🌟 Introduction
London South Bank University (LSBU) is one of the UK's most diverse and career-focused universities located in Central London, at Elephant & Castle. With over 18,000 students, many of whom are international, choosing the right accommodation is one of the most important decisions you'll make. It impacts your budget, lifestyle, and overall university experience. This 2025 guide explores the best halls, private housing options, and student-friendly London areas to help you make an informed decision.
🏠 Why Accommodation Matters at LSBU
- Central London Location: LSBU is located in central London, which means living costs tend to be higher than in other UK cities, so budgeting is key
- Transport Savings: Living close to campus saves significant transport time and cost
- Academic Success: Good accommodation supports academic success, social life, and wellbeing
- International Community: Over 18,000 students from diverse backgrounds create a vibrant campus atmosphere
🏫 On-Campus Halls of Residence
LSBU manages four halls within walking distance of the Southwark campus. All halls include bills and Wi-Fi, with round-the-clock security. They offer a safe, social, and convenient option, especially suited for first-year and international students.
| Hall Name | Features | Weekly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| David Bomberg House | Modern en-suite rooms | £220 - £250 |
| McLaren House | Mixture of en-suite and shared flats | £200 - £230 |
| Dante Road | More affordable halls | £185 - £210 |
| New Kent Road | Budget-friendly option | £185 - £200 |
🏢 Private Student Halls Near LSBU
Private halls provide modern accommodation near LSBU, with extra facilities. Private halls tend to cost more than university halls but offer advantages such as gyms, study areas, and 24/7 staff.
| Provider | Features | Weekly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Unite Students (Moonraker Point) | Gym, lounges, security | £280 - £350 |
| Chapter London | Stylish rooms, social spaces | £260 - £320 |
| Urbanest Westminster Bridge | Central location, modern amenities | £300 - £380 |
🏘️ Shared Housing & Flats in London
Many students choose shared flats or houses for flexibility and affordability. Check platforms like SpareRoom, Rightmove, and Zoopla to find listings. Popular districts include:
- Elephant & Castle: Closest to campus, but rents are high
- Borough & Waterloo: Central, with premium flats and nightlife
- Peckham & Camberwell: Affordable and trendy with community vibe
- Lewisham: Budget-friendly and well connected by public transport
💰 Accommodation Costs in 2025
| Accommodation Type | Weekly Cost (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| LSBU Halls | £185 – £250 | Bills included |
| Private Halls | £230 – £350 | Premium amenities |
| Shared Housing | £160 – £220 | Bills usually extra |
| Studio Flats | £300 – £450 | Independent and pricey |
🍽️ Food & Grocery Expenses
- Weekly groceries: £40-£60 at Tesco, Lidl, or Aldi
- Eating out: £10-£15 per meal
- Cooking at home: Saves £70-£100 per month
🚇 Transport Costs for LSBU Students
- Elephant & Castle station: Connects to Bakerloo and Northern lines
- Student Oyster Card: Full-time students can apply for the 18+ Student Oyster photocard for a 30% discount on travelcards
- Monthly travel: Zones 1–2 costs around £150 without discounts
- Walking and cycling: Cost-saving options widely used by students
🎯 Lifestyle & Personal Expenses
- Gym memberships: £25 to £50/month
- Socialising and entertainment: £50–£100/month
- Books and stationery: £30/month average
- Phone and internet: £30/month
📊 Average Monthly Student Budget at LSBU (2025)
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 850 – 1,000 |
| Food | 180 – 240 |
| Transport | 120 – 150 |
| Lifestyle | 100 – 200 |
| Study Materials | 30 – 50 |
| Total | 1,300 – 1,600 |
💡 Tips for Saving on Rent & Living Costs
- Apply early: Apply early for LSBU halls to secure your spot
- Share accommodation: Share a flat to reduce your rent substantially
- Cook at home: Cook at home rather than eating out frequently
- Use student discounts: Get a Railcard or use student Oyster discounts
- Student apps: Use student discount apps such as UNiDAYS and NUS Extra
🔗 Useful Links & Resources
- LSBU Accommodation: Official university accommodation services
- Gov.uk Student Visa & Money: Official government guidance
- TfL Student Oyster Card Discounts: Transport for London student discounts
- UCAS Accommodation Guide: General accommodation advice
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How much does LSBU accommodation cost?
A: University halls cost between £185 and £250 per week; private halls can be up to £350 per week.
Q2: Can international students stay in LSBU halls?
A: Yes, priority is given to first-year and international students.
Q3: What are the cheapest student areas around LSBU?
A: Peckham, Camberwell, and Lewisham are known for more affordable rents.
Q4: Do university halls include bills?
A: Yes, all bills—Wi-Fi, electricity, heating, and water—are included in halls.
Q5: Is living in London too expensive for students?
A: With smart budgeting and discount cards, London living is manageable.