As an international student starting at King’s College London this year, the question is - where do King’s College London students live? will likely be one of your most pressing concerns.

Most students live in KCL accommodations in on-campus halls of residence or private residences off-campus. Private residences often range from PBSAs to shared student apartments, homestays and luxury rentals near campus.

Affluent international students often opt for more luxurious KCL accommodation options because they want more privacy, flexibility, and better amenities.

In this post, we will explore where King’s College London students live and focus on some of the best KCL private accommodation options in these areas.

Key Takeaways

• KCL students who don’t want to live in on-campus or university-provided accommodations often live in private apartments in neighbourhoods near campus, including South Bank, Waterloo, Holborn, Covent Garden, and Marylebone.

• These neighbourhoods offer a wide range of accommodation options, from PBSAs to luxury apartments. They are also located near different KCL campuses, so you don’t have to deal with long daily commutes to classes.

• Each neighbourhood offers a different perk. For example, Waterloo is known for its artsy vibe, transport hub, and calming riverside views. At the same time, Holborn, Covent Garden, and Marylebone cater to various student preferences, from academic hubs like Holborn to Covent Garden’s entertainment scene and Marylebone’s upscale yet residential charm.

• Student Luxe provides easy access to some of the most exclusive private luxury apartments near KCL. Affluent international students who want more space, flexibility, and privacy will benefit the most from these fully furnished and stylish apartments. Explore the different accommodation options and see what’s included with every stay.

King’s College London students live in different neighbourhoods close to the institution’s various campuses. Some of these neighbourhoods are Covent Garden, Holborn, South Bank, Waterloo, etc., and others.

Let’s explore these areas in detail.

1. South Bank

Living on the South Bank puts you right in the heart of London's cultural scene. It is an exceptional location for students attending King’s College London (KCL), particularly those studying at the Strand Campus. It is situated just across the Thames River, and students can walk or take a short bus ride to campus.

The area is home to many cafés, restaurants, and food markets, offering everything from quick bites to gourmet meals. Students can also enjoy cultural attractions such as the Tate Modern, the National Theatre, and the Southbank Centre, which often hosts student-friendly events and exhibitions.

Moving around in and from South Bank is also very easy, with the Waterloo Station providing easy access to multiple underground lines such as Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City.

South Bank has a lively and inspiring atmosphere. Students can enjoy riverside walks, outdoor performances, and pop-up markets while being surrounded by iconic landmarks like the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament. Accommodation in this neighbourhood ranges from student apartments to private rentals, many of which are located within walking distance of King’s College.

2. Waterloo

Waterloo is a great choice for KCL students studying at the Strand campus. It is just a short walk across Waterloo Bridge, making daily commutes quick and convenient. The area has various supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants, providing plenty of options for grocery shopping, dining out, or grabbing a quick coffee between classes.

For those interested in arts and culture, the Southbank Centre, National Theatre, and BFI Southbank are just around the corner. The neighbourhood is also a major transport hub, making it easy to move in and around London.

Waterloo also offers various accommodation options suitable for different budgets and preferences. From modern student halls to shared apartments, PBSAs and private rentals, students can find housing that fits their budgets and preferences.

One of the main perks of living in Waterloo is the calming atmosphere with tranquil riverside views. You can take a walk along the Thames, visit the nearby Tate Modern, or relax in Jubilee Gardens.

3. Holborn

Nestled in the heart of London, Holborn is an academic hub surrounded by libraries, bookshops, and research centres. It is just a short walk or a quick bus ride away from King's College London’s main campuses, including the Strand Campus.

Students enjoy the urban appeal of this central location, which is lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars. The nearby Covent Garden and Soho areas expand these options even further with an extensive mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment venues.

Holborn is very well connected to other parts of London by the Underground station, so students can easily explore other parts of London and beyond. The area also has various kinds of student accommodations, from shared apartments to luxury rentals and PBSAs, most of which are within walking distance of KCL.

Holborn’s central location ensures that students are never far from the action, whether it's a night out in nearby Soho or a quiet afternoon in one of the area’s green spaces.

4. Covent Garden

If you're drawn to the vibrant pulse of London's entertainment scene, Covent Garden is the place to be. Known for its theatres, street performers, and shopping, Covent Garden offers a lively and theatrical living experience. This neighbourhood is located just a short walk from the KCL Strand campus, so students living here don’t deal with long commutes.

