Finding the best areas to move to in Twickenham? In this comprehensive guide, we delve into Twickenham’s top neighbourhoods renowned for their scenic beauty, family-friendly environment, and convenient commutes. Discover the unique qualities, vibrant communities, and lifestyle advantages that make these areas ideal for your next move.
Key Takeaways
- Twickenham offers a variety of appealing residential areas, including riverside living with picturesque views, a charming community in St Margarets, and the artistic enclave of Eel Pie Island.
- The town is family-friendly, featuring excellent schools, ample green spaces, and community events that foster a nurturing and engaging environment for raising children.
- Twickenham is well-connected for commuters, with convenient transport links to central London and Richmond, and offers a vibrant town centre along with affordable housing options to cater to diverse budgets.
Riverside Living in Twickenham
Twickenham’s riverside charm is undeniable. The scenic walks along the Thames Path are a treat for the eyes, offering picturesque views and tranquil spots perfect for a leisurely stroll or a refreshing bike ride. Twickenham’s riverside areas are adorned with luxury dwellings, formal gardens, and public houses, creating a serene environment that beckons you to unwind. The newly built park and leisure facility further enhance the allure, featuring native trees, a children’s play area, pétanque pitches, terraced lawns, and tiered seating.
For socialising, The Crown near the River Thames is a vibrant hub, while North Stables Café provides a quirky spot for coffee and cake during your riverside walks. The widened Water Lane pedestrian footway now better connects the town to the river, making it easier to enjoy these beautiful spots.
St Margarets
St Margarets is a delightful area brimming with charm and community spirit. Known for its annual fair featuring live bands, face painting, and traditional games like sack races and tug of war, it is a highlight for many residents.
The cosy ‘old man’ style pubs in St Margarets offer a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing evening out with friends and family.
Eel Pie Island
Eel Pie Island is a unique enclave that offers a sense of exclusivity and belonging. Home to a close-knit community, the island is rich with an artistic vibe, hosting numerous artists and musicians.
Community activities and events are a staple here, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among residents. Some of the cultural and social venues you can enjoy include:
- Local festivals and fairs
- Art exhibitions and workshops
- Music concerts and performances
- Sports tournaments and leagues
Eel Pie Island remains a hidden gem in Twickenham, perfect for those seeking a unique living experience.
Marble Hill House
Located in beautiful parkland near the Thames, Marble Hill House is a magnificent example of 18th-century Georgian architecture. Marble Hill Park surrounds this historical building, providing a lush natural setting popular for outdoor activities.
From Marble Hill House, residents can easily explore nearby areas like St Margarets, Ham, and Richmond, enhancing the appeal of this picturesque locale.
Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods
Twickenham is a haven for families, offering:
- Excellent schooling options
- Beautiful parks that cater to children and adults alike
- Community events that are frequent, with local fairs and outdoor film screenings bringing neighbours together.
These neighbourhoods provide a safe and nurturing environment for raising children while ensuring parents have access to all necessary amenities.
Strawberry Hill
Strawberry Hill is known for its picturesque village atmosphere and vibrant community events, making it a favourite among families. The iconic Strawberry Hill House adds to the charm of the area.
The area boasts several well-regarded primary schools, such as St James’s Roman Catholic Primary School, ensuring a quality education for young residents.
Twickenham Green
Twickenham Green stands out with its ample green space, ideal for relaxation and recreational activities. It is appreciated for its large open areas perfect for family picnics, sports, and community gatherings. Cricket matches are a common sight, attracting both players and spectators and adding to the community spirit.
Orleans Park
Orleans Park is a highly attractive area for families due to its top-tier schools, including Orleans Park School, and strong community engagement. The schools in this area are known for their excellence, making Orleans Park a sought-after location for parents prioritising education.
Prime Commuter Locations
For those who need to commute, Twickenham offers prime locations with excellent transport links to central London, Richmond, and Heathrow Airport. The area is well-connected with three train stations: Twickenham, Strawberry Hill, and St Margarets, providing efficient transport options into the city.
