Best Places To Live in London 2024

Summary

In a lively discussion about the best places to live in London for 2024, the hosts share a unique perspective that diverges from the traditional Sunday Times list. They prioritize community engagement, accessibility, aesthetic appeal, and green spaces over conventional metrics like school ratings. The top ten includes diverse neighborhoods like Pimlico, Crouch End, and Greenwich, highlighting their distinctive charms and challenges. With humor and candid opinions, the conversation navigates the evolving landscape of London living, emphasizing affordability, community spirit, and the impact of gentrification on local cultures.

Takeaways

• 🏙️ The list of the best places to live in London for 2024 diverges from the Sunday Times rankings, focusing on community and accessibility rather than prestige.
• 🌳 Key criteria for selection include community warmth, public transport access, aesthetics of the area, and proximity to parks.
• 🏡 Pimlico is highlighted as an affordable neighborhood in the Southwest, featuring a vibrant local café culture and cultural institutions like the Tate Modern.
• 🚍 Crouch End is noted for its village-like atmosphere, good public transport connections, and thriving arts scene, though rising costs have affected its ranking.
• 🌊 Greenwich is recognized for its rich maritime history, beautiful parks, and good transport links, though it can be crowded with tourists.
• 🌄 Crystal Palace offers stunning views and a community-centered atmosphere with unique vintage shops and parks, although it presents challenges for walking and cycling.
• 🌈 Notting Hill is famous for its cultural diversity, markets, and festivals, but high housing costs and gentrification are significant drawbacks.
• 🌳 Richmond upon Thames combines a village feel with access to central London, rich cultural offerings, and extensive parkland, despite issues with aircraft noise.
• 🎶 Clapham Village is known for its vibrant nightlife and community spirit, but it's primarily popular among young professionals.
• 🏅 The top three areas include Clerkenwell, Walthamstow, and Dulwich, with Dulwich being praised for its low crime rate and ample green spaces, although it faces challenges with traffic congestion.

Q & A

What criteria did the Sunday Times use to select the best places to live in London?

The Sunday Times considered factors like community interaction, schools, internet speed, and the number of coffee shops in an area.

What alternative criteria did the hosts choose for their list?

They focused on community welcomingness, public transport accessibility, aesthetic appeal, and proximity to parks.

Why is Pimo ranked as number 10 on the list?

Pimo is affordable and has a pleasant atmosphere, but it suffers from traffic congestion and a lack of green space.

What features make Crouch End appealing to residents?

Crouch End has a village-like atmosphere, strong community events, a thriving arts scene, and nearby green spaces.

What cultural significance does Greenwich hold?

Greenwich is home to the Royal Observatory and the prime meridian, as well as rich maritime history and large green spaces.

What concerns are associated with living in Notting Hill?

Notting Hill is now one of the most expensive areas in London, leading to gentrification that can alienate older residents.

What recreational activities can residents enjoy in Richmond?

Richmond offers theaters, galleries, historic buildings, and access to Richmond Park, known for its wildlife.

What are the downsides of living in Clapham Village?

Clapham Village has a vibrant nightlife primarily catered to young professionals, which may not suit everyone.

Why did the hosts feel Clarkenwell was ranked too high?

They felt Sundays in Clarkenwell were dull, with limited activities available.

What makes Walthamstow a unique location in London?

Walthamstow is known for its long outdoor street market, a strong local identity, affordable housing, and a vibrant arts scene.

What are the positive aspects of Dulwich as the number one location?

Dulwich has a low crime rate, abundant green spaces, and excellent independent schools, all while maintaining a village atmosphere.

What challenges are faced by residents in Dulwich?

Increased popularity has led to higher traffic congestion and crowded trains during peak times.