Living in St John’s Wood
Living in St John’s Wood offers a perfect blend of village life coupled with all the benefits of urban living.
Situated within the City of Westminster, with an NW8 postcode, St John’s Wood is known for its beautiful, tree-lined streets and stunning period architecture. With property types ranging from modern, luxury apartments to refined villas the area offers something to suit everyone.
Green spaces abound, while the Regent’s Canal offers both secluded riverside walks and access to the nearby lively Camden Market.
A strong sense of community, combined with a safe and peaceful environment, exceptional educational establishments, including The American School, plus excellent transport links are just some of the features that encourage many to consider living in St John’s Wood.
If you are considering living in St John’s Wood, here is what you need to know.
A brief history of St John’s Wood
Those living in St John’s Wood today will be surrounded by much of the area’s rich history which dates back to the early 19th century. Initially part of the Great Forest of Middlesex, it transformed into a desirable residential area with the construction of elegant villas starting around 1804.
The development was spearheaded by the Eyre family, who envisioned a leafy suburb distinct from the crowded, urbanised areas of central London. Traditional terraced homes were abandoned in favour of imposing Gothic properties and Italianate villas.
By the mid-19th century, St John’s Wood became known for its picturesque streets and spacious properties, attracting affluent residents seeking tranquillity and green spaces.
The area is also notable for housing the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, established in 1814, which remains a cornerstone of British cricket.
In terms of historical places in London to call home, those living in St John’s Wood enjoy being surrounded by historic architecture and points of interest.
Green spaces in and around St John’s Wood
St John’s Wood may be very close to central London, but it seems far away from the hustle and bustle of city life with lots of green, open spaces for residents to enjoy.
The Regent’s Park, one of the Royal Parks of London, is to the east of St John’s Wood, housing the UK’s oldest outdoor theatre, and the world’s oldest scientific zoo, ZSL London Zoo.
Famous for Regency architecture and lush gardens, the park features Queen Mary’s Gardens with 40,000 blooming roses in June and July. It’s also home to the Frieze London art fair. Visitors can explore the park’s elegant landscapes, lakes, and monuments, and participate in guided walks. The park also offers a wildlife garden, an allotment garden, and a hedgehog conservation programme. Children can enjoy four playgrounds, a boating lake, and a zip wire.
Just north is the Primrose Hill neighbourhood with its 62-acre park, where residents can enjoy panoramic views of London and a tranquil spot for relaxation.
The beautiful Regent’s Canal runs through The Regent’s Park and to the south of St John’s Wood. This picturesque and historic waterway is flanked by charming towpaths, making it a popular spot for walking, cycling, and boating. Along its route, you’ll encounter a mix of urban and green landscapes, including the tranquil Little Venice area, known for its pretty houseboats and waterside cafes.
There are an abundance of green spaces right on the doorstep for those living in St John’s Wood.
Shopping in St John’s Wood
St John’s Wood High Street has everything a discerning shopper could want. From high-end designer brands offering luxury fashion, such as Zadig & Voltaire, and beauty and homeware, to cute boutiques and the “staples” such as opticians, dry cleaners, butchers, and grocers.
Health and fitness lovers can take advantage of several bespoke options including LondonCryo and 1Rebel. There is also a free-to-use outdoor gym in nearby St John’s Wood Church Gardens.
With central London just a short distance away, those living in St John’s Wood enjoy ready access to many of the top shopping streets. In particular Marylebone is very nearby, and just beyond it Regents Street, Oxford Street and Mayfair.
Residents can also visit the nearby Camden Lock market, with over 1,000 stalls, shops, and eateries.
Places to eat and drink
If you are looking for somewhere to eat and drink, then living in St John’s Wood you will be spoilt for choice, with a plethora of chic cafes and restaurants to choose from, offering cuisine from around the world.
The renowned Ivy restaurant provides an extensive all-day brasserie style experience and offers Parisian-style al fresco dining – perfect for those warmer British Summer days.
