Bring potato cakes and a wad of cash: Advice on moving to London

Irish centre in London asks emigrants what tips they would give to those moving to the UK capital.

If you had to give ONE piece of advice to someone in Ireland about moving to London, what would it be? pic.twitter.com/ilFY8r9lM2
— London Irish Centre (@LDNIrishCentre) May 28, 2014

London Irish Centre / Twitter

THE IRISH HAVE always been a huge community in London and – with outward migration continuing to grow here - it continues to be considered a destination for many leaving our shores.

The London Irish Centre has been canvassing its followers on Facebook and Twitter for tips they would share with the latest Irish newcomers to that city. Cost of living, homesickness and red tape are all major preoccupations, as one would expect.

Have a look through some of these – and feel free to add your own suggestions in the comments section, if you have lived/live in London.

Do your homework on where to live

It’s not going to be cheap

@LDNIrishCentre Give yourself a good buffer in your bank account before you leave, it'll be more expensive than you think to get set up..
— Barry McGee (@barrymcgee) May 28, 2014

Barry McGee / Twitter

Whoops!

We couldn't find this Tweet

Brace yourself for red tape

@LDNIrishCentre be prepared for the nightmare that is getting a UK bank account
— Andy Monks ✈️ (@AndythePandy_) May 28, 2014

Andy Monks / Twitter

@LDNIrishCentre Prepare to be asked by letting agents for UK-based landlord & work references.Can be tough if you've never lived here before
— Jamie Ralph (@ModernLepra) May 28, 2014

Jamie Ralph / Twitter

Find a way to connect

@LDNIrishCentre find your local GAA club. So good to meet people in the same situation. Friends for life! #emigrationadvice
— Sarah Moore (@Moore_SarahE) May 28, 2014

Sarah Moore / Twitter

@LDNIrishCentre Stock up on Buckfast & Potato Bread.. Rare treasures in London.
— Declan Rodgers (@DecRodg) May 28, 2014

Declan Rodgers / Twitter

@LDNIrishCentre Find a group/network that relates to one of your interests - sport, music, business etc.. great way to meet new people
— Frances Harkin (@Frank11Guinness) May 28, 2014

Frances Harkin / Twitter

@LDNIrishCentre ..and try & have someone's phone number in ur pocket, even friend of a friend-always good to have a contact if you're stuck
— Barry McGee (@barrymcgee) May 28, 2014

Barry McGee / Twitter

Or just read this guy, who covers all bases:

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Learn More Support The Journal