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The problem with renting in London is that traditionally expensive areas (Chelsea, Clapham (home of Mr Melly), Highgate, Wimbledon (home of Mr DR666), Hampstead, Kensington, etc.) aren't that much more than cheaper areas like East London, and if you look hard enough, cheaper. So my advice would be to find an area you like then find a place there you can afford. So despite what I said in the last post, you'd be surprised to discover that you don't have to live in a ghetto-slum in order to save money. Also, note that London is HUGE. So transport links are absolutely essential when working out where you want to live (Hackney remains relatively affordable largely because it has no Tube link, and so is a bastard to get into/out of.)
As a rough indication of flat prices, expect to pay between £75-150 a week for a room in a dodgy part of East London. For this you'll be able to get to Shorditch and the West End quite easily but have to live with some real dodgepots for the 'privilege'. If you're talking about a one bedroom property then expect something upwards of £200 a week. Places like Notting Hill or Camden are even more expensive but, because they're less fashionable now, there's a far better chance of finding a bargain. Personally I prefer Notting Hill and Camden over the Shoreditch area, but that's just my opinion. Come over for a holiday, have a look around, see where you like, and go for it.
Cantanky: Islington is nice but I find it quite soul-less. Very expensive too, unless you find somewhere around Highbury and want a crack dealer as a neighbour.
I was brought up in East London and used to like it, but what with the infamous Number 25 bus (ask Sarramkrop, T&B) all the Pete Doherty wannabes and the Bengali gangs there now, I'm just glad to be out of the place.
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