Area Guide: St Johns Wood NW8
Once a forest owned by the Knights of the Order of St. John Jerusalem (hence its name), then the hunting grounds of Henry VIII, now St. John’s Wood is one of the capital’s most cosmopolitan areas. Thankfully, fierce tree protection by the St. John’s Wood Society ensures it maintains its original charm.
Architectural highlights
Most of St. John’s Wood is designated a Conservation Area and its houses are listed by English Heritage. This means that there is a rich choice for house hunters, including classical Regency style, many detached villas and the stucco-fronted terraces so popular in Belgravia.
Smartest streets
Favourites include Prince Albert Road for elegant flats with views over Regent’s Park, Avenue Road for its grand mansions and Hamilton Terrace for tranquillity.
Who’s there
Famed for The Beatles’ album, Abbey Road Studios still pulls in many talented musicians – Paul McCartney still owns a house here. Kate Moss, Matt Lucas and Vanessa Feltz are well-known local residents.
Entertainment
Boutique shopping and gourmet eateries abound here, plus Lord’s Cricket Ground – home to cricket and the oldest museum in sport – and Regent’s Park, with its boating lake and the Regent’s Canal, are all on the doorstep.
Education
There are three top prep schools in the area. The Roman Catholic St Christina’s School, predominantly for girls up to 11; Abercorn School, a mixed school for 2 to 13 year-olds; and the excellent boys-only Arnold House School. There’s also the highly popular American School in London.
Travel
St. John’s Wood Underground station is on the Jubilee line, for the City and Canary Wharf. Maida Vale station is on the Bakerloo line, with direct access to the West End.
Find us on Socials:
Powered by Loving Social Media
