Notting Hill/ Primrose Hill/ Hampstead vs. Wimbledon

[goldensophie]

Hi mums, we plan to relocate to London this July and are trying to figure out which part of the city would be the best for us. So far we like Notting Hill and Primrose Hill most given its vibrant atmosphere and closeness to the city, but got some recommendations that for young families Wimbledon and Hampstead might give better access to sports clubs, play groups and family activities. Fortunately we also love Wimbledon and Hampstead, but just wonder if NH and PH are not as great in terms of after school activities for kids (Y4) and family life in general. Of course we will have to apply to quite a few schools and which we get will pretty much decide where we will land... but before listing up schools I would like to have nicer neighborhoods in mind for sure. Thanks for any inputs in advance! :)

Primrose hill is near hampstead

Given that you seem to have unlimited budget, Hampstead/PH over NH and obviously Wimbledon.

If you want after school activities for yr 4s then nappy valley is your best bet but you might not like slumming it in a £3m property

We are in Primrose Hill and we chose it as it feels very central and vibrant - Hampstead feels less interesting to us although it is pleasant and safe. There are some good activities in PH for under 5s, swimming lessons and a few things for older primary dc, but I think Hampstead has a better range of activities. We travel up there for some holiday activities but it's too far for after school activities - if you are basing the decision on activities then I'd try to be within walking distance as travel can be a pain. If you are planning on sending your dcs to preps, they usually have good after school activities on site.

I'd love Primrose Hill - close to Regent's Park, the canal, London Zoo and walkeable to John Lewis and Marylebone High Street, and it feels nice and villagey. Camden just up the road if you want some grittiness.

Friends have a daughter in South Hampstead High and she has been really happy there.