When people from outside London think about the capital city of the United Kingdom, they could be forgiven for thinking that it is merely a one large town. However, London is divided into smaller towns known as boroughs and each of them has its quirks and reputation.
People who live in London are often very loyal to the borough in which they grew up and many are reluctant to leave and set up home in a different town.
But while this may be the case, every borough of this incredible city has a lot to offer and depending on your way of life, your budget and of course, your personal preference, you may fall in love with any one of these beautiful London towns.
In this guide, we will be providing you with all the information you will need about each of the boroughs and what you can expect from them.
Hackney
Hackney is an area of London that attracts people from all walks of life. One of the main attractions to the area is the diverse nightlife and plentiful selection of places to eat, drink and be merry.
This appeal stretches far and wide with people from all over the world coming here purely for entertainment.
However, on the other side, Hackney is also a place where the business is booming and as such, many professionals come here to set up home, whether this is for working in the immediate area or for commuting to other parts of the city.
What is most interesting about Hackney is that it is always buzzing with activity. This is one of the best towns in London for young people and those with a creative flair thanks to the artsy scene here. High-end fashion and a quirkier style come together in an infusion that is unique to the area.
Outside of Central London, you might be hard-pushed to find some of the more respectable Michelin starred restaurants but in recent years, many restaurateurs have come to Hackney thanks to the massive appeal to people from around the world.
If you want to experience some fine cuisine, Hackney might be the place to do it. With so much going on here and plenty of cultural diversity, Hackney is now the 12th most expensive place in London to live.
However, that doesn’t stop families from coming here since the area also houses several impressive schools such as the Cardinal Pole Roman Catholic Secondary School.
Read also: The Greatest City in the World: What is London famous for?
Aldersbrook
If you want to come to London but experience a slower pace of life, you could be forgiven for thinking that this wouldn’t be possible. However, Aldersbrook in Redbridge takes that opinion and throws it out of the water.
This is an area that has an incredibly short commute by train into the city, at just twenty minutes, but boasts some of the most impressive green spaces in the capital.
It is located on the outer edges of the city and as such, benefits from a more sleepy way of life.
Having the best of both worlds, you might think that this was one of the most affluent towns in London.
On the contrary, Aldersbrook, Redbridge is incredibly affordable and one of the cheapest places to buy in London with house prices still sitting very much below half a million.
This is a convenient borough to live in with plenty of high street chains like M&S, New Look, Waitrose, River Island, and Tesco as well as a few select places to eat.
Transport into the city, as we mentioned is plentiful and the new Crossrail is going to arrive soon. There are leisure facilities and several excellent schools.
However, if you are visiting for the weekend, don’t expect to be greeted by the bright lights that other towns in London offer. Instead, Redbridge is known as the ‘leafy borough’ and as such is one of the best towns in London for walking.
If you like the outdoor life, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are more green spaces here than anywhere else in London. Natural bodies of water and plenty of picnic areas make this an ideal weekend getaway in the middle of summer.
Barking Town
The borough of Barking and Dagenham lies in East London around nine miles from the city center. It comprises almost 1100 streets and is home to more than 211,000 inhabitants.
If you’re a history buff, this could be the perfect location for you since the area is famed for its ruined abbey which dates to the year 666. But this is more than just a historic center, the abbey also plays host to an annual carnival which is one of the highlights of the calendar in this part of London.
However, in 2015, Barking and Dagenham received the unfortunate title of the most burgled area of London.’ London does tend to have a higher crime rate than other parts of the UK but this is true of any large city.
Overall, Barking Town is a pleasant area and despite the previous title, Barking and Dagenham are now ranked as one of the 10 safest boroughs.
For prospective buyers, the average house price is around £320,000 which is much lower than the London average. Furthermore, there are some excellent schools here and the transport links to the city centre are second to none with two main A roads running directly into central London.
Golder Green
If you are looking for a London town that has a rather quirky claim to fame then the borough of Barnet is certain to fulfill that requirement. This borough is home to the most trees of all the towns in London. Barnet can also lay claim to playing host to the oldest tree in London which is known as the Totteridge Yew.
With a huge range of green spaces, you could be forgiven for thinking that Barnet is more of woodland than a town, but the area certainly has a lot more to offer. Golders Green is a place filled with plenty to do and a lot of character and culture.
Golders Green is a very rich area of London and this is reflected in the house prices which sit nearer to £700,000 on average. However, purchasing a property here does come with many benefits including a ridiculously low crime rate and a selection of wonderful schools.
