The Top 10 Best Places to Live in London

London, one of the world's most dynamic cities, offers a variety of neighbourhood's that cater to diverse lifestyles, preferences, and budgets. Whether you're looking for excellent schools, convenient transport links, low crime rates, affordability, great shopping, or green spaces, there’s a perfect spot in London for everyone. Here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 best places to live in London based on these criteria.

Below are the 10 best places to live in London:

1. Richmond upon Thames

Transport Links: Richmond is well-connected with the District Line and National Rail services, offering easy access to central London and beyond.

Schools: Richmond boasts some of the best schools in London, including The Vineyard School and Grey Court School, both rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.

Crime: Richmond is one of the safest boroughs in London, with lower crime rates compared to other areas.

Affordability: While not the cheapest, Richmond offers great value considering its amenities, green spaces, and quality of life. Property prices and rent are on the higher side.

Shopping and Green Areas: Richmond has a charming town centre with boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. Richmond Park, the largest royal park in London, offers expansive green spaces and wildlife.

Family-Friendly: Richmond is perfect for families with its excellent schools, safe environment, and abundance of parks.

Dining and Entertainment: Richmond offers a vibrant dining scene with riverside restaurants, traditional pubs, and a variety of international cuisines. The Richmond Theatre and Orange Tree Theatre provide excellent entertainment options.

2. Greenwich

Transport Links: Greenwich benefits from the DLR, South Eastern trains, and Thames Clipper river services, making commutes to Canary Wharf and the City of London straightforward.

Schools: Schools such as James Wolfe Primary School and Thomas Tallis School have good reputations and Ofsted ratings.

Crime: Greenwich enjoys relatively low crime rates, contributing to its reputation as a family-friendly area.

Affordability: Greenwich is more affordable than central London areas, offering a range of property options from modern apartments to historic houses.

Shopping and Green Areas: Greenwich has a vibrant market and plenty of shops. Greenwich Park provides stunning views of the city and open spaces for outdoor activities.

Family-Friendly: With its maritime history, parks, and educational attractions like the Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory, Greenwich is great for families.

Dining and Entertainment: Greenwich offers a diverse range of dining options, from traditional British pubs to contemporary restaurants. The O2 Arena hosts concerts and events, and the Greenwich Theatre offers various performances.

3. Clapham

Transport Links: With Clapham Common, Clapham North, and Clapham South stations on the Northern Line, residents enjoy quick access to central London. Numerous bus routes also serve the area.

Schools: Clapham offers a selection of good schools, including Clapham Manor Primary School and Eaton House the Manor.

Crime: Crime rates in Clapham are moderate, with certain parts experiencing higher rates due to nightlife. However, residential areas are generally safe.

Affordability: Clapham offers a mix of affordability, with options ranging from expensive Victorian houses to more affordable flats and maisonettes.

Shopping and Green Areas: Clapham has a bustling high street with shops, bars, and restaurants. Clapham Common is a large green space popular for picnics, sports, and events.

Family-Friendly: Clapham’s green spaces, good schools, and community feel make it appealing to families.

Dining and Entertainment: Clapham is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants. It also hosts the annual SW4 music festival and has various cinemas and theatres.

4. Hampstead

Transport Links: Hampstead is served by the Northern Line, providing quick access to the West End and the City. Hampstead Heath Overground station also offers additional connectivity.

Schools: Hampstead is home to top-rated schools such as Hampstead School and University College School, both known for their academic excellence.

Crime: Hampstead is known for its low crime rates, making it a desirable area for families and professionals alike.

Affordability: Hampstead is one of the more expensive areas in London, with high property prices reflecting its desirability and high standard of living.

Shopping and Green Areas: Hampstead has a quaint village feel with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Hampstead Heath offers extensive woodland, meadows, and swimming ponds.

Family-Friendly: Hampstead’s excellent schools, safe environment, and outdoor spaces make it ideal for families.

Dining and Entertainment: Hampstead offers a range of dining options, from upscale restaurants to cosy cafes. It also has a vibrant arts scene, with venues like the Hampstead Theatre and Everyman Cinema.

5. Ealing

Transport Links: Ealing is well-connected with several Underground lines (Central, District, Piccadilly) and the forthcoming Crossrail (Elizabeth Line) enhancing its connectivity further.

Schools: Ealing offers excellent educational options, including Montpelier Primary School and Drayton Manor High School, both rated highly by Ofsted.

Crime: Ealing has moderate crime rates, with a mix of quieter residential areas and busier commercial zones.

Affordability: Ealing provides a range of housing options, from affordable flats to larger family homes, making it a versatile area for different budgets.

Shopping and Green Areas: Ealing Broadway offers a great shopping experience with a mix of high street and independent shops. Walpole Park and Ealing Common provide ample green space.

Family-Friendly: Ealing’s good schools, parks, and community activities make it a great place for families.

Dining and Entertainment: Ealing boasts a diverse dining scene with numerous restaurants, pubs, and cafes. It also hosts the annual Ealing Jazz Festival and has several local theatres and cinemas.

