Category: Blog Atlantic London

Student housing in the UK – Problems and solutions

Rents are rising sharply, demand is outstripping supply and student housing is said to have reached a crisis point similar to the one of the 1970s. Student accommodation in the UK is an issue that affects tens of thousands of students each year. While it offers opportunities for independence and growth, it also presents many challenges and problems, as well as limitations.

Accommodation costs keep going up

A widespread problem is the high cost of accommodation for students. Rents in college towns are often high or very high, making it difficult for all students to find affordable housing. This generates a financial burden and can force some students to compromise on the quality and location of their accommodation. Looking to address this issue, some universities and student unions are already working together to provide cheaper on-campus housing or even work with local landlords to negotiate lower rents for students. However, more needs to be done in this sense.

In the meantime, quality’s dropping

Another challenge is the quality and maintenance of student residences and dorms. Several students live in poorly maintained buildings with problems such as dampness, heating problems and pest infestations, among others. This situation can have a negative impact on the health and academic performance of students. In order to address this issue, universities can set stricter regulations and standards for off-campus housing and ensure landlords meet minimum requirements and standards. Regular inspections and even penalties for violations are regarded as measures that could help improve the overall quality of housing opportunities.

Safety and inclusion concerns still abound

Living in an unfamiliar area or sharing accommodation with strangers can make students more vulnerable to different types of crime. Universities usually attempt to improve security by providing clear guidance on choosing a trustworthy landlord, promoting safety measures such as proper locks and lighting, and establishing a support system through which students can speak up, report concerns and incidents.

The lack of suitable housing for students with disabilities is also a concern. Numerous shelters do not have the necessary facilities to accommodate people with disabilities, making it difficult for them to access education. In this sense, there needs to be more cooperation with Disability Services, seeking to identify suitable housing options and ensuring that landlords make the necessary adjustments to meet different needs.

Health and homelessness issues might surge

A recent report conducted by the Higher Education Policy Institute showed that student homelessness could increase significantly due to the more general cost of living crisis. A similar survey showed that 1 in 10 students have faced, at one point or another, a profound housing issue (in the sense of relying on non-conventional, short-time housing). The psychological health of students can also be affected by this range of housing issues.

The stress of finding suitable housing, dealing with roommates and experiencing social isolation can all cause feelings of anxiety and loneliness. Universities need to do a better job at supporting students by providing counseling services, organizing social events and providing a platform for students to speak up, socialize and find roommates with similar interests.

For every problem, there is a solution

In a nutshell, student accommodation in the UK currently faces a range of issues. Solving these issues and working towards viable and sustainable solutions will allow universities, student unions and landlords to work together with the aim of improving the overall student life experience. Access to education implies access to affordable and safe living conditions, especially in the case of international students coming to the UK, some of them already facing financial hardships.

Living expenses might be different in the UK than at home for these students and that is precisely why the government is offering substantial amounts of funds for students in the form of maintenance loans that can help with all sorts of living costs. We can also help you access these funds for free! We want students to focus on their studies and get the most out of their university experience in the UK.

Best summer holiday destinations in the UK in 2023

A wonderful time to discover the United Kingdom’s varied landscapes, rich history and vibrant culture is during the summer. The UK provides a wide array of wonderful summer vacation spots, from breathtaking coasts to gorgeous countryside. Here are 8 of the top destinations for a memorable summer vacation in 2023.

1.Cornwall: This region of southwest England is home to magnificent beaches and breathtaking coastal landscapes. Popular locations such as St Ives, Newquay and Padstow provide the ideal balance of sun, surf and seaside towns.

2. Scottish Highlands: The Scottish Highlands offer a tranquil getaway for nature lovers. Explore the breathtaking scenery of the Cairngorms National Park, go on a hike around Loch Ness or travel the North Coast 500, a gorgeous drive that passes imposing mountains and ancient castles.

4. Lake District: The well-known Lake District, located in northwest England, is a haven for both outdoor enthusiasts and book fans. Beautiful lakes, sloping hills and market villages can be found in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also visit Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top, the old residence of the children’s author, or walk up Scafell Pike, which is England’s highest peak.

