London is a place that’s alive with parks, cosy neighbourhoods, and families who love calling it home. For parents, the decision to settle down in the capital comes with a long checklist. You want good schools, clean parks where kids can run free, quiet streets that still feel connected to the rest of the city, and neighbours who actually know each other’s names.
To make things simpler, we’ve rounded up some of the best areas to live in London with family. These neighbourhoods are known for being safe, friendly, and great for raising children. Whether you’re after peaceful streets surrounded by parks or a lively area with quick access to central London, this guide will help you find a spot that fits your family perfectly.
Areas with a Strong Community Feel and Great Schools
Some families care most about calm surroundings, top-rated schools, and a close-knit neighbourhood. These are the places where parents chat at the school gate, kids play in local parks after class, and weekend markets become part of your routine.
Richmond upon Thames
Richmond feels like a dream for families who want nature and calm but don’t want to leave London. It’s full of vast, open parks and quiet streets lined with trees. Families love spending weekends cycling, picnicking, or walking by the river.
Schools in Richmond are often ranked among the best in the city, both public and private. Local parents usually mention how clean, organised, and community-focused the area feels. Even though it’s peaceful, you can reach central London in under half an hour by train. So you get countryside calm without losing city convenience.
Hampstead
Hampstead feels more like a small town than a city neighbourhood. The streets are lined with historic houses, pretty cafés, and family-owned shops. It’s famous for Hampstead Heath, which is a huge park. Families move here for the charm and the calm. People often describe it as “quiet but alive.” It’s one of those areas where you’ll actually know your neighbours, and local shops still remember regular customers.
Dulwich
Dulwich, especially East Dulwich, is a favourite among young families. It’s known for its Victorian-style homes, leafy streets, and a buzzing local scene filled with bakeries and art cafés.
Parents here love the range of good primary and secondary schools. Parks like Peckham Rye and Dulwich Park offer space for children to play safely. Despite being calm and community-driven, it’s well-connected to the city centre.
Chiswick
Chiswick sits by the river and offers everything a family might want: safety, schools, and plenty of things to do. It’s full of green parks like Chiswick House Gardens, where kids can play freely and parents can relax.
The neighbourhood has a soft, family-friendly energy. You’ll find bookshops, playgrounds, organic markets, and cafés that welcome children. Schools here are known to perform well, and many families stay for the long run.
Greenwich
Greenwich is a place where history meets comfort. With Greenwich Park, the Royal Observatory, and riverside views, families always have somewhere peaceful to go.
What really makes Greenwich shine is its community spirit. Local festivals, outdoor markets, and museums mean there’s always something happening. It’s easy to get around thanks to strong transport links, and the schools have solid reputations.
Kingston upon Thames
Kingston is one of those areas where everything feels just right for family life. The town sits beside the River Thames, giving off a small-town warmth while still being part of London. Families can enjoy boat rides, picnics, and riverside walks, and the town centre is packed with shops and cafés.
Schools here are well-known and reliable, and many residents say Kingston feels safe and friendly. There’s also a lot for children to do.
Areas with Good Connections and Family-Friendly Amenities
The following areas offer the best of both: excellent transport links, parks, and schools, along with the kind of local life that makes raising kids easier.
Fulham
Fulham sits close to the Thames and feels both modern and classic. It has strong connections to central London but still moves at a slower pace. Parents appreciate the wide pavements, riverside parks, and cafés that welcome families. Schools are excellent here, and the international crowd gives it a mix of cultures. You’ll find weekend farmers’ markets, cosy playgrounds, and safe residential streets.
Waltham Forest
Waltham Forest offers a blend of peaceful parks paired with creative energy. Families love the Walthamstow Wetlands and the easy reach of Epping Forest for weekend adventures.
Schools here perform well, and safety ratings are higher than many expect for an East London borough. What stands out most is the strong community feel because neighbours help each other, and local groups organise family events year-round.
Sutton
Sutton is known for three things: safety, greenery, and happy families. It’s one of those boroughs where parents feel relaxed letting their children walk or cycle to school. The area has a large number of outstanding schools and friendly parks that stay clean and secure. Community spirit runs deep here. There are weekend fairs, libraries that host kids’ clubs, and peaceful spots like Sutton Downs.
Wembley
Many people think of Wembley only for its stadium, but it’s much more than that. In recent years, it’s turned into a modern residential area with a growing arts and food scene. The neighbourhood feels fresh and full of life, yet still offers plenty of peaceful corners, the kind of charm you’d read about in a good Neighbourhood Guide to London. Families like Wembley for its affordable homes and improved schools. There are local parks, community centres, and shopping areas designed for family life.
Bexley
Bexleyo is calm, full of parks, and known for its family-first feel. Streets are wide and peaceful, and neighbours often know each other well. It’s less crowded but still connected to the city by train. Schools in Bexley are reliable, and the borough has earned a good reputation for cleanliness and safety.
