Not sure about Notting Hill?

[CHope]

Hello!

My husband wants to move to Notting Hill. We have two children(ages 9 and 5) who have a place at a school there. I heard it's very posh and not so 'artsy' anymore. I am more easy-going, artistic, and not a type-a person.

The other option is Primrose Hill. I know these are expensive areas. We are going with where the children are accepted into school.

I walked around both areas but can't seem to figure out where I would like to live best.

I'd like to be able to walk to most places but have some quiet as well.

Anyone live in these areas who can help?

Thanks in advance

I used to work near Notting Hill. It used to be a very cool and artsy place, it's been more expensive than surrounding areas for a long time but over the last 10 years most people moving in (to private housing) are from more of a banking type background whereas it used to be more TV / music industry. I think it's lost some of its soul to be honest. I don't know Primrose Hill as well but it would still be my preference - you've got Hampstead Heath nearby and just a bit more open space. They're probably 2 of the nicest places to live so it's a lovely decision to have to make.

Thanks OutInCountry :)
I see... but if more of the banking type is moving in, where are all the tv/music/art people going?? Especially with kids??

Carblover, a communal garden is ideal.

What is best long term? :/

Primrose Hill is lovely and a great place for families, you've got the park itself and then Regents Park and the zoo. Short walk to Camden and 3 tube lines nearby so it's not actually hard to get into central London either! Nice village feel with a real mix of people

The tv music and arty folk have headed in the direction of Queen’s Park and Kensal Rise.

If you’re renting and your girls are doing 11+ you don’t have to worry about long term! Just pick the one you like best and then if after a couple of years you aren’t loving it you can make decisions on the next phase of schooling and geography accordingly

I would also go for Primrose Hill having worked in the area and lived in Belsize Park (also nice as is Hampstead) - but what a lovely choice to make!

I lived in primrose hill years ago and loved it. Lived near Chalcot Sq and spent a lot of time with the kids when they were younger. Moved to SE London years ago definitely artsier down here (Brockley) and cheaper too!

I've lived in both and Notting Hill would have won 20 years ago but I'd choose Primrose Hill now. Schools, people, green spaces and close to central London. Go north😊

Crouch end/Muswell Hill is full of arty music/tv types but I think that's too far out for you. Queen's Park also has loads that fit that description.

Thanks again! Queen’s park is great. We just don’t have a car. Need good public transport.
Really grateful for all of your comments! :)

I have lived in Notting Hill for decades, its not as artsy as it used to be - the bankers have moved in, but I still love it.
Carnival is just one weekend a year, join in and throw a party or lock up and leave.
The dodgiest areas are probably around Ladbroke grove from Westbourne Park rd north. But like all big cities there are dodgy bits everywhere.
With young children I would look to be as close as possible to Kensington gardens or Holland Park, somewhere around Bayswater Road / Holland park avenue, you would be close to the tube stations and parks. Good luck!

Thank you, chocrock. Hopefully we’ll find a home close to the central line.

Have you felt pretty safe in NH? Is there a sense of community?

Notting Hill Gate is on the Central line and Chocrock is right in her assessment. What did you decide re schools today?

I have always felt safe in Notting Hill, I walk everywhere day and night. My son was born and has grown up here, there is so much to do for kids, parks, skate parks, museums, tennis courts, football pitches, cinemas etc etc
I think as NH has gone up market it has lost some of its sense of community, but it can still be found. As others have said the communal gardens have a great community spirit if you are lucky enough to find a home with a communal garden.
Portobello market is still very much a local market full of local characters, except on Fridays and Saturdays when the tourists flood the area.

Good to know. Thank you 😊🙏🏻