London has just turned into the 2023’s best city to live in. Travelling thorough the city in its iconic red buses should be one things you should not miss to cross your London to do checklist. So while doing that, why not explore the best Boroughs on London. Students from across the world rush to the capital city of the United Kingdom to pursue their undergraduate degrees, postgraduate degrees and PhDs at some of the best universities in the world. With the rising demand for London student accommodation, students require budget-friendly housing options near the top universities in the city. With multiple accommodation options and amenities, amber has a lot to offer. So without any further ado, here are the best Boroughs in London.
All about London Boroughs
The city of London is divided into 32 districts known as boroughs. These boroughs were established on April 1, 1965. A separate council administers each Borough. Each Borough has distinctiveness, so knowing the different locations is crucial to making a more appropriate decision about where you wish to live and study. For example, Islington is frequently considered one of the most pleasant London Boroughs. Thus, looking for accommodation in Islington while relocating to London would be prudent. A London Borough is an administrative area of London with its own "authorities" that administer local activities such as schools, roads, trash, libraries, and many more. However, the Greater London Authority manages other aspects of daily life, such as transportation and policing and fire services.
Top Boroughs in London for Student Accommodation
Students can find fully-furnished and pocket-friendly student accommodation options in London Boroughs. It has something for everybody. Student accommodation is further divided into halls of residence, rooms and private housing with comfortable, luxurious yet budget-friendly ensuites, studio apartments, and shared apartments in London for rent, including various amenities. It is much easier to book short-term London student accommodation than in any other city in England with amber. The most famous boroughs for student accommodation are mentioned below.
Best Inner London Boroughs
1. City of Westminster
The City of Westminster, like the City of London, was established in 1965 and now has both city and borough status. It is located in the west of the City of London and north of the River Thames, and it is part of Inner London boroughs and the majority of the core area of London. It encompasses most of the famous West End theatre district and a portion of Camden. Westminster is rich in architectural and historical significance. This Borough has plenty to offer, including Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament, as well as some of London's top shopping districts, including Covent Garden, Soho, and Carnaby Street. Students can enjoy street shopping, musicals and plays and also visit palaces.
Student Accommodation options in Westminster borough of London
- Wellington Lodge
- Scape Mile End Canalside
Top Universities in Westminster
- University of Westminster (Regent Campus)
- University of Westminster (Cavendish Campus)
Pros of staying in London Borough of Westminster
- The Borough of Westminster is home to some classic London landmarks like Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace
- The area is surrounded by many lovely neighbourhoods.
Cons of staying in London Borough of Westminster
- The Westminster area is relatively a very crowded area, there is a lot of in and out of people during the day and night time.
2. Southwark
The London Borough of Southwark is situated in southern London and is connected to the London Borough of Tower Hamlets and the City of London by bridges across the River Thames. Southwark London Borough Council manages it. The Shard is located in the Borough of Southwark. Southwark is home to numerous well-known sites, including Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market, Tate Modern, and the Imperial War Museum. Students must visit the world-famous Tower Bridge. This inner London borough is surely one of the best in the city.
Student Accommodation options in Southwark
Top Universities in Southwark
- King's College London - Guy's Campus
- London School of Commerce
- Kaplan International College
Pros of staying in London Borough of Southwark
- Southwark hosts one of the best tourist attractions of London like the Shards, London Bridge, Tower Bridge, Shakespeare Globe, etc.
- Amongst all the boroughs in London, Southwark has one of the best and buzzing views of London
Cons of staying in London Borough of Southwark
- Just like Camden, Southwark is also a very noisy neighbourhood because of the constant traffic in the area.
3. Hackney
The London Borough of Hackney, named for its most prominent area, is divided into two parts of London, with the northwest half of the Borough falling under the jurisdiction of North London and the southern and eastern parts falling under the jurisdiction of East London. It is one of the inner London boroughs. The previous metropolitan boroughs of Stoke Newington and Shoreditch are also included in Hackney.
The Columbia Road Flower Market is well-known in Hackney. Students can walk along Regents Canal in Hackney and enjoy tranquil parks such as London Fields. Hackney boasts a thriving café, bar, and nightlife scene. They may enjoy a stunning perspective of the city from St. Augustines Tower. Visit Sutton House to discover more about the history of London.
