By Maryam Marei, 2nd Year Computer Science BSc
King’s College London is renowned for its diverse campuses, spread across central London. With that comes student accommodation located in vibrant and distinct areas, each offering a unique experience. Having lived in two different accommodations, near three King’s campuses—Guy’s, Waterloo, and Strand—I experienced different aspects of student life, shaped by their varying atmospheres and communities.
The accommodation you choose significantly impacts your daily routine and overall student experience. In this blog, I’ll share what it was like living in each location, along with an interesting pattern I noticed—each campus seems to have its own, what I like to call, seasonal signifier.
Great Dover Street Apartments (GDSA)
Located just a five-minute walk from Borough Station, and about twelve minutes from London Bridge Station, GDSA offered quick, and easy access to multiple transport connections, making it effortless to get around London. It also meant being just a ten-minute walk from Guy’s Campus, which became a significant part of my daily routine.
When I wasn’t at Strand or Waterloo, I spent most of my time at Guy’s Campus, particularly in its libraries—New Hunt’s House Library, and Wills Library. New Hunt’s House features massive windows overlooking the campus, creating a bright, and inviting study environment. Wills Library, on the other hand, exudes a scholarly charm with its wooden interiors, tall bookshelves, and a quiet, warm ambiance.
Guy’s Campus has a welcoming atmosphere, with its historic buildings surrounding a central green space that adds a sense of openness. Benches scattered throughout the campus offer different perspectives, becoming popular spots for conversations, quick study breaks, or lunch between classes. The blend of historic architecture, and modern facilities creates a unique, and comfortable environment where students naturally come together—whether to unwind or focus on their studies.
As a student based at Strand and Waterloo, one of the most interesting aspects of living at GDSA, and spending time at Guy’s, was the opportunity to meet, and interact with students from different disciplines. It exposed me to an entirely different side of King’s—one filled with medical, and life sciences students. With King’s offering such a wide range of degrees, getting to meet people from diverse academic backgrounds was fascinating.
Of course, I can’t talk about Guy’s Campus without mentioning Lenny, the campus cat. Whether he was running around, sleeping on, or curled up inside New Hunt’s House, he is definitely a beloved part of campus life.
Beyond the university setting, GDSA’s location had plenty to offer. Borough Market was nearby, with its incredible variety of food stalls, fresh produce, and lively atmosphere. Furthermore, you could see The Shard—one of London’s most iconic skyscrapers. The London Bridge area was always bustling, offering easy access to restaurants, cafés, and excellent transport links. Living there meant being close to some of the city’s most vibrant areas, including Tower Bridge, and the South Bank, making it an exciting and convenient place to call home.
Stamford Street Apartments (SSA)
Situated directly opposite the Waterloo Campus, and just a five-minute walk from Waterloo Station, SSA provided unparalleled convenience for a student based at Strand or Waterloo. My daily commute was effortless—Waterloo was only a two-minute walk away, and Strand was just a fifteen-minute stroll across the river.
Walking to Strand meant crossing Waterloo Bridge, a route I found truly incredible. It offered breathtaking views of the Thames, with boats drifting below, and some of London’s most iconic landmarks—Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye—lining the skyline. No matter how many times I crossed, the view never lost its magic. In winter, when the sun rose late, the struggle of getting up for 9 a.m. lectures was made worthwhile by the stunning sunrises over the river. And on my way back, the sunsets were just as spectacular, casting the city in a golden glow.
Living at SSA placed me right at the heart of London—an incredible privilege that’s hard to find in any other student accommodation. The London Eye was only a ten-minute walk away, with its surrounding gardens providing a peaceful space amid the city’s energy. Just a few minutes beyond lay Westminster, home to some of the capital’s most famous landmarks.
Being only fifteen minutes from Strand also meant easy access to Somerset House, with its beautiful courtyard and seasonal events, Covent Garden, and the West End, with its world-renowned theatres, iconic theatrical productions, diverse cuisine, and endless entertainment options. Whether you were in the mood for a quick bite from a street vendor or a meal at a restaurant, there was always something to satisfy every craving. No matter the time of day, there was always something exciting to do.
Seasonal Signifiers
Over time, I came to find that each campus had its own distinct seasonal charm. At Strand, the beautiful magnolia trees beside St. Mary’s Le Strand bloomed in the spring, adding a touch of colour to the historic surroundings.
At Guy’s Campus, the Hodgkin Building was draped in lush green leaves that gradually turned a vibrant red, marking the shift from summer to autumn.
Waterloo Campus also had a stunning cherry blossom tree that bloomed in the spring, its petals drifting through the air, and covering the ground.
Final Thoughts
Living near these different campuses gave me a well-rounded experience of student life at King’s. Each accommodation had its own unique atmosphere, shaped by the surrounding areas and the students who lived there. While GDSA provided a glimpse into the world of Guy’s Campus and its medical student community, SSA placed me right in the heart of London, making university life feel incredibly accessible and exciting.
For any student considering accommodation near King’s College London, the location you choose will shape your time here in unique ways. However, no matter where you live, each place has something special to offer.
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