LSE is a small but charming campus, which is hidden in the jewel of London. It’s a short walk away from many exciting places in the city, and is close to lots of local stores which might end up being essential during your time at the School. Here’s my guide to LSE and its surrounding areas, a compilation of things that were vital during my student years.
Grocery stores
Your local grocery stores include Sainsbury’s, Co-Op, and Little Waitrose. If you’ve never heard of these stores before, here’s a very short summary. Sainsbury’s will be good for a big weekly or monthly shop, which you might need to do in order to get the things you’ll be living on. Sainsbury’s has a wide variety of items, and has a Nectar card scheme which will give you points and help you save money.
Co-Op is a slightly smaller branch, but has an amazing and affordable bakery which I frequented many mornings before an early class. It’s also very close to campus, just around the corner from many central buildings. They also offer some great student discounts if you download the app, which you definitely should.
The Little Waitrose is tucked away, and I didn’t discover it until my second year. Waitrose tends to be slightly pricier but the food is always really good quality. If you have a stricter budget, I’d recommend going there right before closing time which is when they tend to make the reductions.
Quick bites
Wasabi will always be top of the list for me when it comes to tasty, affordable lunchtime food. A friend introduced me to Wasabi for the first time in my first year, and I never looked back. Their delicious Japanese food is freshly made each day, and it’s hot. It reminded me very much of my mum’s own cooking after a long day of studying which was always welcome. Also, it doesn’t hurt that there are about three branches, each about a five-minute walk from LSE.
Although not the healthiest choice, if you’re looking for a quick bite to eat that won’t break the bank, there’s a McDonald’s just across the street. Although, don’t get too used to popping down there if you want to maintain a healthy lifestyle. McDonald’s is tasty but addictive!
Coffee shops
If you like spacious, comfortable coffee shops with mood lighting, then the Starbucks next to LSE is the one for you. Although it gets really busy depending on the time of day, it’s for a good reason. The staff are welcoming and the seating is comfortable and plentiful. You can also never go wrong with a good Starbucks, especially if you’ve got an all nighter coming up.
Pret A Manger has a great subscription scheme if you’re big on hot drinks. I know many people who found it a very cost effective way to drink their coffees and hot chocolates, especially in the colder months.
Caffè Nero is one of my personal favourites, especially during the colder seasons. Because there’s a coffee place on every corner in Holborn, this one tends to be quite quiet. I’ve had many a catch up in the Holborn branch of Caffè Nero, which was uninterrupted by the hustle and bustle of student life. Plus, I’d rank their hot chocolate on the top of the list out of the three café chains I’ve listed.
If you’re coming to LSE in September, keep this guide handy for local necessities and places to stop by, which will make your experience even better.
