Homestays present a unique opportunity for overseas students visiting the UK to really immerse themselves into typical British family life and culture. Lots of homestays last over a week and in some cases even longer, so it’s no surprise that lots of host families choose to socialise and interact with their student guest/s more outside of their standard bed-and-board arrangement. 

There’s no set requirement for host families’ level of interaction with guests, but for those who do wish to go places, do things and see sights, these are our top picks of places to visit in West London. Forget the ‘regular’ London tourist attractions (it may be that student’s study centres take them to these places anyway!) – these places give a real flavour of London… and you’ll enjoy visiting them too!

HFS London’s Suggestions

Bushy Park, Hampton TW12

Bushy Park is the second largest of London’s Royal Parks (spanning a whopping 445 hectares of land!) but is the least well known. The park is linked to Hampton Court Palace by the Longford River and you’ll notice its waterways and wetlands almost as soon as you arrive. Deer roam freely around Bushy Park and aren’t afraid of humans (in fact, if you’ve got a picnic with you, you can expect to be approached!), and there’s lots of birds and ducks along the river too. Once you’ve done exploring, you can grab a coffee at the café… just don’t let the deer see your cake. 

Ruislip Common, Ruislip HA4

Warning: this doesn’t feel like London! A beautiful lake, lido and miniature railway all really lend a country feel to this brilliant area of the city. Although the lido has been, of course, purpose designed for swimming, you can swim in the lake too and water-quality work is ongoing. There’s even a sandy beach to boot! Visit on a sunny day to really enjoy warm weather, even in the city. There is no requirement to arrange or book in advance, so this makes a great ad hoc day out when the fancy takes you.  

Oxygen Freejumping Trampoline Park, Acton W3

Ready to bounce? London’s first ever trampoline park, Oxygen Freejumping is a fantastic facility – you’ll find over 150 interconnected trampoline, crash mats, a ninja warrior course, volleyball courts and dodgeball courts. Bouncers of all ages and abilities are welcome and there’s specialist sessions for fitness classes and families. Various offers and promotions are held year-round, so check online and book ahead to get the best deal. 

Portobello Road Market, Portobello Road W11

All countries have their own market culture, so for overseas visitors to shop ones in foreign countries can be really fascinating. Portobello Road may not be the most ‘cockney’ of London’s markets, but it’s the world’s biggest antiques market and its curiosities and oddities are worth exploring even if you’re not a history or antique buff. Alongside antiques you’ll find various eateries and fashion designers, as well as whole host of independent bars, baristas and breweries. It’s an easy place to lose a few hours… if not spend a few pounds! 

A family of hosts

Where do you visit in west London with your family that you think could make a good spot for homestay students to check out? Let the HFS London team know and we’ll pass on the recommendations – we’re all for new experiences and cultural immersion to enrich our student’s stays in the UK. There’s lots great about Britain, so help us showcase us! 

The HFS London team are always on hand to help advise potential and existing student hosts on what to do with their guests once they’ve arrived. For more ideas, read our other articles, take to Google, or give us a call!

The post Where to take students as a host family in West London appeared first on HFS London.

If you’re visiting the UK to study, chances are that you already speak some English. However, if you’re looking to improve your English skills and eventually prove your expertise with a qualification, sitting the IELTS exam and gaining the certification may be a positive step for you.  

If you’d like to study for the IELTS exam and sit it whilst in the UK, speak to your study centre and enquire what options they can offer during your stay in London. In the meantime, read on to judge whether this examination is the right one for you. 

What is IELTS? 

IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System, and is the most popular English language proficiency test in the world for non-native English speakers looking to prove their skills. It is a qualification required by many organisations worldwide, including universities and colleges, government departments and immigration authorities, professional associations and multinational companies and employers. Over 3,000,000 people take an IELTS test every year. 

Where can I sit the IELTS exam?

IELTS is accredited by the British Council, who promote cultural and educational opportunities all over the world. The IELTS exam can be sat in their offices (of which there are some in London, but also in other major world cities and capitals) or at any accredited study centre – basically, somewhere that fits the British Council’s standards and has been given permission to host the exams. Test centres can be found in over 1,600 locations spanning 140 countries. Find out how to apply for IELTS here. 