If it is retail therapy you are looking for, you will be hard-pushed to find many places outside of Central London that are quite as diverse as this. In the 1960s, Brent Cross Shopping Centre was opened where there are shops for all tastes and all budgets.
The area is also excellent for those with a taste for all things culinary, but not so much in terms of restaurants, although there are a few if you know where to look, but more in terms of home cooking.
Barnet has one of the best fish markets in the South of England and many independent shops are ideal for sourcing locally produced goods.
If you are looking for an eclectic mix of the city life with a spattering of more laid-back notes then Golders Green is a great place to come and visit.
The City of London
If you want to get in on the heart of the action, where better to go than the chic metropolis that is the City of London? Filled with old and buildings, smart storefronts, and some of the world most famous financial institutions, the City of London is everything for those who enjoy a trend lifestyle.
But that is certainly not to say that this is the city that never sleeps; there are plenty of nooks where you can find a moment of peace. Take the beautiful architecture of St Paul’s Cathedral, for example.
While this area will be bustling during the week, once the commuters return home, there are only 10,000 permanent residents which surprisingly makes the City of London the second least populated borough in the UK.
You’d be looking at parting with a pretty penny to call this townhome, with the most luxurious homes selling more than £10 million. Although for a small, one-bedroom studio, you might only need to pay around £500,00.
The City of London is one of the best towns in London for tourists looking to experience the culture as there are several museums and cultural exhibitions here including the Barbican Centre and The Museum of London.
However, the area might not be as beneficial for families with children since there is only one school here, and that is a primary, although it does have an outstanding Ofsted rating.
Older children will typically have to enroll in one of the secondary schools outside of the borough. Despite being at the centre of the capital, this is a relatively safe area to live with most crimes being financial-based.
East Wickham
With its location, 14 miles south of the centre of London and its picturesque buildings and views across the Thames river, one could be forgiven for thinking that East Wickham in Bexley was a very expensive place to set up home.
However, on the contrary, this area is the second most affordable in terms of house prices, which sit, on average at just £380,000. This is a wonderful family town which is recognised as being the second safest in London.
There are lots of things to do here for families including several outstanding places to eat and plenty of green spaces such as Danson park, which is the largest of more than 100 in Bexley, making this one of the best towns in London for walking and an outdoor lifestyle.
Read more: Living in London: Why Does Everyone Want to Live in London?
Queensbury
Located in the North West of the capital, Queensbury in Brent is one of the most up-and-coming areas for both residents, tourists, and prospective buyers.
There have been many recent renovations in the area and these are set to continue but one of the most interesting things about Queensbury is that it is one of the most popular towns in London for those with a taste for the sport.
There are several excellent gyms including major international chains and 14 outdoor gyms which are spread throughout the area.
This is a slightly pricier town with house prices averaging more than half a million which makes this more expensive for buyers than some of the most famous towns in London like Lewisham.
If you’re in the city for a bit of retail therapy, then you won’t be left disappointed since Brent is home to a variety of shops including Gap, Levi’s IKEA, and the incredible Brent Cross Shopping Centre located just across the border in Barnet.
Wimbledon
While the name Merton may not ring any initial bells in your mind, once you realise that this London town is the home to the world-famous Wimbledon tennis tournament, you may suddenly hear that familiar tinkling of recognition.
This sporting event in the neighbouring area brings in tourists in their droves each year. With such an interest from an international standpoint, the borough has had to move with the time and ensure that it offers a lot to keep visitors interested. It has succeeded at this.
There are lots of places to eat and drink, many of which are very highly acclaimed. There are also some wonderful bars here for those who like to sample the local nightlife. These venues likely play a role in the fact that Merton has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the whole of London.
While the area does get busy during tennis season, Wimbledon is generally a quiet and tranquil place to live or visit.
There is a lot of outdoor space for walking or simply enjoying the local scenery and this makes the area very popular with retirees as well as young families.
But what makes this even more of a draw for these groups of people is that Merton has one of the lowest crime rates in the city as well as being home to several very respectable schools.
Hayes
One of the most notable things about Bromley is that it was once the home to one of the most famous singers of recent times; David Bowie. But aside from this claim to fame, Bromley has a lot more to offer.
This is one of the quieter boroughs and is perfect for young families or those at the other end of life, in retirement who want to enjoy a little tranquillity with easy access to the city. There is a wealth of cafes here and this is one of the main draws of the area.
