Your complete handbook to thriving at London's beautiful parkland campus, from the active Indian Society to local desi hotspots.
Stepping off a flight from India and arriving in South-West London is a life-changing moment. For the growing number of Roehampton University indian students, the transition is made infinitely smoother by the university's unique setup. Unlike many London universities that feature disjointed concrete blocks scattered across a busy metropolis, Roehampton boasts a stunning, green, parkland campus. Situated right next to Richmond Park, it offers a serene, collegiate atmosphere where you can focus on your studies while staying well-connected to central London.
As an international student, finding your footing involves finding your tribe, satisfying your cravings for home-cooked meals, and knowing where to turn when you miss family. This comprehensive guide covers everything from the thriving campus Indian society to the best spots for desi food near campus, helping you make the most of your academic and social journey.
"Moving from Mumbai to London was daunting, but the green expanses of Roehampton and the warm welcome from the Indian Society made it feel like a second home within weeks." - Rohan Sharma, MSc Marketing StudentWhen you first arrive, joining the Indian student community on campus should be at the top of your to-do list. The Roehampton Students' Union (RSU) hosts a highly active and welcoming Indian society that serves as the social anchor for hundreds of students from India, as well as British-Indian students.
The society regularly organizes meet-and-greet sessions during Freshers' Week, Bollywood club nights, movie screenings, and academic networking events. It acts as a bridge, helping you form lifelong friendships with peers who share your cultural background and understand the unique challenges of moving abroad. Beyond socialising, the society provides peer-to-peer mentoring, offering invaluable advice on navigating London's transport system, finding part-time work, and prepping for exams.
You do not have to worry about missing out on major festivals while studying in London. The Indian Society, in collaboration with the wider South Asian student collective, hosts some of the most vibrant cultural events of the academic year:
One of the quickest cures for homesickness is a plate of authentic, steaming-hot food. While Roehampton's campus offers several modern cafes and refectories with vegetarian and Halal options, you will occasionally crave the distinct spices of home. Fortunately, South-West London is incredibly well-positioned for exploring desi food near campus.
While Roehampton itself is a quiet, leafy suburb, it is closely bordered by vibrant neighbourhoods with rich South Asian culinary scenes:
If you prefer cooking your own meals to save money, sourcing ingredients is remarkably simple. Local supermarkets like Asda in Roehampton and Tesco in nearby Putney stock dedicated "World Foods" aisles featuring basmati rice, lentils, MDH/Shan spices, and atta flour. For fresh vegetables like okra (bhindi), bitter gourd (karela), or specialized paneer, local independent Asian grocers in Tooting or Kingston-upon-Thames are your best bet.
It is completely normal to experience moments of loneliness or nostalgia, particularly during your first semester or during major Indian festivals. Recognizing this, Roehampton University offers robust, multi-layered homesickness support programs designed to look after your mental and spiritual wellbeing.
The university’s Student Wellbeing team provides free, confidential counselling sessions where you can speak to advisors experienced in supporting international students. Additionally, Roehampton's unique multi-faith chaplaincy provides a peaceful space on campus for prayer, reflection, or simply a quiet chat over a cup of tea. There are active student-led faith groups, including Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and Christian societies, ensuring you can continue practicing your faith in a supportive environment.
Living in London can be expensive, but smart budgeting allows you to live comfortably without constant financial stress. Below is an estimated weekly budget tailored for an Indian student living at Roehampton:
| Expense Category | Estimated Weekly Cost (GBP) | Rupee Equivalent (Approx. ₹) |
|---|---|---|
| On-Campus Accommodation | £145 - £210 | ₹15,000 - ₹22,000 |
| Groceries & Desi Food Cooking | £30 - £45 | ₹3,100 - ₹4,700 |
| Transport (Oyster with Student Discount) | £15 - £25 | ₹1,500 - ₹2,600 |
| Socialising & Dining Out | £25 - £40 | ₹2,600 - ₹4,200 |
| Mobile & Subscriptions | £5 - £10 | ₹500 - ₹1,000 |
| Total Weekly Estimate | £220 - £330 | ₹22,700 - ₹34,500 |
Studying as one of the many Roehampton University indian students offers you the best of both worlds: a world-class British education on a breathtaking, peaceful campus, and immediate access to one of the most multicultural cities on earth. By actively participating in the Indian society, exploring the diverse local food scenes, and utilizing the university's support networks, you will build a vibrant, successful, and memorable life in London.