At Craven House we often play home-away-from-home to families that are relocating to South West London while they get a feel for the area, visit schools and find their own space. Whether they’ve come from across the UK or across the world, our serviced apartments offer everything they need at an extremely busy time of their lives. The comfort of an apartment as opposed to a hotel can’t be underestimated, especially if they are travelling with kids.
If that’s you, now or in the future, we know that figuring out a new home for your family can be totally overwhelming. There is so much information out there and so much to consider so we’ve rounded up some top tips to get you started. Read on for more:
Location, location
South West London covers quite a large area and it can be daunting to know where to start. Here are some of the most popular spots you might want to look into.
Kensington & Chelsea
Arguably some of the best and most-sought after real estate in the country can be found in Kensington and Chelsea. Spoiled with both Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park just a hop, step and skip away, the area also boasts one of London’s most prestigious shopping streets – King’s Road. A quick trip on the District Line will have you in the City in minutes, but if you’re wanting to venture further afield head to Victoria station for cross-country trains and the Gatwick Express. If you’re looking for the bustling city life, a London postcode and good schools then look no further.
Hammersmith
A vibey suburb in West London boasting brilliant transport links, a riverside location and easy access to the City. Also home to the Hammersmith Apollo, a live music, theatre and comedy venue that hosts some of the best and greatest in the world.
Fulham
Wide, leafy streets that feel more ‘suburbia’ than ‘city’. Packed to the seams with trendy cafes and brunch spots, boutiques, shops and two world-class football clubs, Fulham and Chelsea, this neighbourhood has everything you could want from a city life. With a choice of four tube stations you’ll get quick access to the City and your pick of top-class schools.
Richmond
Bordering the beautiful Richmond Park and a stone’s throw from Kew Gardens, Richmond is a neighbourhood loved by many. Close enough to the City for easy work commutes but still with that ‘villagey’ feel, it is bursting with eateries, playgrounds and green spaces. Transport links include the District Line and National Rail options and highly-rated schools are aplenty.
Wandsworth
Moving further out of the City we land in Wandsworth, brimming with classy pubs, charming independent shops and the jewel in it’s crown – Wandsworth Common. Only 15 minutes to Waterloo and 12 minutes to Victoria you couldn’t have better access to different sides of the city without actually being in the hustle and bustle of London. With a large number of ‘outstanding’ rated state schools and renowned independents there are choices to suit every child and family from nursery to secondary school.
Kingston
Our home turf! The beautiful market town of Kingston encompasses some highly regarded schools such as Kingston Grammar and the Tiffin School, a university, Bushy Park and Hampton Court Palace. A long stretch of restaurants and eateries runs along the bank of the river and the Rose Theatre hosts many top-notch theatre, music and comedy performances for the whole family. Not only that but the Bentall Centre and Kingston’s shopping streets provide everything you need right on your doorstep, and it’s only a 30 minute train into Waterloo.
Entertainment in South West London
One of the best things about being in the South West is that anything is easily reachable, from the glittering lights of the West End to the delicious world-renowned restaurants of Covent Garden and beyond. That being said, there are many cultural establishments in the suburbs too. The Rose Theatre and New Wimbledon Theatre boast a varied and lively line-up. Sandown Racecourse in Esher, the Guards Polo Club in Windsor, Twickenham Stadium, Wimbledon Tennis Club and The Oval Cricket Ground, some of the most prestigious sporting venues in the world, are all with-in a short drive. The area is dotted with sports clubs and leisure facilities. And when it comes to the kids you’re truly spoiled with choice with Chobham Adventure Farm, The Adventure Playground in Windsor Great Park, the Magic Playground at Hampton Court Palace, Bocketts Farm and more.
Transport links in South West London
South West London is exceptionally well connected with overground trains into Waterloo and Victoria and underground trains and bus routes into and across the City. Not only that but Heathrow and Gatwick Airport are close and accessible too.
Green spaces in South West London
From Richmond Park to Bushy Park, Windsor Great Park, Virginia Water, Kew Gardens, Wimbledon Common, Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park and all the smaller parks in between the south west is known for its green, leafy spaces. You certainly won’t feel like you’re in a concrete jungle on this side of London.
Relocating practicalities in South West London
There’s so much to consider when you’re facing a big move, whether it’s cross-country or across the globe. At Craven House we make it our mission to provide a cosy, luxurious space to land and call your own while the dust settles around you. We’re even happy to have your furry family members staying too. As south west locals we know a thing or two about the area and would be so happy to help with any questions you might have. If we can’t answer them, we’re likely to know someone who can, so please don’t hesitate to reach out.
We look forward to welcoming you to our little corner of the country – until then, good luck and see you soon.
