The crisp white sheets on the single bed in my room at the University of London's intercollegiate halls were surprisingly soft – a pleasant contrast to the institutional feel of the linoleum floor and the heavy fire door that clicked shut behind me. I had booked a standard single room for a weeklong writing retreat, drawn by the unbeatable location in Bloomsbury and the promise of a quiet, no-frills base. Over the next few days, I discovered that university accommodation offers a distinct kind of solo travel experience: affordable, central, and surprisingly conducive to focused work, but with quirks that every woman traveling alone should know before booking.
London's universities – from King's College to UCL, LSE to Imperial – open their halls to visitors during holiday periods, summer breaks, and even year-round for short stays. The rooms range from basic student cells to en-suite studios with kitchenettes. I stayed in three different properties over the course of two years, and each taught me something about traveling alone with intention.
What to Expect from University Accommodation
Most university rooms are functional rather than charming. You get a bed (often a single, sometimes a three-quarter), a desk, a wardrobe, and a sink in the room. Bathrooms are typically shared, though en-suite options exist at a higher price. The walls are thin – you'll hear your neighbour's alarm clock and the clatter of the hallway. But the trade-off is consistently low prices and a location that puts you within walking distance of museums, cafés, and the Thames.
I booked my first stay through the University of London's accommodation service, which handles short-term lets for the public. The process was straightforward: I selected dates, paid online, and received a code for the main door. Check-in was self-service, which I appreciated after a long train journey. If you're arriving by rail, as I often do, the experience of stepping out of a station and into a quiet university neighbourhood feels like a deliberate transition from travel to dwelling. I've written about the joy of arriving by train for a solo weekend in a similar way – it's a slow, intentional way to begin a stay.
Safety and Comfort for Solo Women
As a woman traveling alone, safety is always my first consideration. University halls are generally secure: key-card access, intercom systems, and often a 24-hour porter or reception. I felt perfectly safe walking back to my room after an evening lecture at the British Museum, just a few blocks away. However, I quickly learned that not all rooms have locks on the inside – some older halls rely on old-fashioned key locks that can be opened from outside with a key. I always carry a small rubber doorstop for extra peace of mind.
Shared bathrooms can be a minor inconvenience, but they are cleaned daily. I recommend bringing a pair of flip-flops and a small toiletry bag that you can carry to the bathroom. Some halls provide towels, but many do not – check the booking confirmation carefully. The lack of a full-length mirror in most rooms was a small annoyance, but one I solved by using the reflection in the window at night.
Types of University Rooms Available
After three stays, I've categorized the options into three main types:
- Standard single room (shared bathroom) – The cheapest option, ideal for minimalists. Expect a single bed, desk, sink, and shared bathrooms on the floor. Prices range from £40–£70 per night depending on the season and location.
- En-suite room – A private bathroom cubicle inside the room, often with a shower, toilet, and sink. These are more expensive (£70–£110) but offer more privacy. I stayed in one at the Garden Halls complex and appreciated the small but immaculate shower.
- Studio apartment – A self-contained unit with kitchenette and private bathroom. These are rare in university lets and usually cost £100–£150 per night. They are ideal for longer stays or if you need to cook your own meals.
During my second stay, I tried an en-suite room at the King's College residence in Waterloo. The view of the London Eye from the 12th floor was breathtaking, but the room itself was tiny – barely enough space to open my suitcase. That's when I learned to pack light and use the desk for everything.
Kitchen and Social Spaces
One of the unexpected pleasures of staying in university halls is the shared kitchen. Most halls have a communal kitchen with a stove, microwave, fridge, and kettle. I met a few other solo travelers there – a PhD student from Brazil, a retired teacher from Canada, and a young woman on a gap year. The kitchen became a social hub in the evenings, a place to swap travel stories and share a cup of tea. However, if you're looking for complete solitude, be aware that kitchens can be busy. I often cooked a simple pasta dinner early, ate at the small table, and retreated to my room.
The common rooms are also a good option for reading or working. One hall had a grand piano, which a fellow guest played softly each evening. It was a soundtrack I hadn't expected but came to love.
Pricing and Booking Tips
University accommodation is significantly cheaper than even budget hotels in London. During peak summer, prices are higher, but they still undercut most hostels for a private room. I booked through the University of London Housing Services, but many universities have their own booking pages. A few practical tips:
- Book as early as possible – popular halls fill up months in advance for summer.
- Check if the hall has a 24-hour reception; that small detail made my arrival at midnight feel safe.
- Read the cancellation policy – some are strict, others flexible.
- Bring earplugs and an eye mask. The early morning light in London can be bright, and the corridor noise unpredictable.
During my last stay, I realized that university rooms are not just a budget option – they are a way to experience London like a local student. You walk the same streets, eat at the same cafés, and feel the rhythm of the academic year. For a solo traveler who values substance over luxury, it's a deeply rewarding choice.
Before you book, verify whether the hall offers a 24-hour reception – that single detail can transform a late-night arrival from stressful to serene. I learned that the hard way when I arrived at a hall with no night porter and had to wait outside for twenty minutes. Now I always check, and I recommend you do the same.
