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Where to Live in London: Making the Most of the City

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Moving to London to study is exciting. Finding somewhere to live in one of the world’s biggest cities can feel a little more daunting.

With dozens of neighbourhoods to choose from, different transport connections to navigate and a housing market that can move quickly, it can be difficult to know where to begin — particularly if you’re searching from another country.

The good news is that studying at ESCP’s London Campus gives you more flexibility than you might think.

Located in West Hampstead, the campus is exceptionally well connected to the rest of London. With access to multiple Underground, Overground and rail connections, as well as several bus routes, getting to campus is straightforward from a wide range of areas across the city.

That means you don’t necessarily need to live within a short distance of ESCP. Instead, you can think about what matters most to you. You might prefer the cafés, green spaces and neighbourhood feel of North London, or the creative energy, markets, food and nightlife of East London. You can prioritise the convenience and buzz of living more centrally, or choose somewhere quieter where your budget may stretch a little further.

In a city as varied as London, where you live can become a big part of your student experience.

To help make that decision a little easier, we’ve put together a guide to some of the best-connected areas for ESCP students, what you can expect from each neighbourhood, and some practical advice to help you find a place to call home in London.

Where Do ESCP London Students Live?

Many ESCP students choose to live relatively close to the London Campus, with several popular neighbourhoods offering a mix of convenient commutes, local amenities and different price points.

West Hampstead

A favourite among ESCP students thanks to its proximity to campus and lively neighbourhood feel. West End Lane is packed with cafés, restaurants and pubs, while excellent transport connections make getting around London easy.

Hampstead

Leafy, picturesque and home to the famous Hampstead Heath, Hampstead is ideal for students looking for green space and a quieter neighbourhood atmosphere while remaining close to campus.

Kilburn & Brondesbury

Close to ESCP and generally more affordable than neighbouring Hampstead and West Hampstead, this diverse and lively part of northwest London offers plenty of shops, restaurants and good connections into central London.

Golders Green

A little further north, Golders Green combines a strong community feel with a fantastic selection of international restaurants and easy access to Hampstead Heath. Regular buses make getting to campus straightforward.

Cricklewood & Childs Hill

Residential and generally more budget-friendly than some of the surrounding neighbourhoods, these areas are worth considering if affordability and proximity to campus are high on your list.

Swiss Cottage & St John’s Wood

Both offer convenient access to ESCP while putting you slightly closer to central London. Swiss Cottage is particularly well connected by the Jubilee line, while St John’s Wood offers a quieter, more residential feel.

Looking Further Afield?

Thanks to ESCP London’s transport connections, you don’t have to limit your search to northwest London. If you’re happy to commute, some of London’s best-known student neighbourhoods are also worth exploring.

Camden & Kentish Town

A classic choice for students who want plenty happening on their doorstep. Expect live music, pubs, markets, restaurants and a lively atmosphere, with quieter residential streets available away from the busiest parts of Camden.

Shoreditch & Bethnal Green

For a taste of East London, these areas put you close to some of the city’s best-known markets, independent cafés, restaurants, nightlife and creative spaces. They’re a good fit for students who are willing to trade a longer journey to campus for a more energetic East London experience.

King’s Cross & Islington

Central, well connected and surrounded by restaurants, cafés, cultural venues and other universities, this part of London can be particularly appealing if you want to experience student life beyond your own campus — although accommodation can come at a premium.

Prices are indicative and will vary depending on the property, exact location and whether bills are included.

Wherever you choose, don’t judge an area by distance alone. In London, a neighbourhood that looks further away on the map can sometimes offer an easier commute than somewhere geographically closer, so always check the actual public transport journey to ESCP before making your decision.

When Should You Start Looking?

London’s rental market moves quickly, so it pays to be prepared. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

What Type of Accommodation Should You Choose?

ESCP students typically choose between three main options: renting privately, living in a student residence or accommodation provider, or staying in a homestay.

Each offers a different experience. Private rentals can give you greater independence and the opportunity to share with friends, while student residences can make the transition to London simpler and offer a ready-made student community. A homestay, meanwhile, can provide a more settled introduction to the city, particularly if it’s your first time living abroad.

The right choice ultimately depends on your budget, lifestyle and how you want to experience London.

How ESCP Helps You Find Accommodation in London

Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re arriving from abroad. Fortunately, ESCP’s Student Experience team provides a range of resources designed to help you find accommodation before your arrival in London.

As you begin your search, you can access several dedicated tools and housing resources through Campus Life, ESCP’s student platform, including:

These resources are designed to simplify your search and help you find accommodation that matches your budget, lifestyle and preferred part of London.

With a little preparation — and the right resources — finding your new home in London can be much more manageable. Once that’s sorted, you can focus on the exciting part: settling in, exploring the city and making the most of your ESCP experience.

Finding the right place to live is an important part of settling into London, but it’s also the beginning of getting to know the city. Whichever neighbourhood you choose, London’s transport connections put its culture, food, green spaces, nightlife and countless different communities within reach.

Find somewhere that feels like home, and then make the city your own.

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