Moving to South Kensington
When you think of Paris you imagine iconic buildings, wide boulevards, museums and galleries, chic eateries and green spaces. It is a small wonder then that so many French expats in London are moving to South Kensington, SW7. While it cannot quite replicate the romance of the Seine or the bourgeois seediness of Montmartre, a stroll down Bute Street will have you transported to the 5th arrondissement in the blink of an eye. Likewise, the smart garden squares of the Onslows, the wide tree-lined splendour of Queen’s Gate or the newly pedestrianised hub around South Kensington tube, are a constant hive of French activity with Fromageries, Patisseries and Boulangeries in abundance.
South Kensington is perhaps best well known for its magnificent museums; The Natural History, The Victoria & Albert and The Science museums draw ceaseless attention. But it is the location of the Lyceé, again close to the tube, that attracts the majority of our French neighbours. Secure in the knowledge that an extended stay in the capital will not interrupt their children’s (French) education, a significant proportion of properties, for sale or rent, in SW7 are taken by the French.
At the northern edge of South Kensington is Hyde Park, a place to saunter or even to ride among the trees and recall the Bois de Boulogne. And if it is a dose of culture that is missing, the Royal Albert Hall, nestled between Queen’s Gate and Exhibition Road, offers a constant program of world class entertainment.
The market in South Kensington offers some of the most prestigious properties in London, with unique townhouses and bespoke apartments constantly in high demand but short supply. High net worth individuals are attracted to the many Victorian properties, period conversions and detached characterful houses that dominate the area.
A home from home? Yes, however is it not easy to find a place here. Deciding to move to London from France can be daunting, almost impossible if you are not physically here to pester the agents. This is where Garrington can give our French amis the edge over the competition, in their search for a piece of France in London. Contact Garrington to ensure your tailored property search and transition is as smooth as possible.
