Wondering where to move in Hammersmith? This guide breaks down the best areas to move to in Hammersmith, highlighting their key features, types of properties, amenities, and lifestyle. Whether you’re considering vibrant Brackenbury Village, the culturally rich Riverside Studios Site, or the tranquil Ravenscourt Park Area, find out what makes each neighbourhood special.
Key Takeaways
- Hammersmith offers diverse neighbourhoods such as Brackenbury Village, Riverside Studios Site, and Ravenscourt Park Area, each with unique charms catering to families, professionals, and culture enthusiasts.
- The property market in Hammersmith presents opportunities for both buyers and renters with a mix of period homes, mansion blocks, and new developments, alongside insights into current price trends.
- Hammersmith boasts excellent transport links, a vibrant lifestyle with ample amenities, top-tier educational institutions, and a strong sense of community and safety, making it a highly desirable place to live.
Top Neighbourhoods in Hammersmith
Hammersmith is a tapestry of vibrant neighbourhoods, each offering its own unique charm and appeal. Among the most desirable are Brackenbury Village, the Riverside Studios Site, and the area around Ravenscourt Park. These neighbourhoods are celebrated for their mix of large period homes, high-end flats, and proximity to cultural venues and green spaces, creating an attractive living environment for both families and professionals.
Brackenbury Village is known for its leisurely pace and family-run shops, while the Riverside Studios Site attracts art and entertainment enthusiasts with its cinema, theatre, and gallery spaces. The Ravenscourt Park Area, with its picturesque lake and green spaces, offers a tranquil oasis perfect for families and nature lovers. Now, we’ll explore the unique features that make each of these areas stand out.
Brackenbury Village
Brackenbury Village, often described as having a village feel within the city, is a charming neighbourhood that exudes a leisurely pace. The area is dotted with family-run shops along Brackenbury Road, providing a quaint and welcoming atmosphere that makes it feel like a small community within the bustling city. This unique charm is a significant draw for those looking for a quieter, more personable place to live.
The architectural landscape of Brackenbury Village features a mix of period homes and high-end flats, making it a desirable location for both families and young professionals. Its proximity to key areas like King Street, Shepherd’s Bush, and the Broadway Shopping Centre ensures that residents have easy access to a variety of amenities and entertainment options, all while enjoying the serene ambience of their neighbourhood.
Riverside Studios Site
The Riverside Studios Site is a cultural gem in Hammersmith, offering a vibrant hub for art and entertainment enthusiasts. This area is home to the Riverside Studios, which features cinema, theatre, and gallery spaces, making it a focal point for cultural activities and events. The dynamic atmosphere of the Riverside Studios Site attracts a diverse crowd, from creatives and artists to families and professionals seeking a lively and engaging community.
Living near the Riverside Studios Site offers the following benefits:
- Being at the heart of Hammersmith’s cultural scene
- Enjoying picturesque views along the River Thames
- Opportunities for leisurely riverside walks
- A blend of cultural vibrancy and natural beauty
This makes the Riverside Studios Site a highly sought-after neighbourhood in Hammersmith, not far from the iconic Notting Hill.
Ravenscourt Park Area
Ravenscourt Park Area is a tranquil oasis in the midst of Hammersmith, offering ample green spaces and recreational facilities. The park itself is a large public space with playing fields, open grass areas, and a picturesque lake, making it a popular spot for after-school walks, weekend picnics, and various outdoor activities. This serene environment is perfect for families and nature lovers looking for a peaceful retreat within the city.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Ravenscourt Park Area is well-connected to other parts of Hammersmith and beyond. The presence of good transport links, including several underground stations and bus services, ensures that residents can easily access the amenities and attractions of both Hammersmith and central London. The combination of tranquillity and connectivity makes Ravenscourt Park Area an ideal place to live for those seeking the best of both worlds.
