What are accomodations in London England Universities like for tourists?

Question

I will be visiting London in a couple of months and am quite intriged by the accomodations in the universities there that are made available to tourists while the schools are closed for the holidays. I am a 69 year old woman who will be travelling with my 44 year old daughter. The pictures make them appear basic but clean and that is fine with us but can anyone tell me if they are the kind of place that we are likely going to feel comfortable in?

Answer 1

It really depends on the location of the student digs, but they range from very basic to quite fancy. To give you an idea:

The ones owned by King's and Queen Mary's are towards the East End of London, and can best be described as basic one room modern boxes. The East End is also notorious for crime, so I would not recommend it.

The ones owned by Imperial are located in a very posh area - South Kensington and a stone's throw away from Hyde Park.

The ones owned by UCL, & SOAS are located in Bloomsbury near the British Museum and also range from basic to very fancy. My own student digs were in a converted old church with lots of room and modern facilities in Bloomsbury.

Just make sure that it is not located anywhere in the East End (Postcodes starting with "E"), and be prepared for basic amenities. You might be lucky and get nice rooms in an exclusive area that is close to all the sights. Remember also that the houses here are a little smaller than the US - London happens to be the most expensive real estate in the world now, so have realistic expectations.

Good luck