On top of this, many parts of the town have stunning countryside views thanks to its location on the outskirts of the city.
Visitors to London would do well to book a few day stay in Hayes in Bromley to get away from the hustle and bustle of the inner city.
There are plenty of things to do here such as a cinema, lots of places to eat, a plethora of green spaces and a nice selection of shops making this one of the best towns in London for the weekend.
House prices are just over £500,000 on average and the unemployment rate here is the lowest in the capital. There are some high acclaimed schools and a lot of things for children including theatre classes at the Churchill Theatre.
Primrose Hill
Camden is potentially one of the most well-recognized boroughs in central London and it is buzzing with life. It attracts many tourists every year but is also an ideal place to call home with lots for residents to do.
Primrose Hill is one of the best towns in London for the weekend since there are so many places to eat and drink; from cool bars filled with live music to high-end restaurants, there is something for every taste.
Primrose Hill in Camden is an incredibly affluent area and one of the richest towns in London. This draws in a lot of wealthy families who come here for the highly acclaimed schools.
According to Ofsted, as of 2017, 100% of the educational facilities in Camden were ranked as good or above. But if you are planning to relocate here, you will need around £1 million for an average-priced home.
But perhaps the most famous part of Camden is its market located by the Regent Canal. Here you will find a treasure trove of wonders including unique fashion, Gothic gifts, beautiful textiles and so much more at over 1000 shops and stalls.
Coombe
Croydon, the borough in which Coombe lies, is currently undergoing a multi-million-pound regeneration which could see it set to become the third city in London; that’s an impressive claim to fame. But its location, on the edge of Surrey, gives it the perfect contrast between urban and rural life.
But don’t be fooled into thinking that this is an area that doesn’t pack a punch, far from it, Croydon is one of the most important business hubs in London and attracts many people working both in the main city and from Croydon itself.
Despite being a centre for business, this borough is the cheapest town in London to live making it perfect for families who are just moving to the capital. The average house price here sits a little below £400,000.
London is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world and Coombe is a fine example of how various communities can come together and find a home in one location.
The area has huge Jamaican and Indian communities and this is reflected in the superb range of places to eat and shop, many of which are inspired by these cultures.
This is one of the most popular towns in London for its amenities for its residents. There are many supermarkets, gyms, golf clubs, and much more which make living here incredibly convenient.
With the beautiful links to the rural areas outside of central London, Croydon also boasts being one of the best towns in London for walking.
Read more: Small Towns in London that are Villages
Notting Hill
When you think of an affluent suburb in London, Kensington and Chelsea will often spring to mind, and while this is one of the richest areas in London, the borough has much more to offer than just a fancy lifestyle.
Notting Hill is one of the most sought-after locations in the city. Home to Kensington Palace, one of the most notable royal residences, many people head here for a taste of the high life, but you will also find lower crime rates than many central areas and plenty to see and do.
For a cultural experience here, why not head to the National History Museum which is one of the most well-renowned museums of its type in the world.
Some of the most beautiful green spaces in London can be found in this borough making it one of the best towns in London for walking.
Kensington Gardens and Holland Park are some of the more notable areas and while there are fewer green areas here than other boroughs, those that are, are breath-taking. If you’re into nature then the annual Chelsea Flower Show is sure to catch your attention.
For families looking to move to the area, the average house price comes in at a cool £2 million but this is a small price to pay for access to some of the most prestigious schools in the country.
With top-class education facilities from pre-school to university, Kensington and Chelsea is an area for the high-achieving child.
Retail therapy couldn’t be more pleasing than in this borough thanks to the array of high-end and designer boutiques that are scattered among the gorgeous residential dwellings.
Also, don’t forget that the Queen herself does her grocery shopping at Partridges in Kensington and Chelsea; well, someone does it for her.
Acton
If you are visiting the UK to discover more about some of the iconic TV and art that the country has produced then your trip would not be complete without a visit to Ealing.
This is the best London town for tourists looking to indulge in the British art scene, primarily because it is home to the oldest TV studio on the planet. Here, such renowned shows as Monty Python and Doctor Who have been filmed.
There is also a good selection of theatres for anyone wanting to catch a live show but alongside the entertainment itself, many of these buildings are acclaimed for their beautiful architecture.
Acton in Ealing is a great location for those working in the city centre who want somewhere with a more family-oriented lifestyle. This is a very culturally diverse town with various communities living happily with one another and sharing in each other’s food, music, and way of life.
