Student Life
You won't be studying all the time. London offers a stimulating diversity of culture and entertainment guides like Time Out keep you informed of events and activities. London is the place where things tend to happen first in art, music and fashion. Here's just a small selection of ideas:
Galleries
Tate Modern hosts major exhibitions of contemporary art (installation and situational work is currently in vogue), as do the Saatchi and Whitechapel galleries. There are also free entry private galleries (especially on Cork Street), and the newly-expanded Photographers' Gallery.
Music
All the big pop, rock and dance outfits play here, but there are many more experimental, classical, world and jazz scenes to be explored. You can't fail to be impressed by the musical vibrancy of contemporary London. You can get into lots of events at a reduced price, or even for free.
Theatre
Innovative Almeida in Islington, physical at Battersea Arts Centre, modern dance with the Rambert company. With styles ranging from the historical Globe to the brash West End musicals, there's something for everyone.
Film
National Film Theatre, Riverside Studios in Hammersmith and a host of small cinemas offer a huge range of independent UK and world cinema. And remember that you'll always be the first in the country to get to see the latest releases.
Walking
It's good exercise and free; it's also the best way to see and get to know the city. London is a city of parks (39% of the city is green space), ranging from Hyde, Regent's and Green Parks, to the wilder Hampstead Heath and the unusual marshlands in Hackney. A walk along the river is a great way to experience the history and culture of each area, while getting away from the bustle of the city.
Clubs
Intent on making the most of London's serious nightlife? Get to the upfront clubs of Brixton (for Mass and The Fridge) and Hoxton (for Herbal and bars like Living Room and Canteloupe); also check out www.clubconnexion.com for more information.
Fashion and Shopping
As well as being home to designers Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood, London is famous for its markets: Petticoat Lane for cheap street fashion, Columbia Road for flowers, Portobello Road for secondhand clothes, Dalston and Brixton for exotic fruit and vegetables.
Sport
London is a great place to watch the game of your choice, be it football (with Arsenal, Chelsea, Fulham and Spurs to name but four London teams), rugby (at Twickenham) or cricket (at the Lords and Oval grounds), among many others.
Eating
Most world cuisines are represented here at prices to suit everyone. You can eat out for as little as £3. With fashions in food and the make-up of London's population constantly evolving, there'll always be something new to try.
