The Ultimate Guide to the Best Locations to Settle with a Family in West London
- Jeff Salt
- 5 days ago
- 5 min read
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Locations to Settle with a Family in West London: A Complete Guide
Looking for the ideal family home? We dive into the best spots in West London for families, from the green, tree-lined streets of Ealing to the picturesque riverside of Chiswick.
West London has always been a top pick for families wanting a great place to live. With its charming Victorian homes, expansive parks, and some of the best schools in the country, it offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life while keeping you connected to everything central London has to offer. However, with so many lovely neighborhoods to choose from, picking the right one can be a fun yet challenging task. Whether you’re moving from overseas or just looking for a bit more room, finding the right community is essential.
Once you’ve set a date for viewings, getting around the city with kids can be a bit of a juggling act. That’s why many parents opt for reliable transport in advance. For example, if you’re traveling from the north-west of London to check out properties in Acton or Ealing, using services like Taxis Hemel can make your journey smooth and stress-free, letting you concentrate on the homes instead of worrying about train transfers.
To make your search easier, we’ve looked into the top neighborhoods for family living in West London, considering factors like schools, transport options, and the sense of community.
Ealing: The Queen of the Suburbs
Ealing, often hailed as the "Queen of the Suburbs," is a top choice for families, striking a perfect balance between urban convenience and a charming village vibe. The neighborhood is filled with beautiful period homes, especially those lovely Victorian and Edwardian terraces that provide the spacious layouts families need as they grow.
Why it’s great for families:
Education: One of the biggest attractions for parents is the excellent quality of schools. A remarkable nine out of ten schools in the borough have received ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ ratings from Ofsted, including Oaklands Primary and Elthorne Park.
Green Spaces: With stunning spots like the Grade II-listed Walpole Park and the expansive Gunnersbury Park, there are countless acres for kids to roam, featuring playgrounds and even a small zoo in Hanwell.
Transport: The introduction of the Elizabeth Line has been a real game-changer, dramatically reducing commute times to Central London and making it super easy to get to Heathrow for family getaways.
Chiswick: Riverside Village Vibes
If you're on the lookout for a serene and charming place to call home, Chiswick is definitely worth considering. Tucked away along the River Thames, this lovely suburb offers a tranquil, green environment with a strong community vibe and a high street filled with unique shops and delightful artisan bakeries.
Why it’s perfect for families:
Lifestyle: Weekends in Chiswick are all about enjoying riverside strolls, cycling, or having picnics in the beautiful Chiswick House & Gardens. The area is home to fantastic pubs and restaurants that are family-friendly.
Schools: Chiswick is famous for its top-notch primary schools, making it a popular choice for professionals and families eager to settle down for the long haul.
Community: The neighborhood has a genuine "village feel" that’s hard to find so close to the city, with plenty of community events happening throughout the year.
Richmond: Deer Parks and Open Skies
If you’re a family that loves nature, Richmond is like a little slice of paradise right in London. Imagine having Richmond Park, with its iconic free-roaming deer, as your backyard! It’s no wonder this area is often hailed as one of the most sought-after (and green) spots to call home in the city.
Here’s why it’s perfect for families:
Outdoor Living: The park is a treasure trove of fun—whether you’re cycling or exploring the woods, there’s always something to do. Plus, the riverside path along the Thames is ideal for leisurely strolls with a pushchair.
Culture: Richmond Theatre and a variety of local festivals ensure that there’s never a dull moment for families throughout the year.
Space: Homes in this area typically feature larger gardens, and you’ll find a charming mix of grand period properties and cozy flats.
Acton: The Up-and-Coming Hotspot
Acton has seen some impressive changes in recent years, largely thanks to the arrival of the Elizabeth Line. It’s become a more budget-friendly option for those looking to settle in West London, especially when compared to nearby areas like Chiswick, making it a top choice for first-time buyers and young families.
Why it’s great for families:
Value: Here, you’ll find that your money goes further, with a nice mix of charming Victorian conversions and sleek new builds.
Dining: The local food scene is thriving, featuring family-friendly eateries and the well-loved Acton Market, which really brings the community together.
Connectivity: Thanks to the new high-speed rail links, getting into the City or heading out to the countryside is a breeze. And for families moving from farther away or planning day trips during school breaks, it’s smart to arrange transport ahead of time. If you’re flying out for a half-term getaway, reliable Hemel Hempstead Airport Taxis can offer the door-to-door service you need to handle luggage, car seats, and excited kids without the hassle of long-term parking at the airport.
Fulham: Stylish and Sophisticated
Fulham beautifully blends the charm of upscale city living with a welcoming community vibe. It's especially favored by families who appreciate a lively social atmosphere while juggling school runs.
Why it’s great for families:
Amenities: With Bishops Park and the Thames Path providing stunning recreational areas, and the Fulham Road and Parsons Green lined with chic boutiques and fantastic gastropubs, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Sport and Leisure: As the home of both Chelsea and Fulham FC, it’s a dream for young football enthusiasts, plus there are numerous leisure centers and gyms for adults to stay active.
Schools: The area boasts a high number of exceptional schools, making the premium property prices here a smart investment for many families.
Notting Hill: Colourful and Creative
Notting Hill is famous for its lively carnival and its charming, colorful houses, creating a vibrant and creative atmosphere that families who appreciate culture will love. While the area can get quite busy, it also features peaceful garden squares and mews streets that feel incredibly safe for kids.
Why it’s a fantastic choice for families:
Culture: The iconic Portobello Road Market is a sensory delight every weekend, offering kids a chance to learn about food, art, and antiques in a fun way.
Schools: The neighborhood is home to several well-respected prep schools, like Bassett House and the bilingual Instituto Español, which draw in families from all over the world.
Green Spots: Even though it’s centrally located, you can find serene spots like Meanwhile Gardens along the canal, perfect for a little escape.
Factors to Consider When Choosing
Before you get swept off your feet by a property, take a moment to think about the everyday details:
The School Run: Look into Ofsted reports and catchment areas. In West London, being able to stroll to school is a huge advantage.
Commute: The Elizabeth Line has made places like Ealing and Acton more accessible, but make sure to check the total travel time to your workplace.
Budget: Property prices can be all over the place. While Kensington has that prestigious vibe, neighborhoods like Hanwell or Heston provide more budget-friendly family homes, all while still being close to lovely green spaces.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect spot for your family in West London really comes down to what you value most in your lifestyle. If you’re after that quaint village vibe along with top-notch schools, Chiswick or Ealing could be just what you need. For those who love open spaces and nature, Richmond is simply unbeatable. And if you’re looking for a lively community that offers great value, Acton is definitely worth considering. No matter where you decide to settle, West London’s mix of beautiful parks, charming period homes, and a strong sense of community creates a wonderful environment for your family to thrive.
Comments