6. Islington

Transport Links: Islington boasts excellent transport links with Angel, Highbury & Islington, and King’s Cross stations nearby, providing access to the Northern, Victoria, and Piccadilly lines, as well as national and international rail services.

Schools: The borough is home to highly-regarded schools like William Tyndale Primary School and City of London Academy Islington.

Crime: Crime rates in Islington vary, with some parts being safer than others. Overall, it remains a vibrant and generally safe area.

Affordability: Islington is relatively expensive, especially around Angel and Highbury, but offers a range of properties from luxurious townhouses to more affordable apartments.

Shopping and Green Areas: Islington is known for its eclectic mix of shops, boutiques, and markets. Highbury Fields and nearby Regent’s Canal offer green spaces for relaxation and recreation.

Family-Friendly: Islington offers great family amenities, including parks, playgrounds, and cultural activities.

Dining and Entertainment: Islington has a thriving dining scene with an array of restaurants, bars, and cafes. The area is also known for its arts and entertainment, with venues like the Almeida Theatre and Union Chapel hosting a variety of performances.

7. Chiswick

Transport Links: Chiswick is well-served by the District Line, and nearby Gunnersbury Station offers Overground services. Numerous bus routes provide easy access to central London.

Schools: Chiswick is home to several good schools, including Belmont Primary School and Chiswick School.

Crime: Chiswick has lower crime rates compared to many other London areas, making it a safe choice for families.

Affordability: Property prices in Chiswick are on the higher side, reflecting its desirability, but it offers a mix of housing from period properties to modern flats.

Shopping and Green Areas: Chiswick High Road offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Chiswick House and Gardens provide beautiful landscapes for walking and leisure.

Family-Friendly: Chiswick’s good schools, parks, and community atmosphere make it ideal for families.

Dining and Entertainment: Chiswick boasts a range of dining options, from high-end restaurants to cosy pubs. It also has a lively arts scene with events at the Chiswick House and Arts Centre.

8. Wimbledon

Transport Links: Wimbledon has excellent transport links with the District Line, South Western Railway, and Thameslink services, making it easy to travel into central London and beyond.

Schools: Wimbledon offers highly-rated schools such as Wimbledon High School and King's College School.

Crime: Wimbledon is considered a safe area with relatively low crime rates.

Affordability: Wimbledon has a range of property options, from affordable apartments to luxury houses, with prices reflecting its desirability and amenities.

Shopping and Green Areas: Wimbledon has a bustling town centre with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Wimbledon Common and Wimbledon Park provide vast green spaces for outdoor activities.

Family-Friendly: Wimbledon’s excellent schools, parks, and community events make it perfect for families.

Dining and Entertainment: Wimbledon offers diverse dining options, from international cuisines to local pubs. The New Wimbledon Theatre and annual Wimbledon Tennis Championships provide top-tier entertainment.

9. Kingston upon Thames

Transport Links: Kingston is well-connected with South Western Railway services to central London and a comprehensive bus network.

Schools: Kingston is renowned for its excellent schools, including Tiffin School and Kingston Grammar School.

Crime: Kingston has lower crime rates compared to many London boroughs, making it a safe and appealing area for families.

Affordability: Kingston offers good value for money with a range of housing options, from affordable flats to larger family homes.

Shopping and Green Areas: Kingston's town centre has a variety of shops, including major retailers and independent boutiques. Richmond Park and Bushy Park offer beautiful green spaces nearby.

Family-Friendly: Kingston’s good schools, parks, and community feel make it ideal for families.

Dining and Entertainment: Kingston has a vibrant dining scene with numerous restaurants, cafes, and riverside pubs. It also has a strong arts presence with the Rose Theatre and various music festivals.

10. Notting Hill

Transport Links: Notting Hill is served by several Underground lines, including the Central, Circle, and District Lines, providing excellent connectivity.

Schools: The area is home to reputable schools such as Notting Hill Preparatory School and Fox Primary School.

Crime: Notting Hill has moderate crime rates, with some areas being busier and more prone to petty crime. However, it remains a generally safe and vibrant neighbourhood.

Affordability: Notting Hill is one of the more expensive areas in London, known for its high property prices and affluent residents.

Shopping and Green Areas: Notting Hill is famous for its boutique shops, cafes, and the iconic Portobello Road Market. Kensington Gardens and Holland Park offer beautiful green spaces for residents.

Family-Friendly: Notting Hill’s parks, cultural activities, and community events make it appealing to families.

Dining and Entertainment: Notting Hill offers a rich dining scene with everything from high-end restaurants to street food. The area is also known for its cultural events, including the famous Notting Hill Carnival and various film and music festivals.

Conclusion

Choosing the right place to live in London depends on your personal priorities, whether they are excellent schools, efficient transport links, low crime rates, affordability, shopping, green spaces, family-friendliness, safety, or dining and entertainment options. Richmond upon Thames, Greenwich, Clapham, Hampstead, Ealing, Islington, Chiswick, Wimbledon, Kingston upon Thames, and Notting Hill each offer unique benefits, making them some of the best places to consider when moving to this incredible city. Make sure to visit these neighbourhoods and explore what each has to offer to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.