Cricklewood or Blackheath

[Overtherainbowandback]

In a bit of a dilemma. I have a budget of £1m and need a 3/4 bed house/flat. It's just myself and DH, and we have twins on the way, he also has 2 DC from his previous marriage who school in Dulwich.

His ex DW has sole custody, but we hope in time this will change. My DS and her family live in Brent.

DH and I work in the City, need to commute into Bank/Moorgate area.

I like Cricklewood due to proximity to DS and train line into the City, DH likes Blackheath due to proximity to his DC.

We currently live in Ealing, so are not too familiar with either area, but have heard good things. Would love to hear others views of either area. Thanks

[Ambivalence]

Blackheath is V quick transport links too...17 minutes to London Bridge. ..I'd imagine it's much more expensive than Cricklewood though. ..
Blackheath is really lovely, v much yummy mummy territory. .

[hydrangea78]

Blackheath is wonderful. Will be great with small children. The Heath and Greenwich park are fabulous. Loads of baby and toddler groups. The village is lovely, plenty of coffee shops. Great transport links, especially if you live on the west side and can nip down into Lewisham.
Lewisham shopping centre is very handy and you can easily walk into Greenwich too. It's by far my most fave place in London. Unfortunately we got priced out.

[DameDiazepamTheDramaQueen]

Blackheath

[SaltyMyDear]

You've heard good things about Cricklewood!

It's nothing like Ealing.....

[WhatKatyDidnt]

If you want NW London then Kilburn, Willesden, Brondesbury, (super-£) West Hampstead are all much nicer than
Cricklewood. I'd go for Blackheath though -your money would go further, it's beautiful and near your DH's kids. Commute fine from either.

[WashAway]

Do you already live in Cricklewood? I lived married without kids in Cricklewood for years and it was fine. Within 6 months of having first child we sold our place. There were limited places gor a nice walk around with the pram, limited amount of mum and baby groups, no great park within reasonable walking distance and childcare options at the time were limited. A lot of time spent on the bus or car getting to the nicer neighbouring areas which have already been mentioned. If I remember correctly, primary school is quite good if you are Catholic, but you will fight traffic for any of the nearby pre-preps. Completely achieveable if you are a SAHM.

If Cricklewood is a serious consideration, suggest you really picture yourself walking the area with a double pram and and two babies. Loads of people do it, but not sure that your million pounds is going to buy you an equivalent lifestyle in the area. Do not get me started on the reliabiliy of the Thameslink!