Student Accommodation options in Hackney Borough in London
Top Universities in Hackney
- Loughborough University (London campus)
- Queen Mary University of London(Mile End)
- Queen Mary University (Whitechapel)Glasgow
Pros of staying in the London Borough of Hackney
- Hackney is one of the boroughs in London that has a lot of hangout spots. You can chill at a coffee shop, vegan restaurants, or craft beer bars on weekends.
- If you are looking for a good shopping adventure, then Hackney is the best place for you. With a lot of thrift and designer shops lined up the streets, you will have many shopping options available.
Cons of staying in the London Borough of Hackney
- Despite being one of the best boroughs in London for shopping and hangout spots. Hackney does not have a good transport connection. Most of the borough is not covered by the tube, making it a bit inconvenient for travel.
4. Camden
The London Borough of Camden, where the London Zoo is located, was given its name in honour of Charles Pratt, 1st Earl Camden in 1795. It is the seventh-smallest Borough in London, with an 11% student population. It is an inner borough of London. This area is well-known for its colourful street art and large market. It was once more well-known for being Gothic.
Camden markets- delicacies, souvenirs, jewellery, apparel, and many more are fantastic places to visit in Camden. Exotic foods can be enjoyed in fine restaurants and cafes. Amy Winehouse, a musician who resided in Camden and was one of its renowned residents, has a statue in the city. Camden borough has tremendous nightlife with excellent bars and clubs.
Student Accommodation options in London Borough of Camden
Top Universities in Camden
- Royal Veterinary College
- European Business School
- University of London
Pros of staying in Camden
- If you enjoy the bustling nightlife of London, Camden is a place to unleash your party animal spirit. It is known as one of the best boroughs in London for nightclub activities with more than 200+ chic clubs around the area.
- Camden is an attraction and magnet for many young people because of its young bustling energy and environment. From live performances to entertainment attractions, this area has it all.
Cons of staying in Camden
- Even though Camden is one of the best boroughs in London, it wouldn’t be the best place to stay if you like living in quieter areas.
5. Greenwich
The Royal Greenwich Borough in London, formed by combining the two metropolitan municipalities of Greenwich and Woolwich, is notable for the Greenwich Prime Meridian and the origin of the name Greenwich Mean Time. London Borough of Greenwich was designated a Royal Borough in 2012 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. It is an inner London borough located in the southeast of Greater London.
The residents in the Borough are kind and of many races. It is the 13th largest Borough, with several housing alternatives and world-renowned universities. It is situated on the southern bank of the River Thames and is rich in maritime history and architectural heritage. Students can visit the Greenwich Observatory, museums, architecture and beautiful streets.
Student Accommodation options in Greenwich Borough in London
Top Universities in Greenwich
- University of Greenwich
- University of Sunderland
- Goldsmiths (University of London)
Pros of staying in Greenwich
- Compared to other parts of the city, Greenwich is one of the best boroughs in London for students who want to experience the urban and rural lifestyle.
- Greenwich has no shortage of attractions, there are many beautiful and popular places like the Royal Observatory Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Park, National Maritime Museum, etc. There are many entertaining and unique places to visit in Greenwich.
Cons of staying in Greenwich
- One con of staying in Greenwich would be that the Docklands Light Railway aren’t as good as the London Tube.
6. Hammersmith and Fulham
London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham is an inner London borough located in both southwest and western London. It is the only Borough in London with three football clubs: Queens Park Rangers, Fulham, and Chelsea. Hammersmith and Fulham are well-known central London transport hubs and boroughs. It is West London's most important business and employment district and is famous for the Hammersmith Bridge over the River Thames. Some of the student attractions in the Borough are King Street, Hammersmith Broadway, Shopping Centres, Ravenscourt Park, Fulham Market Hall, and Fulham Palace Museum.
Student Accommodation options in Hammersmith and Fulham Borough in London
Top Universities in Hammersmith and Fulham
- BIMM
- South Thames College
Pros of staying in London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham
- When you live in Hammersmith and Fulham, you have a lot of options for shopping. It is also renowned as a shopping district, similar to Hackney, with numerous designer and department stores.
- If you are a football fanatic, then living in this borough can get you closer to your favourite clubs like Chelsea and Fulham etc.
Cons of staying in London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham
- The London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham is close to the airport, this would be a major concern in terms of noise pollution.
