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Visit the ForumI went for a long walk around Woolwich Arsenal a couple of months ago...
I went for a long walk around Woolwich Arsenal a couple of months ago for the first time and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised with how nice it was and agree with a lot of the comments about the website summary not doing the area justice! It's a very hip area which has benefited from new investments in terms of residential developments which are surrounded by spots of cool independent cafes and restaurants. A lot of history here too with some museums and gorgeous looking buildings, not to mention the stunning apartments overlooking the Thames! Also with the opening of the Cross Rail this year it has significantly improved its connectivity into Central and West London. A good choice for first time buyers or definitely worth a weekend visit!
(New Reviewer)
Belsize Park is a gorgeous area, one of the prettiest in London. I lo...
Belsize Park is a gorgeous area, one of the prettiest in London. I love sitting outside Calici with a glass of wine on a warm day! Pure bliss. You can see why the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow have called the place home
(New Reviewer)
I love Chelsea and I hang out here a lot during the weekends but I’ve...
I love Chelsea and I hang out here a lot during the weekends but I’ve been reading a lot about increased instances of watch theft happening in broad daylight which is slightly concerning :(
(Reviewer)
I loved living here, found a cheap gem to live in among the beautiful...
I loved living here, found a cheap gem to live in among the beautiful streets. Amenities are pretty poor in the high street, as most shops are upmarket for day to day living. A stint living here was fun, with a short walk to Primrose hill and Baker Street, personally would enjoy somewhere with a more relaxed community feel.
(Reviewer)
And not even that cool anymore! Granted, it’s a happening spot. A lot...
And not even that cool anymore! Granted, it’s a happening spot. A lot of nightlife here if that’s your thing. But you can feel pretty out of place an unwelcome if you aren’t pretty much a hipster. And it’s not a pretty place. Much of it is downright ugly.
(Reviewer)
Enfield is a bit of a strange place. I went there the other day to mee...
Enfield is a bit of a strange place. I went there the other day to meet a friend who was doing some work there to have a few beers. It's not on the tube so I caught a bus over from the Southgate area. Having been in Southgate and waited for a bus there, anywhere would seem nice following that. So relativity was on my side. I got off the bus in what I believe must be the Enfield Chase area near the Old Wheatsheaf pub, which looked nice. I wandered down into Chase Gardens and it's quite a lovely little spot. Cross the road and there's another little green area and a small footbridge over a river. Really very picturesque and pleasant. On the other side of the bridge there are some very pretty cottage houses lining the river and it's almost like you're in Bruges or somewhere for a few moments. I started to ask myself, why has no-one ever spoken to me of Enfield before? This place is beautiful! Continue on down Church Road and around the corner, however, and the feeling that Enfield is beautiful vanishes even more quickly than it arrives. Once you step into the thick of the high street area you realise this is why no-one has ever commended the place. My friend finished work and I met him down the end on the Savoy Parade bit. We tried to find a pub somewhere that looked half decent but it was a pretty desperate and depressing search. In the end I suggested we head back up to the old wheatsheaf where we enjoyed a couple of decent pints and some good food.
(Reviewer)
Great pubs (Half Moon, Florence, Commercial, Prince Regent) and next t...
Great pubs (Half Moon, Florence, Commercial, Prince Regent) and next to the beautiful Brockwell Park. Lovely Sunday market and some nice independent shops
(Reviewer)
I'd never heard of Camberwell until I visited today. My first impressi...
I'd never heard of Camberwell until I visited today. My first impressions weren't great as it was difficult to get there and, walking up from Denmark Hill station, the place seemed a right mess. It did grow on me though as Camberwell Church Street was lively, with a selection of restaurants and pubs and some of the back streets were surprisingly pretty.
(Reviewer)
One of my favourite places in London for a day out on the weekend, hav...
One of my favourite places in London for a day out on the weekend, having lunch at one of its many first class Italian restaurants and walking through its pretty streets.
(Reviewer)
Great commuter links from Bromley South and Bromley North Stations. Th...
Great commuter links from Bromley South and Bromley North Stations. The high street and surrounding area have benefited from a number of recent developments including the St Mark's Sq development that includes a great multiplex cinema. The weekly park run in Norman Park is always well attended and great fun!
