Royal College of Music Students – Your Complete Move-In Guide
Everything You Need to Prepare for Student Life at the Royal College of Music
Starting at the Royal College of Music (RCM) means joining one of the world's leading conservatoires, where talented musicians from across the globe come together to study, perform and develop their careers. Whether you're moving into student accommodation for your first year or renting a shared flat in London, preparing before move-in day will help you settle in quickly and focus on your music from day one.
Located in South Kensington, opposite the Royal Albert Hall and beside some of London's most famous museums, the RCM offers specialist training in performance, composition, conducting, music education, collaborative piano, historical performance and musicology. Practice sessions, rehearsals, masterclasses and performances are central to student life, making your accommodation an important place to rest, practise, study and prepare for concerts.
This guide covers everything you need to know before moving to the Royal College of Music, including accommodation advice, packing tips and the everyday essentials that will help you feel at home.
Royal College of Music at a Glance
📍 Location: South Kensington, London
🎓 Student Population: Around 1,000 students
🏠 Popular Accommodation: Prince Consort Village, Prince's Gardens, university-recommended residences and shared accommodation in South Kensington, Earl's Court, Hammersmith, Fulham and Chelsea
🛒 Nearby Shopping: South Kensington, King's Road, Westfield London, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose and Whole Foods Market
🚇 Transport: South Kensington Underground station is only a short walk from the college, providing excellent connections across London via the District, Circle and Piccadilly lines.
Student Accommodation at the Royal College of Music
Many students choose university-recommended accommodation close to the college, allowing easy access to practice rooms, rehearsal spaces and performance venues.
As students progress through their studies, many move into shared flats in South Kensington, Earl's Court, Fulham, Chelsea and Hammersmith, balancing convenient travel with access to London's world-famous music scene.
Most student accommodation includes a bed, desk, chair and wardrobe, but you'll usually need to provide your own bedding, towels, kitchen equipment and personal belongings.
Before buying everything, check your accommodation inventory so you know exactly what's already provided.
What Should You Pack?
Preparing before move-in day makes settling into conservatoire life much easier.
Bedroom Essentials
Make your room comfortable with:
- Duvet and pillows
- Bedding sets
- Mattress protector
- Clothes hangers
- Laundry basket
- Storage boxes
- Soft lighting
Kitchen Essentials
If you'll be sharing a kitchen, don't forget:
- Plates and bowls
- Cutlery
- Pots and pans
- Cooking utensils
- Food storage containers
- Tea towels
- Washing-up supplies
Bathroom Essentials
Pack your everyday necessities, including:
- Towels
- Toiletries
- Shower caddy
- Cleaning products
Music Study Essentials
Royal College of Music students spend countless hours practising, rehearsing, studying scores and preparing for performances. A comfortable and organised room can help support your routine when you're away from the practice rooms.
Useful items include:
- Adjustable desk lamp
- Desk organiser
- Extension lead
- Laptop and tablet accessories
- Cable organisers
- Storage for sheet music, scores and notebooks
- Under-bed storage for making the most of compact London accommodation
Live at the Heart of London's Classical Music Scene
Few music students have access to opportunities like those at the Royal College of Music. With the Royal Albert Hall, Royal College of Organists, major orchestras, opera companies and countless performance venues nearby, you'll be surrounded by world-class music every day.
Whether you're attending rehearsals, performing in concerts, collaborating with fellow musicians or enjoying performances across London, it's always good to return to a room that's organised, comfortable and ready for the next day.
Popular with Royal College of Music students include:
- Comfortable bedding and mattress accessories
- Soft lighting for a cosy atmosphere
- Space-saving storage solutions
- Desk organisers for studying
- Kitchen essentials for shared accommodation
- Practical everyday accessories that make student life easier
All Loomz products are selected with student accommodation in mind, making them ideal for furnished student rooms where permanent alterations aren't permitted.
Why Students Choose Loomz
Students across the UK choose Loomz because we understand what makes student accommodation feel like home.
✔ Designed specifically for student accommodation
✔ Affordable essentials for every student budget
✔ Perfect for halls, postgraduate accommodation and shared flats
✔ Free UK delivery
✔ Practical products that make everyday student life easier
Helpful Student Guides
Planning your move? Explore our other useful resources:
- UK University Packing Checklist
- Student Accommodation Guides
- University Move-In Checklist
- Bedroom Essentials Guide
- Kitchen Essentials Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in Royal College of Music accommodation?
Most student accommodation includes a bed, desk, chair and wardrobe. Students are usually expected to bring their own bedding, towels, cookware and personal belongings.
Where do Royal College of Music students live?
Many students choose university-recommended accommodation close to the college. Others rent shared flats in South Kensington, Earl's Court, Chelsea, Fulham and Hammersmith.
Can I personalise my student room?
Yes. Most students personalise their rooms with bedding, lighting, storage and decorative accessories. Always follow your accommodation provider's guidance and avoid making permanent alterations to walls or furniture.
What should I buy before moving to the Royal College of Music?
Most students need bedding, towels, kitchen equipment, study accessories and practical storage before arriving. Music students also benefit from organised storage for sheet music, scores, study materials and performance essentials.
Ready for the Royal College of Music?
Moving to the Royal College of Music means joining one of the world's leading conservatoires while studying in the heart of London's internationally renowned music scene. By preparing your accommodation before you arrive, you'll be ready to settle in quickly, focus on your performances and make the most of every rehearsal, masterclass and concert.
Browse Loomz's collection of student essentials to find everything you need for your bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and study space before beginning your journey at the Royal College of Music.