Living in South Kensington: A Guide for International Students
As one of the most prestigious neighbourhoods in London, South Kensington is home to thousands of affluent international students who want to live in the heart of the city while being near campus.
This neighbourhood is near some of the most popular academic institutions like KCL, Imperial College, etc., making it highly sought after in the student community.
In this post, we will explore what it’s like to live in South Kensington and shed light into amenities, housing and transportation in the area.
Key Takeaways
Students living in South Kensington apartments benefit from being just a short walk or commute away from renowned institutions like Imperial College London and the Royal College of Art.
The neighbourhood is known for its upscale housing options, featuring modern interiors, concierge services, and secure living environments.
South Kensington has excellent connectivity through the Circle, District, and Piccadilly lines, allowing students to travel efficiently across London.
Student Luxe provides access to the most exclusive South Kensington apartments, perfect for affluent international students who want more in a living space in terms of space, flexibility and privacy. These apartments are fully furnished and equipped with state of the art amenities. You can explore the different accommodation options and see what’s included with every stay.
Finding the Perfect South Kensington Apartment
Finding an apartment in South Kensington can be easy when you know what to look for. Here’s how you can navigate the process:
Types of Apartments Available
South Kensington has various kinds of apartments:
Studio Apartments: Ideal for students who prefer privacy and a compact, functional space. Many studios come fully furnished, making the move-in process seamless.
One-Bedroom Flats: Perfect for those seeking more space while enjoying a cozy, independent lifestyle.
Shared Apartments: Great for students looking to split rent while living in a luxurious neighborhood. Shared spaces often include communal living areas, kitchens, and sometimes, building amenities.
Luxury Flats: High-end apartments featuring premium designs, large living spaces, and upscale facilities such as gyms, concierge services, and even rooftop terraces.
Key Features to Look For
When searching for an apartment in South Kensington, prioritize the following features:
Proximity to Universities: Ensure the apartment is within walking distance or a short commute to your school.
Furnished vs. Unfurnished: Furnished apartments save time and effort, especially for international students, while unfurnished options give you the freedom to personalize your space.
Amenities: Look for extras like high-speed internet, secure entry systems, laundry facilities, and lounges
Best Streets for Apartments
South Kensington boasts some of London’s most sought-after streets for student living:
Queen’s Gate: Known for its stately buildings and proximity to Imperial College.
Cromwell Road: A vibrant street with easy access to transport links, shops, and restaurants.
Gloucester Road: Popular for its excellent mix of residential properties, cafes, and convenient tube station access.
Tips for Finding An Apartment
Start Early: The demand for South Kensington apartments is high, so begin your search well in advance of your move.
Budget Wisely: Be clear about your financial limits, considering not just rent but also deposits and extra fees.
Prepare Your Documents: Landlords often require proof of identity, income, and references. International students may need a guarantor or to pay several months' rent upfront.
Moving Around in South Kensington
South Kensington is well-equipped with transport links. The underground station includes the circle line, Piccadilly line and District line while the multiple bus routes helps people move around the different neighbourhoods in the area.
Tube and Bus Connectivity
South Kensington Station serves as a central hub for the Circle, District, and Piccadilly lines. These lines provide seamless access to key areas of London:
The Piccadilly line offers a direct route to Heathrow Airport, ideal for international students flying in or out of the city.
The Circle and District lines connect South Kensington to popular destinations like Westminster, King’s Cross, and the City of London.
Walking and Cycling
The neighbourhood’s layout makes it highly pedestrian- and bike-friendly. Many key locations, including universities, cafes, and cultural landmarks, are within walking distance, allowing students to explore the area comfortably on foot. For those who prefer cycling, the area has Santander Cycle docking stations, offering an affordable and eco-friendly way to get around.
Amenities in South Kensington
From world-class shopping and different dining options to excellent entertainment and green spaces, South Kensington offers everything international students need to balance their studies with leisure and convenience.
Shopping
South Kensington is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from everyday essentials to luxury splurges:
Supermarkets: Conveniently located stores like Waitrose, Sainsbury’s Local, and Tesco Express make grocery shopping easy for students.
Boutique Stores: Explore quaint boutiques along Old Brompton Road and Fulham Road, perfect for finding unique clothing, accessories, and gifts.
Harrods: Located in nearby Knightsbridge, this iconic department store offers a luxurious shopping experience, with everything from high-end fashion to gourmet food halls.
Dining
South Kensington’s dining scene caters to all tastes and budgets, reflecting its international and upscale vibe:
Cafes: Enjoy cozy study sessions or casual catch-ups at popular spots like Le Pain Quotidien or Muriel’s Kitchen.
International Cuisine: The area boasts diverse dining options, from authentic Italian at Franco Manca to flavorful Indian dishes at Zaika. You’ll also find Japanese, French, Middle Eastern, and more, ensuring a taste of home no matter where you’re from.
Fine Dining: For special occasions, restaurants like Claude Bosi at Bibendum offer exquisite culinary experiences.
Entertainment and Relaxation
South Kensington provides plenty of options to unwind, stay entertained, and embrace the local culture:
Cinemas and Theaters: Watch the latest blockbusters at the Cine Lumière, a French-inspired cinema, or enjoy performances at nearby theaters like the Royal Albert Hall.
Museums and Galleries: Explore iconic cultural attractions such as the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and Victoria & Albert Museum, all located within walking distance.
Green Spaces: For relaxation and outdoor activities, head to Hyde Park, one of London’s largest and most beautiful parks. Whether you want to jog, cycle, or simply lounge by the Serpentine Lake, it’s an ideal escape from the hustle of city life.
Available South Kensington Apartments For Rent
You can find the best private Kensington student apartments on Student Luxe. We are the preferred choice for guests seeking superior comfort, flexibility & service for their studies - providing some of the most luxurious and private student accommodation London has to offer.
Most of these apartments are in the best parts of the city, with amazing on-site amenities and flexible booking perks.
If we can assist with your apartment search in any way, please let our experts know.
We look forward to hosting you soon.