5. Edinburgh: The capital of Scotland is a dynamic, historic spot with a vibrant summer atmosphere. Tourists visit the historic Edinburgh Castle and take in the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe, a celebration of the arts and culture. For sweeping views of the city, make sure to climb Arthur’s Seat.

6. Wales’s Pembrokeshire county is home to breathtaking coastline scenery and a wide range of outdoor hotspots. Learn about its rocky cliffs and beautiful beaches. Visit St Davids, the smallest city in the UK with an amazing cathedral, explore the Coast National Park and enjoy kayaking or coasteering.

7. Isle of Skye: The Isle of Skye, which is located on Scotland’s west coast, is recognized for its beautiful scenery and ethereal allure. Visit the famous Eilean Donan Castle, the surreal rock formations and the Fairy Pools. This is also a photographer’s paradise, as the scenery includes the well-known Old Man of Storr.

8. Bath: The medieval city of Bath can immerse you in history and culture. Explore the Roman Baths, take in the breathtaking architecture, and unwind in the Thermae Bath Spa’s natural thermal waters. Don’t forget to visit the Bath Abbey and walk across the lovely Pulteney Bridge.

9. Norfolk Broads: This unusual network of rivers and lakes in East Anglia can be a peaceful summer getaway – picturesque towns and villages like Wroxham and Horning, serene rivers and wildlife in nature reserves. The Broads provide a quiet and attractive location for a restful vacation.

The UK is a fantastic place to visit during the summer because each region has its own distinct charm, history and natural beauty. There is something for everyone to enjoy in this diverse and alluring region, whether you love seaside adventures, cultural city holidays or peaceful countryside retreats.

If you’re looking for more unusual summer vacation destinations in the UK, consider these alternative options below.

  • Portmeirion, Wales: This unique village in North Wales is known for its colorful Italianate architecture. It offers beautiful gardens, coastal views and a unique atmosphere.
  • Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its remarkable hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity. The coastal landscape makes it a highly attractive summer destination.
  • Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland: The popularity of this spectacular natural tunnel was heightened when it was featured in the TV series Game of Thrones, further adding to its appeal.
  • Jurassic Coast, Dorset: With 150 kilometers of beautiful coastline, this UNESCO World Heritage Site contains rock formations that are millions of years old. Explore beautiful beaches, cliffs and unique rock formations.
  • Dungeness, Kent: Known for its otherworldly landscape, Dungeness is home to beaches, a lighthouse and a nuclear power plant. The area’s sheer size and off-the-beaten-path charm make it an attractive summer getaway spot.

The wonders of self storage – What is it and how can UK students benefit from it?

Using self-storage facilities can be remarkably advantageous for students throughout the world. In fact, a good portion of this entire industry is specifically designated to students and their needs in terms of space and personal belongings.

Let us run through some of the advantages that students can gain from using storage units:

  1. Additional space for possessions – Many students live in cramped flats or dorms with little room for all of their stuff. Storage units are generally used for seasonal items, furnishings, sporting goods and other belongings that students don’t use every single day.
  2. Makes relocating easier – During their academic years, students frequently have to travel between cities or even countries nowadays. They can easily store their stuff in self-storage facilities throughout this transitional stage, and this makes moving much easier and less stressful.
  3. Summer storage – Students may decide not to bring all of their stuff with them when they return home for the summer holiday or for their spring break. Self-storage offers a safe place to keep belongings until they return for the next semester.
  4. Students who take part in study abroad programs frequently have to leave their possessions behind. A safe and  very practical option for storing their belongings until they return is self-storage, as these facilities are more and more ubiquitous nowadays.
  5. Clutter-free living space – By using self-storage, students can maintain an orderly and clutter-free living area, which can help create a more favorable studying atmosphere. We tend to hold onto stuff for longer than we should, so these units are a great way to make some room.
  6. Access to personal belongings – Most self-storage facilities offer flexible access hours (or even 24/7 access), so students can get their possessions whenever they need them. This adaptability is especially useful for when you might need to retrieve items during the course of the semester.
  7. Safety – Self-storage facilities frequently provide safety features including security cameras, gated entry and individual locks on units. Students can benefit greatly from having peace of mind, knowing that their possessions are completely secure.

