Home and Away Student Services operates across several key locations, providing homestay accommodation for group stays in convenient and well-connected areas. Our centres in Hither Green, New Cross, Woolwich, Croydon, St Albans, and Luton are chosen for their accessibility and suitability to meet the needs of our students. Explore each location to find out more about what they offer.
Woolwich is a historic district in Southeast London, located within the Royal Borough of Greenwich. It has a rich history, dating back to Roman times, and has been a significant military and naval hub over the centuries. Today, Woolwich is known for its vibrant community, historical landmarks, and ongoing regeneration projects.
Woolwich is part of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, a diverse and historically rich area in Southeast London. Known for its maritime heritage and significant landmarks, Greenwich offers a blend of historical attractions and modern developments.
Royal Observatory, Greenwich
Cutty Sark
Greenwich Park
Old Royal Naval College
National Maritime Museum
The O2 Arena (formerly known as the Millennium Dome)
Queen's House
Woolwich's well-developed transport links make it easy to explore the wider borough of Greenwich. Whether by train, bus, DLR, or river bus, visitors can conveniently reach the many attractions Greenwich has to offer.
With its rich history and easy access to the cultural and historical landmarks of Greenwich, Woolwich serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the Royal Borough of Greenwich.
Hither Green is a hidden gem in southeast London, known for its village-like atmosphere, beautiful parks, and strong community spirit. It offers a peaceful retreat while being well-connected to the rest of London.
Hither Green’s development began in the late 19th century, transforming from farmland into a residential suburb. Its history is reflected in the charming Edwardian and Victorian architecture found throughout the area.
Our host families in Hither Green typically reside in spacious Edwardian and Victorian houses. These homes often feature beautiful period details, large gardens, and comfortable living spaces.
Croydon is a large and vibrant town in South London, known for its diverse population, thriving commercial district, and extensive cultural amenities. As one of London's largest boroughs, it offers a dynamic mix of urban living and suburban comfort.
Croydon has a rich history that stretches back to the Domesday Book. Over the centuries, it has evolved from a market town to a major commercial and residential hub. Its historical buildings sit alongside modern developments, reflecting its continuous growth and transformation.
Our host families in Croydon typically reside in a variety of housing types, from spacious Victorian and Edwardian houses to modern apartments and new-build homes. This variety ensures accommodation options that cater to different preferences and needs.
New Cross is a lively and eclectic district in southeast London, known for its vibrant cultural scene, academic institutions, and artistic community. It’s an area that seamlessly blends historical charm with contemporary flair.
New Cross has a rich history tied to London's industrial expansion. The area has long been a hub for music and the arts, with Goldsmiths, University of London, playing a significant role in its cultural development.
Our host families in New Cross typically live in Victorian terraced houses and modern apartments. The homes are characterized by their charming architectural details and convenient locations near cultural hotspots.
St Albans is a historic market town in Hertfordshire, renowned for its rich heritage, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. It offers a picturesque setting with the convenience of easy access to London.
St Albans boasts a history that stretches back to Roman times. Named after St Alban, Britain's first Christian martyr, the town is steeped in historical significance, with landmarks that tell the story of its long and varied past.
Our host families in St Albans typically live in charming period houses, including Victorian and Edwardian homes. These residences often feature beautiful gardens, spacious interiors, and are located in scenic, leafy neighborhoods.
Luton in Bedfordshire is a vibrant town located just 30 miles north of London, offering excellent transport links to the capital.
The town is served by Luton Airport, which provides international connections, and Luton railway station, which offers frequent train services to central London, with a journey time of around 30 to 40 minutes depending on the service.
The town is also conveniently located approximately 20 miles from the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, which is about a 30-minute drive away.
Luton boasts a diverse range of housing, from charming, terraced houses to modern apartments, providing various accommodation options for your groups. The town is culturally rich, with a strong sense of community and a variety of cultural events, such as the Luton International Carnival, which is one of the largest one-day carnivals in Europe.
Luton is well-positioned for travel to other key cities. Oxford is about a 1-hour drive (approximately 50 miles), while Cambridge can be reached in around 1 hour and 15 minutes by car (about 50 miles), making Luton a central hub for students wishing to explore these historic cities.