The area is also popular with families since it has one of the highest populations of outstanding schools, as rated by Ofsted. Furthermore, this is one of the safest neighbourhoods in London.
If you like a good amount of green space, Ealing park is potentially the most well-known and largest park in the area, covering an impressive 47 acres. This is another reason that so many families favour the area.
However, the park is also a huge draw for visitors since there are many fairs and events throughout the annual calendar.
Stratford
One of the biggest draws of Stratford in Newham is how easy it is to commute into the city centre. Here, things are a little quieter, a little less expensive but one has easy access and a wealth of things to keep them entertained. It is for this reason that so many professionals are coming to live in this London borough.
Newham saw an incredible overhaul back in 2012 as it was the heart of the London Olympics; a massive turning point for an area that went largely unnoticed before this. This meant that a lot more jobs became available and people arrived in droves.
The area has had a long sporting history, with one of the most famous clubs in London, West Ham, being located here. But since 2012, this sporting reputation has grown even more.
However, there is far more to Newham than just sport, the area is renowned for its vast array of retailers.
If you’re keen to go on a London shopping spree, then you would be hard-pushed to find anywhere else quite like this. The area is home to the largest shopping mall in Europe, and that is quite the claim to fame.
If you are looking to move to London without the hefty price tag then Newham is one of the most favourable areas with house prices coming in way below £400,000; perfect for those just getting on to the property ladder.
With the quick commute, this is also a renter’s paradise so if you are looking to invest in the rental market, Stratford, Newham should be high on your list.
For those visiting the city, you won’t be short of things to see here since Newham is home to the Stratford Circus Arts Centre, several cinemas showing films from a variety of cultures, and the Newham City Farm which is great for younger visitors.
What’s more, Newham is great for foodies with an incredible selection of places to eat including some of the most well-loved high street names like Wagamama and Nandos. If your palette demands something a little more refined, many independent eateries span a wide range of cuisines.
Enfield
Enfield sits at the most Northerly point of London and so while it may not be one of the best towns in London for tourists, it is certainly an extremely popular choice for new buyers and families.
It has brilliant transport links into the city centre including the M25 and a 30-minute train link to Liverpool Street Station.
There are some very picturesque areas of Enfield including Palmers green and some of the most well-loved for property buyers are here as well as in Grange Park, Southgate, and Oakwood where house prices come in around £420,000 making this one of the most affordable towns in London.
Enfield is also home to plenty of green spaces, another reason that it makes a wonderful location for families with children and parents that need a location suitable for commuting into the city. The Capel Manor boasts 30 acres of beautiful gardens, the ideal location for getting back to nature.
If arts and culture are more your things then the area plays host to several dances, music, and theatrical events at the Chicken Shed theatre.
There are also several gyms and sports facilities including a branch of Go Ape which is great for children and big kids alike.
Chiswick
If you do not know much about London, you could be forgiven for having never heard of this borough, however, Hounslow has much to offer its residents and anyone who comes to stay here and the town of Chiswick may be more recognizable to you.
If it is the regality you are looking for, then your search will likely end in the borough of Hounslow since this is home to many beautiful stately homes and a wealth of green spaces.
Although Hounslow sounds as though it is a world away from the bright lights of the main city, getting into central London couldn’t be easier thanks to some incredible transport links.
Despite lying next to Richmond, which is one of the most expensive places in London to purchase a home, Chiswick has an average house price of just £470,000 which makes it an affordable place to live.
This could be owing to the plane noise from neighbouring Hillingdon’s Heathrow airport but when you consider that almost half of the population here comes from abroad, that speaks volumes about how desirable the location is.
You won’t be lost for things to do when visiting Hounslow since the town is home to a plethora of entertainment venues including the famous Paul Robeson theatre where you will find a multitude of shows, a dance studio, and a cozy bar.
Furthermore, owing to the thriving Indian community, Asian restaurants can be found here in their numbers. Where food is concerned, if Indian cuisine doesn’t tempt you, you will also find a range of other eateries including British, Turkish, and Italian restaurants.
Harrow on The Hill
In the late 1500s, the Harrow School was founded and it has since become one of the most prestigious schools in the country. This boys’ school has seen many notable students pass through its doors, including the ex-British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill.
That school and many other reputable educational facilities in Harrow are what make the area so appealing to families.
You might be forgiven for thinking that this means that the area is costly, but quite the opposite is true with the average house price in Harrow resting at below half a million pounds.