The UK has a very large number of self-storage facilities and the industry has seen tremendous growth lately. You will find self-storage choices close by, whether you’re in a big metropolis like London, Manchester, Birmingham or Edinburgh, or even in a smaller town or rural location.

When it comes to storage options, there is a wide range of demands and price points. These facilities offer a variety of sizes, amenities, services and prices. This means you only need to surf the web for a bit and look for online directories on search engines. There are even websites that can help you compare storage providers throughout the UK. Here, you can also find details about unit sizes, costs, reviews, etc.

When choosing a storage option, it’s crucial to examine variables like location, security precautions, access hours, cleanliness, customer service and pricing. The length of rental is also a variable that can affect the price. Depending on these factors, the typical monthly rental cost for self-storage units in the UK can range from about £20 to £200 or more. The approximate price ranges for various unit sizes can be broken down like this:

  • Small units (usually 2 to 5 square meters, £20 to £60 a month) – good for a few boxes, a few pieces of small furniture or generally smaller belongings.
  • Medium units (usually 5 and 10 square meters, £50 to £150 a month) – can fit the furnishings of a studio or tiny one-bedroom apartment.
  • Large units (usually 10 to 20 square meters, £100 to £200 or more a month) – appropriate for holding the furniture, appliances and boxes from a larger apartment or house.

These costs are approximations and can change depending on the self-storage facility’s location, demand and specific amenities. Additionally, some facilities might run specials or discounts, especially for yearly rentals or long-term rentals. Students should do their homework and examine several self-storage options before choosing one that satisfies their unique requirements.

All in all, if you’re running out of room, you should definitely consider this great opportunity!

All the student finance changes that you need to know about in 2023

The student finance system is continuously undergoing changes, based on what students need, on what the government and the institutions can offer, as well as on the overall economy of the UK. If you’re already a student in the UK or you’re currently thinking about enrolling and pursuing higher education here, you need to know about the changes that 2023 will bring about.

As you may know, student financing is split into tuition fee loans, which cover the costs of your university or college course, and maintenance loans, which are meant to help you with living expenses. The government’s new ‘Plan 5 loans’ are said to make student finance more expensive for future students, despite the fact that current students or graduates will not be impacted. 

Most current students or graduates are familiar with the previous scheme, namely the Plan 2 loans, but under the new plan, graduates will have to repay almost double the original amount, over their lifetime. Plan 5 loans will kick in for undergraduates starting courses from August 2023 onwards.

So, what exactly is the downside?

  • Students will repay their loans for 40 years, not 30.

The fact that a large number of students don’t pay off their entire loans is quite well-known. Under the Plan 2 loans, any student debt is written off after 30 years, starting from the April after graduation. Under the new Plan 5 loans, repayments will be made over 40 years, instead of 30. Having your loans written off when you’re 50, compared to when you’re 60, for example, is clearly a big shift.

  • The repayment salary threshold will drop

Current students and graduates know that they need to repay 9% of their income over £27,295. This threshold will fall, as under the new plan, students making £25,000 or over, will have to make loan repayments. For instance, in the case of a £30K annual salary, this means a change from a £243 repayment rate per year, to £450 per year. 

  • Student loan increases don’t match inflation

While this is not necessarily something that can be included under the aegis of Plan 5 changes, it is relevant for people who want to pursue higher education studies in the UK. In the context of growing prices and inflation, as well as a cost of living crisis, maintenance loans are set to increase by just under 3%, thus not keeping up with inflation. Compared to a proportional increase, if maintenance loans don’t go up, students will be £1,500 worse off, per year. Another way to put it is that the maximum loan will be £1,500 lower than it should be.

On the bright side, interest rates will decrease

Students under Plan 2 loans are charged an annual interest that is based on the retail prices index, which is a measure of inflation, and an additional 3%. Plan 5 loans remove the extra 3% and will only take into consideration the RPI. Looking at this through the lens of interests alone, Plan 5 does introduce cheaper loans, compared to Plan 2 loans. Technically, raising interest rates helps combat inflation, but under the new loans scheme, regulators are confident that the additional 3% can be eliminated, to the benefit of the students and the overall student financing system.

