Activities for London, England

Each term begins with welcome events and mandatory orientation sessions, hosted by both USAC and your host university. During orientation, you will learn vital information about living in London, dealing with culture shock, the British higher education system, teaching and study methods, health and safety issues, and travel opportunities in the U.K. and Europe.

January and Summer - University of Roehampton

During the January program, the University of Roehampton coordinates one free social event for program participants, typically a West End theatre performance. Most January courses also have a number of excursions built into the course curriculum to take advantage of London’s sites and attractions.

During the summer program, the University of Roehampton offers a range of free social activities and events, hosted both on and off campus to make the most of your time in London. Previous activities and events have included welcome and farewell parties, quiz nights, walking tours, and meet-ups in the city. Students can also choose to add on an optional excursion package for an additional fee (payable directly to the University of Roehampton). Excursion locations are subject to change and will be confirmed upon arrival; previous offerings have included a West End theatre performance and day trips to Stonehenge, Bath, the Cliffs of Dover, and more. Many summer courses also have a number of field trips built into the course curriculum to take advantage of London’s sites and attractions.

Semester and Yearlong - London Met

During the fall and spring semesters, orientation week also typically includes a coach tour of the city and a boat trip on the River Thames, both intended to help orient you to London. The specific dates and activities are always subject to change; more details are announced upon arrival.

At London Met, there are more than 50 societies and student organizations you can join, and the University’s study areas, social spaces, and cozy cafés are ideal for catching up with old friends and making new ones. A huge range of sport and leisure activities are also on offer, ranging from aerobics to skiing. In addition, students may participate in the many activities organized by London’s International Student House, including the ISH Travel Club which organizes a range of trips in and out of the U.K. at subsidized prices.

Cultural Immersion Opportunities

• Attend high tea for a distinctly British dining experience
• Visit the many museums and art galleries throughout London (many of them are free!)
• Explore the city’s neighborhoods, called boroughs, each with its own unique character
• Explore the vast music scene in London, ranging from classical and opera to the underground and fringe
• Walk among the stalls at one of the city’s many markets – Borough Market, Brick Lane Market, Columbia Road Flower Market, Covent Garden Market, Greenwich Market, and more.
• See a play at one of London’s theater venues, like the National Theatre or Shakespeare’s Globe
• Attend one of the many festivals offered throughout the year – the Regent Street Festival in September, the Dance Umbrella Festival in October, the Chelsea Flower Show in May, the Taste of London Food Festival in June, or the City of London Festival in June/July.