3 only works in 'urban centres' - my university isn't that far out of our city centre, though, and my 3-using friends have trouble getting a signal there. So I'd be wary of signing up for this, especially if you ever plan on going out of London. Your best bet might be to get a pay as you go phone when you get here - then it can be kept and re-used on future visits. (Tesco do these if you can't find anywhere else quickly)
As for Lloyds, there are loads of branches and cashpoints around, and you can also (probably - I don't know what the conditions are for international students as mine all use Natwest) use your card in other banks' machines. Actual banks won't charge you for using these. There are cashpoints that charge - they tend to be the ones attached to corner shops and in pubs though.
Also, this may have occurred to you already, but if not - get an oyster card! You can buy these
online or at tube stations and use them on tubes, buses and trains within London. And save a shedload of money doing so.
Good luck - maybe see you at Christmas without Cruelty?
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