If you are not a citizen of the United Kingdom or an EEA national (except an Irish citizen) resident in the UK before 31 December 2020, you may have to obtain a visa to work in the UK through the UK Visas and Immigration Agency’s points-based immigration system, as well as obtain entry clearance.
For more information on UK visas, the UK visa application process and requirements, please visit the UK Visas website. The UK Visas website also contains a questionnaire which will assist you in determining whether or not you need to obtain entry clearance before travelling to the UK.
LSHTM staff find London a stimulating and exciting place in which to live and work. The city is cosmopolitan and vibrant, and is one of the safest capital cities in the world.
The diversity of London is an experience in itself. It has been described as a city of many separate “villages”, many famous in their own right, and with distinctive characteristics. Londoners are as varied as the city itself, with communities from most countries of the world, giving an overall impression of a friendly multicultural environment. Areas such as Brixton, Camden, the East End, Hackney, Hoxton and Stoke Newington are vital and edgy, with lively bar scenes; more relaxing atmospheres can be found in areas such as Battersea, Dulwich, Greenwich, Hampstead, or the riverside.
LSHTM buildings are within easy reach of such landmarks as the British Museum, the British Library, London’s burgeoning theatre scene, and the shops and services of the West End.
Culturally, London offers a stimulating diversity of entertainment; and guides like Time Out can help to keep you informed of events and activities. London is the place where things tend to happen first in art, music and fashion. Here are a few examples:
Museums and Galleries
Tate Modern hosts major exhibitions of contemporary art, as do the Saatchi and Whitechapel galleries. There are also free-entry private galleries (especially on Cork Street), and the newly-expanded Photographers’ Gallery.
Music
There is a wealth of music to be explored in London, ranging from pop, rock and dance bands to classical, world and jazz scenes. You can’t fail to be impressed by the musical vibrancy of contemporary London.
Theatre
With styles ranging from the historical Globe to brash West End musicals via innovative drama at the Almeida in Islington and modern dance with the Rambert company, there is something on the London theatre scene to suit all tastes.
Film
The National Film Theatre, Riverside Studios in Hammersmith and a host of small cinemas offer a huge range of independent UK and world cinema. And those living in London are always the first to see the latest release.
Walking
Good exercise and free, it’s also the best way to see and get to know the city. London is a city of parks (39% of the city is green space), ranging from Hyde, Regent’s and Green parks, to the wilder Hampstead Heath and the unusual marshlands in Hackney. A walk along the Thames is a wonderful way to experience the history and culture of each area, whilst getting away from the bustle of the city.
Fashion and Shopping
As well as being home to some of the World's top designers, London is famous for its markets: Spitalfields for cheap designer fashion, Columbia Road for flowers, Borough Market for fine foods, and Bermondsey Market for antiques.
Eating
Most world cuisines are represented in London, at prices to suit everyone. With fashions in food and the make-up of London’s population constantly evolving, there is always something new to try.