London is often described as a collection of small villages, as opposed to one integrated city. When it comes to choosing your own corner of London it’s important to consider each area carefully. Every neighbourhood has its own culture and quirks, and prior to actually making a final decision on a place to live, it’s wise to get a feel for the place in question. When exploring a certain borough, be sure to look at the available transport links, the average prices, the commute time and the local amenities on offer.

Richmond

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Richmond is described as one of the best areas to live in London; it’s also one of the most picturesque. The River Thames is a major attraction of the area and allows for some beautifully positioned riverside homes, complete with stunning views.

Located just 8 miles south west of the centre of London, Richmond boasts a number of good transport links, with train services to Waterloo taking just under 20 minutes.

Richmond Centre is both vibrant and welcoming and you’ll find many shops, boutiques, pavement cafes and bars dotted around the town. There are also a number of high-end eateries and quaint pubs nearby.

Chiswick

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Just under 30 minutes from central London, the affluent and hugely prevalent area of Chiswick is a popular place to live. Originally a fishing village, many of the houses here are set upon the bank of the riverside. It’s an extremely quiet, leafy and green area, which makes it a great option for those that wish to escape the hustle and bustle of a busy city centre.

Many of the houses here lie within designated conversation areas and you’ll also find a number of Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian properties.

It’s a popular area for young professionals and also those with families. Chiswick is renowned for its excellent primary schools.

Dulwich

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A quintessential London village that boasts a fashionable vibe, Dulwich is certainly a popular spot for those that wish to be surrounded a number of organic food shops, good eateries and lively bars.

A combination of excellent state primary schools as well as a number of brilliant private schools, stunning period properties and a wholesome feel make this the perfect place for young professionals and those with young children.

East Dulwich is an upmarket area and one that also boasts affordable house prices. Fast connections to London Waterloo and London Bridge railways stations are readily available.

Balham

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Balham is quickly becoming one of the trendiest areas in London. An influx of quirky hangouts and indie traders has made this area one of the hippest places to live south of the river.

One of the best aspects to Balham is its great transport links, making it a hotspot for people that wish to work in London yet don’t want to live in the centre of the hustle and bustle.

There are a great mix of independent and chain restaurants in this area, making it a lively place to catch up with friends, and as such, a popular place for young professionals.

 Muswell Hill

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Muswell Hill is another area of London that boasts good transport links, yet one that doesn’t sit in a busy or chaotic borough. It definitely has the feel of a village and boasts many parks, green areas, cafes, boutiques and health food stores.

The area is crammed with beautifully architecture, yet despite this, the rent isn’t as high as elsewhere.

The closest tube stations include East Finchley, Highgate and Bounds Green – walking takes around 15 minutes and there are also regular buses to these stations.