London’s Zone 2 suburbs offer a great mix of benefits for residents. From great transport links in Deptford, to uber-cool Camden and the quiet leafy comforts of Hampstead, there’s something for everyone. We reveal the best places to live in Zone 2 London, according to residents reviewing their new developments.
In our guide to the best developments in Zone 4, released last month, we pointed out how last year saw a big shake up of London house prices and rental rates. As more people moved out from the central London zones, demand for property in Zones 1-2 saw demand, and prices, dip. While this was not so good for landlords and motivated sellers, it was good news for anyone considering a move to the very desirable areas that make up Zone 2.
In this roundup, we look at the top rated property developments you can find across Zone 2.
House Prices in Zone 2
About 700,000 foreign-born London residents left the capital last year. This is part of the reason why rental prices fell by nearly 7% across the city. There’s also a lot of uncertainty about house prices too, although London prices appear to be less affected by the Stamp Duty holiday boom than other regions, and therefore perhaps better prepared for a more stable aftermath.
Zone 2 covers a lot of areas that are very different from each other. This means that both house prices and rental rates vary widely across the zone. While the whole zone’s average house prices are over £700,000, many areas have averages around the £500,000 mark. Similarly, rental rates are at an average of around £2,500 pcm for the zone. However, rental rates in many areas continue to be cut as landlords feel the pinch of dropping demand.
Another thing to bear in mind is that smaller flats and houses may continue to drop in price throughout 2021. As we’ve seen in HomeViews reviews, both indoor and outdoor space is more desirable than ever and smaller properties in London could suffer in terms of attracting interest. However, if you can live without a garden or terrace, you may find opportunities to make some savings in Zone 2.
Living in Zone 2 London
Our list of the best Zone 2 locations is made up of the 10 new homes developments with the highest average star rating from our resident reviewers. Click on any of the listed developments below, and you’ll see its overall rating (out of 5 stars), a breakdown of how residents rate it, and the full list of reviews.
With all of the listed developments maintaining star averages above 4.6, it’s clear to see that Zone 2 has plenty of top notch options available. Take a look at what Zone 2 has to offer below. Simply click on the developments to find out more and read everything that the residents have to say about where they live.
The top spot for Zone 2 goes to 10 George Street in Canary Wharf. All 327 apartments overlook the waterside gardens and boardwalks below. Residents have exclusive access to Club Vertus, which includes use of a 24/7 gym studio, self-service bar, private dining room and lounge which opens out onto a large, south-facing terrace. Residents say they love the overall quality of the apartments and facilties, as well as the extremely helpful on-site staff.
Read reviews and details of 10 George Street, E14Next up is Anthology Hoxton Press, which routinely impresses its residents with studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom homes designed by world renowned Karakusevic Carson Architects and David Chipperfield Architects. Its main buildings, Mono and Duo sit between a community café and some beautifully landscaped gardens. The development is located in the regeneration area of the Colville Estate, nestled between Shoreditch Park and the Regent’s Canal.
Read reviews and details of Hoxton Press, N1At number 3, The Otto gets the thumbs up from residents for its modern design across all 1-4-bedroom townhouses and apartments. Hackney Downs park is mere moments away and the development is well served by the Rectory Road and Hackney Downs stations. The Otto also offers excellent facilities including its gym, rooftop terrace and underground bike parking.
Read reviews and details of The Otto, E5Number 4 on our list is Hampstead Manor, which sits just minutes from the centre of Hampstead Village. Its 156 homes range from contemporary apartments to expertly converted Grade II listed heritage properties. Residents love the mix of old and new, and particularly enjoy using the pool and gym facilities during London’s hot summers.
Read reviews and details of Hampstead Manor, NW3Next up is Vantage Point – a Build to Rent development by Essential Living with 118 apartments on offer. These range from studios to 1 or 2-bedroom flats, all of which are light, airy and designed with practicality and comfort in mind. The development also offers convenient transport links, primarily Archway London Underground, as well as easy access to Emirates Stadium and Highgate Village.
Read reviews and details of Vantage Point, N19Arundel Square is just a few minutes’ walk from both Highbury and Islington station and Caledonian Road & Barnsbury station. This gives residents plenty of options for exploring London further. However, they’re usually happy to stay close by, as the development’s apartments feature expansive balconies and a good range of on-site facilities run by the well-regarded concierge staff and support team.
Read reviews and details of Arundel Square, N7Greystar’s Sailmakers takes our number 7 spot. It’s a Build to Rent scheme comprising 327 units situated on the Isle of Dogs. This puts the heart of Canary Wharf within 10 minutes’ walking distance. Residents also have convenient transport links in the form of the nearby South Quay DLR and Canary Wharf’s DLR and Underground services. Residents enjoy the river views and highly rate the management team for their conduct regarding issues big and small.
Read reviews and details of Sailmakers, E14Number 8 is Queen’s Park Place, a new-build development featuring 116 contemporary apartments and penthouses arranged around desirable private courtyard gardens. Residents love their naturally light and open spaces, complete with balcony or rooftop terrace. Underground parking, full-time concierge and other top-quality facilities add the finishing touches. It’s also neighboured by Queen’s Park station, which offers Bakerloo line services into Paddington Station in less than 10 minutes.
Read reviews and details of Queens Park Place, NW6Making it to number 9 on our list is a rental-only development by UNCLE in the heart of Stockwell. Residents praise its lovely views and reliably helpful management staff, as well as the expanding range of facilities. Uncle Stockwell also offers great access to Stockwell tube station (on the Victoria line) and Wandsworth Road station (for Overground and Southeastern National Rail links).
Read reviews and details of Uncle Stockwell, SW8Finally, we have Dressage Court at number 10. This rental-only development by Essential Living has one, two and three-bed apartments, all with access to the gym, communal living room, games area and a rooftop terrace with excellent views of the City and Canary Wharf. Residents also enjoy the easy access to Bethnal Green’s tube and rail stations.
Read reviews and details of Dressage Court, E2
Inspired to start your search for a new place to live in London’s Zone 2? Simply click on any of the developments above or check out our area guides for more details.
HomeViews provides verified resident reviews of the UK’s housing developments. We’re working with developers, landlords and the Government to recognise high performers and help to improve standards in the built environment.