7. Islington
Islington is the second-smallest inner London Borough, but it encompasses a significant portion of city centre. The Islington Borough of London is a hub of Arsenal Football Club, one of England's most successful clubs, and the Emirates Stadium, the country's largest. In the heart of Kingscross, enjoy and see the famous Emirates Stadium, Emirates Museum, Charterhouse, and London Canal Museum. At White Cross Street Market, you may eat street food.
Performances at Sadler's Wells Theatre, the Almeida Theatre, and the Union Chapel Church. With over 70 market stalls and an international array of food to taste, the Cally Festival provides a picture of London's most diverse. Surely is one of the best Boroughs in London
Student Accommodation options in Islington Borough of London
Top Universities in Islington
- Université Paris-Dauphine (London campus)
- City University of London
- London Metropolitan University
Pros of staying in London Borough of Islington
- Islington is one of the best boroughs in London for its culinary scene, this area has all sorts of restaurants like Turkish, Thai, Mediterranean, etc.
- London Borough of Islington has a sorted art scene
Cons of staying in London Borough of Islington
- The rents in Islington are skyrocketing high as compared to other boroughs in London.
8. Kensington and Chelsea
The London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is the 2nd smallest inner London Borough, yet it is well-known for its vibrant atmosphere and strategic location. It is one of the overpopulated locations in the United Kingdom. Notting Hill, one of London's most famous and picturesque neighbourhoods, is located in the Borough's southwest corner and is home to Portobello Road and the Notting Hill Carnival. The Borough is located to the west of the City of Westminster, in the heart of modern London and is home to several city-centre facilities such as prominent museums and colleges.
Student Accommodation options in Kensington and Chelsea
Top Universities in Kensington and Chelsea
- Richmond University (Kensington Campus)
- Royal College of Art
- Royal College of Music
- Imperial College London
Pros of staying in London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
- Kensington and Chelsea is a green neighbourhood. There are numerous gardens in the surrounding neighbourhood, including the well-known Hyde Park.
- This area is also known to be one of the safest areas to live in London.
Cons of staying in the London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
- Kensington and Chelsea isn’t the best borough in London in terms of air quality. The area is prone to a lot of air pollution due to increasing road traffic.
Best Outer London Boroughs
9. Barking and Dagenham
Barking and Dagenham were formed by combining the two old municipal boroughs of Barking and Dagenham. Chadwell Heath is also included in the Borough. It is located to the east of Central London as an outlying borough. The London borough of Barking and Dagenham was one of six London boroughs to host the 2012 Summer Olympics. The southern part of the Borough is part of the Thames Gateway's London Riverside sector. Students can find many prestigious educational institutions, restaurants, green spaces, and historical museums in the Borough to spend their leisure time.
Student Accommodation options in Barking and Dagenham
Top Universities in n Barking and Dagenham
- Newham College (East Ham Campus)
Pros of staying in London Borough of Barking and Dagenham
- Barking and Dagenham are said to have one of the most affordable homes to rent in London City.
- The culture of Barking and Dagenham is vibrant, filled with a thriving nightlife, and lots of things to do in the area.
Cons of staying in London Borough of Barking and Dagenham
- As Barking is a mid-suburban area, hence it might not be the best place to live if you want to live around the central area.
10. Croydon
The historic town of Croydon, which the Anglo-Saxons referred to as Crogdene or Croindone in the eighth century, is the inspiration for the London Borough of Croydon. The site has been occupied since prehistoric times, according to evidence. It is the fifth-largest Borough in London.
Croydon Airport, London's major airport, was previously located in the Borough but was closed in 1959 due to a shortage of area in the surrounding region. Heathrow Airport in London has taken its position. Croydon Airport's original facility is now a part office, half a tourist attraction.
Student Accommodations in Croydon borough in London
Top Universities in Croydon
- BPP University
Pros of staying in Croydon
- Croydon is a place that has a lot of greenery and good places to relax.
- The London Borough of Croydon has a good range of shops, restaurants, and other leisure activity spots.
Cons of staying in Croydon
- Croydon is unfortunately a bit far away from London, even though it is a part of the boroughs in London.
11. Ealing
The London Borough of Ealing is situated in West London and includes seven towns: Acton, Ealing, Greenford, Hanwell, Northolt, Perivale, and Southall. Ealing is London's third-largest and third-most populous Borough. Due to its parks and tree-lined streets, Ealing has long been renowned as the Queen of the Suburbs. The Japanese School in London is an Acton, Ealing-based Japanese international school.