In terms of being somewhere for varying cultures, Harrow is home to the largest Indian community in London with more than 25% of its residents belonging to it.
This means that there are a lot of Indian restaurants that are arguably some of the best in the country. It is a quiet area of London and is popular with people who want to get away from the noise and bright lights of the inner city.
Harrow is one of the best towns in London for the weekend, perhaps a quiet romantic getaway or a short break with friends.
There isn’t a huge amount to do when compared to other boroughs but if it is peace you seek, you will find it here. There are a cinema and plenty of little shops and sports facilities such as a swimming pool and an excellent golf club.
Hammersmith
Hammersmith and Fulham is a borough that is famed for many things but primarily, the lifestyle here. This is an area that is known for its excellent schools and rows of terraced houses that make the town a huge draw for young families.
But aside from being an excellent residential locale, Hammersmith has some impressive business links. The area is home to some of the British bases for some of the most respectable and successful global companies including the BBC, L’Oréal, and Disney, to namedrop a few. If you have a career in any of these areas, Hammersmith might be the place to propel this.
Moreover, this West London borough is also extremely famous for its entertainment industry. The most well-recognized location is the Hammersmith Apollo, a theatre where many famous names have come to perform.
Furthermore, there are plenty of sporting entertainment thanks to the boroughs two high-achieving football clubs; Fulham FC and Chelsea FC.
Hammersmith and Fulham is probably one of the best towns in London for tourists since there is such a diverse range of things to see and do here. Most notably, the area is home to an impressive selection of dining venues.
There are all the high-street favourites along with many haute-cuisine eateries for the more discerning palette.
Shopping is a delight here with some of the most exclusive names in fashion having boutiques in the area. Fashion houses like Louis Vuitton and Gucci have stores here as well as more affordable stores like Accessorize and Sweaty Betty.
For the privilege of living in Hammersmith and Fulham, you will be looking at just shy of the million-pound mark for the average home. But with so many outstanding schools, green areas, and things to do, it is a worthy investment.
Uxbridge
For anyone who wants to use London as a base for worldwide travel, the world is literally at your fingertips. This is the best town in London for airports since it is the home to the UK’s largest, Heathrow.
From here, you can access every corner of the world and with Uxbridge in Hillingdon being one of the most affordable locations in the capital, you can dedicate more of your salary to travel. That being said, with such a diverse and interesting town right on your doorstep, you may be tempted to stay here.
What’s more, this is a London town that is home to a variety of very good schools and as such, many young families are attracted to the area. On top of this, Uxbridge has been presented with awards for its green spaces every year for almost 20 years. It is also one of the safer areas of London.
Hillingdon is one of the more cultural areas of London and is home to a significant Indian community. This is demonstrated in the fantastic array of Asian eateries, some of which come very highly acclaimed including the Sipson Tandoori.
Where British culture is concerned, the area has plenty to offer. The town is home to several theatres as well as the London Transport Museum where Herbie the Beetle can be found.
Woolwich
The Royal Borough of Greenwich, or simply Greenwich as it is commonly known is one of the most famous towns in London, if only for its name. This is one of the largest boroughs and is split into two sides; East and West, although not officially.
With cobbled walkways, rural views and plenty of cozy cafes and places to eat, Woolwich in Greenwich often appeals to retired couples, families, and those in search of a slower pace of life.
The area sits on the Southern side of the Thames meaning that it escapes the hustle and bustle that a lot of the other London boroughs experience but this does not mean that Woolwich doesn’t have a lot to offer.
One of the most notable things about this area is the incredible market where visitors and residents can spend hours exploring antiques and other interesting items. All of this is set alongside the old-world streets that are lined with boutiques and unique little stores.
There are lots of places to grab a bite to eat and with this being one of the more affluent suburbs, many of these are high-end eateries but there is also a good selection of day times cafes. This makes Woolwich one of the best towns in London for afternoon tea; a true English tradition that must be experienced.
While there are not too many late-night venues in the area, Greenwich is home to the o2 arena which plays host to hundreds of notable entertainment events every year.
Furthermore, the Cutty Sark and the National Maritime Museum are some of the most popular venues; Greenwich is certainly one of the best towns in London with attractions.
You could be forgiven for thinking that with the slower pace of life, beautiful scenery, entertainment, and dining, Greenwich would be up there with some of the richest areas in London. On the contrary, Greenwich is a relatively affordable place to live with the average house price sitting around half a million.
