Hi All,
Wondering if we could get some advice. We're returning to the UK and looking for housing. We've previously lived in Notting Hill pre kids and loved it - in a garden square apartment. Found the neighbourhood had everything and was still electic and diverse and very walkable.
We now have toddlers and weighing long commutes to Oxford and South London. Paddington is our mid point. Wondering if Hampstead is a good option or if we should hold out for for a place in West London. The playgrounds (Holland, Hyde) and museums and walkability of West London are better. We wouldn't have outdoor space in Hampstead and would be relying on the Heath. We weren't really bothered by tourists in NH, but on the times we've walked through Hampstead it seems very touristy and the high street being on a main road, less appealing. It's also narrow and hilly and seems a bit tricky with a double pram. The tube isn't particularly accessible so imaginigng we'd need to take buses and and cars with the pram. Everyone rates the heath and the "villagey" feel as their reason for wanting to live there, but how does that weigh in with young kids? And has Hampstead changed from it's popularity? We'd really love a place with community. We knew our neighbours up and down in our building previously. Primary schools will factor in too, we'd prefer to go to a good public if possible.
Appreciate any insights!