The best place to live in London for families: South West London

I have lived in London for over 20 years and predominantly in the South West. Firstly, as an aspiring single man, then latterly married and with a family.

It is that status, as a family man, that led me to choose to live where I do and my path is one well-travelled.

Before the meteoric rise in London property prices, young, middle-class families starting out in London would have hoped to live in well-established areas such as Fulham, Chelsea or Notting Hill.

However, as prices rose, they have been forced to consider areas further out, such as Putney, Barnes, Wimbledon or Richmond. I live between Putney and Richmond, in East Sheen, on the edge of Richmond Park and it is this wonderful green space of over 2000 acres, with its population of 700 deer, through which I travel every day and which makes me think how lucky I am.

Each of these ‘towns’ has a station with regular services into London Waterloo (in East Sheen the station is Mortlake), a central retail hub with coffee shops, pubs and restaurants and access to some of the best state and independent schooling in the country.

How is South West London different from other parts of London?

There are numerous places across the capital which offer many of these criteria but it is the pull of Richmond Park which sets the South West apart. As a result, families flock to the area and demand is high. Finding and competing for a property can be very difficult, so having assistance from someone with excellent local knowledge as well as long-established contacts can make the chances of success very much higher.

Once you settle in South West London, it is likely you will remain there for many years, possibly extending the house you have bought, in order to accommodate a burgeoning family.

Garrington has sourced property for clients in the area many times over the years, working for people relocating from abroad or simply for those who know the area well, but have become frustrated with the market. In each case, the result has been both a successful and happy one.

Where is the best place to live in London? How long is a piece of string? It all depends on your requirements and your budget. But if you have a family or are thinking of starting one, you will struggle to find somewhere better than the areas close to Richmond Park.

To find out more information about buying a property in South West London, please get in touch to find out how we can help.