Covent Garden is renowned for its bustling market, quirky shops, and many dining options, from high-end restaurants to cosy cafes. Students can enjoy the historic charm of Covent Garden Market, which hosts a variety of food stalls, artisanal shops, and lively street performances.

The neighbourhood is exceptionally well-connected. Its underground station on the Piccadilly Line provides quick and easy access to other parts of London. It is also near major transport hubs like Leicester Square and Charing Cross, ensuring that students can travel seamlessly across the capital and beyond.

Student accommodation options in Covent Garden differ, catering to various preferences and budgets. From stylish modern apartments to charming historical properties, you will definitely find something that suits your needs. The area’s central location sometimes means rent will be higher. However, being close to KCL, LSE, UCL, etc., and other universities makes it a worthwhile investment. Also, there are several reputable letting agencies to ensure you have access to a wide range of high-quality accommodation options.

5. Marylebone

Marylebone is an excellent choice for students attending King's College London (KCL) due to its central location in London. Although it's not adjacent to the main KCL campuses, the area offers easy access to all the key campuses via public transport. The Strand Campus, for instance, is just a short tube ride away on the Bakerloo Line, making it convenient for students who prefer living in a quieter, more residential neighbourhood.

This neighbourhood is known for its upscale amenities, which cater well to student needs. There is an array of cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops along Marylebone High Street, offering a range of dining and shopping options. Supermarkets like Waitrose and Tesco are also available, making grocery shopping convenient. The famous Daunt Books is also located here. It is a beautiful independent bookstore perfect for leisurely reading or study breaks.

Even though the area is known for its luxury properties, there are also shared housing options and smaller studios that cater to a student budget. Proximity to other student-friendly areas, such as Fitzrovia and Bloomsbury, expands the range of affordable housing choices.

Which Neighbourhood is Best For Me?

The neighbourhood you choose will largely depend on your priorities when you think about your lifestyle.

• For Proximity to Campus:

South Bank and Waterloo are excellent choices for students studying at the Strand Campus, offering quick walking commutes and easy access to university facilities. These areas allow students to spend less time traveling.

• For Cultural and Social Vibes:

Covent Garden is ideal for students who love a vibrant environment. The area is known for its theatres, street performances, and nightlife, making it perfect for those who love being right in the action. South Bank also offers cultural attractions like the Tate Modern and National Theatre and regular riverside events that add excitement to student life.

• For Central Convenience and Urban Energy:

Holborn is the go-to neighbourhood for students who want to live in an academic and professional hub. Surrounded by libraries, bookshops, and research centers, it’s perfect for those who need a quiet, resourceful environment during the week but enjoy easy access to Soho and Covent Garden for dining and nightlife on weekends.

• For Luxury and Quiet Living:

Marylebone offers a quieter, more residential vibe with an upscale touch. This area is perfect for students who value peaceful surroundings, luxury amenities, and boutique shopping. Proximity to places like Daunt Books and Marylebone High Street adds charm to this sophisticated neighbourhood.

• For Budget-Friendly and Diverse Housing Options:

Waterloo and Holborn cater to students looking for a mix of affordability and convenience. These areas provide many housing options, from shared apartments to PBSAs, making them accessible for students with different budgets.

9 Best KCL Private Accommodation for Rent

Now that you know where King’s College London students live, here are some of the best KCL private accommodation options available for rent in these areas.

Let’s explore these luxury student residences near KCL in the gallery below.

These luxury student accommodations near KCL all have similar luxury amenities such as:

• Private concierge

• On-site gym

• On-site wellness centers

• Outdoor patio

• Rooftop terrace

• Pool

And many more…

Explore the different accommodation options and see what’s included with every stay.

FAQs

Where is the best place to live near King's College London?

The best place to live near King’s College London is Covent Garden. This neighbourhood has several private student apartments available for rent and is less than a 10-minute walk to KCL.

What part of London is Kings College located?

Kings College is located in central London. The institution has 5 campuses spread across London in Strand, Thames-side, and South London.

Wrapping Up

King’s College London students live in neighbourhoods close to the college, like Holborn, Shoreditch, Marylebone, Camden, etc., and many others. You can access the most private, flexible, and luxurious KCL accommodation on Student Luxe. 

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