West Hampstead Area Guide
West Hampstead is a great place to call home, which is why it’s so popular with
buyers and renters alike. It started life as a small estate and, by the 15th
century, was referred to as ‘West End’. Records indicate that there were houses in
West End by the 17th century, but it wasn’t until the 19th century, when the railway
station was built, that the area became a proper residential zone. In 1879, the
local station was called West Hampstead, a title which was eventually adopted for
the whole area.
These days, West Hampstead is considered one of north-west London’s best addresses
and, fortunately, remains more affordable than neighbouring Hampstead. It has a
pleasant ‘village’ atmosphere, which is something the locals go to great lengths to
preserve. However, despite its cosy community ambience, it is conveniently close to
the heart of London.
West Hampstead’s transport links play a large part in making the area desirable. The
local tube station is on the Jubilee line and takes commuters to Bond Street in
under 10 minutes, with Westminster and Canary Wharf further up the line. There is
also a London Overground station with trains to destinations like Clapham Junction,
Richmond and Stratford. The Thames link mainline runs right through West Hampstead
and takes commuters to destinations such as Brighton, St Pancras and Luton.
Buses are also plentiful in the area, or alternatively, travellers may wish to cycle
into Central London. It takes approximately half an hour for a cyclist to reach
Oxford Street.
Families will be pleased to know that there are some excellent schools in West
Hampstead. Notable primaries include Kingsgate Primary School and Beckford Primary
School. At the secondary level, South Hampstead High School is a popular choice for
girls, and St George’s Catholic School was rated ‘outstanding’ in its most recent
Ofsted report.
As for local amenities, West Hampstead residents are spoilt for choice. The O2 Centre
has plenty of shops and restaurants, plus a cinema and a gym. There’s also a
library, a local farmer’s market, and several independent cafes, shops and bars for
all to enjoy.
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