As you will be taught at the Camden Campus, most student opt to live locally to our Camden Campus. London is a vibrant, international bustling city with something to offer for everyone’s tastes. As of 2024, London was ranked ‘Best Student City’ by QS for the sixth year running, and it isn’t difficult to see why; there’s ample things to do, from museums, iconic monuments, fantastic eateries, and charming pubs.

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Living in Kentish Town

Here is your guide to mastering Kentish Town life.  

As an RVC student, Mary Brancker House is one of the top choices for accommodation. At Mary Brancker your life is governed by three magic numbers: 

• 20-minute walk North to Hampstead Heath: 800 acres of wild parkland, swimming ponds, and the best view of London from Parliament Hill. 
• 20-minute walk South to RVC Camden Campus: No tube fare needed for your 9 AMs. 
• 2-minute walk to Kentish Town Station: Access to the Northern Line and Thameslink.You can be in King's Cross in 5 minutes or Leicester Square in 12.  

Top Coffee Shops & Brunch 

Whether you need a caffeine hit before a lab or a place to hide with a textbook, Kentish Town has you covered. 

• The Fields Beneath: Located right under the railway arches by the station. It’s 100% vegan, has incredible natural wines, and the vibe is very "North London Cool." 
• Bean About Town: A local favourite for serious coffee nerds. It’s small, intimate, and perfect for a quick takeaway on your way to uni. 
• Doppio Coffee Warehouse: This is a massive space on Kentish Town Road. It’s a coffee wholesaler, so the quality is top-tier, and there’s plenty of room to sit with a laptop, as somewhere else to study. 
• Lilac Coffee House: Cute, modern, and located right by the station. Great for a flat white and people-watching.  

Top Bars & Pubs 

Kentish Town is famous for having some of the best pubs in the city. 

• The Bull & Gate: An iconic gastropub right next to the O2 Forum. It’s cute, grand, and great for a Sunday roast. 
• The Parakeet: A stunning pub on the high street. Great good, great pints, good vibes. There is even a pub quiz on the Tuesday.
• The Lion & Unicorn: Tucked away on a backstreet, this is a hidden gem with a fantastic beer garden. It’s quieter and more relaxed, ideal for a post-exam pint. 
• The Pineapple: A legendary local institution. It’s quirky, cozy, and serves incredible Thai food. You’ve not lived in Kentish Town without visiting here. 
• Clapton Craft: A quirky cocktail bar with good local beers and wines! 

Top Independent Shops 

Supporting local is easy when the shops are this good: 

• The Owl Bookshop: One of London’s best independent bookstores. Great for browsing when you need a break from veterinary manuals. 
• Phoenicia Food Hall: A Mediterranean wonderland. If you like olives, halloumi, or fresh baklava, you will spend a lot of money here. 
• Earth Natural Foods: The go-to for organic groceries, bulk grains, and eco-friendly home supplies.   

Why Kentish Town is Perfect for Students 

If you’ve never been to London, Kentish Town feels like a real neighbourhood rather than a tourist trap, genuine shops and genuine people on your doorstep. 

• Community: Because of the RVC and nearby hospitals, there is a massive student and young professional community. 
• Safety: With 24/7 security at Mary Brancker House and well-lit main roads. 
• Balance: You have the some of the best nightlife of Camden a 15-minute walk south, and the total peace of Hampstead Heath a 20-minute walk north, that’s 320 hectares of park a 20-minute walk away. It’s the best of both worlds. 

Living in Camden

Here is your guide to mastering Camden life.  

As an RVC student, College Grove is the ultimate choice for proximity. At College Grove, your life is defined by being at the heart of the action and literally seconds from your lectures: 

• 1-minute walk to RVC Camden Campus: You are quite literally next door. You can wake up at 8:50 AM and still make your 9 AM lecture with time to spare. 
• 10-minute walk West to Regent's Park: Home to the ZSL London Zoo, stunning rose gardens, and Primrose Hill for the most iconic sunset view of the London skyline. 
• 5-minute walk to Camden Town Station: Access to both branches of the Northern Line. You can be in the West End in 10 minutes or Euston/King’s Cross in under 5. 

Top Coffee Shops & Brunch 

Camden is a caffeine-fueled hub, perfect for grab and go energy or a long weekend brunch by the canal. 