What does the IELTS test cover?

There are two types of IELTS test, and which you sit should be determined by what you need it for. The IELTS General Training test covers conversational English is everyday social and professional situations, and the IELTS Academic test takes this further to include academic language suitable for higher educational studying or training. Both include aspects of speaking, listening, reading and writing English, to ensure that those who pass are both well understood and can demonstrate understanding. 

What format does the IELTS test take?

The listening, reading and writing parts of the test all take place back-to-back and last in total about 2.5 hours. The speaking test can be completed immediately thereafter, but requires a different type of examiner; so some study centres instead allow students to sit this part of the exam later on (and it can be done up to 7 days after the rest). The speaking portion of the exam takes up to 15 minutes. 

Why should I take IELTS? 

Everyone’s reasons for taking IELTS are different, but if you wish to demonstrate your English language skills, it’s very much the ‘go-to’ level qualification. Employers all over the world often request an IELTS pass as minimum language level and lots of government departments and immigration authorities in English-speaking countries require this too. 

At present, you don’t need to have an IELTS qualification to enter the UK for studying purposes (so you may study for it and take the exam during your stay), but requirements change all the time and it’s still too early to say what impact Brexit may have on such stipulations. 

If you’d like to speak to another overseas student who has already taken the IELTS exam or would like more information on what is involved in studying for and taking the exam, get in touch with the HFS London team. Whilst not all students choosing to study and homestay in the UK decide take the IELTS exam, many do; and we can help you make a decision on whether you’d like to, too.  

Enjoy HFS London Lab? Check out our other posts here.

The post HFS Language Lab: Studying for IELTS appeared first on HFS London.

Plaistow, the neighbour to Stratford, forms most of the E13 postcode and is a residential district that has enjoyed regeneration and investment into its local services, amenities and facilities. Once an area of East London best known for West Ham Football Club, it is now a fantastic place to live in the capital that boasts plentiful transport links, good schools and genuinely affordable house prices. 

HFS London has recently been receiving a higher-than-usual level of requests for international student homestays in the area, so are currently recruiting for new local families to come on-board as homestay hosts. 

Why Plaistow? 

East London became the world’s focus during the 2012 London Olympics in Stratford, and investment in the area continues even almost a decade later. This regeneration gives the area a modern and safe feel alongside its diverse community and lots of amenities. The affordable housing and shared ownership schemes on offer for homes have attracted families in their droves to Plaistow and alongside half-a-dozen OFSTED-rated ‘Outstanding’ schools in the neighbourhood and community links with other well-reputed study centres, it’s no surprise. 

What is there to do in Plaistow? 

Plaistow is a fantastically quiet residential area just a stone’s throw from the bigger and more bustling areas of Stratford and East Ham. It’s a great base for students to get some peace alongside their hectic study-and-sightseeing schedule, but if they do have any time free, why not recommend your homestay guests try out the following locally? 

Take a walk around Plaistow Park

Sitting on the grounds of what was Essex House, which was demolished back in the 1800s, Plaistow Park is the neighbourhood’s community green space and contains ornamental gardens, play equipment and (seasonally) a paddling pool. It’s not the biggest park in the world but makes for a good dog-walking spot and a good place to get some fresh air.  

Walk or cycle the Greenway to Stratford 

It somehow seems to be a well-kept secret that eludes Google Maps, but the Greenway into Stratford is a completely traffic-free path that runs from Victoria Park to Beckton and is a concrete path running through fields and green spaces. On a nice day it’s well worth the walk rather than sitting on sweaty underground trains or in slow buses, and there’s some good views along the way from elevated parts of the path! 

Try a new sport at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

The home of the 2012 London Olympics is just a short walk from Plaistow, and its sports facilities remain open. As part of an ongoing community push toward encouraging a healthy city, the velodrome and aquatics centre both offer free taster sessions every weekend into various sports. Book ahead for limited space sessions and check online for events visiting the parks – there’s always something on and often options to cater for different age groups and abilities. Where better to try a new sport than somewhere Olympians train and compete? 

