Christopher, I strongly suggest you use Ilford's XP-2 S chromogenic black and white film and have it processed (developed) by a lab. It is an ISO 400 film, however I recommend you shoot it @320 or 200.(posted 8554 days ago)Since you are new to b&w processing don't take chances with learning on negatives you cannot replace. With XP-2 you will end up with good negs and get a good workout enlarging them yourself.
Also, this film can be processed by any one-hour color lab. That way, you can get a bunch of your stuff processed while still in London, and see if you like the results.
Good luck!
chris