• Coffee and Cleaners: A tiny, rustic spot by Campus. Known for having some of the best coffee in North London and a dry cleaning service if you need it. 
• Pamban: Located in the Market, specialising in Chai and coffee with a Sri Lankan twist. It’s a beautiful, aromatic place to recharge. 
• Hidden Coffee: True to its name, this is a quiet, minimalist sanctuary tucked away from the high street madness—perfect for getting through your reading list. 
• The Flour Station: Situated right by the water. Great for artisanal pastries and watching the canal boats pass by while you study.  

Top Bars & Pubs 

Camden is the spiritual home of London’s alternative scene, with pubs that are world-famous landmarks. 

• The Hawley Arms: An iconic indie haunt and former local of Amy Winehouse. It’s full of character, musical history, and has a great roof terrace. 
• The Lock Tavern: A classic Camden institution with a fantastic balcony overlooking the market. It hosts great DJs and has a top-tier selection of local craft beers. 
• The World’s End: A massive, legendary pub right opposite the tube. It’s the best place in the city for people-watching and soaking up the true Camden vibe. 
• The Black Heart: Hidden down a side street, this is a quirky spot for craft beer and rock music enthusiasts with a great, friendly atmosphere. 

Top Independent Shops 

Living here means you’re surrounded by creativity and independent spirit: 

• Mega City Comics: A local staple for over 30 years. Whether you’re a fan or just browsing, it’s a piece of Camden history. 
• All Ages Records: One of the last truly independent punk and hardcore record shops in the city. Raw, authentic, and very Camden. 
• Camden Lock Market Artisans: Head to the West Yard for handmade jewellery, local art, and independent fashion designers you won’t find anywhere else.   

Why Camden is Perfect for Students 

Living at College Grove puts you in the most vibrant corner of the capital, where there is always something happening. 

• Next-Door to Lectures: You cannot live closer to the RVC. No commute means more time for sleep, study, and socialising. 
• Culture on Tap: From the world-famous street food at the markets to the legendary music venues like KOKO and the Roundhouse, you are at the centre of it all. 
• Green Space: Whenever the city feels too busy, you have 395 acres of Regent’s Park down the road. It’s the perfect place for a run or a summer picnic between classes. 

Living in Bloomsbury

Here is your guide to mastering Bloomsbury life.  

Living in the Intercollegiate Halls (Connaught, International, or Garden Halls) places you in London’s literary and academic heart. In Bloomsbury, your life is defined by being surrounded by history and having the best of London within walking distance: 

• 20-minute walk North to RVC Camden Campus: A pleasant stroll past St Pancras and through the Somers Town area. You’re close enough to commute on foot or hop on the 168 or 214 bus for a 10-minute ride. 
• 10-minute walk to King's Cross & St Pancras: The gateway to the UK and Europe. Whether you’re heading home for the weekend or taking the Eurostar to Paris, you are perfectly placed. 
• 2-minute walk to Russell Square & The Brunswick Centre: You have an Underground station (Piccadilly Line) and a massive open-air shopping centre with a Waitrose, cinema, and gym right on your doorstep.  

Top Coffee Shops & Brunch 

Bloomsbury is world-famous for its cafe culture, ideal for those long weekend study sessions or a quick pre-lecture pastry. 

• Half Cup: Located on Judd Street (seconds from Garden Halls). Famous for its creative brunch menu and incredible "lavender lattes." It’s a student favourite, so get there early! 
• Store Street Espresso: The "OG" of Bloomsbury coffee. Minimalist, sleek, and serves some of the most consistent specialty coffee in the city. A great place to focus. 
• Fortitude Bakehouse: Hidden in a mews behind the Brunswick Centre. Their sourdough pastries and craft coffee have a cult following. The queue is worth it for the morning buns alone. 
• Lever & Bloom: A charming coffee cart located in Byng Place. Ethically sourced beans and legendary Swedish cinnamon buns served with a smile.  

Top Bars & Pubs 

From historic literary haunts to lively student bars, Bloomsbury has a local for every mood. 

