Student Life 2013/14 January 2014 | Page 98

GIVE CULTURE A CHANCE Being at university is the best time to enjoy all of London’s free galleries and museums. However, in addition to visiting south Kensington’s golden three (Victoria & Albert, Natural History and Science Museums), the National Gallery and the British Museum, it is definitely worth making a little more effort to visit some less well-known museums. The Museum of London is a must-see for anyone who wants to know everything about the rich history of the UK’s capital, and my personal favourite, the Saatchi Gallery is a great treat for every art-lover. Sometimes, when I want to have my own little city-escape, I just like to wander around its clinical white rooms and inhale the smell of painted wooden floors. SHOPPING PARADISE LONDON Oxford Street on Saturdays is a nightmare, but thankfully there are many different options for when you feel a little 98 under the weather and want to cheer yourself up with a shopping spree. If you can’t imagine shopping anywhere but on the high street, try the significantly less busy High Street Kensington. After hours of trying on clothes, you can always go to nearby Holland Park or Kensington Gardens to relax. Both Westfields are great for rainy weekdays with all of your favourite chain stores under one roof. Looking for something more unique? Camden Passage (not to be confused with Camden Lock!) is North London’s charming destination full of quirky independent boutiques selling clothes, accessories and homeware, while Box Park in Shoreditch brings all of London’s coolest brands together and is minutes from the famous Brick Lane with its vintage clothing places on every corner. Carnaby Street and the surrounding alleyways located just behind Regent Street are a perfect place to take a rest from central London’s bustle - here you will find not only classic British brands like Fred Perry or Ben Sherman, but also quirky Swedish Monki and cool denim brand Cheap Monday. Liberty, one of London’s best department stores, known for its iconic print, is also nearby. Its beauty hall is full of independent and cult brands, so be ready make-up lovers! www.accommodationforstudents.com