Living in London
Your accommodation optionsThe accommodation available throughout the UK is diverse and ranges from hostels to small, cheap family-run hotels to B&Bs and even castles are throwing open their doors. And London accommodation is no different.
If you are one of the lucky ones who has a bed or even a floor to sleep on when you arrive, you’re off to a very good start because finding somewhere to live can be one of the most daunting tasks you will ever have to tackle while on a working holiday. Here’s a quick lowdown.
Short-term London accommodation
For your arrival it is recommended you book for at least 2 weeks because by the time you have recovered from jet lag, done some sightseeing and got your bearings, found a job and somewhere to live this two weeks will almost be up.
Hostels
One of the cheapest and easiest options is to stay in a hostel. Accommodation is mostly dormitory-style where you may have 4, 6, 8 or more beds in one room. A hostel is a great place to stay while you familiarise yourself with London and get yourself sorted. We recommend HostelWorld to book your initial stay. This booking site will allow you to research London (and UK) hostels and book on-line.
B&Bs and Hotels
Bed & Breakfasts and hotels can vary greatly in their size, comfort and price but if a hostel isn’t your style then consider this option. Check out HotelsCombined where you can research and book your initial stay.
Long-term London accommodation
Looking for long-term accommodation in London can be a full-time occupation. Before you start to look, you need a rough idea about the area you would like to live in and what it has to offer. Before you sign on the dotted line, throw in to the equation:
- how far is the accommodation from public transport. You don’t want a long walk each day to the train, tube or bus stop.
- Check what travel zone the accommodation is in. The further out the cheaper your rent might be but you will have higher travel expenses and longer travel time to get in to the city and maybe to your work.
- Have a look at what services are available. Without a car, having a supermarket, laundrette, coffee shops, bars, restaurants and pubs nearby are great.
- check out sites such as www.spareroom.co.uk
Extensive information on finding long-term accommodation can be found in our ebook LiveWork&Play in London & the UK.
Blogs on living/accommodation in London & the UK
10 people living in a 3 bedroom London flat
Living in London Accommodation I grew up having my own room in a house with a front and back yard and when I went to London on a working holiday I thought I would have the same. How wrong I was. I was extremely new to flat/house hunting when I arrived in London. I had...