• The Lamb: An exquisite Victorian pub on Lamb’s Conduit Street. It still has the original "snob screens" and was a favourite of Charles Dickens. Great for a quiet, high-quality pint. 
• The Marquis Cornwallis: A bright, lively pub right in the centre of Bloomsbury. It has a fantastic atmosphere on Friday nights and is a popular meeting spot for students across the various UoL halls. 
• The Friend at Hand: A traditional, cozy pub tucked away near Russell Square station. It’s packed with local history and offers a classic "London pub" feel without the tourist prices. 
• The Swan: Located in the picturesque Cosmo Place. It’s a small, traditional ale house that feels like a hidden retreat from the busy city streets. 
• The Court: While technically on the edge of Bloomsbury, this is the go-to "cheap and cheerful" student bar for those looking for a lively night and affordable drinks. 

Top Independent Shops 

Bloomsbury is the bookstore capital of the world, but it also hides some unique specialty gems: 

• Skoob Books: Hidden in the Brunswick Centre, this is London’s best second-hand bookshop. It’s a labyrinth of academic and fiction titles at half the price of new books. 
• Gay's the Word: The UK’s oldest LGBTQ+ bookshop and a historic community hub. Even if you aren’t looking for a book, the staff are incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable. 
• Judd Books: A specialist in academic and used books. If you’re looking for a specific veterinary or science text, there’s a good chance you’ll find a bargain here. 
• James Smith & Sons: An iconic umbrella shop that has looked exactly the same since 1830. A true London landmark that’s worth a visit just to see the Victorian storefront. 

Why Bloomsbury is Perfect for Students 

Living here means you are part of a global academic community, with the British Library and British Museum as your local landmarks. 

• The Academic Centre: You are surrounded by students from UCL, SOAS, and Birkbeck. This means student discounts are everywhere, and the area is designed for student life.
• Green Spaces: Bloomsbury is famous for its "Squares." Russell Square, Gordon Square, and Brunswick Square offer beautiful, leafy places to sit and study outside during the warmer months. 
• Central Access: You are a 15-minute walk from the West End, Covent Garden, and Soho. You get to live in a quiet, prestigious neighborhood while being able to walk to the world’s best theatres and clubs. 

Don't Miss: The Bloomsbury Festival (October 1–31, 2026) will be celebrating its 20th Anniversary with pop-up performances, art installations, and science talks right in the squares outside your halls! 

Here are the top recommendations from two of our students, Saima and Adaeze, to get you started on your London adventure:

Saima’s Top Recommendations in Camden

Moving to a new city or even new country can be a scary and daunting time but, it is also an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and explore new places. However, travelling in London can be so, it is nice to be in one of London’s hotspots that has a lot to offer in terms of food, entertainment and shopping. There is nothing better than to just go for a walk and see what you can discover! Here are some hidden gems I have stumbled upon in my time in Camden.

Camden Market

Let's begin with Camden's main attraction: the market. It caters for everyone with its diverse selection of food, clothes and jewellery. From tantalizing cheese pasta from a cheese wheel to delectable Dutch pancakes, the market offers a culinary journey around the globe. As you immerse yourself in the labyrinth of shops, do not miss the chance to explore Cyberdog. While its eccentric and fluorescent vibe might not be everyone's cup of tea, it's certainly an adventure in itself, complete with dancers and a DJ. Plus, there are plenty of activities ideal for a fun date night or an outing with friends. I went to junkyard golf recently which is mini golf with a twist. I did the creepy carnival course but there are many to choose from.  

Eating out

Camden offers some of the best culinary delights. Babuji is a great place on Kentish town road for home cooked style Indian food and drink. You can enjoy a nice refreshing chai or pani puri! And who can resist indulging in some classic desserts like creams? 

Pedros café is one of my favourites, with a wide range of dishes from roast dinner to English breakfast or simply go for just a drink. I especially recommend the freshly pressed orange juice which has become my favourite drink in London. Everyone must try this at least once!

Lumi is worth a visit at least once and the French toast is a must try. Located conveniently on Camden High Street so, not a long walk from campus! Bonus: It has a cute interior for Instagram picture

Going Out

After a long day of lectures many students will enjoy a drink (non-alcoholic too!). I will start with one you might all know, just off the Grand union canal we have our very own Wetherspoons. While it is always busy, it offers drinks and food for a student friendly budget. We also have our very own Haxby which may not have a wide range of drinks but provides a space to meet fellow RVC students, play pool and has cheap drinks. Socials tend to take place here every week and you can even rent it for a games or movie night as there is a projector.