Future changes are envisaged for 2025

Some new plans imply splitting university courses up from 2025, so that loans can be taken out for modules, part-time studies and so on. Regulators recently pointed to some changes regarding the lifelong loan entitlement, which are meant to make courses more flexible. Maintenance loans will be made available for students undergoing technical and part-time courses and the first such loans, through the LLE, will be available in 2025. However, remote learners will not be able to access maintenance help.

Why should you still consider going to university in the UK?The value of university degrees has always undergone changes, and the current shifts are no exception. This value, however, substantially increases one’s earning potential, so most graduates believe it’s worth it. It’s important to know what you’re getting into and to do the math, so that you are aware of what you’ll likely have to repay. Ultimately, we strongly believe that UK university degrees are still worth it, since graduates earn, on average, £36K pounds per year, over £10K more than the average salary in the case of non-graduates.

The biggest concerts and tours in London in 2023

Although New York is most prominently known as the city that never sleeps, this nickname has been used for quite a few urban centres around the world. London is one of them, and for anybody visiting or living in the UK’s capital, it is certainly a truthful nickname. Round-the-clock London is a phenomenon that has been bedazzling residents and tourists alike, and by all means, it seems like every night there is at least one big event happening in the city.

In the same vein, people are slowly regaining their pre-pandemic sociability and starting to go out more and more, enjoying the remarkably diverse entertainment scene of The Big Smoke. If you’re a music fan, here are some of the gigs that you simply cannot miss this year. You calendar will be packed with unmissable appointments. 

Arctic Monkeys – Emirates Stadium – June 16, 17, 18

With less than a thousand tickets remaining for all three days combines, the Monkeys’ 3-day stay at the Emirates Stadium is one of the most anticipated live-gigs of the year. These massive homecoming shows of the Sheffield rockers and their entire UK tour is in support of their recent album The Car.

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Tottenham Stadium – July 21

Yes, these guys are still playing live gigs and yes, they are still a lot of fun to watch! The return of their guitarist, John Frusciante, for this world tour marks a triumphant return of the California rockers to London and the UK. The Roots and King Princess will be their special guests for the UK dates this summer.

Guns N’ Roses + Bruce Springsteen – BST Hyde Park – June 30; July 6, 8

There’s a lot of rock & roll to take in this summer in London and no line-up would be thorough without these guys. The annual Hyde Park bash will also see a number of huge artists take the stage but Guns N’ Roses and Bruce Springsteen are not to be missed, since the former are one of the most legendary rock bands on the planet, and the latter…well, needs no introduction. 

Harry Styles – Wembley Stadium – June 13, 17

There’s no better venue to accommodate such a great name for contemporary pop music. Harry Styles is known for having spectacular live performances, besides his unique musical skills. The member of the former boy band One Direction has topped all charts with numerous songs since he rose to fame in 2010 and his solo career is going splendidly. 

The Weeknd – London Stadium and Wembley Stadium – July 7, 8; August 18

Writing and performing some of the most relatable songs in modern pop music, the style of the Weeknd has always stayed true to his origins and life story. From ‘Earned it’ to ‘Blinding Lights’, he became one of the world’s biggest pop stars and rightfully so. The iconic character of the venues will make the night truly unforgettable. 

Stormzy – Victoria Park – August 18

This British rapper of Ghanaian heritage became one of the country’s most critically acclaimed artists in the 2010s. Besides winning two awards as the MOBOs and hitting hundreds of millions of views on YouTube, he won ‘British Male Solo Artist’ and ‘British Album of the Year’ at the 2018 BRIT awards. 

Post Malone – The O2 – May 4, 6, 7He is Grammy Award-nominated, he is a five-time diamond-certified artist and he kills it every time. There are countless reasons to go see Post Malone, especially performing in such a unique venue, as part of his Twelve Carat European Tour. Tickets for all three shows are on sale and still available.

Best sports venues in London in 2023

With 17 professional sports clubs playing in London, including some of the best football teams in the word, London’s sports scene is incredibly vibrant and buzzing. No matter what sports you are into, the city’s got something for everyone. In fact, it is home to some of the globe’s most historic sports venues. From world-class football stadiums to cricket grounds and tennis courts, there are plenty of options to choose from for sports fan. These are some of the most iconic venues.