Near Twickenham Station
Living near Twickenham Station provides quick access to London Waterloo, with a 23-minute train journey making it highly convenient for commuters. The area around Twickenham Station is bustling with activity, offering a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. This makes it an ideal spot for those who enjoy a vibrant lifestyle while maintaining the convenience of a short commute. Additionally, the station’s proximity to Twickenham Stadium adds an exciting dimension to the area, especially on match days.
St Margarets Station Area
St Margarets Station area offers excellent transport options, including a 35-minute train ride to London Waterloo. Being in Zone 4, it also offers a relatively cheaper Travelcard compared to Zone 5, making it an economical choice for commuters.
The neighbourhood around St Margarets Station is known for its leafy streets and charming Victorian houses …
The neighbourhood around St Margarets Station is known for its leafy streets and charming Victorian houses, creating a picturesque and serene environment. Local amenities include boutique shops, cosy cafes, and a selection of pubs, making it a pleasant area to live in for those who appreciate a quieter, community-focused atmosphere.
Proximity to Richmond
Living near Richmond provides additional commuting options via local trains and the London Overground. Richmond Rail & Tube Station is just an 8-minute train ride from Twickenham, enhancing connectivity and convenience for residents. The area is renowned for its beautiful parks, such as Richmond Park and Kew Gardens, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The vibrant town centre boasts a wide array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a desirable location for those who enjoy a dynamic and diverse lifestyle. The Thames River adds a scenic backdrop, perfect for leisurely walks and relaxation.
Vibrant Town Centre Living
Twickenham’s Twickenham Town Centre is a lively hub filled with numerous shops, cafes, and cultural venues that cater to a diverse range of tastes. The area is well-connected to popular destinations like Eel Pie Island and Strawberry Hill, making it a central point for both locals and visitors.
Church Street
Church Street is renowned for its charming independent shops and eateries. With 40 independent businesses, including shops, restaurants, and other enterprises, it offers a unique shopping and dining experience. The street also hosts regular community events and festivals, making it a vibrant part of Twickenham.
In addition to its commercial appeal, Church Street’s cobblestone pathways and historic architecture add to its quaint and picturesque atmosphere, making it a favourite spot for both locals and tourists. The street is often adorned with seasonal decorations, enhancing its charm and creating a welcoming environment year-round. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet coffee, explore unique boutiques, or partake in community festivities, Church Street has something for everyone.
Twickenham Fine Ales
Twickenham Fine Ales is London’s oldest microbrewery, offering a unique experience for beer enthusiasts with a wide range of craft beers brewed from high-quality ingredients. The brewery provides guided tours that delve into the brewing process and end with tasting sessions. Events like beer festivals, live music nights, and food pairing evenings create a lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy culinary delights from local food vendors and shop for bottled beers, branded merchandise, and gift sets, making it a social hub in the town centre.
The Crown
The Crown is a beloved local pub known for its vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff, and delicious local cuisine. It offers a welcoming spot for socialising, with an extensive menu featuring seasonal dishes and a wide selection of drinks, including local ales and fine wines. The outdoor seating area is particularly popular during warmer months, and regular events such as quiz nights, live music, and themed parties ensure there’s always something happening at The Crown.
Affordable Housing Options
Twickenham offers a range of affordable housing options, from cosy studio apartments to modern apartment blocks. The average property price in Twickenham is £637,000, but more budget-friendly options are available, making it accessible for different budgets. Studio apartments are popular among young professionals and students, offering budget-friendly living options in Twickenham.
These cosy spaces provide a perfect blend of affordability and convenience. Modern apartment blocks in Twickenham often include amenities like gyms and communal gardens, making them an attractive choice for many. These developments offer competitive prices compared to older properties, providing value for money.