(New Reviewer)
You might expect it to be pretty dull around here, given where it is....
You might expect it to be pretty dull around here, given where it is. However, there are some pretty decent bars and restaurants in the Farringdon area, particularly around the old Smithfields Market. One of London's most famous clubs, Fabric, can be found here. To help dispel fears about the area being full of suits, Fabric won't even let you in if you're wearing one!
(Reviewer)
Harrow-on-the-hill is fancy, if a little odd. Harrow itself is just a...
Harrow-on-the-hill is fancy, if a little odd. Harrow itself is just a bit of a dump I’m afraid. Harrow on the hill tube serves Harrow well, with fast (a relative term) metropolitan line services into baker st and beyond and children trains into Marylebone. Just as well as that’s about the only reason you’d consider living here. A wander around the shopping area feels you leaving pretty depressed but essential if you’re considering making this place your home.
(Reviewer)
Another of London's famous locations where the elite sip their champag...
Another of London's famous locations where the elite sip their champagne and screw everyone else. There's a river of dirty money flowing through London and much of it settles here. Sure, it's very pretty and genteel. You can see why it's so popular amongst the oligarchs.
(Reviewer)
A great place for a tourist. The canal is great but on a summers day t...
A great place for a tourist. The canal is great but on a summers day to enjoy what it has to offer you would want to enjoy/tolerate queuing.
(Reviewer)
Recently voted by The Sunday Times as one of the best places to live i...
Recently voted by The Sunday Times as one of the best places to live in London, the town borders the Grand Union Canal and sits on the edge of Brent Lodge Park, known by the locals as "Bunny Park". The town has a village feel about it and contains lots of nice parks & pubs. My favourite part is Hanwell Village which is located south of the Uxbridge Road up to Elthorne Park. I would recommend a walk through Elthorne Park down to the canal on a late summers day to catch glimpse of the sunset and then pop into The Fox for an evening drink. If you are hungry, you could try the Golden Chippy which is known by the locals as the best fish and chips shop in Ealing.
(Reviewer)
I had heard bad things about the place and had never intended to visit...
I had heard bad things about the place and had never intended to visit! But the other day I was forced into doing so. The high street area is horrendous - traffic clogged and terrible architecture. Very little you'd want to see!
(Reviewer)
This area is worth a visit to for St Paul's Cathedral, which is truly...
This area is worth a visit to for St Paul's Cathedral, which is truly spectacular. Wander around both outside and in to get a sense of the scale of the place. Aside from that, the area is a bit lacking in interest. It's on the edge of London's financial district and can feel a bit officey. Having said that, the recently revamped Paternoster Square is quite pleasant. There's a string of restaurants in front of the cathedral but it's all a bit chainy. Personally I wouldn't come into London and eat at a Pizza Express. Head down into the backstreets behind the row of restaurants and the area is a bit more interesting. There are a couple of decent pubs there - the Rising Sun and Shaw's Booksellers. Wander down to the river and cross the Millennium footbridge to reach the Southbank area.
(Reviewer)
On a summers day I have really enjoyed the Common...looking forward to...
On a summers day I have really enjoyed the Common...looking forward to my first trip in the Lido there as well this summer!
(Reviewer)
I'm quite a fan of Clerkenwell. Despite being very central, particular...
I'm quite a fan of Clerkenwell. Despite being very central, particularly to the Farringdon and City sort of areas, it's pretty quiet and civilised. Perhaps it's quiet due to the lack of a tube station... but then it really isn't far to Farringdon or Angel. Period houses line pretty streets and there are some cracking historic pubs. Clerkenwell is also home to the Sadler Wells Theatre
(Reviewer)
Being born and raised in Ealing Broadway (W5) I had always considered...
Being born and raised in Ealing Broadway (W5) I had always considered West Ealing to be a little rough around the edges and the not so nice part of Ealing, however it has certainly been growing on me as of late. With the new cross rail station completed last year improving connectivity into Central London, investment in new residential developments and a great choice of highly rated international restaurants on the High Street I would consider moving here to get better value for my money compared to overpriced Ealing Broadway!
