West London is home to some of the most desirable places for students to study and relax. Boasting some of the most beautiful riverside views and a fantastic creative and cultural scene, West London is perfect for anyone wanting the vibrancy of city life with the feeling of an intimate community.
Downing Student’s West London accommodation offers the best in student living. The Lyra is just a stone’s throw away from North Acton central line tube station making it the perfect choice for an easy commute to any of London’s universities. The Lyra offers the best in contemporary self-contained studio apartments, featuring fantastic communal areas including a roof terrace and games room, so you will have everything you need within easy reach of the bustling city centre.
Living in West London
Student City Guide to West London
Shops
West London offers some of the city’s best shopping centres, with the likes of Westfield London housing all of the best loved high street names just a short tube ride away. If you’re wanting to stay closer to home, Acton Market is a short walk away and features street food, fashion, gifts, art music and entertainment.
You also have the benefit of many smaller boutiques within easy reach, such as independent lifestyle store The Cross in Holland Park, or London’s only retro department store, The Old Cinema.
Food
London is full of hundreds of fantastic places to eat out, almost too many to list! However, you don’t have to go too far to enjoy some wonderful food, as North Acton has its own restaurants and cafes with something to suit everyone.
Try Sandflames Gourmet Grill for the best in mouth-watering burgers, steaks and grilled specialities, or if you’re wanting some sweet treats head over to Creams Café in Ealing which handily also does deliveries!
Music
West London is home to many amazing live music venues, including Notting Hill Arts Club which is only 15 minutes away from North Acton. Under the Bridge is a well-known West London venue that helped spawn the best in jazz, folk, reggae, punk and stadium rock, and with regular gigs supporting local artists, it is definitely not one to miss!
If you’re feeling more adventurous, Camden Town is around 35 minutes from North Acton on the tube as is packed full of music venues for all tastes, including the Dublin Castle, a favourite of the late Amy Winehouse.
Nightlife
For those wanting a good student night out without breaking the bank, West London has you covered! Whether you’re wanting to enjoy a quiet pint or a big night out, there’s something for everyone in this part of the city.
Try The Aeronaut in Acton, a quirky pub with eclectic entertainment including live circus shows, drag shows and themed brunches, promising fun whenever you choose to visit! If you’re looking for a beer, a pint and a good DJ night, head over to Beerkat, a unique craft taproom and bottleshop in Ealing Broadway.
Culture
North Acton benefits from being within easy reach of many of London’s cultural highlights, with the infamous West End, the energetic Covent Garden and vibrant Camden Town all a short tube ride away.
One of Acton’s gems is W3 Gallery, located on High Street, which is a fantastic arts centre that showcases the works of West London’s most talented artists across multiple disciplines including photography, portrait painting, installation and street art.
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