HOSTING OVERSEAS STUDENTS – Kilburn
Historically the heartlands of the capital’s Irish community, Kilburn is now a multi-cultural hub in North West London. A primarily residential area, it’s noted in the London Plan as a major centre of London and still plays host to large Irish and Afro-Carribbean populations. Kilburn spans the NW6 and NW2 postcodes.
When international students visit London for their study or internships, Kilburn is an area they often look for homestays. Living with a local family and sleeping in their spare room is proving to be more and more appealing. It is a very attractive alternative to simply staying in a hotel or dormitory with their peers. Homestays offer a real immersion into British culture and can help develop language and social skills in ways otherwise unobtainable.
Why Kilburn?
HFS London, who manage homestay placements throughout the capital, are increasingly being asked to supply homestay properties in Kilburn. We are currently recruiting for new host families in the area. There are several reasons for Kilburn’s desirability: the fact that it’s considered a good place to live that’s residential but still well-connected to the busy city centre, it has a rich history, the crime rates are relatively low and it’s not as expensive to live in as some other areas of North London. Combined, these factors are making Kilburn more popular than ever with overseas students staying in London!
Things To Do In Kilburn
Kilburn isn’t the largest residential area in London, but its communities are still served well without having to travel too far from their homes. As you’re probably already aware, there’s plenty to do in the evenings as well as during the day without venturing out to central London. Your student will definitely look to you for recommendation on the local area. We believe you have most of them at the ready, but here are some more just in case!
Explore a unique Church: the Tin Tabernacle
Yep, it’s a whole church constructed from tin! Made cheaply from corrugated iron in the Victorian era to cater for the city’s ever-growing population, there’s very few tin churches still around today. Today it’s no longer used as a place of worship but instead as a pop-up space for exhibitions and live music. It also makes for a pretty unique photo backdrop!
Catch a show at The Kiln
A revamped theatre, The Kiln is a brilliant one-stop-shop for all things culture in North London! You’ll find a theatre, cinema, bar and restaurant in the building, and there’s always something going on. All are welcome. Pop in to pick up a schedule of upcoming events and if there’s a good show on that you fancy seeing, why not invite your host family along with you for a trip?
Cafes and restaurants
If frequenting cafes is not your thing, you may be unsure on what to recommend your students for a quick coffee. Rest assured, a member of the team lives in the neighbourhood and has a couple to recommend! Starting with Hart & Lova, this quaint little bakery cafe is a perfect setting for students to knuckle down with their studies in a slight change of atmosphere. Nearby is a quirky European restaurant called Little Bay with a unforgettable decor, gorgeous food and live music. Both of these are a stone’s throw away from Kilburn station.
Become a Host Family in Kilburn
If you live in Kilburn and would like to make some extra money by renting out your spare room to an international student as part of a homestay, get in touch! We offer really competitive rates of short-term rent payment and can answer any questions you may have on getting involved. Call or e-mail us, and let’s get you on your way to joining the HFS London portfolio of properties!
Not in Kilburn? HFS are also looking for hosts in neighbouring Willesden Green, Dollis Hill, Swiss cottage, Maida Vale and Kensal Green.
