Whitechapel

Whitechapel’s central location makes it an excellent base for students studying at universities across London. Nearby institutions include Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), King’s College London (KCL), University College London (UCL), and The London School of Economics (LSE).

Other universities within easy reach include The School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University College London Hospital, and University of the Arts London (UAL). Thanks to Whitechapel’s excellent transport connections, getting to lectures, libraries, and social events is quick and convenient.

Birkbeck University of London is located in Bloomsbury and was originally established back in 1823. It’s a well-respected university that tends to rank well and is known for its Birkbeck Institute for the humanities, science, research, history, psychology, computer science and physics.

City, University of London is located in the heart of the capital and was originally founded in 1894 as the Northampton Institute. The modern university is known for the City Law School, the School of Community & Health Sciences and related fields.

Imperial College London was created by Prince Albert and merged the Royal College of Science, Royal School of Mines and City and Guilds College into one. The current college has a narrow focus on science, technology, medicine and business and is highly regarded across the world for those subjects.

King's College London is a long-established university with links to St Thomas’s Hospital in the centre of the city. It has five campuses: Strand, Guy’s, Waterloo, St Thomas’s and Denmark Hill. It is known for dentistry, oral and craniofacial sciences, life sciences, medicine, psychiatry and related fields.

London Metropolitan University, or London Met as it’s known, is a centrally located university with a great reputation. It includes the Guildhall School of Business and Law, School of Computing and Digital Media, School of Human Sciences, School of Social Professions, School of Social Sciences and the School of Art, Architecture and Design.

The London School of Economics is one of the most popular universities in London where all courses are massively oversubscribed. The university is well known for anthropology, criminology, social psychology, sociology and social policy, international relations and business-related courses.

Queen Mary University (QMUL) is an ancient establishment founded in 1785. It is based in east and central London with campuses across that area. The university is known for research, medicine, languages, English literature, dentistry, drama and materials technology.

The School of Oriental and African Studies is based in Bloomsbury, London, and is a world-leading institution for the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The university is known for teaching Asian, African and Middle Eastern languages, Arabic & Islamic Studies, Oriental Studies, law and social sciences.

University College London is the second largest university in the UK after the Open University. It was also Britain’s first secular university. It is known mainly for medicine, geography, education and training, anatomy and physiology, architecture, archaeology, psychology and pharmacology.

The University of the Arts London is made up of several colleges in London and only became a university in 2003. It includes the Camberwell College of Arts, Central Saint Martins, Chelsea College of Arts, London College of Communication, London College of Fashion and Wimbledon College of Arts.

Located in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, Whitechapel is one of the capital’s most dynamic areas, famous for its rich history and lively cultural scene. Known for its East End charm, the neighbourhood blends old and new with traditional markets, street art, and independent businesses sitting alongside trendy cafés and modern developments.

Whitechapel is also home to a thriving student community, thanks to its close proximity to several major universities and excellent transport links. The area is known for its creative vibe, making it a popular choice for students studying arts, design, and media. Whether you’re exploring local galleries, visiting historic sites, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, Whitechapel has plenty to offer for students.

Getting around Whitechapel is quick and easy, making it a fantastic base for students living in London. Whitechapel Station connects you to the District, Hammersmith & City, and Elizabeth Line, meaning you can travel across the city in no time. The station also has London Overground services, linking you to areas like Shoreditch, Hackney, and beyond.

If you’re living with Sanctuary Students at Don Gratton House or The Craft Building, you’ll be perfectly placed to enjoy everything London has to offer. Both properties are within walking distance of Aldgate East Station and Whitechapel Station, giving you fast access to the rest of the city. Buses are also plentiful in Whitechapel, and with cycle routes available too, students have plenty of affordable travel options. With great connections and everything you need nearby, our Whitechapel student accommodation makes it easy to enjoy your university experience.

Whitechapel offers plenty of shopping options to suit student budgets. Whitechapel Market is a lively hub where you can pick up fresh fruit, vegetables, clothing, and household goods at bargain prices. For budget-friendly supermarkets that cater to your everyday essentials and grocery needs, you'll find a nearby Lidl, as well as conveniently located Co-Op Food, Tesco Express, and Sainsbury's Local stores.

