15 Things To Do On Your First Weekend in London as a Student

Welcome to London! The boxes are unpacked (mostly), the kettle is on, and an entire, magnificent city is waiting just outside your door. Your first weekend can feel both exciting and overwhelming – London is a vibrant city filled with diverse culture and bursting with opportunity. 

You’ve likely spent your first week getting to know your campus, meeting classmates and learning what to expect from your new course. However, the first weekend at uni is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of your free time, finish settling in, and have fun. 

Your First Weekend Checklist

Our handy checklist will help set you up with the essentials for student life, familiarise you with public transport, explore iconic landmarks and discover hidden gems. The goal is to explore your new home, discover its secrets, and learn how to do it all on a smart student budget.

1. Settle into your new home

Finish decorating your new room and have some home comforts to hand. A cosy room will help you feel more settled. 

2. Memorise your new address

Make a note of your new address. It can be easy to forget; you will need it as you navigate London using public transport or taxis.

3. Get connected

If you have moved from abroad, sort out a UK SIM card. Having data for maps and on-the-go research is essential. Get your flatmates’ phone numbers and create a group chat together so you can keep in touch, organise social events and sort out any chores.

4. Register with a GP

This is one of those admin tasks that’s best done early. Find a local doctor’s surgery and register. It’s also helpful to locate your nearest pharmacy should you need it to collect medication.

5. Check if you need a TV License

If you plan to watch live TV in your bedroom or communal areas, you will need a TV license to avoid any fines. Also, remember to sign up for subscription services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime to catch up on all your favourite shows.

6. Find the facilities in your accommodation

You’ll find fantastic facilities in our Urbanest accommodation. Familiarise yourself with the laundry facilities, kitchen, and communal areas so you can make the most of your new living space.

7. University check-in

Make sure you’ve completed all your university registration tasks and have everything you need for your first week of lectures – stationery, books, and any other course essentials. 

8. Find your local shops

Locate the nearest supermarket and do a big food shop. The weekend is a great chance to stock up on essentials and plan some meals. Relying on takeaways quickly becomes costly and an unhealthy habit. Arrange to cook meals with your flatmates; this is a cost-effective way to eat, and it’s also a great way to make friends and spend quality time together. Discover supermarkets near Urbanest Hoxton student accommodation and King’s Cross. 

9. Navigate London’s transport

London’s public transport network is your key to the city. Forget expensive black cabs; your best friends are the Tube, buses, and trains. The first thing you need is a payment method. While you can use a contactless card, getting an 18+ Student Oyster photocard is a game-changer. Why? As a student in London, you can save 30% on travelcards and Oyster cards, which makes a huge difference to your budget. Take a look at our Ultimate Guide to Travel Cards in London.

A standard Visitor Oyster is a good temporary option. Remember to touch in and out to ensure you don’t overpay for your journey. With capped bus fares, you can take multiple bus journeys within an hour for the price of one, making it a scenic and incredibly cheap way to see the city. For more helpful tips, check out our guide to the best way to travel around London. By the time your friends or family come to stay, you will be a pro at navigating the city.

10. Give yourself a tour of London

With the practicalities sorted, it’s time for the fun to begin. Visiting London’s iconic landmarks, monuments, and attractions is a great way to get your bearings and familiarise yourself with the city. Here are some must-see places to check out:

• Buckingham Palace: This is the King’s official residence, and you don’t need to pay for a tour – the sheer scale and magnificence of the building from outside the gates are breathtaking. If you time it right, you can catch the world-famous Changing of the Guard ceremony for free. 
• Hyde Park: The perfect place to enjoy an afternoon picnic and relax with new friends. You can continue your walk into the adjoining Kensington Gardens, where you can admire the exterior of Kensington Palace, a historic royal residence. Take a look at our handy guide and explore the best parks in London.
• Trafalgar Square: Dominated by Nelson’s Column and guarded by four giant lions, it’s a bustling hub of culture and a fantastic photo spot. 
• River Thames: You’ll pass the heart of British politics – the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Standing before the magnificent Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a truly awe-inspiring moment. 
• Covent Garden: The central market building is full of unique shops and stalls. However, the real magic happens in the piazza, where talented street performers put on incredible shows for free (though a small donation is always appreciated). 
• Borough Market: London’s most renowned food market near London Bridge is a feast for the senses. Grab a delicious and affordable lunch, from gourmet cheese toasties to spicy chorizo sandwiches, and eat it while soaking up the vibrant, bustling atmosphere. After you’ve eaten, take a walk along the South Bank for a stunning view of Tower Bridge and the city skyline.

For more inspiration, take a look at the 20 most Instagrammable places in London.

11. Visit the museums and galleries

London has world-famous museums and art galleries, and the good news is? Most are free to enter! Here are a few of the best:

• The National History Museum (free)
• The Science Museum (free)
• The National Gallery (free)
• The National Portrait Gallery (free)
• Tate Britain (free)
• Tate Modern (free)

12. Discover local hidden gems

Set aside time to explore your local area and familiarise yourself with your new surroundings – you will surely find your new favourite spots. There are plenty of independent shops, bars and cafés to discover. Hidden gems around the city are just waiting to be discovered.

13. Take advantage of your student discount

Living in London on a student budget is possible with a few smart strategies. Students’ average monthly cost of living in London can range significantly, so making savvy choices from day one is key. 

Your student ID is your golden ticket. From high street shops to cinemas and restaurants, always ask if they offer a student discount. Sign up for services like TOTUM, UNiDAYS and Student Beans to access a wide range of online and in-store offers. Look out for pubs and cafés offering student discounts and deals. Many chains, like Nando’s, Pizza Express, and Wagamama, offer money off with a valid student card. 

Check out our guide 10 Student Discount Cards Every Student Should Have for more advice.

14. Create a budget

Living as a full-time student can be expensive if not planned out properly. Make a detailed plan of all expenses, including tuition, rent, food, utilities and others, to know how much money you’ll need every month. Sticking to a budget will reduce unnecessary financial stress that can affect your mental well-being. Take a look at our 8 Money Saving Tips For Students.

15. Download helpful apps 

Download these apps to make your life easier:

• Citymapper: The ultimate journey planner with multiple transport options and real-time updates.
• Uber: Order a ride in minutes, great for when you need a quick lift across town or to/from the airport.
• Deliveroo: A food delivery service connecting you with local restaurants and grocery stores. Get food and other essentials delivered to your door.
• Too Good To Go: Rescues unsold food from restaurants and cafés at a huge discount.
• Dusk: An app that gets you one free drink per night at various bars across London.
• Your bank’s app: Essential for tracking your spending and sticking to your budget.

Embrace the adventure

You’ve navigated the transport, seen the icons, and started to uncover the city’s secrets. You’ve begun the incredible journey of making London your home. Your first weekend is just the beginning. The real adventure is turning this exciting city into your own.

Ready to find your new home? Explore Urbanest’s London locations today – modern rooms, all-inclusive bills, and student living made better.

If you would like to discuss your options with us, send us a message using the orange icon at the bottom right of your screen or call us on +44207 042 7890, and we’ll be happy to help. The team is available Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. GMT.