What are the best points about Living in Cricklewood North West London

In this blog, we delve into what makes Cricklewood so special, and why more and more Londoners—both lifelong residents and newcomers alike—are setting their sights on this vibrant and characterful neighbourhood.

1. Excellent Transport Connections

One of Cricklewood’s standout features is its superb connectivity. For commuters and London explorers alike, the area is exceptionally well-served by public transport.

• Cricklewood Station (Thameslink) provides direct access to St Pancras International, Farringdon, and London Bridge, making it a breeze to reach central London or even catch the Eurostar.
• Nearby Kilburn and Willesden Green tube stations (Jubilee Line) ensure swift travel across the capital, including stops like Bond Street, Canary Wharf, and Waterloo.
• Numerous bus routes operate through the area, including night buses, providing 24-hour connections to various parts of London.
• For drivers, the A5 (Edgware Road) and the North Circular Road are easily accessible, offering quick routes out of London to the M1 and beyond.

Whether you rely on public transport or prefer to drive, Cricklewood is remarkably well-positioned for seamless travel.

2. Green Spaces and Outdoor Living

Cricklewood offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of central London, with plenty of green spaces to relax, exercise, or enjoy time with family and friends.

• Gladstone Park is perhaps the crown jewel of the area—just a short walk from the heart of Cricklewood. It boasts wide open fields, tennis courts, formal gardens, a children’s playground, and stunning panoramic views across London. You can even spot landmarks like The Shard on a clear day.
• Mapesbury Dell, a lesser-known but beautifully maintained community garden, is a peaceful hideaway that offers a real sense of community.
• Hampstead Heath and Brent Reservoir (Welsh Harp) are also easily accessible for longer weekend walks, picnics, or even sailing.

For lovers of nature and outdoor living, Cricklewood is perfectly placed to offer the best of both urban and green lifestyles.

3. Cultural Diversity and Community Spirit

One of Cricklewood’s most compelling features is its cultural richness. Home to a dynamic mix of communities—including Irish, Eastern European, Afro-Caribbean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian residents—Cricklewood has a cosmopolitan spirit that’s hard to match.

This diversity is reflected in the local businesses, food offerings, religious institutions, and community events that give Cricklewood its unique charm. You’ll find:

• Authentic bakeries and delicatessens selling everything from Polish sausages to Middle Eastern pastries.
• Family-run cafés and restaurants serving Irish breakfasts, Indian curries, and Turkish grills.
• Community centres and festivals that bring neighbours together in celebration of their shared space.

This multicultural tapestry is part of what makes Cricklewood not only welcoming but also culturally enriching.

4. A Thriving Food and Drink Scene

Cricklewood has undergone a quiet gastronomic revolution in recent years, with a growing number of pubs, cafés, and restaurants popping up that cater to all tastes and budgets.

Some highlights include:

• The Crown, Cricklewood – A grand Victorian pub and hotel that blends old-school glamour with modern gastropub fare. It’s a popular spot for Sunday roasts, brunches, or a pint after work.
• PanAsia – A local favourite offering a fusion of Asian flavours in a sleek, contemporary setting.
• Rumi – Known for its Persian cuisine and warm ambience, Rumi is ideal for a more intimate evening out.
• GAIL’s Bakery (coming soon) – The area’s increasing popularity is drawing high-street favourites like GAIL’s, bringing artisan pastries and coffee to the heart of Cricklewood.

Cricklewood also boasts several charming independent cafés, where you can enjoy a coffee while soaking up the local atmosphere or working remotely.

5. Strong Community and Local Identity

Unlike some areas of London that can feel transient or anonymous, Cricklewood retains a strong sense of identity. There’s a “village within the city” feel here, where long-standing residents and new arrivals alike contribute to a thriving local culture.

The Cricklewood Town Team and Friends of Cricklewood Library are great examples of grassroots community initiatives that champion local heritage, organise events, and promote sustainability and arts.

There’s a palpable sense that people care about Cricklewood—its history, its green spaces, and its future.

6. Great Value for Property

While house prices across London continue to climb, Cricklewood still offers comparatively good value for those looking to buy or rent.

• Period properties—particularly in the Mapesbury Conservation Area—offer elegant Edwardian and Victorian homes with original features and generous gardens.
• A range of purpose-built flats and new-build developments cater to first-time buyers, young professionals, and growing families alike.
• Rental prices tend to be lower than in neighbouring Hampstead, West Hampstead, or Queen’s Park, while offering similar proximity to central London.

With continued regeneration and investment in the area, property values are expected to rise, making Cricklewood a smart choice for buyers looking to get ahead of the curve.

7. Local Amenities and Shopping

Cricklewood offers all the essentials you need within easy reach:

• Brent Cross Shopping Centre, just a short drive or bus ride away, is home to major retailers like John Lewis, Apple, and Zara.
• Locally, you’ll find independent shops, convenience stores, pharmacies, and several large supermarkets including Co-op, Tesco, and Aldi.
• Health services are easily accessible, with GP surgeries, dentists, and opticians all within walking distance.

In short, Cricklewood combines the convenience of urban living with the comfort and friendliness of a smaller community.

8. A Rich and Storied History

Cricklewood has a fascinating past that continues to shape its character today. Once a rural hamlet, it grew rapidly with the arrival of the Midland Railway in the late 19th century.

• The area was once home to the Smith’s Industries factory, a major employer that produced everything from car instruments to aviation components.
• It also boasts ties to the Cricklewood Film Studios, where many early British films were produced.

This sense of history is reflected in the architecture, local museums, and stories passed down by long-term residents.

9. Family-Friendly Environment

Cricklewood is an excellent place to raise a family, thanks to its welcoming community, ample green spaces, and strong selection of schools.

• Local primary schools like Anson Primary and Claremont Primary are well-regarded and community-focused.
• Secondary schools such as Hampstead School and Capital City Academy are easily accessible.
• A variety of nurseries, after-school clubs, and community centres provide support for families at every stage.

Combine this with parks, libraries, and cultural events, and it’s easy to see why so many families are choosing to settle here.

10. Promising Future and Regeneration Projects

Cricklewood is on the cusp of significant transformation. Regeneration projects tied to the Brent Cross and Cricklewood regeneration scheme promise new homes, schools, parks, and transport improvements.

Highlights include:

• A new Brent Cross West Thameslink Station, due to open soon, which will further improve connectivity to central London.
• Redevelopment of brownfield sites into mixed-use spaces, bringing retail, residential, and leisure facilities into the heart of Cricklewood.
• Investment in sustainable infrastructure and improved cycling and pedestrian routes.

These developments promise to enhance Cricklewood’s liveability while retaining the charm and community feel that make it so special.