Become a Host Family in Plaistow 

If you live in Plaistow and have a spare bedroom you’d like to rent out to overseas students, get in touch with the HFS London team! We offer students a range of homestay packages and board options, dependent on what you’re able or would like to offer, and are able to fully train you in how best to manage your guest/s. Call or e-mail us now to discuss.  

Not in Plaistow? HFS are also looking for hosts in neighbouring Stratford, Canning Town and Forest Gate.

The post Become a Host Family in Plaistow, East London appeared first on HFS London.

All countries are different and all cultures are different. We tend not to think about it when we’re leading our day-to-day lives, but here in the UK we have our own customs and etiquette that we live by too. As global politics swings and the world becomes ever more connected, the UK doesn’t always hold the best reputation with all; but we think Britain is still pretty Great. That’s part of why we encourage people to host international students for homestays – to showcase the best of Britishness and allow others to become truly immersed and integrated into our culture. 

Homestay hosts are able to combat cultural misconceptions as well as to incorporate their guest/s in traditions, culture and customs. It’s important to remain sensitive to cultural differences and not to take offence if something seems brash or odd compared to our ‘norm’ – it’s bound to be unintentional and may well involve a misconception or misperception we’ve made too!  

British etiquette

Have you considered the following? Indeed some of our classic British behaviour can seem unusual when you look at it from a different perspective! 

We say sorry… when we don’t need to.

Over-apologising is a typical British trait, and an odd one to understand if English isn’t your first language! Starting a sentence with “I’m sorry but…” if the situation isn’t one where you’re at fault can be confusing for a non-native, especially if they’ve not been taught an appropriate response. Stay mindful of your language usage around homestay guest/s… or find a way to explain why all Brits seem to be sorry, all the time! 

Brits often greet each other with a nod and no physical contact.

A handshake is appropriate in formal situations, but unless we know each other well and haven’t seen each other for a while, the classic ‘air kissing’ that so many other cultures favour is uncommon here – particularly amongst men. This does mean that we can be seen as emotionless, whereas in reality we’re usually just a bit socially awkward! It’s the norm for Brits, but we’re actually one of very few cultures this ‘hands-off’. 

Talking about money is considered rude… but we’re one of the most expensive nations on the planet.

It’s totally understandable that your homestay guest/s may have questions about money, given that London is a very expensive city to stay in and that we have a currency that doesn’t quite equate with any other. Defining and explaining what we find acceptable about finance questions and what we don’t can be tricky, so instead perhaps have a resource ready (perhaps a web page or leaflet) on how much things cost in the UK. In reality of course, your student guest/s probably won’t interact with anyone you know to pass on any info on your finances, so there’s no need to feel embarrassed. 

Phones at the table are considered rude, but we love Instagram pictures of food!

Mobile phone and device usage is more common in some cultures than others, and when you’re on holiday, don’t you love to snap a quick pic of your meal? Don’t be offended if your homestay guest takes a pic at the table: just explain in advance if you don’t permit phones at mealtimes. And make sure they use a good filter of your culinary creations when they do share on socials! 

If you agree that the UK has lots to offer even if our customs can be a bit (cough) quirky, then get in touch to learn more about coming a homestay host. How better to offer a true British family experience and earn some money while you do so? Call the HFS London team today! 

The post Explaining British Etiquette to Your Homestay Guest appeared first on HFS London.

Brixton is for many the cultural beating heart of the capital, and as a South London suburb with a long and rich history, its reputation precedes itself! At the turn of the 20th Century, Brixton was London’s shopping capital and had the biggest high street in the city and became the home of the Windrush generation after the second world war. Sadly, the area gained a more edgy and dangerous reputation due to riots and a wave of crime through until the early 90s. Now, however, the community of Brixton have fought back and developed an achingly cool and community-based neighbourhood that feels homely and safe (OK, as well as a bit hipster) and is now a truly brilliant and diverse place to live. 

HFS London is always looking to recruit more host families for overseas students in Brixton, so read on if you live there, have a spare room and fancy earning some extra cash! 

Why Brixton? 

Brixton’s diversity and multi-culturalism alongside its now fantastically hip independent retail and café scene makes it feel like home to many, even if they’re not resident full-time in the neighbourhood. The HFS London team often hear that it’s the preferred area for international students to live in as they feel they won’t get too homesick there and feel that it gives the perfect balance between multi-culturalism and really experiencing life in Britain. 

