London Life
Cultural
Studying and living in London will allow you to explore the many rich and diverse social and cultural opportunities that this vibrant world city has to offer. Whether you enjoy museums and exhibitions, clubbing and live music or sport and leisure, you will be spoilt for choice in London.
Museums, galleries and arts venues
The largest collection of Egyptology outside Egypt, a Tyrannosaurus Rex, the centre of time at the Greenwich meridian, the art of da Vinci, Picasso and Tracy Emin. These are just a taste of the exhibits that make up the internationally renowned collections in London’s museums and galleries. Entrance to most is free and there are student discounts for special exhibitions. See the Academic pages for a list of some that you might like to explore.
Music, cinema and the performing arts
Classical orchestras, rock, rap, jazz and pop; Shakespeare, musicals and fringe theatre; opera, ballet and contemporary dance; blockbuster movies and art-house cinema: you will be able to sample them all in London. For some performances student discounts apply and last-minute, cut-price tickets are available. Some of the venues include:
| National Theatre | www.nationaltheatre.org.uk |
| Barbican | www.barbican.org.uk |
| Royal Opera House | www.roh.org.uk |
| British Film Institute | www.bfi.org.uk |
| Royal Festival Hall | www.southbankcentre.co.uk |
|
O2 Academy Brixton |
www.o2academybrixton.co.uk |
| O2 Arena | www.theo2.co.uk |
| Shakespeare’s Globe | www.shakespeares-globe.org |
| Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club | www.ronniescotts.co.uk |
| Wembley Arena | www.livenation.co.uk |
Sports and Leisure
If you enjoy sports – whether you want to watch or take part – you’ll be spoilt for choice with 14 professional football teams, four rugby teams, two cricket teams; Wimbledon, Wembley and Lord’s on your doorstep, as well as countless sports clubs, gyms, indoor arenas and sporting facilities.
Cultural festivals
London’s real cultural gem is its people. A thriving, vibrant, tolerant cosmopolis made up of people from around the globe, London is a world in one city. Over 300 languages are spoken by its different communities and cultural festivals and celebrations punctuate the city’s year. You will have the opportunity to be part of this, experiencing London life in all its diversity from Chinese New Year celebrations in China Town to carnival in Notting Hill.
Restaurants, cafés and bars
From Michelin-starred fine dining to self-service buffets and fish and chips, there is something for every taste and budget in London. A reflection of the diverse population, there are restaurants in London representing the cuisine of over 70 countries and some of the best value food is ethnic. Cafés abound: from Italian espresso bars to Lebanese shisha cafés, you can sit at a pavement table and watch the world go by. Whether you fancy a quiet drink or dancing the night away, there is a wealth of variety. From real ale in a historic pub, a cocktail in an ultra-modern bar or a vitamin-packed soft drink in a juice bar, you will find something to suit your taste.
Live music and clubbing
Intimate gigs from up-and-coming bands in Camden or Shoreditch; world-famous acts at the O2 Arena, Wembley Stadium or O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire; clubbing at Fabric, Heaven or Cargo... or perhaps you’d prefer something a little more refined at the Royal Festival Hall? Whatever you’re into, London is an absolute treasure trove for those who love their music.
Park life
Despite being one of the world’s largest cities, London boasts a surprising amount of green space. With over 1,800 parks making up 30% of the city, London has more parks than any other city in the world. This presents you with wonderful opportunities to enjoy peaceful relaxation or join in stimulating activity. Regent’s Park, within walking distance of UCL, houses London Zoo, an Open Air Theatre and various sporting facilities. Slightly further away is Hampstead Heath with fantastic views over London, and Richmond Park in the south west is famous for its wild deer. If you prefer to stay local you can always read or eat lunch in Gordon Square Gardens, just next door to UCL’s Bloomsbury campus.
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