Accommodation in London: Advice Appreciated!

Tungurahua : Unfortunately she hasn't been offered Bloomsbury, which would be fine, but Kentish Town. Kentish Town has some "dodgy" people on the pavements but a lot of normal people and if one doesn't go home too late at night and sticks to well used roads, should be OK. Someone earlier suggested Finchley and that would be very nice as long as poster can afford the tube fares on her budget.

Hi,

My experience with university accommodation in London is that you usually pay a deposit and one month in advance and the you need to give a month's notice before leaving in order not to lose the deposit. There is no shortage of students looking for a room in the halls so they won't have a problem filling up your room.

So, if it is not too late now, I would advice you to check the terms of contract for the accommodation offered by the university. If leaving mid-term is not a problem, my suggestion would be to accept the position. Once, there, if the area feels dodgy give your notice and look for alternative accommodation. You might even find a position in a university hall, as there are a few students who give up their rooms (although it is mostly rooms in the basement etc. that they give last).

Regarding the areas that youmention, I have stayed at a friend's place at W. Hampstead for a few days and it felt pretty safe even late at night. I don't have any experience with the other two areas.

Enjoy your stay in London :)