Property Market Insights
Hammersmith’s property market mirrors the diversity of its neighbourhoods, presenting an array of options to accommodate varying preferences and budgets. As of April 2024, the average house price in Hammersmith and Fulham stood at £767,000, reflecting a 16.1% decline from the previous year. This drop in prices presents an excellent opportunity for buyers looking to invest in this desirable area of West London.
If you’re considering renting, as of May 2024, Hammersmith and Fulham’s average monthly private rent was £2,494, marking a 10.7% increase from the previous year. Despite the rising rental rates, Hammersmith remains an attractive option for young professionals and families due to its mix of affordable suburban houses and high-end flats. The variety of property types available ensures that there is something for everyone in this vibrant district.
Types of Properties
A wealth of property varieties in Hammersmith cater to a broad spectrum of tastes and needs. Some options include:
- Period homes: These are a prominent feature of the area, offering a charming and historic living experience.
- Mansion blocks: These provide contemporary living spaces with all the conveniences of modern life.
- New developments: These offer modern accommodations for those seeking a more contemporary living experience.
Converted buildings and purpose-built maisonettes add to the architectural diversity, providing unique and versatile living options. This eclectic mix of property types makes Hammersmith an appealing destination for a wide range of residents, from young professionals to growing families, all looking to find their perfect home in this vibrant part of West London.
Transport Links and Connectivity
One of Hammersmith’s standout features is its excellent transport links, making it a major West London district and one of the best-connected districts in West London. The area is a major transport hub, with multiple tube lines, including:
- District line
- Piccadilly line
- Circle line
- Hammersmith & City line
These lines provide swift and convenient access to various parts of the city. Hammersmith Station, with its step-free access, ensures that residents can navigate the area with ease.
In addition to the Hammersmith underground station, the area is well-served by extensive bus networks, enhancing its connectivity further. The strategic location of Hammersmith makes it an ideal place for both commuters and residents, offering excellent transport connections to central London and beyond. This level of accessibility contributes significantly to the area’s desirability as a place to live.
Lifestyle and Amenities
With a vibrant lifestyle and a wealth of amenities, Hammersmith caters to its diverse residents. The Kings Mall and Hammersmith Broadway Shopping Centre are key retail destinations, providing a range of high-street brands and essential services. The local shopping scenes are complemented by a growing food scene, with numerous restaurants and cafes offering a variety of culinary delights.
Entertainment is a major draw in Hammersmith, with venues like the legendary Hammersmith Apollo hosting world-renowned acts and emerging artists alike. The district also boasts ample green spaces and recreational facilities, including Ravenscourt Park, which offers outdoor activities and a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle.
This blend of urban amenities and natural beauty makes it ideal to live in Hammersmith, one of the best places in West London, offering more West London inspiration. While North London has its own charm, Hammersmith’s unique blend truly stands out as a source of West London inspiration.
Schools and Education
Hammersmith excels in education, hosting a variety of top-tier institutions that accommodate diverse age groups and preferences. Notable primary schools such as John Betts, Brackenbury, and St Peter’s are well-regarded for their educational standards. Secondary and sixth-form schools like West London Free School, Lady Margaret School, and Sacred Heart High School offer excellent education options for older students.
For those seeking private education, Hammersmith and Fulham host several prestigious independent schools, including Ravenscourt Park Preparatory, Latymer Upper, and Godolphin & Latymer. The high educational standards and variety of schools make Hammersmith an attractive option for families prioritising their children’s education.
Safety and Community
Life in Hammersmith is characterised by safety and a robust sense of community. Recognized as a safe residential area, Hammersmith attracts a stable and affluent community. The community safety team works diligently with partners to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour, providing crime prevention advice and victim support. Initiatives like bike marking events and seasonal crime prevention measures further enhance the sense of security.
Residents enjoy a supportive and cohesive community, with various events and activities fostering a strong neighbourhood spirit. This combination of safety and community engagement makes Hammersmith an appealing place for young families and professionals alike, offering a secure and welcoming environment for all.