If you're hunting for unique fashion, explore the vibrant scene along Brick Lane, where numerous second-hand and vintage boutiques, like ATIKA London, offer stylish pre-loved pieces.

For even greater bargains, consider the numerous charity shops dotted around the area which are perfect for picking up affordable clothes, books, and homeware. There are also lots of discount stores in and around Whitechapel, including Poundland, that provide a wide array of household items and clothing at incredibly low prices, making them ideal for furnishing student digs without breaking the bank.

For a more modern shopping experience, Westfield Stratford City is just a short train ride away, packed with big-name brands, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Whitechapel’s food scene is full of variety, offering everything from cheap eats to unique dining experiences.

It’s worth checking out the smaller, independent eateries in the Whitechapel area. You'll find many offering diverse cuisines, from Japanese and Brazilian to French and Italian, at very reasonable prices. For example, Efes brings you traditional Turkish delights, SUSHINOEN offers classic and fusion Japanese meals, and Alek’s Restaurant serves up authentic Lebanese dishes with very generous portion sizes. For an affordable yet memorable meal, visit Tayyabs, a legendary Punjabi restaurant serving incredible grilled meats and curries, and if you like bottomless brunches and Mediterranean cuisine, you’ll definitely want to try out Amber Restaurant.

If you’re craving something sweet or need a caffeine fix, Grounded is an easygoing coffee house which is a popular spot for breakfasts. For a cosy and laid-back vibe, Rinkoff’s Bakery is a must-visit for its famous ‘crodoughs’ — a cross between a croissant and a doughnut!

For casual drinks with friends, The White Hart is a student favourite known for its craft beers, relaxed atmosphere, and classic pub grub. If you’re after something livelier, Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar offers a chic vibe with great music and a buzzing crowd.

Whitechapel is full of fascinating things to see and do. The Whitechapel Gallery is a top spot for contemporary art exhibitions and often hosts free events. For history lovers, the Jack the Ripper Museum offers a glimpse into the area’s darker past, while the Royal London Hospital Museum explores the medical history of East London.

If you enjoy green spaces, Altab Ali Park is a peaceful retreat where you can relax between study sessions. Brick Lane, known for its incredible street art, vintage shops, and famous curry houses, is just a short walk away.

For an evening out, head to Genesis Cinema, an independent venue that offers student discounts and hosts special film events. If you love live music, 93 Feet East is a fantastic events venue showcasing up-and-coming bands and DJs.

Whitechapel offers affordable living compared to many other parts of central London, making it a popular choice for students. Eating out can be inexpensive if you explore the many street food vendors, takeaways, and budget-friendly restaurants in the area. Markets like Whitechapel Market and East Street Market are ideal for picking up fresh produce and affordable essentials to cook cheap, healthy meals at home.

Many local restaurants also offer student discounts, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for deals. Choosing all-inclusive student accommodation like Don Gratton House or The Craft Building is another great way to save money. With bills for Wi-Fi, water, heating, and electricity included in your rent, you can manage your budget more easily without worrying about extra costs.

For students seeking student accommodation in Whitechapel, Don Gratton House and The Craft Building provide comfortable and affordable options right in the heart of the East End.

Don Gratton House offers fully furnished double bedrooms with private en-suite bathrooms, giving you some extra privacy. Each flat is shared between six or seven students, with a spacious communal kitchen and living area that’s cleaned weekly to make life that little bit easier. The property also has a large common room, on-site laundry facilities, and secure bike storage.

The Craft Building is another fantastic option for students studying in London. With en-suite rooms arranged in flats for eight people, you’ll enjoy a sociable living environment while still having your own private space. The Craft Building also offers self-contained studio flats for those who prefer more independence.

Both properties are conveniently located just moments away from Aldgate East Station and Whitechapel Station, ensuring you can reach university campuses and central London with ease. With all-inclusive bills, fast 250 Mb/s Wi-Fi, and on-site security for peace of mind, both Don Gratton House and The Craft Building offer everything you need for a stress-free student experience.

With excellent transport links, vibrant local culture, and everything you need close by, living with Sanctuary Students puts you right at the heart of student life in Whitechapel. Secure your room today and make the most of your London student experience with Sanctuary Students!

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