Add in the transport links into central London and the amount of study centres in the nearby area, and it’s really no surprise that Brixton is one of our most requested destinations! 

What is there to do in Brixton? 

Living there every day, you probably don’t consider how much there is to do in Brixton, but even small and routine activities for you can be hugely beneficial to your homestay student guest/s. How about taking them along to do one of the following? 

Grab some fresh air at Brockwell Park

Situated between Brixton, Dulwich and Herne Hill, Brockwell Park is a beautiful outdoor green space that plays home not just to a typical English park and outdoor herb garden, but also a number of cultural historical buildings! Brockwell Hall and the Brockwell Lido within both have interesting histories and plaques in the park explain all. Brockwell Park is the perfect place to blow out the cobwebs with a brisk walk around… and you can inject an English history lesson into it too! 

Eat your way around Brixton Market

Brixton Village and Market Row are likely your go-to street food destination when you’re at home, so take your homestay guest/s when you go and let them experience around-the-world cuisine without leaving your neighbourhood! It makes for a great rainy–day trip (as most of it is covered), and you can always pick up ingredients to make a family dinner later while you’re there. 

Tour the Brixton murals

The likes of Banksy have already made the UK highly reputed when it comes to graffiti and street art, and the Brixton murals have a rich political history, having been commissioned by Lambeth Council after the 1992 riots. The murals are all marked out and detailed on Google Maps, so your student guest/s can get a full outside art tour without paying or having to visit a gallery. 

Become a Host Family in Brixton 

Brixton is a fantastic place to live, and that’s why we strive to place international students in the neighbourhood for their homestays. If you live in Brixton and are open-minded toward opening your community and home up to others, please get in touch – we need you! 

Not in Brixton? HFS are also looking for hosts in neighbouring Clapham, Tooting, Peckham and Oval.

The post Become a Host Family in Brixton, South London appeared first on HFS London.

There’s no requirement for hosts to socialise with their student homestay guests outside of their usual food-and-lodgings arrangements, but many choose to, in order to help bridge the cultural gap and really integrate them into their local community; particularly if they’re staying more than a couple of weeks.  

Should you choose to venture out and about with your student guest/s, these are our top suggestions for places to visit in North East London. They may not all be traditional tourist hotspots, but they’re great places to expand horizons and learn more about British culture! 

HFS London’s Suggestions

Here are a few, affordable suggestions from the team here at HFS London:

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford E20

The 2012 Olympics were undoubtedly a triumph for London and have been lauded as such ever since. The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, which was the main hub for events, remains open and is still home to numerous top-quality sports venues; only now, they’re open the public. The London Stadium, Aquatics Centre and Velodrome all host taster sport sessions for amateurs, and there’s often events on to check out. If sports isn’t your thing, ride the slide down the ArcelorMittal Orbit (the biggest piece of art in the UK!) or shop in the nearby Westfields shopping mall. 

Victor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, Hackney E8

Don’t be fooled by the name – this isn’t your typical museum! Part museum of oddities, part cocktail bar, the Viktor Wynd Museum houses objects you’ll have never seen before… or if you have, perhaps not studied. The permanent collection includes hairballs, two-headed lambs and Fiji mermaids, but there’s often travelling and temporary collections in place too. The Viktor Wynd museum isn’t for the half-hearted but is for the curious. 

Fairlop Waters Boulder Park, Ilford IG6

Bouldering is a really enjoyable activity but not often achievable by those living in the urban jungle that is London! It’s also an expensive hobby (and we would never recommend splashing lots of cash on taking your homestay guest/s out) but Fairlop Waters offer free sessions for all – even if you’ve never tried it before. There’s no need to book and the facility houses nine climbs of various challenge levels, as well as a new high-ropes course. 

Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve, South Ockendon RM19

Sitting on the border with Essex, Rainham Marshes feels very far from the central city areas but is truly worth the travel. An RSPB-owned reserve, Rainham Marshes contains over 1,000 acres of wetland peppered with disused military buildings and infrastructure, which can give the place an eery feel. The visitor centre can supply guided tours or walking route and activity suggestions, or you can just explore as you like. 