Crime Rates
While Hammersmith and Fulham are among the top 20 most dangerous boroughs in London, this London borough area remains relatively safe compared to other parts of the capital. The most common crimes include violence and sexual offences, with 6,126 offences reported in 2023. Vehicle crime and shoplifting have also been significant issues in the past, though efforts are ongoing to address these concerns.
The least common crime in Hammersmith and Fulham is possession of weapons, with only 109 offences recorded in 2023. The community safety team’s proactive approach, including crime prevention events and collaboration with the police, helps maintain a secure environment. These efforts ensure that residents feel safe and supported in their community.
Unique Features of Hammersmith
Hammersmith distinguishes itself through a unique combination of architectural diversity, historical significance, and a suburban lifestyle. The area attracts a diverse mix of families, professionals, creatives, and artists, all contributing to its vibrant community. With great schools, fun venues, and places to relax, Hammersmith offers a perfect balance of work and leisure.
The area’s increasing popularity is driven by new property developments and the desire of young professionals and families to settle outside the city …
The area’s increasing popularity is driven by new property developments and the desire of young professionals and families to settle outside the city centre. Hammersmith Bridge, with its historical significance, and the picturesque River Thames add to the district’s charm, making it a highly desirable place to live.
Architectural Diversity
The architectural landscape of Hammersmith presents an intriguing mix of modern and classic designs. The district features a mix of new builds and classic London turn-of-the-century architecture, offering a visually diverse environment. Notable buildings like The Ark, designed by Ralph Erskine, stand out with their unique and striking designs.
This architectural diversity not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of Hammersmith but also provides a variety of living options to suit different tastes. From historic period homes to contemporary new developments, the district caters to a wide range of preferences, making it a visually and culturally rich place to live.
Historical Significance
Rich in history, Hammersmith boasts several sites of historical importance, enhancing its charm. The original Hammersmith Bridge, opened in 1827, was the first suspension bridge across the River Thames, marking a significant engineering achievement. Listed pubs like The Dove and The Black Lion are recognized for their historical architectural significance, offering a glimpse into the area’s past.
Riverside Studios, originally a Victorian factory, is now a redeveloped arts centre, adding to the cultural heritage of Hammersmith. The first parish church, St Paul’s, built by Sir Nicholas Crispe in the early 1660s, further highlights the rich history embedded in the area. These historical sites contribute to the unique character and appeal of Hammersmith, making it a fascinating place to explore and live.
Summary
In summary, Hammersmith offers a unique blend of vibrant neighbourhoods, a diverse property market, excellent transport links, and a rich cultural scene. The area’s high-quality educational institutions, safety, and strong community spirit make it an ideal place for families, young professionals, and anyone looking for a balanced urban-suburban lifestyle. From the charming Brackenbury Village to the cultural hub of the Riverside Studios Site and the tranquil Ravenscourt Park Area, Hammersmith has something to offer everyone.
If you’re considering making a move, Hammersmith should undoubtedly be at the top of your list. Its blend of historical significance, architectural diversity, and modern amenities creates a living environment that is both enriching and convenient. Discover the best of West London living in Hammersmith and find your perfect home in this thriving district.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most desirable neighbourhoods in Hammersmith?
The most desirable neighbourhoods in Hammersmith are Brackenbury Village, the Riverside Studios Site, and the Ravenscourt Park Area. These areas offer great amenities and a desirable living environment.
What types of properties are available in Hammersmith?
In Hammersmith, you can find a diverse range of properties, such as period homes, mansion blocks, converted buildings, purpose-built maisonettes, and new developments.
How is the transport connectivity in Hammersmith?
Hammersmith has excellent transport connectivity with multiple tube lines and extensive bus services, making it easy to get around the area.
Are there good schools in Hammersmith?
Hammersmith offers high-quality educational institutions, including notable primary and secondary schools, as well as prestigious private schools.
How safe is it to live in Hammersmith?
Living in Hammersmith is generally safe, with a strong community safety team working to reduce crime and maintain a secure environment.
