Although it’s been only a couple of months since I’ve arrived at LSE, I was able to experience a great deal of what London has to offer. Coming to London as a big-city person (I’m originally from Hanoi), I love the fact that I could always find interesting activities to enjoy with my friends during the weekends. Below is a short guide to some of the best things London has to offer to students.

Concerts and Performances

As one of Europe’s cultural hubs, London can pretty much cater to any musical preference, ranging from Mozart to Dua Lipa. There are dozens of great theatres near the LSE campus (Aldwych, Peacock Centre, Novello Theatre, etc.), that offer competitive prices to General Course students. If you’re into operas and classical music, the Royal Opera House is a household name to follow. Home to one of the world’s greatest ballet companies, it offers programmes ranging from dance lessons to free piano recitals during lunch hours, and these are a great way to spend your break from a busy campus life. You can also attend many big concerts for free, such as West End Live, and enjoy live musicals with other Londoners. As a student, you’re able to access many theatre shows and performances for much cheaper prices. In fact, I just booked a ticket to see the famous romantic ballet, Giselle, for £6 with my friend! If you’re staying in London for a year, make sure to enjoy all the great music concerts and shows that London has to provide.

City Tours and Trips

Guided tours are a great way to learn more about the context behind historical buildings and it’s much easier for you to access, since you don’t have to plan everything. LSE offers great tours at a subsidized price for General Course students. Take the opportunity to explore the hidden pubs of London, enjoy the city from the London Eye, or learn more about world famous art at the National Gallery. If you’re looking to explore other parts of England, LSE offers great tours to Oxford, Bath, and Cumberland Lodge (with major Downtown Abbey vibes!). It’s also a great way to connect with other General Course students from different parts of the world while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Take the opportunity to explore the hidden pubs of London, enjoy the city from the London Eye, or learn more about world famous art at the National Gallery.

Food Haven

London is one of the most diverse cities in the world, so it’s no wonder that you can find a broad range of options to satisfy your food cravings. Chinatown is around 10 minutes from LSE and is known for regional Chinese and East Asian delicacies, ranging from bubble tea to hotpot. You can also visit Kingsland Road to explore best offerings from the Vietnamese culinary community.  If you want to try out different street food, venture to food markets such as Maltby Street Market, Brockley Market,  Borough Market.

This is not an exhaustive list of all the things you could explore in London, by any means. I’d encourage you to keep your options open and just be willing to try out new things!