Wembley Stadium 

Arguably one of the most famous stadiums in the world, Wembley is the heart of English football and has a seating capacity of 90K. Throughout its glorious past, the stadium has hosted several high-profile events, including the UEFA Champions League Final and the Olympic Games. If you’re a full-time London resident, a visit to Wembley is an absolute must.

Emirates Stadium

Staying in the realm of football, (don’t worry, we won’t call it soccer😊), Emirates Stadium is the home of Arsenal Football Club, the team that is currently at the top of the Premier League table. This is one of the most modern football stadiums in the world, it can seat 60,000 people and offers a wide range of fascinating hospitality experiences.

Lord’s Cricket Ground 

Cricket might not be the most popular sport in the world, but it’s definitely a trademark of English history and culture. The spiritual home of cricket is known as Lord’s Cricket Ground and is widely regarded as the most prestigious cricket arena in the entire world. The ground has a capacity of 30K and hosts a range of cricket matches from various competitions.

Twickenham Stadium 

Switching from cricket to rugby, our list would not be thorough without Twickenham Stadium, the home of English rugby and a stadium with an impressive capacity of over 82,000. And yes, rugby really is that popular! Six Nations Championship games, along with and the Rugby World Cup can be hosted here.

The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club 

Wimbledon is not just the temple of tennis, it is a staple of sports in general. The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, the formal name of the Wimbledon complex, hosts the most iconic tennis tournament in the world. The different arenas have different capacities, but even attending a match on a secondary court, just a few feet away from the world’s best players, can be a surreal experience.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Located in east London and initially built for the 2012 Olympic Games, this world-class sports venue is currently used as a multi-purpose facility. The park itself includes the majestic Olympic Stadium, with a capacity of 60K people. The sporting complex still hosts a range of events, including athletics events, football games, concerts, etc.

Notable mentions: The Kia Oval, London Stadium, O2 Arena, Tooting Bec Lido, Stamford Bridge.

What did we miss? Let us know in the comments!

The best music venues in London  

Saying that London has a lot to offer in terms of leisure and entertainment is definitely an understatement. There are so many things to do and see here that the city’s leisure economy is a massive industry in itself. It is estimated that Londoners spend more than £150 a month on leisure and the total earning of this sector alone amount to almost 10 billion pounds. If you add to this the 2.7 billion pounds spent by international tourists, you can understand why London is an entertainment hub.

Moreover, the city has something for every taste and if you’re into music, these are the most iconic spots that nobody should miss in London, whether you’re a tourist or a local. In other words, no trip to the Big Smoke is complete without visiting at least a few of these places. Music venues here have a long history and a well-known reputation. Overall, there is no shortage of live music and rocking clubs, but you do need to know where to start from, as the complete list is more than overwhelming.

THE O2

We’ll start with the most obvious candidate, the largest indoor music venue in the city, with room for over 20K people. The glitz and glamour of VIP services and corporate boxes is complemented by the more affordable regular tickets allowing you to see some of the biggest names in music perform live.

THE O2 BRIXTON ACADEMY

Be careful not to confuse the two – this legendary hall opened as theater initially, back in 1929 and is home to the continent’s largest fixed stage. Huge names like Amy Winehouse and Madonna have graced the stage along the years, and despite the 5K-people capacity, the iconic character of the Brixton Academy cannot be denied. 

THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL

Opened in 1871 by Queen Victoria herself, this hotspot has been among the top London concert venues ever since. Visitors are always perplexed by the spectacular dome, the particular colour display and the world-class acts that can be enjoyed in a relatively cozy atmosphere of only 5 thousand people or so.

BARBICAN HALL & WIGMORE HALL

Listening to live classical music here is something of another planet, due to the unique acoustics of this auditorium. The Brutalist architecture might be deterring for some people, but if you’re up for a fine musical experience, this is the place to be. Wigmore Hall is also mostly known for its incredible acoustics and breathtakingly beautiful interior. 

UNION CHAPEL

Despite being a working church, Union Chapel regularly hosts world-class artists and award-winning musicians with a diverse range of styles and genres. The impressive Gothic design makes this venue a local favourite and can host almost one thousand people, making the overall vibe quite an intimate one.