Enfield
Enfield mixes green living with easy access to shops, schools, and transport. The borough offers large homes, plenty of trees, and an overall relaxed atmosphere. There are community halls, local markets, and weekend sports for children. Parents like that Enfield feels balanced because it is neither too urban nor too distant. It gives space for children to grow while keeping the family connected to London’s main routes and attractions.
Havering
Havering lies toward the edge of East London, offering space, calm, and a neighbourly attitude. It’s ideal for families who prefer open skies and larger homes but still need quick transport into the city. You’ll find wide parks, tidy streets, and a friendly tone that makes it feel more like a town than part of the capital. Schools are good, and families praise how well local authorities maintain cleanliness and community safety.
Tips for Choosing the Right Family Area in London
Every family’s version of “perfect” is different. Some value space and quiet more than anything, while others want a shorter commute or a lively weekend scene. Here are a few helpful tips to guide the choice..
Think About Your Daily Routine
Before picking a neighbourhood, picture your week. How long would it take to get to work, school, and after-school activities? Some areas, like Richmond or Sutton, give space and peace but take longer to reach the city. Others like Fulham or Greenwich make commuting easier but come with a bit more bustle.
If your mornings are packed with school runs and work travel, proximity to a reliable train or tube line will matter more than you think.
Visit at Different Times
An area can look calm on a Sunday morning but feel completely different on a Friday night. Visit during different times like mornings, evenings, and weekends to get the real picture. This helps you see how traffic flows, how safe the streets feel after dark, and whether parks stay busy or quiet.
Research Local Schools
Good schools can shape your whole experience. Even if your children are young, it’s worth knowing which schools you’ll be in range for. Check the school websites and community forums. Areas like Richmond, Sutton, and Hampstead have excellent options, but places like Enfield and Bexley also surprise many parents with strong schooling options.
Look for Green Spaces Within Walking Distance
Kids need room to move, and parents need places to relax. Having a park or playground nearby makes daily life much easier. Areas like Greenwich, Chiswick, and Dulwich shine here. When visiting, try walking from potential homes to the nearest park.
Explore Community Life
Family life feels richer when you’re part of a friendly, welcoming neighbourhood. Look for local cafés, weekend markets, or libraries hosting kids’ clubs. These small details show how active and social the area really is. Richmond, Kingston, and Sutton are well-known for strong community ties, but many smaller boroughs like Havering and Bexley are just as warm.
Balance Comfort with Connectivity
It’s easy to fall for peaceful suburbs, but don’t forget your connection to the city. If your work or social life depends on central London, choose somewhere with dependable transport options.
Consider the Future
Think ahead. Will your family need a larger space in a few years? Are there secondary schools or family amenities you’ll grow into? Planning ahead helps you stay rooted longer and saves the hassle of moving again soon.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right place to live in London with your family isn’t just about maps and transport links. It’s about how a place feels. Do the streets feel safe after dark? Can your kids walk to school without worry? Is there a park close enough for an evening stroll? These small things add up to a lifestyle that keeps families happy for years.
So before making your choice, walk the neighbourhoods, visit the parks, talk to locals, and trust your instincts. When a place feels right, you’ll know it. Travel Backpack is here to help you look for the best places to live in London with your family. We hope you liked this guide!
FAQs
How can I decide between all these areas?
Start with your family’s daily routine. Think about school runs, commute times, and weekend activities. Talk to locals, visit parks, and notice the small details.
Is London really a good city for raising kids?
Absolutely. Despite its size, London is filled with family-friendly communities, cultural activities, and green spaces. You’ll find museums, playgrounds, rivers, and gardens everywhere. The key is picking the right neighbourhood that gives you both peace and connection.
Which areas have the strongest sense of community?
Kingston upon Thames, Richmond, and Sutton are known for their tight-knit feel. These are places where neighbours know each other, local events happen often, and families stay for generations. Greenwich and Dulwich also have very active local communities.
How early should parents start applying for schools in London?
It’s best to start looking almost a year before you need a place. School applications open early, and catchment areas fill fast. Doing your research in advance saves a lot of stress later.
Are there free things for families to do in London?
Absolutely. Many museums, libraries, and galleries are free. Parks often have playgrounds, fountains, and walking paths that don’t cost anything. London is full of simple outdoor fun.
What are good signs that a neighbourhood suits families?
You’ll notice clean parks, nearby schools, safe crossings, and shops that sell family basics. If you see parents walking kids to school or toddlers in the park, that’s usually a good clue.
How can families make new friends after moving?
Joining local Facebook groups, school associations, or weekend clubs helps a lot. Many parents also meet through playgroups or community events. Londoners are friendlier than they seem once you start talking.