(Reviewer)
Pinner is an uxpectedly pretty little place just north of Harrow. The...
Pinner is an uxpectedly pretty little place just north of Harrow. The High Street area especially, with the old Queen's Head, is really quite lovely! Pinner could hardly be described as a happening place and it's a little far out (zone 5)? Sitting on the met line into town every day can feel a bit tedious it has to be said. So maybe it's a suburb for the slightly older crowd. But an area that's definitely worth considering if you're making that move away from more central London....
(Reviewer)
Marylebone, centered around "Marylebone Village", is a central London...
Marylebone, centered around "Marylebone Village", is a central London area popular amongst tourists from overseas and also Londoners out to enjoy an evening out or a Saturday of shopping. Tourists visit for attractions such as Madame Tussauds and the Wallace Collection. Believe it or not you'll also sometimes see people queueing outside the Sherlock Holmes Museum (he lived on Baker Street...). Well worth wandering up that way for a pint at the Volunteer pub ( www.thevolunteernw1.co.uk ). Marylebone is an area that's easy to get to with a selection of tube stations located in and around and also Marylebone Train station, which is served by Chiltern trains from North-West London and Buckinghamshire. Despite it being touristy, there are some other decent pubs to be enjoyed such as the Prince Regent on Marylebone High Street or the Kings Head on Westmoreland Street which can actually feel nice and quiet and out of the way. Yes, it's upmarket central London and a pint, or a meal, will cost you a bit. I imagine living there wouldn't be cheap, in fact it's probably out of the question for the vast majority of us. Even studio flats here go for £600k+ and if you fancy one of those pretty houses on somewhere like Devonshire Mews then you'd likely have to come up with a few million. Being so central it's pretty built up and some might find it a bit claustrophobic. It's not the greenest of areas in itself but it is right by Regent's Park, which is pretty wonderful, with it's wide open spaces, boating lake and the beautiful inner circle with the amazing Regent's Park open are theatre. Some people are suprised to discover that the area actually has a pretty high crime rate. In fact for 2021 Westminser borough had the highest number of recorded crimes of any London borough, by quite some margin. If you're interested, stats from the Met Police can be viewed here ( www.police.uk/pu/your-area/metropolitan-police-service/performance/compare-your-area ). You can see that, almost regardless of the type of crime, Westminster had the highest number recorded of any borough. This is true despite Westminster being a smaller area and having a smaller population than most other London boroughs. Marylebone might not be the main hotspot within Westminster for crime - you're looking at Oxford Circus, Soho, Piccadilly - but it does seem to have it's share, at least according to the stats on police recorded crimes. It's funny though, I can't say I've ever felt unsafe walking around the area, even late at night. There are other areas of London, not to name names, where I wouldn't be able to say the same. The starkest figures for Westminster, relative to other boroughs, seem to be for "Theft from the person", which is perhaps plausible. If someone is to be pickpocketed, is it most likely to be in central London shopping areas? Probably. But Westminster is also far worse than elsewhere for robbery, which I can't say I would have guessed at. I wonder whether it's more likely to be reported by tourists who can make a claim on their travel insurance, whereas perhaps Londoners in more residential locations just don't bother.
(Reviewer)
Fitzrovia isn't the most well known part of the city. It's heavily ove...
Fitzrovia isn't the most well known part of the city. It's heavily overshadowed by Soho, it's famous and much more popular neighbour to the south. Personally, however, I love Fitzrovia and find it to be the most enjoyable part of central London. The streets are lined with grand mansion blocks and stucco-fronted Georgian town houses. There are lovely quiet spots to while away the afternoon, such as Fitzroy Square. Wander the streets and you'll find great restaurants such as the Italian Conchiglia ( www.conchigliaitalian.co.uk ) on Great Titchfield Street. I'd also highly recommend a drink at the beautifully stylish Wigmore ( www.the-wigmore.co.uk ), attached to the Langham hotel.
(Reviewer)
I used to work on High Street Ken for over 20 years! Sold my flat here...
I used to work on High Street Ken for over 20 years! Sold my flat here 30 years ago.. let's just say the biggest mistake I've ever made :)
(Reviewer)
Is it a nice place to live?
