Find Blue Plaques Near Your Accommodation

If you’re studying in London, you’ll know that there’s all sorts of things to see and do wherever you go, from museums and quirky cafes to classy bars and authentic restaurants. What you might not know is that there’s a historic attraction hiding right under your nose – the blue plaques.

These blue discs can be found across the city, and you can even go on specialised tours to help you locate them all. The properties on which they are mounted were all past residences of famous people – you never know, there might have been someone famous living right next to your student halls. London is full of these interesting historic monuments, so just keep your eyes peeled and you’ll be sure to come across them. 

Famous Faces

Get in touch with British culture and discover where the city’s most well-known residents were once based. There are over 900 plaques to be found, and you’ll probably notice that there are several near your student halls. London has plenty of options when it comes to student living, so wherever you’re based, chances are somebody famous once lived around there too.  

South Bank Stars

If you’ve chosen to live near South Bank, you’re in luck. A number of celebrated artists, musicians and actors have blue plaques here. Look out for Edvard Grieg (a Norwegian Composer) as well as Vincent van Gogh and Charlie Chaplin, the legendary actor and comedian. Wherever you’re living in this area, you won’t be more than a short walk from these historic homes.

West End Wonders

Looking around the West End for your student halls? London’s most well-known region for theatres was also the home of several famous writers, poets and scientists. Blue plaques in this area celebrate Charles Dickens, Virginia Woolf and even Charles Darwin. You’ll be walking in the footsteps of true fame!

Central Celebs

The Spitalfields area has plenty of great attractions and more than enough accommodation options for students, from flat shares to homestays to student halls. London’s celebrated social reformers enjoyed living in the area too, it seems. While you’re exploring the area, look out for Edith Cavell’s blue plaque. She was a WWI heroine and a pioneer in modern nursing. You’ll also find the residence of Captain James Cook, a legendary explorer.

Wherever your student accommodation happens to be, chances are you’ll be just steps away from where some of the city’s legends once lived. While you’ll be spending a lot of time studying, you must also remember to make the most of city life and explore all that London has to offer, from the iconic buildings and historic landmarks to the beautiful green spaces and, of course, the celebrity plaques. There really is something for everyone to love in England’s capital.

Author Plate

Sophie Smith works as an independent consultant and offers advice to young people looking for London-based student halls. London has a wide range of options when it comes to student living, and Sophie’s helpful suggestions make deciding where to stay even easier. Her expert tips and tricks stem 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.