Green and Open Spaces
Twickenham places a significant emphasis on green spaces, offering an abundance of parks and recreational facilities for residents and visitors. These green areas are integral for recreation and relaxation, contributing to a high quality of life. The town’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing these spaces ensures that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty and tranquillity they provide. Whether you’re looking for a place to have a family picnic, engage in sports, or simply unwind, Twickenham’s green spaces cater to all needs.
York House Gardens
York House Gardens, located on the banks of the Thames, is a beautiful garden adorned with sculptures crafted from renowned Italian white Carrara marble. The garden offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. The sunken lawn, sea nymph statuary, and restored Japanese garden add to its charm, making it a tranquil escape. The gardens are a perfect spot for leisurely walks, photography, and quiet reflection, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
Twickenham Green
Twickenham Green offers a large open space for family activities, picnics, and sports. It is a popular site for community gatherings and local events, enhancing the community spirit. The green is frequently used for cricket matches, which are a beloved local tradition, drawing spectators from all around. The surrounding area is dotted with cafes and shops, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to spend an afternoon.
Teddington Lock
Teddington Lock is a significant nearby natural attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. As the longest lock on the River Thames, it offers picturesque views and various recreational opportunities. The lock is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and riverside walks, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The area around Teddington Lock is also home to several charming pubs and eateries, perfect for a relaxing meal after a day of exploring.
TIP
Embrace the serene environment of York House Gardens and the family-friendly Twickenham Green for a high quality of life. Enjoy outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery at Teddington Lock, perfect for anyone planning to relocate to Twickenham.
Educational Excellence
Twickenham boasts a strong educational landscape with a variety of outstanding primary and secondary schools, as well as prestigious independent institutions. Orleans Primary School is renowned for its exceptional teaching and leadership, emphasising a love of learning for life.
St Richard Reynolds RC offers a holistic education with a focus on academic excellence and robust sports facilities. Independent Hampton School, with its long history of academic success, provides a comprehensive curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities to support advanced learning.
Summary
Twickenham is an attractive place to live, offering a variety of appealing residential areas such as riverside living with picturesque views, the charming community of St Margarets, and the artistic enclave of Eel Pie Island. It is a family-friendly town with excellent schools, ample green spaces, and frequent community events. The town is well-connected for commuters, with convenient transport links to central London and Richmond. Twickenham also boasts a vibrant town centre filled with shops, cafes, and cultural venues, along with affordable housing options to cater to diverse budgets. The abundance of green and open spaces, coupled with educational excellence, makes Twickenham an ideal location for families and professionals alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Twickenham a great place to live?
Twickenham offers a blend of scenic beauty, family-friendly neighbourhoods, and excellent commuter links. With its riverside living, vibrant town centre, and numerous parks and green spaces, Twickenham provides a high quality of life for its residents. The town is also renowned for its top-tier schools and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place for families.
How are the schools in Twickenham?
Twickenham is home to several outstanding primary and secondary schools, as well as prestigious independent institutions. Schools like Orleans Primary School and St Richard Reynolds RC are known for their academic excellence and holistic education approaches. Independent Hampton School offers a comprehensive curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring high-quality education for children of all ages.
What are the best areas for families in Twickenham?
Neighbourhoods like Strawberry Hill, Twickenham Green, and Orleans Park are particularly family-friendly, offering excellent schooling options, beautiful parks, and frequent community events. These areas provide a safe and nurturing environment for raising children, with ample amenities to support family life.
Is Twickenham suitable for commuters?
Yes, Twickenham is well-connected for commuters, with convenient transport links to central London, Richmond, and Heathrow Airport. The area has three train stations – Twickenham, Strawberry Hill, and St Margarets – providing efficient transport options into the city. Living near Twickenham Station or St Margarets Station offers quick access to London Waterloo, making it highly convenient for daily commuters.
Are there affordable housing options in Twickenham?
Twickenham offers a range of affordable housing options, from cosy studio apartments to modern apartment blocks. While the average property price is around £637,000, there are more budget-friendly options available. Studio apartments are popular among young professionals and students, while modern apartment blocks often include amenities like gyms and communal gardens, providing value for money.
