Back to News
25.04.23

What Makes Highgate a Great Place to Live

Perched atop one of the capital’s highest hills, with its beautiful old houses and their fine views, Highgate may feel like a neighbourhood apart from the rest of London, but its transport links mean the city centre is only 30 minutes away.

Leafy Living

Highgate is known for its leafy, green surroundings, with the famous Highgate Wood that covers 28 hectares of ancient woodland, and Hampstead Heath nearby, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, jogging, and picnicking. Highgate Cemetery — the resting place of philosopher Karl Marx and novelist George Eliot — and the adjoining “garden for the gardenless” Waterlow Park are to be found to the south.

Convenient Commuting

Two underground stations, Archway and Highgate, are within a short walk, or even shorter bus ride, of central Highgate. The M1 motorway is a 20-minute drive away, allowing for easy escapes northward out of London.

Community Atmosphere

Contributing to Highgate’s village atmosphere are various historic cultural institutions. The area also hosts various local events and festivals throughout the year, providing opportunities for community engagement and entertainment. Visiting academics lecture at the Highgate Literary & Scientific Institution, while there are lunchtime concerts at Lauderdale House, a Tudor mansion in Waterlow Park saved from demolition by William Morris, the 19th-century Arts and Crafts designer.

Education

Highgate boasts two of London’s leading independent day schools. Channing School caters to girls aged four to 18, and Highgate School; a renowned independent school with a long history of attracting families seeking quality education for their children.

Local Amenities

Highgate offers a range of amenities such as shops, restaurants, cafes, and pubs, providing convenient access to everyday necessities and recreational options without having to travel far. Residents looking for a local Pub will find an excellent range on offer. Many date back hundreds of years to when Highgate was still a small rural settlement on the outskirts of London. The Flask has an excellent selection of beers and a lively garden; the Prince of Wales offers more of a traditional, cosy feel, and The Gatehouse, which is also home to a fringe theatre, serves Spanish-influenced cuisine.