Where to Live When Studying at Imperial College London?

Choosing the right accommodation while schooling at Imperial College London will significantly improve your experience as an international student in a new city.

Some students like to be in the midst of all the action and choose to live in on-campus halls of residence. However, this option comes with limited availability and minimal privacy.

For students who want to live in more private accommodations, in this post, we will do a deep dive into where to live while enrolled at ICL.

Key Takeaways

• Imperial College’s main campus is located in South Kensington. This means that students who want to live in off-campus accommodations must prioritize nearby neighbourhoods like Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Earl’s Court, etc., to avoid long daily commutes.

• Fortunately, these neighbourhoods are student-friendly and have tons of accommodation options and amenities that cater to the growing student community in London.

• On Student Luxe, you can choose your ideal private Imperial student accommodation located in the best neighbourhoods near campus. Explore the different accommodation options and see what’s included with every stay.

Where is Imperial College London Located?

The main campus is situated in South Kensington, a prime location in central London that is popular among the international student community due to its proximity to other academic institutions and popular landmarks.

South Kensington: The Heart of Academia in London

South Kensington is a vibrant and prestigious area known for its academic institutions, museums, and affluent lifestyle. The neighbourhood is home to several landmarks, such as the Natural History Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Science Museum. This cultural hub provides an enriching environment for students to explore different extracurricular activities.

Proximity to Imperial College London

Living close to Imperial College London’s main campus in South Kensington has significant advantages. The short commute allows students to save valuable time, focus on their studies, and explore the rest of the city. Many students prefer to walk or cycle to campus, enjoying the stunning routes and the beautiful architecture the neighbourhood offers.

Nearby Areas and Neighborhoods

While South Kensington is a top choice for many students, there are several other nearby neighbourhoods that offer excellent accommodation options:

• Chelsea: Just a stone’s throw away from South Kensington, Chelsea is known for its upscale living, chic boutiques, and vibrant social scene. It's an ideal location for students who desire a blend of luxury and convenience.

• Knightsbridge: Famous for Harrods and its high-end shopping, Knightsbridge is another luxurious area near Imperial College. The neighbourhood offers top-tier amenities and a sophisticated living environment.

• Earls Court: A bit more affordable but still within easy reach of the campus, Earls Court is a popular choice for students. The area is well-connected by public transport, making the daily commute to campus quick and convenient.

Why Proximity to Campus is Important?

Choosing private accommodation close to Imperial College London can greatly enhance your student experience. Proximity to campus means more time to participate in university activities, easier access to campus resources such as libraries and laboratories, and the opportunity to be part of the vibrant student community.

Here are some of the top neighbourhoods favoured by Imperial College students based on proximity, comfort, accommodation options, and amenities.

South Kensington

Proximity to Campus

• South Kensington is the most sought-after neighbourhood for Imperial College students due to its immediate proximity to the main campus. A short walk or bike ride allows students to access campus in no time.

Neighbourhood Overview

• This area is renowned for its cultural attractions, including the Natural History Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Science Museum. It’s also home to beautiful parks like Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Luxury Accommodation Options

• South Kensington offers a variety of high-end student accommodations featuring modern amenities such as private gyms, concierge services, and communal study areas. These luxury apartments ensure a comfortable and secure living environment.

Chelsea

Distance from Imperial College

• Located just west of South Kensington, Chelsea is a fashionable district 8 minutes (bike ride) from Imperial College's main campus. The commute is also easy and fast via bus.

Upscale Living Environment

• Chelsea represents luxury living in the heart of London. The area has chic boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. It’s perfect for students who appreciate a sophisticated lifestyle and enjoy socializing in trendy settings.

Benefits for Students

• Living in Chelsea means being part of an affluent community with access to exclusive amenities and a lively social scene. This neighbourhood is ideal for those looking to balance academic commitments with a thriving social life.

Knightsbridge

Overview of the Area

• Knightsbridge is a prestigious neighbourhood known globally for its high-end shopping, including the iconic Harrods and Harvey Nichols. It’s located just a short distance from Imperial College, making it a convenient option for students.

Luxury Shopping and Dining Experiences

• The area offers a fun mix of luxury retail stores, fine dining establishments, and upscale cafes. Students living in Knightsbridge can enjoy a lavish lifestyle with everything they need at their doorstep.

High-End Student Accommodations

• Knightsbridge provides a range of luxury student housing options equipped with top-tier amenities. These accommodations offer a safe and stylish living environment, perfect for international students accustomed to a high standard of living.

Earls Court

Description and Appeal

• Earls Court, located slightly further west, offers a more affordable yet still luxurious alternative. It’s well-known for its vibrant and diverse community.

Affordable Luxury Options

• This neighborhood is popular among students for its relatively lower rental prices compared to South Kensington and Chelsea. However, it still offers modern, high-quality private student accommodations.

Transport Links to Imperial College

• Earls Court is well-connected to Imperial College via the London Underground, with the journey taking just a few minutes. This makes it a convenient option for students looking to balance cost and convenience.

Imperial students live in private Imperial College accommodation from their second year and beyond. There are several luxury flats in London that cater to students attending ICL.

As shared above, these apartments are mostly found in Kensington, Knightsbridge, Chelsea, etc., and are perfect for international students who want a more luxurious approach to student living.

Most of these apartments come with hotel-style amenities such as concierge service, on-site gym, pool/sauna, etc., and many more. You can find different luxury Imperial student accommodation on Student Luxe.

Wrapping Up

The best areas to live while studying at Imperial College London are Kensington, Knightsbridge, Chelsea, Earl’s Court, North Acton, etc.

You can access the most private Imperial College London student accommodation on Student Luxe. 

These apartments are designed for the well-traveled, wealthy, and international student with a taste for luxurious living spaces. 

Here’s our flex…

Flexible living experience, no long-term contracts, no UK-guarantor needed, proximity to Imperial College’s campuses, and ultra-modern, stunning apartments designed for your comfort. 

Reach out to our experts, who can secure a special stay for your studies.