Roehampton University Indian Students: Campus Life & Desi Guide
Your complete handbook to thriving at London's beautiful parkland campus, from the active Indian Society to local desi hotspots.
Updated 5 min read
Welcome to Your Home Away from Home: Roehampton University
Stepping off a flight from India and arriving in South-West London is a life-changing moment. For the growing number of Roehampton University indian students, the transition is made infinitely smoother by the university's unique setup. Unlike many London universities that feature disjointed concrete blocks scattered across a busy metropolis, Roehampton boasts a stunning, green, parkland campus. Situated right next to Richmond Park, it offers a serene, collegiate atmosphere where you can focus on your studies while staying well-connected to central London.
As an international student, finding your footing involves finding your tribe, satisfying your cravings for home-cooked meals, and knowing where to turn when you miss family. This comprehensive guide covers everything from the thriving campus Indian society to the best spots for desi food near campus, helping you make the most of your academic and social journey.
"Moving from Mumbai to London was daunting, but the green expanses of Roehampton and the warm welcome from the Indian Society made it feel like a second home within weeks." - Rohan Sharma, MSc Marketing StudentThe Heart of the Community: The Roehampton Indian Society
When you first arrive, joining the Indian student community on campus should be at the top of your to-do list. The Roehampton Students' Union (RSU) hosts a highly active and welcoming Indian society that serves as the social anchor for hundreds of students from India, as well as British-Indian students.
The society regularly organizes meet-and-greet sessions during Freshers' Week, Bollywood club nights, movie screenings, and academic networking events. It acts as a bridge, helping you form lifelong friendships with peers who share your cultural background and understand the unique challenges of moving abroad. Beyond socialising, the society provides peer-to-peer mentoring, offering invaluable advice on navigating London's transport system, finding part-time work, and prepping for exams.
Major Cultural Events on Campus
You do not have to worry about missing out on major festivals while studying in London. The Indian Society, in collaboration with the wider South Asian student collective, hosts some of the most vibrant cultural events of the academic year:
- Diwali Ball: A grand evening featuring traditional attire, incredible Indian catering, classical and Bollywood dance performances, and late-night DJ sets.
- Holi Celebrations: Held on the lush lawns of the campus, this event brings students together for a joyous celebration of colours, music, and delicious street food.
- Independence Day & Republic Day: Flag hoisting ceremonies, cultural discussions, and small gatherings to honor national milestones.
Satisfying Your Cravings: Desi Food Near Campus
One of the quickest cures for homesickness is a plate of authentic, steaming-hot food. While Roehampton's campus offers several modern cafes and refectories with vegetarian and Halal options, you will occasionally crave the distinct spices of home. Fortunately, South-West London is incredibly well-positioned for exploring desi food near campus.
Local South-West London Hotspots
While Roehampton itself is a quiet, leafy suburb, it is closely bordered by vibrant neighbourhoods with rich South Asian culinary scenes:
- Tooting (20-30 minutes away): Known as London's premier destination for South Indian cuisine. Head here for crispy dosas at Chennai Dosa or legendary Sri Lankan and South Indian street food at Apollo Banana Leaf. It is highly affordable and popular with students.
- Putney & Barnes (10-15 minutes away): Just a short bus ride from campus, Putney offers a variety of premium and casual dining options, including Gazebo, which serves fantastic North Indian curries and tandoori specials.
- Wembley & Southall: While slightly further afield (around 45-60 minutes by public transport), these are London's ultimate Punjabi and Gujarati cultural hubs. A weekend trip here is perfect for stocking up on specialized Indian groceries, sweets, and traditional clothing.
Sourcing Indian Groceries
If you prefer cooking your own meals to save money, sourcing ingredients is remarkably simple. Local supermarkets like Asda in Roehampton and Tesco in nearby Putney stock dedicated "World Foods" aisles featuring basmati rice, lentils, MDH/Shan spices, and atta flour. For fresh vegetables like okra (bhindi), bitter gourd (karela), or specialized paneer, local independent Asian grocers in Tooting or Kingston-upon-Thames are your best bet.
Managing the Transition: Homesickness Support & Wellbeing
It is completely normal to experience moments of loneliness or nostalgia, particularly during your first semester or during major Indian festivals. Recognizing this, Roehampton University offers robust, multi-layered homesickness support programs designed to look after your mental and spiritual wellbeing.
The university’s Student Wellbeing team provides free, confidential counselling sessions where you can speak to advisors experienced in supporting international students. Additionally, Roehampton's unique multi-faith chaplaincy provides a peaceful space on campus for prayer, reflection, or simply a quiet chat over a cup of tea. There are active student-led faith groups, including Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and Christian societies, ensuring you can continue practicing your faith in a supportive environment.
Student Budgeting: Managing Your Finances in London
Living in London can be expensive, but smart budgeting allows you to live comfortably without constant financial stress. Below is an estimated weekly budget tailored for an Indian student living at Roehampton:
| Expense Category | Estimated Weekly Cost (GBP) | Rupee Equivalent (Approx. ₹) |
|---|---|---|
| On-Campus Accommodation | £145 - £210 | ₹15,000 - ₹22,000 |
| Groceries & Desi Food Cooking | £30 - £45 | ₹3,100 - ₹4,700 |
| Transport (Oyster with Student Discount) | £15 - £25 | ₹1,500 - ₹2,600 |
| Socialising & Dining Out | £25 - £40 | ₹2,600 - ₹4,200 |
| Mobile & Subscriptions | £5 - £10 | ₹500 - ₹1,000 |
| Total Weekly Estimate | £220 - £330 | ₹22,700 - ₹34,500 |
Essential Checklist for Arriving Indian Students
Your First-Month Checklist
- Register with a GP: As part of your student visa, you paid the IHS surcharge. Register at the local Roehampton Student Medical Centre as soon as you arrive to access free NHS healthcare.
- Get a Student Oyster Card: Apply online via the TfL website to get 30% off travelcards and bus passes. Link it with a 16-25 Railcard for even bigger savings!
- Open a UK Bank Account: Use digital-first banks like Monex, Revolut, or traditional high-street banks like HSBC/Barclays for easy international transfers.
- Find Your Nearest Desi Grocer: Map out your closest Asian grocery store to ensure you are never without your favourite spices and comfort foods.
Embrace the Journey
Studying as one of the many Roehampton University indian students offers you the best of both worlds: a world-class British education on a breathtaking, peaceful campus, and immediate access to one of the most multicultural cities on earth. By actively participating in the Indian society, exploring the diverse local food scenes, and utilizing the university's support networks, you will build a vibrant, successful, and memorable life in London.