Read also: Villages in London: Why Greenwich is the Best Area to Live in London
Tottenham
One of the most attractive things about Tottenham in Haringey is that the transport links into the main city are among some of the quickest in London.
But this doesn’t mean that you compromise on other things since this is a borough that can lay claim to many things including beautiful views over green spaces, a variety of cultures, and some of the best eateries in the British Capital.
If you like your food served with a dollop of history and a splash of fear then where better to go than The Flask in Highgate which is one of the oldest gastropubs in the area. What’s more, there is said to be a resident ghost who has haunted the premises for more than 400 years!
Tottenham in Haringey is home to many cultures but one of the most prominent are the Turkish people. This is great news for anyone who loves Turkish cuisine since there are plenty of opportunities to try this delicious food.
Entertainment here is second to none with Finsbury Park being one of the most renowned locations in London for music thanks to the annual Wireless Festival. Many famous names have performed here including Jimi Hendrix.
Tottenham is one of the best towns in London for families and this is for many reasons. Primarily, this is a very safe borough to live with crime rates have fallen significantly over the last few years.
Furthermore, more than 25% of this area is green space, giving young people a lot of chances for exercise and recreation. While there have been some issues with the standard of education here in recent years, this is now on the rise.
Mayfair
Westminster is a city all its own and is one of the most popular London boroughs for tourists owing to the many famous buildings here, including the House of Commons.
Mayfair is just one of the many incredible towns here. The architecture here is stunning and this is a huge draw for visitors.
The area is also home to many affluent houses and expensive shops, making this one of the richest towns in London. Living here will indeed come with a high price tag with homes selling more than £1.4 million, on average. However, you will be treated to the true flavour of this city and cultural diversity that is unrivaled.
But while Mayfair, Westminster is in the heart of the city, it is not short on green spaces with Hyde Park and Regent’s Park being two of the most famous outdoor locations in London.
If you’re in the city for shopping and dining, Westminster is undoubtedly a place you will want to visit. Mayfair and Soho have some of the most high-end restaurants in all of London and the area boasts some of the most well-known designer names in fashion.
For an evening out, why not visit the Royal Opera House where you’ll not only find plenty of entertainment in the form of shows but good food and excellent wine.
The area is home to the world-famous Buckingham Palace and Big Ben, both of which draw in more tourists than anywhere else in London. The town is brimming with people from all over the world, what a way to finish off our tour of the Greatest City in The World!
Upminster
Havering is known to be one of the greenest boroughs in London and makes for a very scenic getaway for those looking to get out of the main city, particularly in Upminster.
The pace of life here is much slower than some of the other boroughs and those that live here need to be extremely well-off since this is one of the richest areas in London, with house prices even higher than Barking and Dagenham.
However, this is a small price to pay when you think about the number of excellent schools in the area and the wealth of activities that keep residents and visitors entertained.
There are some wonderful Turkish and Indian restaurants here as well a very good selection of some of the country’s most well-loved high street shops for a spot of retail therapy.
In terms of culture, however, Havering is a little lacking although this is set to change thanks to a new council initiative encouraging cultural diversity.
There are some notable places of cultural interest including the Fairkytes Art Centre and a museum featuring displays from the local area.
More than 50% of Havering is covered by green space and parkland making this one of the best towns in London for families looking to stay active.
The active lifestyle can be easily reinforced with excellent sports facilities including Krav Maga, Yoga, fitness gyms, and swimming, to name a few.
Kingston Upon Thames
As its name may suggest, Kingston Upon Thames is one of the best towns in London with river views as it is situated along the banks of one of the most famous rivers in the entire country.
One of the biggest draws of this area is the excellent retail opportunities. For those who love to bag a good bargain, there are plenty of stores to browse with the area having a reputation for just such a thing.
Kingston Upon Thames has become more and more popular with families thanks to its location near the centre of the city for commuting but with an excellent choice of schools and kid-friendly activities to choose from.
What’s more, the area is close to some of the more affluent areas like Merton and Richmond but without the hefty price tag. While house prices still sit just below £700,000, on average, this is still far less expensive than some other areas.
Kingston has a very rich and cultured history and as such, you will find plenty of local museums detailing the gripping past of the area.
You can also see the stone which has been placed outside the Guildhall signifying that this is a town of Kings. This comes from the historical association with several Saxon rulers who are thought to have been crowned in this area.
Finsbury Park
Far from just being a recognisable name on the Monopoly board, Islington is one of the most exciting boroughs in London, regardless of what you are looking for, particularly at Finsbury Park.