Emirates Air Line, Greenwich E16

Travel between north and south London in style – by air! The Emirates Air Line is a cable car system across the River Thames with the capacity of carrying 2,400 people over every hour (although in reality, is rarely full). The patrons are mostly tourists but it’s definitely worth London locals riding too – just think of the photo opps up there! On a clear day, the views are spectacular but on a cloudy one, it’s still a fun ride; and another brilliant public transport option in the capital. 

A family of hosts

If you visit somewhere brilliant in north east London with a homestay guest/s, share the knowledge: the HFS London team would love to hear about it and pass on the recommendation to other homestay host families so that they too can visit! 

The HFS London team are always on hand to help advise potential and existing student hosts on what to do with their guests once they’ve arrived. For more ideas, read our other articles, take to Google, or give us a call!

The post Where to Take Students as a Host Family in North East London appeared first on HFS London.

The name ‘Streatham’ translates directly from old English as ‘the hamlet on the street’, and even today this South London district remains primarily residential and is considered a great place to raise a family and to live within easily travelled distance of central London. Centred exactly 5 miles south of Charing Cross, it sits below the River Thames and can boast fantastic transport links alongside its own town centre and high street. 

Identified as one of the ‘major centres’ of the capital in the Mayor’s London Plan, Streatham is becoming increasingly popular with overseas visitors looking to stay somewhere in London that’s really ‘local’ and not too tourist-y. One such group of international visitors to the UK are ‘junior students’ – that is, students aged 11-16 who are on temporary study placements at British schools or colleges and need somewhere to stay for the duration of their studies.  

Why Streatham? 

Of course, when it comes to the travel for students aged under 18, everything is usually organised by their parents. This is the case for those staying in the UK through HFS London too, and as a result of parents looking for somewhere considered safe, family-friendly and convenient, we’re often given Streatham as a preference. This means that our books are currently open for new host families in Streatham, so anyone willing to rent out their spare room and nurture and feed a junior student while they stay in the UK can now apply to help! 

What is there to do in Streatham? 

Chances are host families will have a junior student living with them over a weekend as well as days where they’re required to go to school or college, so there will be a degree of entertainment to provide too. This doesn’t need to be anything overly structured or costly, as all are experiences of British life (yes, really!).  

Discover the hidden garden in The Rookery

Situated at the top of Streatham Common, The Rookery hidden garden is a quick climb up the hill but definitely worth the ascent! It’s quintessentially English, perfect for a place to take in some fresh air and can be found just behind the café… so you can enjoy a quick cup of tea too! 

Explore English cuisine at the Farmer’s Market

The weekly Farmer’s Market that happens every Saturday is the ideal place to do a spot of shopping for your weekend groceries. Discuss recipes, learn new words and experience new tastes by talking through items with your student guest, and pick up what you need for your dinner. Of course, while there you can mosy down Europe’s longest high street and grab whatever else you need too. 

Ice skate all year round

London has surprisingly few permanent ice rinks; particularly compared to the number of ‘pop-up’ rinks that appear every November and December. Family sessions suitable for all ages are available at discounted prices in the evenings and at the weekends. Of course, if your student guest is from a colder country then you may need to prepare to be upstaged with their skating skills! 

Become a Host Family in Streatham

Those wishing to become a host family in Streatham can contact HFS London to lodge their application immediately. An Enhanced DBS check will be carried out and full guidance will be given. There’s no obligation in just speaking to the HFS London team, so by all means phone to ask any questions or raise any concerns that you may have. We’re here to help!

Want to know more about what is involved in hosting junior students? Check out our help page here.

The post Become a Host Family for U16s in Streatham, London appeared first on HFS London.

You only need to watch British television once or twice to determine that not only are there are a lot of very different accents in English, there’s also a lot of slang words and colloquialisms that vary from area to area. Fear not, budding English speakers: HFS are here to help you understand some common words and phrases – drop these into your conversational English and the locals will be really impressed with your knowledge. 

You’re most likely to hear younger people use slang in the UK and it’s likely that you’ll find that those slightly older use more formal language. These phrases may not be appropriate everywhere or to everyone, and there will be regional variations, so don’t be afraid to ask your homestay hosts if you don’t understand something! 

