A guide to living in West London

Acton

Traditionally, neighbours Chiswick and Ealing dominated the spotlight when it came to West London. But thanks to a burgeoning property scene, plentiful parks and stellar transport links, Acton is finally stepping out of the shadows. Where are the best places to live in Acton? Find out the best places to rent in Acton or buy in the area through our helpful guide. 

Brentford

West London’s Brentford is a historic county town in Middlesex; within the London Borough of Hounslow and part of Greater London since the Sixties. The town is found where the River Brent and the Thames meet, some eight miles from Charing Cross. An alternative to riverfront hotspots, Brentford has all the appeal of a cosmopolitan waterside hub without a hefty price tag. The aforementioned river duo flows into the Grand Union Canal; lined with historical pubs and cheerful family-run cafes, it’s just the place for weekend strolls. Read on to discover the developments that are rated as the best places to live in Brentford and to see reviews from residents who own or rent in Brentford.

Chiswick

Leafy, glamorous Chiswick is the perfect antidote to life in the busy capital. This West London neighbourhood hugs the River Thames. Flanked by Acton to the north, Kew to the west, and Hammersmith to the east. Read on to discover the developments that are rated as the best places to live in Chiswick. In addition, read reviews from residents who own or rent in Chiswick. "Chiswick has countless reasons why it’s a great fit for families and young professionals alike. Its café culture with al fresco dining options gives it a European feel, and parents will find no shortage of child-friendly options when it comes to eateries, activities and green space. Shoppers will also be spoilt for choice, with the West End, Westfield, High Street Kensington, Knightsbridge and the King’s Road all within easy reach. You can fill your evenings and weekends with riverside strolls, pub meals and markets, in nearby Putney, Hammersmith, Kew and Notting Hill." – HomeViews Property Pro 

Borough of Ealing

Ealing, or ‘The Queen of the Suburbs’ as it’s fondly known, is a happy balance between city and countryside living. Train and tube stations offer fantastic connections to the heart of the capital, as well as this it has retained a rural, characterful look and feel. The borough has numerous parks (Gunnersbury, Brent Lodge Park and Walpole are three of the best), a 40-something acre common, and quiet, leafy avenues. Read on to discover the developments that are rated as the best places to live in Ealing and to see reviews from residents who own or rent in Ealing.

Fulham

Fancy Fulham is in the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham, flanked by upmarket Kensington & Chelsea. And while it shares its neighbour’s gorgeous terraced townhouses and designer shopping, this pocket of West London is edgier and more affordable. Set on the north bank of the River Thames, Fulham is a slower-paced slice of the city, where residents enjoy leafy walks and cosy roasts in authentic boozers. It’s a peaceful haven for professionals, and a great launchpad for commuting. Nearby Hammersmith, for example, is the HQ of major corporations like Disney and L'Oréal. Read on to discover developments that are the best places to live in Fulham. In addition, read reviews from residents who own or rent in Fulham.

Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham

Hammersmith & Fulham is neighboured by posh playground Kensington & Chelsea. And while it shares its sibling’s gorgeous terraced townhouses and designer shopping, this pocket of West London is edgier and way more affordable. Read on to discover developments that are the best places to live in Hammersmith & Fulham. In addition, read reviews from residents who own or rent in Hammersmith & Fulham.

Hayes

Once an industrial hub for factory workers, it’s fair to say that the Hayes area hasn’t historically been considered prime real estate territory. But with Crossrail on its way, and an emerging reputation as the ‘Shoreditch of the West’, all that looks set to change. But where are the best places to live in Hayes? If you are looking to rent in Hayes or buy a property in the area, check out our guide first.    

Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is up there with the capital’s most affluent areas. It commands top market prices, but its residents can call some of the UK’s most beautiful buildings home. Structures here range from elegant Victorian townhouses, characterised by stepped porches and wrought-iron gates, to lavish Georgian mansions shrouded by London plane trees. Read on to learn the top rated places to live in Kensington and Chelsea.