With that in mind, it is also one of the more expensive and with a location so close to the city centre, house prices appear to keep going up. For the privilege of living here, you can expect to pay more than £700,000.
However, once settled in Finsbury Park, Islington, residents notice the sheer diversity of the area. There is one of the best selections of restaurants in the centre of London with names like Oldroyd and Chinese Laundry being some of the most critically acclaimed.
Shopping here is a great mix of small, independent boutiques and quaint antique stores alongside some of the most recognisable brands in the world; the perfect juxtapose for any type of shopper.
Culturally speaking, Finsbury Park is especially diverse. Almost half of its residents do not identify as being White British, with an array of different cultures coming together in what is undoubtedly one of the most incredible places for learning more about other people and their backgrounds.
There are some of the most famous theatres in London in this town including the Hens and Chickens theatre for community performances as well as the more professional Almeida theatre.
Balham
For anyone looking to immerse themselves in the busy London lifestyle, Balham in Wandsworth is an excellent option. It is by far the biggest town in London boasting a population of more than 300,000.
This town is extremely popular with families since it has excellent links to other parts of the city and a spattering of fantastic schools. However, this popularity is reflected in the house prices which are rapidly approaching £800,000 at their average.
If you want to experience the best nightlife that London has to offer, Balham, Wandsworth is a good place to start. As we mentioned, the links to the inner city were extremely good so a trip to some of the more famous and well-loved nightlife hotspots takes no time at all.
But staying in Wandsworth will provide you with an opportunity to spend the evening in some high-end restaurants such as Chez Bruce as well as many wonderful and quirky cafes and bars.
This is one of the best towns in London with a river; it is not only home to part of the Thames, which runs through the capital but also the river Wandle, from which the area takes its name.
Wandsworth is one of the richest boroughs in London and this is reflected in the beautiful boutiques that line the streets, making this a great spot for a bit of retail therapy. The area is one of the safest with extremely low crime rates which is another factor that attracts families to the area.
Bethnal Green
If you want to visit somewhere that is culturally diverse, you would be hard-pushed to find anywhere that fits the bit quiet as well as Bethnal Green in Tower Hamlets. In this area of London alone, there are more than 90 languages spoken.
The town lies in the East End of London and is home to various cultural, art, fashion, and retail experiences. There is nowhere else in London quite as versatile as Tower Hamlets and this makes it one of the best boroughs in London for tourists since there is so much to see and do.
Bethnal Green, Tower Hamlets is considered to be one of the ‘hippest’ areas to live in London. There are plenty of trendy bars and cool hangouts making this borough extremely popular with the younger generation. It is also a massive draw for people relocating to the city and who want to get a real London experience.
You will find a large Indian and Bangladeshi community here and as such, the cuisines of these cultures are widely available. There are many other places to eat Asian food that isn’t up your street including many with excellent views across the river.
If you love to shop, Bethnal Green is where you will find some unique treasures thanks to the Spitalfields market. Here, there are many independent retailers offering everything from handcrafted trinkets, antiques, and bespoke fashion.
While this is one of the poorest areas of London, the community spirit and friendly vibe here is quite unlike anywhere else in the capital.
Clapham
One of the key parts of any visit to London is stepping out of Waterloo Station and heading across to the South Bank to experience the buzz and vibrancy of this part of the city. This makes Lambeth one of the best towns in London for tourists who want to grab a photo opportunity. Clapham is especially notable in the area.
These photo ops can be taken from one of the most iconic structures in modern London; the London Eye. The huge wheel sits on the side of the Thames and offers spectacular views across the city and beyond.
When visiting Britain, many tourists may wish to try out the local cuisine and there are ample opportunities to do this in Clapham, Lambeth.
However, with such a culturally diverse population, the area is also home to a plethora of international restaurants including those from Ghana, India, and France to name a few.
However, far from just being a tourist location, Clapham is a place that many people call home. This is one of the most diverse areas of the city and despite being right in the heart of things, the house prices are not quite as steep as you might first expect.
For that reason, many professionals and families come here to start their life in the city. Transport links here are excellent which is another reason Lambeth makes such an incredible base for working professionals.
Waterloo is the busiest train station on the planet and as such, provides residents with access to stations around London and links out of the city.
Walthamstow
In days gone by, this town in London was filled with woodland and nature; in fact, Queen Elizabeth l spent many happy days here in her hunting lodge. However, today the area is much more built up but there is still plenty of open space to be enjoyed.