RONNIE SCOTT’S & JAZZ CAFÉ

This might not be the most evident pairing of venues, but they most excel formidably with respect to jazz music, and have done so for a long time. The former opened in 1959 and has quickly become one of the most famous jazz clubs on the planet, while the latter is newer, having opened its doors in 1992, but has also managed to come close to the same level in a shorter time span.

KOKO

It used to be a theater, then a cinema, and since 1900, it has promoted some of the most popular British bands and singers of the 20th century. Tiered seating is available, along with standing room, and the variety of music genres performed here range from rock and pop to contemporary dance acts.

THE ROUNDHOUSE

Only a 15-minute walk away from Koko, this former engine house built in the 19th century has been of the London’s best venues for performing arts over the ages. The place was thoroughly refurbished in 2006 and enjoys state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, along with unique acoustics. Bob Dylan, Lady Gaga and Britney Spears are some of the biggest names to have performed here.

HYDE PARK & VICTORIA PARK

Outdoor concerts are frequent in the summer in both Hyde Park and Victoria Park. BST Hyde Park is a noteworthy annual event hosting several world-class artists, while East London’s Victoria Park is also home to the All Points East Festival, and once hosted Lovebox Festival and Field Day.

Did we miss any notable spots? Let us know!

The real cost of living in UK cities

Today we’re taking a look at the cost of living in the UK’s major cities. If you’re thinking about getting a degree and living in either London, Manchester or Birmingham, then we’ve got you covered with the real cost of living in these cities, up-to-date figures and important comparisons that will help you take the right decision. 

1.London

Starting with the biggie, London’s cost of living is currently estimated at around £1K per month, excluding rent, according to Numbeo. While accommodation is clearly among the top expenses of living in the capital of the UK, we have covered this aspect in our article on cheapest rents in London. Moreover, paying for a living space can vary substantially, depending on the number of people being housed, the area, the amenities, etc. Besides accommodation, one of the most important monthly expenses is the money that is spent on food. That is especially valid if you prefer eating out, as an inexpensive meal at a regular restaurant can set you back almost £20, while the cost of a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant rises up to £70. 

Transportation is another important expenditure for the residents of London, and while the iconic tube is an easy way to get around, people often need to also use other means of public transport. Fares depend on the time and zone, as well as travelcards, but this serves as a good general guide. With regard to utilities, residents usually pay around £200 per month for electricity, cooling, heating, water and garbage services, as well as around £30 for an internet package. Finally, entertainment and leisure obviously depend on what you’re into, but a monthly gym membership will set you back around £40, one seat at a cinema hall costs £14 approximately, while drinking a cocktail in a bar will probably have a £13 price tag attached to it.

2. Birmingham

In the case of the UK’s second largest city, monthly costs for a single person will hover around £670, excluding rent. Everything seems a bit cheaper around here and that is why the cost of living in Birmingham is 34% cheaper than that of London. Monthly utilities are not much cheaper here, but you will clearly see significant changes in costs related to transportation, groceries and leisure. The regular price for a monthly transportation pass does not exceed £60, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant will not cost more than £12, and a three course meal for two people at a good spot will set you back around £50. 

Groceries are somewhat cheaper too, obviously depending on where you choose to do your shopping, but sports and leisure costs significantly less, as a monthly fee for a fitness club is only £25-30 on average, and a ticket to the cinema costs around £10. Going out for drinks is also considerably cheaper, as a beer in the neighbourhood pub is worth £4 and a cocktail in a downtown club comes with an £8 price tag. Seeing that the average salary in Birmingham hovers around £2,370, after tax, the cost of living here is regarded as more than decent. Finally, if you’re looking for a bustling urban vibe, know that Birmingham has the youngest population in Europe, with under 25s representing almost 40% of the total population.

3. Manchester

Moving farther north, Manchester is known for its affordable living, being cheaper than 52% of other Western European cities. Manchester is a liveable city with a modern cosmopolitan vibe and a thriving culture. All this does come at a certain price, but that price is, in fact, approximately 30% lower than in London. Monthly costs for a single person, excluding rent, hover around £740, and while food prices are extremely similar to those of the UK’s capital, there are considerable disparities in other areas, including transportation and entertainment, not to mention housing. 

