As an international student, your experience of studying in the UK capital goes far beyond learning at a world class institution. You’ll discover a whole new culture and gain a second family if you’ve chosen to do a homestay. London is one of the most exciting cities in the world and is full of history, art, food and more! Exploring the big city together is a great way to get to know your host family, so get everyone together and choose from one of the many fun activities that the capital has to offer.
Museums
If you love history or just want to get to know more about the city of your homestay, London has got you covered. Chances are that your host family hasn’t visited these in a while so it’s a great day out that guarantees everyone will come away with a new fact. The best part is that most museums offer free entry!
•Museum of London — From the ancient city to the current one, learn all about your new home at this interesting attraction.
•Natural History Museum — full of fascinating exhibitions and amazing artefacts, this institution is always a crowd pleaser.
•British Museum — the striking architecture is an attraction in itself, but inside is a treasure trove of incredible art and artefacts.
Spitalfields Market
These historical market stalls are a great place to find a gift for your hosts and some cool souvenirs for your family back home. There are also some lovely restaurants in the area so you can refuel after bargain hunting.
Camden
If you’d like to experience the true creativity and colour of British culture, this is the place to go. Packed with people dressed in all sorts and markets selling everything you could think of, this colourful borough makes for a memorable day out. The canalside food market also offers some of the best and most diverse food stalls: Caribbean, Mexican, Asian, British, whatever you fancy this place will have it.
Chinatown
Experience a taste of China with a trip to Chinatown, located in the heart of Soho. You’ll feel as if you’ve left England and ended up in a corner of Beijing for the afternoon. For something a little different, this is a fun place to visit.
Parks
As you’ll probably be told by the host of your homestay, London is renowned for its green spaces. From the beautiful flower beds of Regents Park to the wild grounds of Hampstead Heath, there are all kinds of green spaces offering the perfect escape from the noise and the concrete of the city.
•Hyde Park — one of the most famous parks in the city, this huge central space has featured in countless movies. It’s a great place for a walk if you’re exploring the city’s trendy Kensington area and makes a lovely location for a picnic.
•Primrose Hill — with one of the best views in the city, this is the perfect spot for watching the sunset.
•Hampstead Heath — this is a great choice for students in a northern homestay. London’s wild heath is the perfect escape from the city. There are so many trails to choose from making it the perfect afternoon activity.
No matter where you’re based in your homestay, London is a city full of things to do and sights to see. So get the whole family together and get exploring!
Sophie Smith works as an independent consultant and offers advice to young people looking for London-based student accommodation, whether they prefer Halls of Residence or a private homestay. London has a wide range of options when it comes to student living, and Sophie’s expert tips and tricks never fail to put aspiring residents at ease. Her knowledge stems from her first-hand experience studying in the city and living on a budget, so she is more than qualified to support others doing the same.
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