What Is The Best Borough To Live in London?

London is an amazing and diverse city, with a wide variety of areas for those interested in living in the city. When moving to London, it’s important to know the characteristics and offerings of each borough and suburb. From the buzzing nightlife to the prevalence of parks and open spaces, there are many different factors that one must consider when choosing the best place to live.

When it comes to finding the best borough to live in London, the decision ultimately comes down to personal needs and preferences. However, there are some areas and boroughs that consistently appear on lists of the city’s best neighborhoods. Below we look at four of the best boroughs to live in London and what makes them stand out.

Richmond Upon Thames

Richmond upon Thames is often cited as one of the best places to live in London. This southwest London borough offers a range of benefits, including easy access to central London via tube or overground services. With a combination of riverside walks, excellent schools, and beautiful green spaces, Richmond is popular with those looking for a combination of suburban life and city amenities. It’s easy enough for commuters to reach downtown London by public transport and yet far enough away to maintain the semblance of an idyllic country life.

Hackney

No list of best boroughs to live in London would be complete without mentioning Hackney. This northeast corner of London offers a vibrant mix of culture, shopping, and excellent transportation links. Some of London’s best gastropubs, leisure facilities, music venues, theaters, and art galleries can be found in Hackney. The area is undergoing rapid regeneration and gentrification, making it a popular choice with millennials looking for a location to both work and relax in. To sweeten the deal, Hackney is well-served by two Overground lines and many bus routes connecting it to other parts of London.

Camden

Camden Town is one of the most vibrant areas in the city. Thanks to its trend-setting restaurants, interesting boutiques, out-of-the-ordinary markets, music venues, and burgeoning startup scene, modern-day Camden attracts visitors and residents from all walks of life. Camden is served by both the Northern Line and Overground lines as well as various bus routes. One disadvantage however is that many properties tend to be more expensive here than in other parts of the city.

Islington

Islington is known for its trendy cafés, independent bars, organic eateries, and excellent transport links. While it might not quite have the same cool factor as Camden, Islington is still a great choice for those looking for a great place to live in London. From here it only takes around 10 minutes on the tube to reach King’s Cross St Pancras station. Islington is particularly popular with young professionals looking for somewhere close to their place of work.

When deciding on the best borough to live in London, ultimately it comes down to personal preference and budget. However, the four listed above are strong contenders for those looking for a combination of excellent transportation links and urban amenities while still enjoying the peace and quiet of suburban life. LondonTown has an extensive overview of characteristics and exciting facts about all 32 boroughs that can help you make an informed decision about which area will suit your needs best when moving to London.

An Insider’s Guide to London, UK

London is a dynamic city, with a thriving culture, rich history, and diverse neighborhoods. It can be overwhelming for a tourist to decide on the best borough to live in London. Whether you are looking to explore cool local hotspots, learn about the history and culture of the city, or dine at a delicious restaurant – London has something for everyone. This insider’s guide will take you on an unforgettable adventure in London.

Central London

Central London is the heart of the city, brimming with historical landmarks, museums, and theaters. Here are some of the top attractions in Central London that must be on your itinerary:

• The British Museum: One of the world’s greatest museums, the British Museum has an extensive collection of historical artifacts that spans millions of years. Don’t miss the famous Rosetta Stone, Ancient Egyptian Mummies, and the Elgin Marbles.
• The Tower of London: A former royal palace and fortress, the Tower of London is a historic landmark that has witnessed over a thousand years of British history. Marvel at the Crown Jewels, explore the White Tower, and learn about the infamous royal executions.
• Buckingham Palace: The official residence of the British royal family, Buckingham Palace’s Changing of the Guard is a must-see. Watch as the guards parade in their traditional uniforms and the band plays its classic tunes, all to the delight of the watching crowds.
• The West End: London’s famous theater district, the West End, is where you can catch a live performance of a musical, play or comedy. Be sure to book your tickets in advance as they tend to sell out quickly.

South London

South London is a more laid-back part of the city, home to tranquil parks, trendy neighborhoods, and vibrant markets. Here are some of the best attractions to check out in South London:

• Borough Market: Touted as the best food markets in London, Borough Market is known for its delicious street food and organic produce. Sample everything from artisan cheeses to fresh-baked bread while wandering through the stalls.
• The South Bank: The South Bank is a perfect destination for a riverside walk with stunning views of the city skyline. Check out the banks of the river Thames which houses The London Eye, Houses of Parliament, The Big Ben and Westminster Bridge.
• Shoreditch: Shoreditch is a trendy neighborhood that attracts many creatives and artists. Check out the street art on Brick Lane and the vintage shops in Old Street.

East London

East London has a rich history of immigration and cultural diversity, which is evident in its vibrant neighborhoods, bustling markets, and live music venues. Here are some of the best attractions to check out in East London:

• Columbia Road Flower Market: The Columbia Road Flower Market is a Sunday institution where local vendors sell the freshest blooms and plants in the city. Join the crowds that flock here and pick up some vibrant flowers for your home.
• The Brick Lane: Brick Lane is a unique blend of food, culture and street art, with vibrant Indian curry houses and trendy coffee shops lining the streets. Don’t miss the street art and vintage shops in the vicinity.
• The Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park: An unusual attraction, right next to Mile End station, this historic cemetery is a nature reserve in the heart of the city. It’s a beautiful park that provides a perfect place for solitude and reflection.

West London

West London is a charming, upscale part of the city, with royal parks, high-end shopping, and elegant architecture. Here are some of the best attractions to check out in West London:

• Hyde Park: A massive royal park, Hyde Park, offers visitors a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Take a boat ride, go on a horse ride or simply stroll through the beautiful meadows of the park.
• Portobello Road Market: Portobello Road Market is a popular destination for vintage lovers, antiques enthusiasts, and foodies. Browse the stalls selling everything from vintage clothing to traditional British fare.
• Kensington Palace: Explore the grand halls and royal apartments of Kensington Palace, where Queen Victoria was born and Princess Diana lived. The palace has a beautiful garden, a stylish cafe and an exhibition showcasing the life of Queen Victoria.

Off the Beaten Path

While the attractions mentioned above are London’s most famous hotspots, the city’s true charm lies in its lesser-known neighborhoods and local communities. Here are some of our off-the-beaten-path recommendations that are worth exploring:

• Hampstead Heath: A lush and hilly oasis in North London, Hampstead Heath offers some of the most breathtaking views of the city. Take a walk or picnic in the open greens, enjoy the ponds or admire the historic Kenwood House Museum.
• Greenwich: Greenwich is a quaint riverside town with historic maritime heritage, stunning Royal Naval College, botanical gardens and the iconic Cutty Sark. Take a boat ride along the Thames or visit one of the many pubs that offer classic pub fare.
• Brixton: Brixton is a colorful, multi-cultural neighborhood with fantastic markets, music venues, and street art. Head to Electric Avenue for shopping and dining or catch a gig at the O2 Academy Brixton.

London has something for everyone, a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the central landmarks to the vibrant neighborhoods, it’s understandable why the best borough to live in London is a tough decision to make. Follow the guide above and get to discover this fantastic city for yourself.