Is it a nice place to live?
(Reviewer)
Growing up as a kid around the area 20 years ago I remember Green...
Growing up as a kid around the area 20 years ago I remember Greenfords schools having “bad reputations” ..I.e. cardinal wiseman.. does anyone know if this is still the case? I had heard there’s been a lot of investment in the area and in the schools in particular so it would be good to hear peoples views on it? Thanks
(Reviewer)
Hi everyone, do any locals have any thoughts on the above? I've r...
Hi everyone, do any locals have any thoughts on the above? I've read this is one of the major drawbacks of living in Richmond and that it can be quite bad in parts. I have always imagined my dream house being in Richmond but not sure it's worth the money if it really is as bad as they say it is. Of course the estate agents tell you it's not that bad but it would be good to hear from locals... Thanks
(New Reviewer)
Can anyone recommend some good restaurants in E&C? I've heard lot...
Can anyone recommend some good restaurants in E&C? I've heard lots of new places have opened
(Reviewer)
This site describes Woolwich as being "scruffy and deprived". Whi...
This site describes Woolwich as being "scruffy and deprived". While that is certainly the case in some parts, it's also one of the most historic and beautiful parts of South London. The area was the former site of one of the biggest munitions factories in the UK and is home to to several cool pubs including the Dial Arch, The Guard House and the Taproom, part of the Hop Stuff Brewery, some excellent cafes and the popular Royal Arsenal Farmers' Market. Greenwich Council have also announced a £21 million investment to help deliver improvements throughout Woolwich. Plans also include a new Market Pavilion, restoring shop fronts, enhancements to the historic Royal Arsenal Gatehouse and space for events. They've also launched the popular PUNCHDRUNK theatre experience which is drawing many crowds to the area. With access into Central London via the Uberboat services, as well as the upcoming Crossrail, Woolwich Arsenal will become one of the most in demand areas to live over the next few years. I'd love other people thoughts and opinions of the area. I've lived here for four years and have only seen development. Many thanks, Peter Albert Numpty
(New member)
I've been looking at a flat to rent in Camberwell, which looks gr...
I've been looking at a flat to rent in Camberwell, which looks great for my budget. My concern is transport. Do locals use Oval tube station? How does it feel hiking up to that on a daily basis? What about Denmark Hill or Loughborough Junction?
(Reviewer)
Anyone know when the new Picture house cinema is opening? It’s be...
Anyone know when the new Picture house cinema is opening? It’s been under construction for the last 10 years!?
(Reviewer)
West Ealing is really a melting point of people and cultures. A s...
West Ealing is really a melting point of people and cultures. A short walk on its high street and you are bound to come across dozens of different languages, dialects and people! West Ealing's rich multiculturalism is personified in its ridiculous choice of amazing restaurants! From Greek to Indian to Persian, it is all there! My favourite is probably the legendary Persian Palace. I would go as far as saying that pound for pound it is the best restaurant in West London. You really get the most buck for your bang! Quality food, big portions, great ambience and good service. Highly recommend. What is your favourite restaurant in West Ealing and any recommendations?
(Reviewer)
I have been told there are great local restaurants in this area,...
I have been told there are great local restaurants in this area, does anyone have the local knowledge of the gems...in particular curry!?
(Reviewer)
Croydon seems to have a terrible reputation. Is it as bad as eve...
Croydon seems to have a terrible reputation. Is it as bad as everyone says it is?
(Reviewer)
Does anyone now if this is a good and safe area to live for a fam...
Does anyone now if this is a good and safe area to live for a family with 2 primary school aged kids? Any advice is appreciated
(Reviewer)
Back in the 80s and 90s growing up as a kid in West London it was...
