An introduction to London
London is the capital of the United Kingdom and the largest city in the European Union. It is one of the foremost financial and cultural centres in the world. London's influence in politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion and the arts contributes to its preeminent position. The city will host the 2012 Summer Olympic Games.
London has enough variety and substance to satisfy the most energetic tourist. It contains four World Heritage Sites: the Tower of London; the historic settlement of Greenwich; the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew; and the site comprising the Palace of Westminster, and Westminster Abbey. A visit to Buckingham Palace, St Paul's Cathedral, and Hampton Court should also be considered.
A visit to London is not complete without enjoying some of its many beautiful green spaces including The Royal Parks of Hyde Park, its neighbour Kensington Gardens, Regent's Park (housing London Zoo), the smaller Green Park or the delightful St. James's Park, surrounded by palaces and goverment buildings.
Whilst a little shabby at times, the entertainment district of the West End has its focus around Leicester Square, where London and world film premieres are held, and Piccadilly Circus, with its giant electronic advertisements. London's theatre district is here, as are many cinemas, bars, clubs and restaurants, including the city's Chinatown district, and just to the east is Covent Garden, an area housing speciality shops and an abundance of street theatre.
The United Kingdom's Royal Ballet, English National Ballet, Royal Opera and English National Opera are based in London and perform at the Royal Opera House, The London Coliseum, Sadler's Wells Theatre and the Royal Albert Hall as well as touring the country. Whilst horribly over-crowded, Europe's busiest shopping area is Oxford Street, a shopping street nearly 1 mile (1.6 km) long — which makes it the longest shopping street in the world — and home to many shops and department stores including Selfridges.
London University accommodation
London is home to several universities, all of which we hope to be working with shortly. We currently offer Bed & Breakfast accommodation at UCL (University College London), the University of London, Imperial College London, Kingston University and Brunel University. It should be understood that the university halls are designed primarily for students: not children or for adults expecting a high level of luxury. However, with this in mind, the halls do meet level of comfort that we expect most visitors to be happy with, and we will welcome any feedback where this is not the case.
Getting around London
If you are spending more than a couple of days in the city, we would recommend purchasing an Oyster card which gives you access to all underground trains and buses. See https://www.tfl.gov.uk for more information.