When I found out that I would be going to university in the political and cultural centre of England, with large concentrations of libraries, museums, art galleries, clubs, pubs, and everything in between, I was already beside myself with excitement.
Then I found out that my best friends would be studying in London, too, and I was determined that we had to have the perfect “uni experience”. But what is the “uni experience” with four introverts who don’t drink or fancy going out much? Inspired by my small, solid group of friends, here are some of the activities that allowed us to make wonderful memories in our first year.
Remember, there is no pressure to find a tight-knit, ride-or-die group of friends within the first month. Most people arrive in London alone, and are just as eager to make friends as you are. These suggestions are also a great way to find things in common with new people, make memories, and grow closer to people you don’t really know.
1. Museums and galleries
London is full of museums and galleries, from the Natural History Museum, to the Science Museum and the National Gallery. Most of these institutions are free to enter as well, so you can see world-class art and valuable artefacts without denting your wallet. Getting a £10 yearly Student Art Pass would also give you free or discounted access to a range of London museums and exhibitions.
2. Plays and musicals
London is home to hundreds of plays and musicals in the West End, and you should make the most of what’s on offer to students. From cheap standing tickets to Royal Opera House discounts for those under 25, to free student memberships at the National Theatre, take advantage of live theatre on a student budget. I, personally, will never forget going to see Mamma Mia! with my friends this term.
You can read about what London’s musical scene has to offer in Lola’s blog Musical theatre in London – Lion King and more!
3. Ice skating
During Autumn Term, everyone is still relatively new and trying to make friends. In the cold winter months, a perfect Christmassy way to get to know each other is to go ice skating. Even if, like me, you’re terrified of the ice and have no idea how to skate! London has many ice rinks perfect for a Winter outing, including Canary Wharf, Hyde Park and Somerset House.
4. Restaurants and cafés
This one is the most simple, but so many students don’t completely take advantage of the sheer amount of food options at their disposal. My friends and I, for example, have collated a list of all the food places in London that we have to try, and the best way to make memories is to simply share good food together, sometimes even a new cuisine.
If you’re looking for a place on campus, be sure to check out the LSE Food Club app for special discounts. Read more about The best lunch spots on and around LSE campus in Ronnie’s blog
5. Escape rooms
To this day, my friends and I still talk about the serial killer-themed escape room we almost wet ourselves doing, months ago. London has a lot of escape rooms, horror rooms, and other immersive experiences, which make the perfect treat to celebrate the holidays, someone’s birthday, or just for fun!
6. Photoshoots
None of us can deny that London is truly a beautiful place, with so many hidden gems to explore during our university years. It’s my friends’ guilty pleasure to get dressed up, do our hair and makeup, and go out in London, admiring the sights and taking photos to capture these memories forever. You’ll find these horribly blurry, sometimes awful, photos in your camera roll in a few years, and be glad you took them.
7. Live music
The music scene in London is one of the best, with clubs, bars, concerts and festivals. Turning your notifications on for Ticketmaster, Eventbrite or Spotify, will allow you to never miss opportunities when your favourite singers are in town. Even if the seats weren’t great on a student budget, the concerts I’ve attended at the O2 have been the best experiences.
You don’t even have to leave campus to enjoy live music. At LSE, you can take a break between classes and catch a free Thursday lunchtime concert right on campus, featuring an impressive range of classical musicians. It’s a lovely way to reset during the busy week.
8. Shopping spree
Use this one sparingly, because budgeting is very important, but sometimes nothing is more enjoyable than some retail therapy. With Oxford Street, Camden Market and other fantastic places with the best shops, why not take advantage and splurge a little?
Find out more
Living and studying in London as an LSE student is more than just lectures and deadlines – it’s a constant balancing act between academic ambition and the vibrant life that surrounds you. From museum visits to spontaneous gigs and conversations that challenge your worldview, the city becomes your second classroom.
Read more about what it’s like to study in the most exciting city in the world in Ananya’s blog: Living in London – the best student city.