Student Accommodation options in Ealing
Top Universities in Ealing
- University of West London
- University of West London (Ealing Campus)
Pros of staying in London Borough of Ealing
- If you are looking for a comfortable and laid-back lifestyle, then the Borough of Ealing is your place.
- Ealing is a socializing spot! You will find a lot of places like a bar, restaurant, and a string of cafes to hangout and meet with your friends
Cons of staying in London Borough of Ealing
- As Ealing is in Zone 3, going to central London can indeed be a difficult task.
12. Harrow
Harrow is London's 12th largest outer Borough and Middlesex's largest local government area. Harrow is the only London borough whose boundaries did not change as it transitioned from a municipal borough to a borough. It has a residential feel, with some countryside on the northern outskirts. The London Borough of Harrow was traditionally in the heart of "Metro-land," As a result, it is exceptionally well served by the London Underground compared to other boroughs in Outer London.
Student Accommodation options in Harrow
Top Universities in Harrow
- University of Westminster Harrow Campus
- London School of Theology
Pros of staying in London Borough of Harrow
- The London Borough of Harrow has a good set of amenities
- Central London is easier to access
Cons of staying in London Borough of Harrow
- The air quality isn’t that great if you are living in the London Borough of Harrow
13. Hounslow
London Borough of Hounslow is a West London borough founded in 1965 and encompassed three former Middlesex council areas. Hounslow is a borough in Western London that is part of the outer zones of London. Chiswick, Brentford, Isleworth, Hounslow, and Feltham are the five principal towns in the London Borough of Hounslow. The London Museum of Water and Steam and other attractions are located in the Borough. The River Thames runs through Hounslow and Richmond-upon-Thames, forming a natural barrier. Beautiful parks, country regions, and riverbank walks abound in the Borough.
Student Accommodation options in Hounslow
Top Universities in Hounslow
- St Mary's University
- Richmond University
Pros of staying in London Borough of Hounslow
- Hounslow is one of the most well-connected boroughs in London
- Hounslow is also known to have one of the cheapest rental spaces all over London.
Cons of staying in London Borough of Hounslow
- Hounslow can have a issue of a bit overcrowding, so if you are not a big fan of crowded area then Hounslow isn’t for you
14. Kingston upon Thames
It is the oldest royal Borough in southwest London, formerly known as the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. It’s one of the outer London boroughs. The location was previously used for Anglo-Saxon monarch coronations, and there is evidence of a church in the region that was destroyed by Vikings in 1009 AD. The local education authority is responsible for education in the Borough. There are numerous attractions in and around Kingston, ranging from natural and historical sites to entertainment parks. Undoubtedly one of the best outer london boroughs
Student Accommodation options in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames
Top Universities in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames
- Kingston University
- Kingston Business School
Pros of staying in London Borough of Kingston upon Thames
- It is one of the most sort of boroughs in London and has many things to offer
- You will be around a lot of restaurants, attractions, and shops that will make your living comfortable in London.
Cons of staying in London Borough of Kingston upon Thames
- The rent can be a little more expensive as compared to other Boroughs in London.
15. Richmond upon Thames
Richmond upon Thames is the only Borough in London located on both banks of the River Thames and is considered an outer London Borough. In terms of area, it stands as the 8th largest Borough in London. Richmond upon Thames is home to several well-known attractions, including Hampton Court Palace and Kew Gardens. It's worth noting that half of the Borough is covered in gorgeous parkland! Richmond Park, Bushy Park, and Old Deer Park are all large parks.
Student Accommodation options in Richmond Upon Thames
Top Universities in Richmond Upon Thames
- Richmond University
- University of West London (Brentford Campus)
- Richmond University (Kensington Campus)
Pros of staying in London Borough of Richmond upon Thames
- The London Borough of Richmond upon Thames is an ideal place to live with thriving high end streets, extensive transportation connectivity, and ample of green spaces
- It is sort to have one of the best housing options in London
Cons of staying in London Borough of Richmond upon Thames
- The area does not have a lot of inclusivity and diversity in its community.
Before relocating to a new city, it is common to conduct an extensive study. In this article, we've attempted to cover the basics of living in London boroughs to make moving less overwhelming. We hope this blog has helped you better understand living in London. London is a fantastic city and location; therefore, no matter how frightening it may appear, moving to London will undoubtedly be worthwhile. This borough area guide provides students with many options with amber, so there is no need to worry about student accommodation in London. Besides boroughs, students may find the best localities in London to help them choose suitable accommodation.