For delectable, sweet treats, try the American-style bakery The Hummingbird, or have authentic Italian ice cream at Unico Gelato.
England’s Grace is an Antipodean-inspired modern European restaurant. By day you can enjoy relaxed breakfast and brunch favourites, while at night there is a more elevated culinary experience.
What’s it like living in St John’s Wood
St John’s Wood offers some great cultural experiences including The Hampstead Theatre, churches such as the Grade 2 listed St John’s Wood Church, and several nearby museums including the Sherlock Holmes Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum.
The historic Royal Kensington Palace is just a stone’s throw away with its magnificent state apartments and tranquil, secluded gardens.
For something a little bit different, you can book a tour to see behind the scenes at the nearby Lord’s Cricket Ground. Or pose for a photo on the iconic zebra crossing made famous by The Beatles outside the Abbey Road Studios.
Schools in St John’s Wood
St John’s Wood has many excellent schools for all ages and abilities including:
- The American School in London – an independent school for international students from kindergarten up to high school age
- Barrow Hill Junior School – a state school described as a “village school in a city setting” for boys and girls aged 7-11
- Saint Christina’s Primary School – a co-educational, independent Catholic nursery and preparatory school for children aged 3 – 11
- St John’s Wood Pre-Preparatory School – an independent day school for girls and boys aged 3 – 7
- Harris Academy St John’s Wood – a co-educational secondary school for students aged 11 – 18.
St John’s Wood also has several universities and colleges nearby, including the Regent’s University London and Imperial College London.
Transport links
St John’s Wood has excellent transport links. Its underground station is on the Jubilee Line, offering access to Bond Street, mainline railway stations Waterloo and London Bridge to the east, and Stratford, Wembley, and Stanmore to the west.
Additional travel options are available at other nearby underground stations including Maida Vale (Bakerloo Line) and Edgware Road (Circle Line).
The nearest London overground station is South Hampstead, and the area is served by several buses, including a night bus.
Heathrow Airport is around 45 minutes away by road and Gatwick is approximately an hour and a half away by car.
Living in St John’s Wood
The architectural style of St John’s Wood has evolved, but it retains much of its original charm, characterised by elegant period homes on leafy streets and detached and semi-detached houses with ample gardens – reflecting its historical roots as a genteel suburban retreat.
The neighbourhood has a sense of exclusivity, with residents enjoying both a village-like atmosphere and convenient access to central London, which is a short journey away – just two stops on the Jubilee Line.
Its village-like atmosphere and excellent connectivity are just some of the reasons why the prospect of living in St John’s Wood is so appealing.
Types of property for those living St John’s Wood
Homes in North London’s St John’s Wood are highly sought after, due to its great transport links, excellent schools, and proximity to Regent’s Park.
From the iconic mansion blocks on roads such as Prince Albert Road, to the more modern apartment buildings St John’s Wood Road, there are an abundance of options for those seeking flats in NW8. There are also purpose-built flats, often portered, and studios – some enjoying balconies and views over Regent’s Park.
More modern apartments such as Atrium Apartments, Pavillion Apartments and St Edmund’s Terrace offer uncompromised luxury.
Those seeking larger properties will find a limited number of detached and semi-detached villas, many enjoying spacious gardens, though these properties are in high demand and short supply.
Beautiful period homes on Marlborough Place and the highly sought stucco-fronted properties on Hamilton Terrace are extremely desirable, as well as the exquisite mansions lining leafy Avenue Road.
Is living in St John’s Wood for you?
If you are looking for laid-back village life, with all the conveniences of city living, then St John’s Wood ticks the boxes. This beautiful neighbourhood has a real community feel, excellent transport links, great schools and shops, and open spaces are plentiful.
It’s little wonder that St John’s Wood is considered one of the best places to live in the capital. There are lots of different property types to suit you whether a single professional, a growing family or you are looking to downsize.
To find out more about living in St John’s Wood contact Garrington for an initial no-obligation discussion about your requirements.