Looking for a unique outing? Social Pottery provides a unique day out consisting of pottery painting and even pottery making classes for those with a higher budget. It is a fun experience for all regardless of your artistic ability! It is also a fun keep’s sake as I still use my frog pot today to store my jewellery.

And finally, as the sun sets over the city, Primrose hill offers a stunning view of London’s skyline. It is the perfect spot to hang out and get some fresh air, take breath-taking photos and even watch fireworks as, I did on Guy Fawkes night. And its free!

Adaeze’s Favorite London Spots

As an International master’s student at the Royal Veterinary College, discovering the vibrant city of London is an adventure filled with endless possibilities, from cultural excursions to culinary delights and everything in between. After spending several months exploring this dynamic metropolis, I've compiled a list of some of my favorite spots that capture the essence of London's diverse offerings.

Regent's Park

Regent's Park offers a welcome respite from urban life and academic pressure, with its lush lawns, meandering pathways, and serene lakes. Take a leisurely stroll through the park and soak up the sights and sounds of nature, from the gentle rustle of leaves to the melodious chirping of birds. Whether you're enjoying a picnic with friends or simply taking a moment to relax and unwind, Regent's Park provides the perfect backdrop for moments of peace and reflection. Queen Mary's Gardens provide a stunning display of colorful blooms and fragrant roses in full bloom, with different species of birds and an opportunity to marvel at the wonders of nature.

The NOW Building at Tottenham Court Road Station

Standing tall at the junction of Tottenham Court Road, and conveniently located around oxford street, the NOW Building is a remarkable architectural marvel. It features a massive public atrium adorned with LED screens both inside and outside, making it home to the largest collection of screens globally. Broadcasting a diverse range of entertainment, cultural content, and advertising, this building serves as a vibrant hub within the heart of London. Whether you're passing by or stepping inside the main cinema, The NOW Building immerses you in the reality of the screen, offering an experience that makes you feel like you're living within its vibrant digital world.

Canary Wharf

For breathtaking views of the city skyline and to admire the stunning architecture, look no further than Canary Wharf. Situated in the bustling financial district, this iconic location offers an unparalleled panorama of London's landmarks. Its corporate environment and striking architecture inspire dreams of career excellence, making it a symbol of professional success. Explore the area's luxury restaurants, providing a culinary experience fit for any occasion.

Whether you're enjoying a leisurely stroll along the riverside promenade or dining at one of the many rooftop restaurants, Canary Wharf is sure to leave you spellbound. Be sure to visit Cross Rail Place Roof Garden, a hidden oasis featuring lush greenery and stunning architecture, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle below.

Be At One, Camden High Street

After a stressful week of studies and assessment worries, unwind with cocktails and good vibes at Be At One on Camden High Street. This vibrant cocktail bar offers a welcoming atmosphere and free entry for all. Step inside and let the eclectic playlist, spanning from afro beats to pop, set the mood for a memorable night out. As you settle in, take advantage of the bar's student-friendly policy: with your student ID, enjoy a generous 30% discount on all orders. The skilled bartenders at Be At One are renowned for their creativity and flair, ensuring that each drink they craft is nothing short of exceptional. So, gather your friends, bring along your ID card, and get ready to dance the night away or celebrate a special occasion in style at Be At One.

Borough Market

Nestled in the heart of London, Borough Market is a paradise for food enthusiasts. With its array of stalls offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, gourmet pastries, and international delicacies, the market is a feast for the senses. From the aroma of freshly baked bread to the sight of vibrant fruits and vegetables, every corner of Borough Market offers a delightful culinary experience. One can spend hours wandering through the bustling aisles, sampling delectable treats, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Be sure not to miss the opportunity to indulge in a popular treat: a heavenly mix of fresh strawberries and rich chocolate served in a cup. Additionally, Borough Market is renowned for its commitment to organic and sustainable food practices, ensuring that every bite is not only delicious but also environmentally conscious. So, whether you're craving a mouthwatering gourmet sandwich from Kappacasein or longing for a piping hot bowl of paella from Brindisa, Borough Market promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.

These are just a few of the many incredible spots that London has to offer. From its world-class architecture to its bustling markets and lively nightlife, the city never ceases to amaze and inspire me. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Londoner, there's always something new to explore.