Basic British Slang

“Fancy a cuppa?”

As you’ll undoubtedly already know, us Brits enjoy a cup of tea. Or three. The phrase ‘cup of tea’ is often combined and shortened to simply ‘a cuppa’. If you’re in a home, offer to put the kettle on (Brits use electric kettles rather than stove ones, so simply fill up with water and turn it on!), or if you’re out and about stop into the nearest café. Don’t worry if you’re not into English Breakfast Tea – a cuppa is assumed to be tea but it’s not rude to request a coffee or cold drink instead. 

“Oh, bloody hell!”

It’s common sense that ‘bloody’ would mean ‘covered in blood’, and… it does! However, when referring to something that isn’t related to blood, the word bloody is used a mild expletive. It’s a typically British mild swear word but not usually considered offensive as it’s now quite dated. It intensifies the use of whatever word comes after it but only really works in British English, and not American. 

“What a cracker!”

Another word with multiple meanings, and a third in American English, ‘cracker’ may not be referring to what you think it is. A cracker is a savoury biscuit, a Christmas decoration and in slang, refers to something brilliant. To say something is a cracker or is cracking means that it’s fantastic. ‘That’s an absolute cracker’ would mean ‘that is great!’ and to say ‘what a cracking girl’ would mean ‘she’s a brilliant woman’. What’s more, to say ‘get cracking’ means ‘to get started’. And in American English is an offensive word. Tune in carefully to conversation to understand what it means in the given context. 

“Alright?”

Brits often greet each other in passing with just this single word and a nod of the head… and they respond to it with the same word back! In short, it’s meant to mean “Are you alright?” and then “Yes thanks, I’m alright” in response. If met with this greeting, smile, repeat it and keep walking – it’s unlikely that the other person intends to stop and chat further in this context. 

If you’d like to learn more about English slang, tune into some British television to hear informal conversations. UK-based soap operas are particularly good for learning English as they tend to be set in a particular region of the country so combine accents and slang. Eastenders is based in London (ideal for your homestay preparations!), Coronation Street in Manchester and Emmerdale in Yorkshire, so there really is something for everyone. Reality TV shows tend to mix and match contestants from different areas of the UK, so they’re good for helping you identify accents and pronunciations.  

What’s your favourite slang word or phrase in English? Let us know and we’ll include it in a future article! 

Enjoy HFS London Lab? Check out our other posts here.

The post HFS Language Lab: An Introduction to British slang appeared first on HFS London.

Leyton and Leytonstone are classic ‘East London’ destinations, situated in the London Borough of Waltham Forest about 7 miles north east of Charing Cross. Predominantly a residential area, it’s famous for its traditional English Victorian terraced houses and for being home to part of the Queen Elizabeth Olympics Park; which played a large role in the hosting of the London 2012 Olympics. 

We mention all of this as we’re currently actively recruiting homestay host families in the Leyton and Leytonstone area. These are local families who have a spare room and are able to host an international student guest for a short-term stay while they need to live in London to complete their study or work placements. Homestays really allow students to immerse themselves in British culture, life and language, in a way that simply can’t be achieved staying in a hotel! 

HFS London matches international students looking for homestay placements with host families in their desired area. 

Why Leyton and Leytonstone? 

There’s nothing more traditionally ‘London’ than the East End, so Leyton and Leytonstone fit the bill nicely for those looking to authentically experience the capital. A diverse community resides here, so students from all over the world can feel at home whilst still enjoying a new place. There’s a real community feel to the neighbourhood, so this combined with its fantastic transport links into central London makes it an attractive place to stay. 

Leyton Sixth Form College is considered the best sports college in London (no surprise given the Olympic facilities down the road!), and with lots of other universities and higher and further education institutions in the wider area, it’s easily commutable for those studying nearby. 

What is there to do in Leyton and Leytonstone? 

Despite it being your home and perhaps you not always being able to see the wood for the trees, there are still things to do in Leyton and Leytonstone that will be of interest to international visitors. These may not seem like much to you, but they’ll be new experiences for your guests – so why not take them along on an evening or weekend? 

