City living, village feel

The whole concept of a London village might seem like an oxymoron to some, but London is essentially a city of villages, each with their own distinctive charm. Londoners who yearn to experience that laid-back rural lifestyle don’t need to plan a move to the Cotswolds just yet, there are plenty of places in the Capital that enjoy a sense of community and a strong ‘village’ vibe. where residents can experience the best of both worlds, their own little tranquil oasis in the midst of this bustling metropolis. What’s more, they can be transported from the rural idyll to their swanky high rise city office within minutes!

Quintessential London ‘villages’ are self-contained communities that offer a more relaxed pace of life not usually associated with conventional London living. The village appeal transcends postcodes, ranging from the wonderfully leafy environs of Kew nestled on the banks of the Thames to quaint Camden Passage in Islington with its colourful street stalls and thriving café culture; from picturesque Little Venice where you can watch the colourful houseboats drift lazily by to the popular Broadway market enclave in Hackney. Unsurprisingly this lifestyle is highly sought after with prices to match. Here’s our shortlist of our top London ‘villages’.

Hampstead

Historic Hampstead is one of London’s most sought after areas offering an authentic village experience that has attracted artists, literary figures and the rich and famous for centuries. Residents are well served by a delightful High Street with its cobbled alleyways, cafes and patisseries. Indulge in delicious pancakes from the local crepe seller or enjoy delightful summer picnics on  magnificent Hampstead Heath with its 800 acres of untamed parkland and impressive views over the London skyline. Residents have lived here for generations which contributes to the close-knit community vibe. More millionaires reside in Hampstead than in any other area in the UK and it has a healthy share of celebrity residents. As residential lettings agents based in Hampstead, we are privileged to be surrounded by some exquisite properties including this elegant five bedroom Victorian townhouse or this six bedroom family home.

Ealing

Known as the Queen of the suburbs and for good reason, Ealing offers residents a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere, thriving High Street, picturesque garden squares and a seamless blend of traditional and contemporary architecture. It has emerged as a rental property hotspot for professionals and young families keen to take advantage of the village ambience and excellent transport links that facilitate a quick journey into central London.

Kew

This sought after riverside neighbourhood enjoys a distinctive village feel and is the epitome of country living in London; ranging from new property developments on the North bank of the Thames including the sought-after Kew Bridge, Kew Bridge West and GWQ, to stately period homes arranged around leafy squares in the heart of Kew near the world famous Kew Gardens. If you find property in Richmond to be too expensive to rent, our Kew branch has plenty of options including this stylish two bedroom apartment at the riverside Kew Bridge development.

Central London

Central London has its fair share of places offering a village feel. Affluent Marylebone Village with its cosmopolitan High Street and excellent schools features an impressive heritage and there is a prevalent air of exclusivity that still manages to retain its village character. Residents literally have everything they need on their doorstep including traditional pubs, independent boutiques, shops and cafes. Nearby Brompton Cross in Chelsea is another hidden gem nestled between Hyde Park and Brompton Road with plenty of high end boutiques, French brasseries and independent retailers. If you are interested in properties to rent in this prime central London location, consider this contemporary two bedroom apartment conveniently situated nearby the attractions of the West End.

Highgate

Charming Highgate is certainly worthy of the ‘Village’ tag and residents benefit from a wealth of local businesses and everything you’d expect to find in a traditional village including the mandatory hairdressers, fishmongers, butchers and dry cleaners, and famed gastro pubs that all contribute to the wealth of character and individuality of the area. This recently refurbished six bedroom home provides ideal family sized accommodation close to Highgate Village.

Greenwich

With its rich maritime history, vibrant town centre and charming market square, it’s easy to see why the Royal Borough Greenwich has made it to this list. Property developments in this regeneration hotspot including New Capital Quay in the heart of Greenwich and the popular Kidbrooke Village that attract plenty of demand from professionals working in Canary Wharf.

If you would like to discover the attractions of London’s charming village communities, do contact us by email or give us a call on 020 7435 9681.