Queens Park is fast becoming one of the trendiest neighborhoods in London, a place where bohemian ambience meets a luxurious lifestyle. Queen’s Park is a relatively small area, bound by Maida Vale, Kensal Rise, West Hampstead and Ladbroke Grove; and only 3.9 miles north-west of Oxford Circus. The area is centred by a 30 acres park, opened in 1887, and named in honour of Queen Victoria. The quintessential Queen’s Park homes vary from Late Victorian and Edwardian semi-detached and terraces houses, substantial detached Victorian homes and beautiful conversion apartments; however, many residents have built contemporary modern structures.
Houses prices in Queens Park vary in range, dependant on the location and the neighbouring area. House prices range from £175,000 to £2,900,000, with the average apartment price standing at £582,529, compared to the average house price of £1,312,492. House prices have been on the increase since the 90’s, and last year saw an average sold price 15.33% higher than the previous year. Interest for property in the area is still at an all time high and the demand for housing is being met by the construction of new developments.
Queen’s Park has become a magnet for accomplished individuals, flourishing artists and wealthy free spirited characters; the area is full to the brim with delightful families. Most of the residents are in their 30’s and the median age is 37. Just over half the residents are married, and the second largest demographic are married with children, and nearly 11 percent are single.
The park was laid out 1887 in a traditional late Victorian park style, designed with a more natural style of gardening and a far cry from the parterres and geometry of earlier Victorian gardens. Designed without any straight, Queen’s Park makes extensive use of bold tree planting and shrubberies with natural outlines, and large open areas of lawn for recreation and sport.
The landmark of the park is its bandstand, which was completed in 1887, and today hosts many spectacular events, summer is celebrated with an outdoor cinema, and an autumnal Queen’s Park Day ends the summer in style with a traditional English Fete.
Facilities in the park include six all-weather tennis courts, a pitch-and-putt course, an ornamental quiet garden, a children’s playground with paddling pool, a children’s animal farm and a café.
Queen’s Park is home to some of the areas most fashionable establishments. With so many restaurants, cafes, and bars filling up the streets around Queen’s Park it would be impossible to mention them all.
Ostuni is a favorite of both locals and visitors, London’s first eatery dedicated to the cuisine and wines of Puglia that represents what Italian food is all about; simplicity and flavour. Everyone frequents Jack’s, with its laid-back charm, easy going – good home cooked food, and cocktail nights.
Most residents prefer the low-key happenings of the local restaurant to the hustle and bustle of Central London. Head to The Salusbury Food Store for eat-in or take-away pizza, for a modern European-influenced food prepared with love head to The Paradise by way of Kensal Rise, or make your way to The Salusbury for traditional English pub food served to perfection.
Although Queen’s Park is not well known as a shopping destination, there are a handful of high-end boutiques. Local residents travel a short journey to Notting Hill, the closest and most convenient shopping area with and extensive selections of shops.
Living in London is like a dream, sprinkled with vibrant local neighbourhoods, distinctive spots and unique independent independent brands that make up London’s cultural tapestry.
