A Beach Day For Students, London Style

London has got to be one of the most exciting cities to consider when you are thinking of studying abroad, and whether you choose to stay in halls of residence or in a homestay, Londoners welcome foreign students with open arms.

Studying in a city, especially the Big Smoke, probably conjures up images of historic buildings, cultural monuments, a vibrant nightlife and a great student scene. A day at the beach likely doesn’t cross your mind when you think of studying in a city – but if you do enjoy relaxing by the water, England’s capital has a few surprises, such as urban beaches just waiting to be discovered.

London City Beach

City Beach is a great little spot, and there are many events held here that you should make sure to attend. When the sun is shining book your tickets and head there to enjoy the laidback vibe. Some events include a themed brunch or dinner while others are all about the great music and the cocktails.

Hampstead Beach at JW3

If, like most students, you have to watch how much cash you spend, this beach is a great option because it is absolutely free. Located on Finchley Road, it is open Friday to Sunday every week in July and August. Not only is it a wonderful place to feel the sand beneath your feet, but it is also a prime spot to meet friends, enjoy a drink or two and relax after a long day studying at the computer.

Ruislip Lido

For foreign students staying in a homestay, London’s north and west regions are very popular locations – which is great for water lovers because there are lots of urban beaches nearby. Ruislip Lido is open all year round and, as it is located in a beautiful nature reserve, the lido is perfect for a relaxing walk, an al fresco lunch or an afternoon spent reading outdoors. You can sit by the lake, look at the swans and immerse yourself in a wonderfully natural place that feels a million miles from the city.

The Beach at Brent Cross

Summer is definitely a good time to be a student in the city as there is so much going on. From June to September the Brent Cross Shopping Centre becomes a huge fun park featuring waterslides, paddling pools and plenty more. You can easily spend a day here either relaxing on the sand or hanging out and enjoying the entertainment. It can get busy but visit at off peak times and it really is very pleasant.

Plenty of students come to London from sun-kissed locations in other countries and might be worried they’ll miss relaxing on the beach when they choose this amazing city for their study abroad experience. These students, however, will be relieved to discover that no matter where you choose to live, or whether you choose halls of residence or ahomestay, Londonhas lots of beach action on offer.

Author Plate

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.