Northcote Rd, sw11 area

[Arty3542]

Hi all,

We are considering moving to the SW11 area. We are coming from the States and have never lived in the UK before.

Pros for us: we like the school, seems to have a laidback vibe, and Northcote Rd is in-between two commons.
Cons: lack of transportation and distance from the center. We heard the surrounding areas are a little sketchy. Feeling confined to only the Northcote Rd area.

We do have the opportunity to live in Kensington or Belsize Park also. Not entirely sure yet.

Does anyone live in the SW11 area or know it well? Can you explain why you like or dislike it?

Thanks!

You can easily get around with a 2year old, not driving in the week, but on the buses and trains no problem. A friend's mum took her toddler for a trip to the end of a tube line and then they went to Heathrow to do some plane watching. If a 70 year old can take a toddler around town then you can too! Trips to all the squillion a of free museums in London (some really quirky ones out there), loads of parks to try out, tourist bus trips - there's loads you'll be able to do. 2 is a great age to do stuff in London, they're interested in everything and you've got the buggy for when they're tired.

I've lived in five London boroughs now and hate them all equally OP . I am from Oxford originally and would love to return but can't say it would be very convenient for your DP.

What about Parson's Green? Much more cosmopolitan, centrally located and very stylish (walking distance to the King's Road). Fulham is great for kids.

You know rent money doesn't go very far in London, though, don't you? Americans are often shocked by how shabby and small very expensive rentals can be. Prioritise the house ahead of the location or you will be miserable. You can be anywhere at all in Zone 1-3 in 40 minutes, but if you can't bear the thought of going home it will ruin your London experience.

If you move to north Battersea SW11, around Battersea & Albert Bridges, your husband can get the No. 19 bus door to door to Mayfair. I sometimes work in Mayfair and walk - takes about 45 minutes.

Great riverside living and a 5-minute walk from the Kings Road.

My neighbour's daughter attends Dolphin but you could always send your kids to the many schools in Kensington & Chelsea a short walk away.

Loads of churches of every denomination all over London!

Just stumbled on this. I used to teach at the Dolphin School, and would send my own kids there in a heartbeat. That's having seen the ugly "behind the scenes" aspects, too ;)

The facilities are more limited than other schools (though are much improved since my day), but absolutely not a disaster.

Academically it is better than the state school I taught in, and better than two private schools I have taught in (in terms of achievement, attitude and expectations), but you could probably still find more academic schools. I taught for a while in a VERY academic private school, and kids certainly achieved there, but it really lacked the loving, nurturing feel of Dolphin, so on balance I'd 100% send my kids to a Dolphin-style school. Shame we now live overseas ;)

Yes, it is very Christian, but for a Christian family it'll be fine :)

Forgot to add, near Battersea Bridge there's also Thomas's School in Battersea Square and the most lovely church, St Mary's.

Church

Thank you LongRains! Really glad you like the school. May I PM you?

Thank you for the church recommendation, Westfacing :)

Of course :) I'd be glad to answer any questions.