Cycle around the Lee Valley VeloPark

Velodrome facilities aren’t easily available everywhere, and the Lee Valley is Olympic standard! Anyone can book in to try out cycling in the velodrome, on the road trails, on mountain bike terrain or along BMX tracks – no experience necessary! 

Ride down the ArcelorMittal Orbit

Another iconic fixture in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is the ArcelorMittal Orbit, the tallest sculpture in the UK… with a helter skelter attached! It won the Turner Prize for its art and visitors can enjoy great views across the park and further afield from its viewing platforms before riding the slide back down. Book online for the best prices. 

Shop local at the New Leytonstone Market

Most countries have a market culture, and visiting one somewhere new is always fascinating. The new Leytonstone Market offers entertainment and children’s activities alongside stalls selling street food, upcycled furniture and homewares, clothing, a bar and local business’ products. 

Become a Host Family in Leyton and Leytonstone

If you live in Leyton or Leytonstone with the space to host international students for short-term stays, and fancy earning some extra cash in doing so, get in touch! The HFS London team will guide you through the application process and are always on-hand to offer support and advice through all homestays. Contact us now to discuss getting your property on the homestay register and to take the first step to welcoming guests as soon as possible

Not in Leyton? HFS are also looking for hosts in neighbouring Stratford, Walthamstow, Wanstead and Clapton.

The post Become a Host Family in Leyton, East London appeared first on HFS London.

London isn’t best known for its tropical weather conditions, but contrary to popular misconception, it is a great place to spend the summer! The heat feels very different to that elsewhere, so don’t be surprised if you get the odd pink patch of skin or feel a little dehydrated on a cloudy day – the sun is often a little shy. If you are lucky enough to be studying in London over the summer, be sure to check out some of these events to really embrace the season. 

What’s on

Open Garden Squares Weekend, until 6th June, various venues

Open Garden Squares Weekend sees over 100 squares, community allotments, private gardens and green spaces throw open their doors and open to the public, all across the capital. You’ll be surprised by just how much greenery this great city holds. The venues change year-to-year and previous gardens opening have even included 10 Downing Street! Check online for listings of gardens each week and nip along to whichever you fancy exploring.  

Scenes In The Square, until 30th June, Leicester Square

You’ve likely seen Leicester Square on the television as celebrities arrive at film premieres and walk the red carpet, and Scenes In The Square is your opportunity to share in the glamour. Famous film scenes decorate the park and you can walk around them to immerse yourself in the movies: watching Laurel and Hardy lark about on rooftops, Gene Kelly dance and swing around lampposts and Mary Poppins arrive gracefully from the skies above with her umbrella. You needn’t be a film critic to enjoy this installation and can walk along it any time of day or night. 

Brent: London Borough Capital of Culture Street Party, 11th July, Kilburn High Road

A mile-long traffic free street party invoking the spirit of Britain in the 20s and 30s, Brent celebrates its 2020 Borough Capital of Culture with a free-to-attend celebration for all. The local community are all coming together to put on a mile of food, drink, performances and art to best showcase their talent and diversity. Everyone will feel at home here – even if you’re actually a long way from it! 

Notting Hill Carnival, 30th-31st August, Notting Hill

London’s biggest street party is an unmissable combination of Caribbean and African colours, cuisines and music. Parades walk and ride through the streets of West London which are scattered with party-goers, authentic food sellers and local crafts and makers showcasing their skills. London’s rich history with its black communities is celebrated and enjoyed by all and you may have seen photos and videos online of even the British police dancing along with attendees! If you’re in the capital at the end of August it’s a must-visit (day and/or night!) and you can get as involved as you like. 

The UK has lots to offer and the summer is a brilliant time to visit. Even if you’re not planning on attending anything big or don’t have the funds to buy tickets to something, it’s still worth getting out of your homestay once in a while when you’re not studying. Taking the time to explore the city will likely result in you finding something to do and see even if it’s not attending one of the events above. 

Check in with your homestay hosts to find out what events they attend during the summer and what they’d recommend – they may well have the inside scoop on some things to do that we don’t, so take their advice and experience London in its full, summery, potential! 

Haven’t planned your stay yet? The team at HFS can help with that! Contact us here. 

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