Back in the 80s and 90s growing up as a kid in West London it was always a treat venturing into High Street Kensington (HSK) with my parents (pretty sure I hold the record for consecutive trips to MacDonald's on HSK on a Saturday between 1987 and 1990!). There was something magical about the place, not as commercial as Oxford Street and not as pretentious as somewhere like Kings Road. You were in London but felt you could have been in Paris or Milan, it was an amazing place for people watching and had the benefit of having Hyde Park on its doorstep as well. In actual fact, a lot of Persians made Kensington their homes post the Revolution because High Street Kensington looked like and represented a sort of class and wealth they often associated with their home land before things went tits up. HSK had a mix of everything quintessential British mixed with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flare. It had the perfect blend. In it's heyday it was like London's Rodeo Drive. HSK had its own charm and unique quality. It also had the iconic Odeon Cinemas which were a symbol of HSK for many years. Unfortunately, these cinemas were turned into flats circa 5 years ago and you could argue that this is the moment it's star really started to fade. I am afraid to say, in my opinion, HSK seems to be somewhat of a 'has been' shopping spot and perhaps past its glory days. There are still numerous shops and restaurants along the street but the 'wow' factor of yesteryear has diminished. There are various reasons for this : 1) Pandemic, some shops have shut down simply because of a lack of footfall. 2) The rise of on-line shopping. The amazon's of this world have minimised the need to go out and buy from your local shop. 3) Competition. Westfield is just down the road and has everything HSK can offer but under one roof. Having said all that, it may never reach the heights of the 80s/90s but it is not all doom and gloom. There are a lot of fabulous side streets (one particular street hosted infamous after parties - think a modern Studio 54 on steroids) with unbelievable architecture from the days when England ruled the seas and the world. HSK also offers The New Design Museum which is one of the best museum shops in the UK. Close to Holland Park and Leighton House, and there is a tube station and frequent buses, so the area does still have a lot of plus points. Will it ever go back to its glory years? Probably not. Does it still stand tall against other London shopping High Streets and still worth visiting? Yes. It may not blow you away but it still has a lot to offer and the MacDonald's still stands. Who knows, one day someone could beat my record :-) What are your views on HSK? How does it compare to other notable London shopping High Street's?
(Reviewer)
What do people think? Richmond Park or Hampstead Heath? Or neit...
What do people think? Richmond Park or Hampstead Heath? Or neither?
(Reviewer)
London has many beautiful and great places to live in. However, I...
London has many beautiful and great places to live in. However, I think Wimbledon is sometimes overlooked when having 'best place to live in London' discussions. The first thing that stands out about Wimbledon is it's village-style living. It offers a unique feel of almost living in the countryside yet being part of a world class city. In a post-pandemic world, many have wanted bigger space and to be closer to nature/wildlife, especially those with children. Wimbledon has all of that and more. A child-friendly atmosphere, living in Wimbledon you get the feeling of being part of a community where residents all know each other which is rare in London in 2022 where usually you have more chance of predicting the lottery than knowing the first names of your nearest 3 neighbours! Living in Wimbledon is good for the soul. You have easy access to various open spaces that provide the perfect backdrop for an afternoon stroll or the ideal place for a picnic with family and friends. You may think what makes village life in Wimbledon so appealing? Firstly, you cannot say the same about many London boroughs. Traditionally, as great as village life can be there are certain cases where it isn’t feasible; for example, when it comes to commuting, village’s often lack quick or easy travel connections. This is what makes village-style living in Wimbledon so appealing; having all of the aspects of ordinary village life right in the capital, ideal for those wanting easy access across London. In short, living in Wimbledon gives residents the opportunity to be able to escape/avoid London's hustle and bustle without worrying about the long commute. Therefore, you can even maintain your job as well as social life and transport links into the City without compromise! It’s not often that horse riding around Wimbledon Common, moments from your doorstep, can be found in London. It gives residents the best of both worlds with Wimbledon offering some of the best schools around, such as King’s College School, which was dubbed ‘100% excellent’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate. Living in a community that has village-like qualities as well as excellent local schools can also contribute to people relocating. I highly recommend living in Wimbledon, one of the most underrated places in London. What are your thoughts about Wimbledon?
(Reviewer)
Which is the best pub in East Dulwich? I'm looking to spend a qu...
Which is the best pub in East Dulwich? I'm looking to spend a quality afternoon in a classic handsome old boozer. I'd like to enjoy some top cask ales. Not so concerned re food. Thank you!
(Reviewer)
Kensington and Chelsea
Located in between its fellow upmarket neighbours..
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