as the British Library, King's Cross Theatre, and Granary Square, residents can experience a mix of historical significance and modern innovation right at their doorstep. This unique blend makes it an appealing choice for those seeking both entertainment and educational opportunities.

Accessibility is another hallmark of the King's Cross area. The region boasts an extensive transport network, including the major King's Cross and St Pancras International stations, which provide easy connections to various parts of London and beyond. High-speed train services to continental Europe make it an ideal location for international students and professionals commuting for work or pleasure.

The local amenities and attractions in King's Cross significantly enhance the living experience. The area features an array of upscale restaurants, cafes, and bars, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Notable establishments such as the iconic pubs along the Regent's Canal offer charming spots to unwind, while health-conscious residents can take advantage of nearby wellness centers and fitness studios. Furthermore, the proximity to various shopping destinations allows for effortless access to both luxury brands and unique boutiques, enriching the lifestyle of its residents.

How to find private UCL student accommodation

Even though UCL provides accommodation for international students for the year they’re enrolled, these residences are communal, high-in demand - and are run on a tier system based on how recently (or not) they were refurbished.

For international students who want more privacy and luxury in living spaces, exploring the best private student accommodation near UCL will come in handy.

However, when looking at your options, we recommend considering if the following factors play a role in your decision-making:

• The proximity to UCL’s main campus

• The lease terms / rental contract on offer

• The on-site amenities & facilities

• How much extra are bills & utilities?

• Is there a cleaning service provided?

For us, choosing somewhere near Gower Street will save you time and add convenience to your routine. If not, look for places with good transport links for seamless travel to and from UCL.

Ensure your private accommodation has flexible lease terms to fit your changing schedule, allowing you to stay as long or as short as you need. Where possible, Seek UCL postgraduate & undergraduate housing options that include fitness centers, study lounges, private elevators, rooftop terraces, and other luxury amenities.

The Best Private UCL Student Accommodation For Rent

So, without further ado, here are the 8 UCL private student accommodation options we believe are perfect for students seeking a professionally-managed, private stay.

Some of the amazing on-site amenities here include private concierge service, elevator access, swimming pools, gym and wellness centres and outdoor balconies (a premium in London).

They all come fully-equipped with hotel-style amenities, and are located in the aforementioned Central London areas above.

Explore them in the gallery below.

Navigating UCL and Central London

Explore and discover key locations, facilities, and resources in UCL and Central London that will enhance your academic and social experience:

• Main Campus Highlights:

Familiarize yourself with the various academic buildings, lecture halls, and seminar rooms where your classes may be held. Explore UCL's libraries, such as the renowned Senate House Library, and unwind in the campus parks, squares, and recreational areas.

• Seamless Transportation in London

Identify the nearest London Underground (Tube) stations for swift travel to and from UCL and other parts of the city. Navigate the extensive bus network, connecting you to various neighborhoods and attractions in Central London.

• Cultural Hotspots Near UCL

Visit the iconic British Museum, close to UCL. You should also explore the fascinating world of zoology at the Grant Museum and view their unique collection of specimens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do most UCL students live?

Most UCL students live in UCL private student accommodations in Holborn, Fitzrovia, and Bloomsbury.

Is UCL full of international students?

About 48% of the total number of students in UCL are international from over 150 countries worldwide.

What amenities are included in the rental price?

Amenities vary from property to property, and from budget to budget. If you choose to stay in university provided accommodation I would not expect too much. Purpose-built student accommodation will be better, usually with gyms and social areas - with private apartments usually boasting the most luxury amenities like swimming pools.

What is the required paperwork?

University halls and purpose-built student accommodation usually require fixed 1 year contracts - with some offering 6 month break clauses. Most private apartments will be similar, but ours are flexible - you can stay as long (or short) as you like, with a minimum stay of 2 weeks.

What are the best ways to commute around the city?

The best ways to commute around London are using the tube. It really isn’t that bad! Failing that, Uber and Bolt offer a quick convenient way to UCL if you’re running late (or overslept…).

Final Thoughts

Some of the best private UCL accommodation options for international students are in Holborn, Fitzrovia, and Bloomsbury.

You can access the most private, flexible, and luxurious UCL postgraduate accommodation on Student Luxe. 

These apartments are designed for the well-traveled, wealthy, and international student with a taste for opulence in living spaces. We offer flexible living experience, no long-term contracts, no UK-guarantor needed, proximity to UCL, and ultra-modern, stunning apartments designed for your comfort. 

Let us know if you’d like to secure a special stay for your studies.