Campus and social life

Imperial College is based in the heart of vibrant, cosmopolitan West London, an ideal location for exploring London's many cultural and historical highlights, whilst building a global network of new friends. 

3 column general content block - social programme, student ambassadors, accommodation

A group of students in the grounds of Hampton Court Palace on the social programme for the summer school.

Social programme

We have built an optional social programme of activities chosen to allow you to experience London's history and cultural diversity whilst you build a global network of new friends. There will also be plenty of free time for you to explore the aspects of the city of most interest to you.

 
Three of the 2019 student ambassadors for the programme.

Student ambassadors

Accompanying you on social programme activities will be our team of Revolutions in Biomedicine Student Ambassadors.

This team, made up of current Imperial students, will ensure your stay is as memorable as possible by providing pastoral support, information about resources on campus and insider hints and tips about student life in London and the myriad of ways you can spend your free time here. 

Accommodation

Students may choose to book a room in one of Imperial College’s own Halls of Residences, book accommodation through the private sector or stay with friends and family.

Students who are offered a place on the course will be sent information on how to book Imperial accommodation if you choose to stay on campus. 

Please note: accommodation costs are not included in the course fee. Accommodation bookings and enquiries are handled separately via the Imperial College Summer Accommodation team.

2 column general content block - our location and teaching campuses

Our location

Located within moments of world famous London landmarks, Imperial College London serves as a fantastic base from which to explore London. Sites within short walking distance of South Kensington Campus include:

  • World famous museums: Natural History Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, and Science Museum
  • Hyde Park
  • Kensington Palace
  • The Royal Albert Hall
  • Harrod's Knightsbridge 

Teaching campuses

Laboratory research project: Hammersmith Campus
Hammersmith Campus is one of Imperial's medical teaching and research campuses. Students will conduct their mini-research laboratory projects in the laboratories at this campus and will have access to the campus library, catering outlets and sporting facilities during their time there. Based in East Acton, there is easy access to the campus via the London Underground.

Other campuses: 
From time to time, it may be necessary to travel to other campuses in order to see particular equipment or facilities in action. We will let you know about this well in advance if required. Other Imperial College London Campuses include:

  • Charing Cross
  • White City
  • Royal Brompton
  • St Mary's

Please refer to the Campuses and maps page for further information. 

Five summer school students sitting down engaging in a discussion

Access the facilities of a world top ten university.

A photo of Tower Bridge by one of the 2019 Summer School students on a social programme excursion.

Explore London’s rich history and culture through the Summer School's optional social programme.

A group picture of 2019 students at the graduation party at the end of the Summer School

Celebrate your success at completing the programme at the graduation ceremony and farewell party!

Four students from the 2018 Summer School jumping in the air in Hyde Park.

Relax in Hyde Park, moments from South Kensington Campus. One of the social programme events will include a picnic in the park!

A group of students relaxing on the roof of Imperial accommodation.

As a summer school student you will have the option to book in to stay at Imperial's centrally located accommodation.