This is one of the lesser-known towns in London and as such has not seen as many residents coming from other parts of the country. However, that is slowly changing and the property market here is currently at a peak.
But as things stand, the cost of buying here is still affordable with the average home selling for around £450,000.
The pace of life here is slower than in other parts of London and the area enjoys plenty to keep residents busy. There are a cinema and a couple of galleries and museums as well as a good selection of shops and sports facilities. While these may be more limited than some other parts of the city, they are certainly enough.
However, if you did want to explore other options, Waltham Forest, both the Central and Victoria lines run into the inner city. This makes the town popular with commuters who want easy access to work but a quieter home life.
In terms of food, Waltham Forest is incredibly diverse. One of the most popular cultural cuisines here can be found at a Caribbean eatery called the Jerk Hut. There are also a lot of pubs and high street chains giving families lots of choice for weeknight meals out.
Camberwell
Tourists to London are often looking to take in the sights so a trip to Southwark, where Camberwell is located is a must. This is widely accepted as being one of the best towns in London for attractions.
It is home to the Shakespeare Globe Theatre, The Shard, and the Tate Modern Gallery among other notable places.
The area is dotted with a variety of neighbourhoods and as such is one of the most culturally diverse areas of London. If you want to get a real flavour for Britain as a multicultural society, this is the place to be.
This culture is reflected in the cuisine found here especially if you look in the famous food markets. Here, you will find everything from Indian to Spanish, Chinese to the Caribbean, and much more.
If high-end dining is more up your street, Southwark is home to an array of haute cuisine restaurants including the world-famous Le Pont de la Tour. This is a French restaurant with some beautiful dishes but also offers a children’s menu, making it family-friendly.
Coming to live in Camberwell, Southwark will set you back slightly more than other areas with the average house price fast approaching £700,000.
However, for an inner-city area with lots of attractions and some notable schools such as Saint Michaels Catholic College and Dulwich College, this price isn’t as outrageous as you might first think.
Twickenham
The name Richmond Upon Thames has a luxurious and opulent feel and this is perfectly reflected in the beautiful suburban London borough where Twickenham is situated. It is home to many excellent schools and plenty of outdoor green areas making this a favourite for families with young children.
However, since the area is so popular and the crime rates are so low, there is a decent price to pay in terms of this being the seventh most expensive town to live in the London area.
For those who can afford to move here, the city centre, Waterloo precisely, is just a twenty-minute commute away. This also makes the area popular with inner-city professionals who want to separate their working city life at the weekends.
If you are looking for a shopper’s paradise, then you might be better heading elsewhere. But if you are happy to browse quaint boutiques and some of the more Haute fashion brands like Joseph and luxury stores like House of Fraser, you’ll likely enjoy it here.
Visitors to the town will benefit from beautiful riverside views which can be enjoyed in one of the many pubs and bars here. Sit on the water’s edge with a hearty pub meal or a cocktail and watch the world go by.
Richmond Upon Thames is not particularly diverse when it comes to being multicultural but it is certainly a place where you may recognise a few faces.
The town is a favourite for many British celebrities including David Attenborough and Amanda Holden. Alongside this claim to fame, the area has many notable venues for comedy and music making it popular with those in the entertainment industry and those who merely like to watch.
Belmont
Sutton, where Belmont is located, is known to be the safest borough in London and as such is hugely attractive to families with young children. Another reason that this group of people sets up their homes here is because of the excellent schools.
The John Fisher School and Sutton Grammar School are two of the top-performing educational institutes in London.
The area is filled with plenty of beautiful green spaces and beautiful period properties line the quiet streets. You could be forgiven for thinking you were not in the capital of one of the most prominent nations in the world.
This sleepy town offers refuge from the bright lights of the inner city but surprisingly it doesn’t cost the earth to live here. House prices rest just below half a million which is comparable to some of the less desirable areas of the city.
For creative and arty types, Belmont, Sutton is home to several art museums and for those who like something a little different, offerings like the Cockney museum are extremely notable.
During the first week of each month, there is a very well-stocked farmers market in the main street of Sutton, giving the area something of a rural flair. But in terms of big retail names, you won’t find too much here. There are shopping centres but most of your retail therapy will be done in the inner city.
If you consider yourself something of a foodie then Belmont is a good place to visit. It has an excellent selection of restaurants ranging from high street names like Pizza Express through to a French restaurant owned and run by Malcolm John.