You will have to pay £70 for a monthly transportation pass, £200 for basic utilities excluding an internet package, and £14 for the average taxi trip. The cost of eating out is not necessarily lower that in other cities, but a cinema seat will only cost you £9 and a monthly gym membership – £25. Your regular pint of beer does not exceed £5 and the price of a cocktail enjoyed in a downtown hotspot will cost about £9. Overall, Manchester is regarded as a big city that comes without London’s price tag, and a student-friendly area. In 2022, Time Out Index named it the least expensive world city, as only 10% of residents believed living there was expensive. 

This information should get you prepared and informed with respect to what you’re signing up for, but don’t forget that students can access substantial maintenance loans that can help with several expenses outside university. Plus, we can help you access these funds!

10 of the cheapest areas to rent in London in 2023

Living in the capital of the UK is a dream for many people and Greater London is currently home to almost 10 million people. However, that dream does not come cheap, and the city consistently ranks among the most expensive European cities for renters. It’s not all bad though, and there are, in fact, more than a few places around town that are affordable for people from all economic backgrounds. Here are 10 of the best areas where you can look up rents, if money is tight. 

1. Bexley

One-bedroom flats here can even fall under the £1K mark and there is an array of properties to choose from. You can get to the city center in just over half an hour from Bexley, a borough that boasts some of the greenest parks and woodland areas in all of London. Crime rates are also incredibly low. 

2. Havering

Also located in Eastern London, Havering’s prices don’t exceed Bexley’s costs too much, but the former is more densely populated than the latter. You can also reach central London is just over half an hour and the neighbourhood is well-regarded thanks to its diverse shopping, as well as leisure and nightlife opportunities.

3. Barking & Dagenham

Residents can enjoy great road and public transport connections and can even find two-bedroom rents for less that a thousand pounds a month here. Moreover, the young and multicultural community, as well as the current urban regeneration project can definitely enhance the appeal of Barking and Dagenham.

4. Croydon

This borough is certainly on the rise, bringing in more and more renters due to a great regeneration programme, reliable transport and commercial hotspots. This southern area is only 15 minutes away from the city centre by train and boasts some of the most stunning public murals in London, coupled with a number of good schools, restaurants, pubs and clubs.

5. Sutton

Staying in the south, the quiet residential vibe of Sutton is unmatched. If you’re looking for quality educational institutions, ample outdoor spaces and cheap rents, this is the place for you. Sutton is also considered to be a great option for first-time homebuyers, if you’re thinking that you’re ready to take the next step and climb the property ladder.

6. Bromley

Besides being the largest London borough, safety is the name of the game in Bromley, as it ranks sixth among the safest boroughs to live in. If you add to this the peaceful nature, the urban chic and the good schools, you’ll feel ready to move in right away. Bromley has long been a magnet for young families and professionals, and for good reason!

7. Waltham Forest

Moving up north, Waltham Forest provides residents with a great taste of sub-urban living. The area is a 45-minute drive away from central London and you can choose from a multitude of properties, ranging from the affordable flats of Walthamstow to the Victorian homes of Epping Forest. Two-bedroom apartments in this up-and-coming area can set you back around £1K per month.

8. Lewisham

Indoor shopping, open-air street markets, great restaurants, leisure facilities…you name it, Lewisham’s got it! Besides the various amenities, there is also a sense of community around the borough and numerous opportunities for cyclists, as well as great transportation links for all residents. Central London is less than 6 miles away!

9. Hillingdon

The second-largest borough in London is very close to Heathrow Airport and can give off a bit of a rural vibe, which some people absolutely love. If you’re thinking about relocating here, you have a wealth of choices, as properties range from modern flats and maisonettes to Victorian and Edwardian houses. Central London is, however, 14 miles away.

10. Greenwich

Fostering some of the area’s most well-known historical landmarks, Greenwich is also known for its stunning scenery, green spaces and student-town vibe. Greenwich has the lowest crime rate compared to the other places on this list and welcomes residents with a laid-back atmosphere that is simply unique. 

Notable mentions: Newham, Enfield, Harrow. 

Rent prices can vary considerably depending on exact location, amenities, size and time of year. 

Top 5 UK cities for students

With regard to the number of international students, the United Kingdom is the third spot among European countries and is ranked sixth in the world. The UK is increasing in popularity to foreign students and despite the Brexit phenomenon, it is still one of the most sought-after global destinations for education. Moreover, seeing that the current population of foreign nationals undergoing university studies in the UK hovers around half a million people, we can safely assert that the high-profile educational prestige of the kingdom is not going anywhere.

In today’s article, we’re taking a look at the cities which foster not only great student populations, but also the best living conditions and opportunities for young people looking to further their education. We’re taking into account a wide array of criteria, ranging from the prestige of universities and the diversity of courses, to leisure, living conditions, safety and all the factors that one could associate with a student’s life. Hence, here’s the five best UK cities for students.

5. Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and is a city that is blessed with natural beauty and top-notch universities. With a large student population, especially compared to its overall size, Edinburgh is a popular choice thanks to social diversity, rich history, spectacular architecture and friendly residents. Communal apartments are quite common, so accommodations does not cost an arm and a leg, and the public transport system is extremely reliable. 

The Scottish capital is regarded as a city that can provide a complete student experience. It is generally affordable and provides students with an amazing nightlife, a variety of employment opportunities and a wealth of cultural events, including the world-famous Edinburgh International Festival and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

4. Leeds

Moving to northern England, Leeds is a well-known historical location, buzzing with a rich cultural life and a large student population. Known for its music, sports and arts scene, Leeds presents international students with an appealing experience. In 2022, the city received the highest score in the international student view indicator, a measurement that is based on a survey with over 85K responses. Most of these students appreciated the wealth of restaurants, pubs and leisure venues, all comfortably spaced in a small-town atmosphere. 

Leeds Light Night and Leeds Carnival are major attractions that draw both tourists and residents and enjoying everything the city has to offer is affordable for most people. Moreover, the transport system is reliable, but the urban center is also linked well with other places by means of train and coach services. Finally, what keeps Leeds going is the diverse student population, drawn to the north by world-class higher education institutions.

3. Liverpool

North-western England is home to Liverpool, a city with fantastic universities and great people. Liverpool has the second-highest number of museums, art galleries and parks in the country, and fosters a rich music and arts scene, as it is primarily known for being the birthplace of The Beatles. Boasting consistent transport connections and a generally low cost of living, the city does not only appeal to certain types of students, but is actually called home by around 50K international students  who live in and around the city.

Over the past few years, the demand for places at Liverpool university has constantly been increasing among foreign students and that is mainly because of the international prestige of its institutions. Likewise, people who want to further their studies and obtain qualifications can enjoy the mix of traditional British and vibrant modern culture. Currently, international students make up around 20% of the total student population.

2. Manchester

It’s no wonder England’s second-largest city made it here. Manchester is well-known at a global level thanks to its diverse culture and nightlife, as well as for its Victorian architecture. In a nutshell, Manchester has something for everyone, ranging from culture, arts and major sports teams, to historically significant destinations and world-class universities. In recent years, the city has progressed in some ranking, with students reporting higher levels of quality for a multitude of university programmes. 

The good thing about Manchester is that it is large enough for people to feel the big city vibe and enjoy its opportunities, yet small enough not to overwhelm students with faulty or unreliable transportation networks and a skyrocketing cost of living. People appreciate Manchester’s combination between a sense of community and a multicultural landscape. At the moment, the city boasts one of the largest student populations in Europe.

1. London

Sorry, there’s simply no beating The Big Smoke. This top pick might be quite obvious, and despite being the one of the most expensive cities in the UK, London still attracts people from all over the world, plenty of them looking to get a higher education degree. It is reported that the city has the third ranking among the best cities around the world in certain rankings and the wealth of educational institutions in and around Fog City cannot be overstated. 

19 of London’s universities are regarded as being among the best in the world and the sheer fact that over 300 languages are reported to be spoken in the city attests to the impressive diversity that is appealing to international students. London is also ranked second for employer activity, ensuring that people can find a job, especially with a higher education degree. In the UK’s capital, you can do something new every day and live the experience of a lifetime.

With so many great options, it is more than difficult to choose the right place for you. Obtaining a qualification in any of these cities will substantially improve your career prospects and will provide you with a better understanding of what the labour market needs and wants. If you’re unsure where you want to study or what the best course for you might be, allow us to lend a hand. We’ve literally done it thousands of times before. Contact us for more details!

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