Highgate in London has seen a lot of changes going on in its neighbouring areas over recent years, especially with the gentrification movement sweeping across large areas of London at the moment.

However, this beautiful green suburb sitting in NW London has always continued to maintain its reputation of affluence and desirability that is much prized by its residents.

Let’s look at some great reasons for wanting to move to Highgate:

1: Picture perfect London village
There is no doubt that Highgate is the very picture of where Londoners would like to reside. It’s leafy, green and beautiful – as it has been for at least the last 300 years of history. This is the place that the gentry of the Georgian era moved to when the desire to leave grime of the city became too strong to bear.

This is why mainly Georgian architecture is the dominating feature of the shops, restaurants and other buildings in and around the centre of Highgate.

Over the years Highgate became a magnet for some of Britain’s most famous artists, writers and entertainers, such as TS Eliot, Samuel Coleridge and Peter Sellers.

2: The best of town and country
As well as the 900 acres of beautiful parkland to be found on Hampstead Heath, not forgetting the lawns and lakes to be found at Kenwood Park and the arts and sports facilities of Waterlow Park, Highgate also boasts two golf courses. So there is plenty of opportunity to reconnect with nature and get some fresh air without having to travel too far to enjoy it.

Highgate has the look and feel of living in the country with all the convenience of having the city right on the doorstep. It can take a mere 15 to 30 minutes to reach the centre of London with all of its attractions and entertainment.

3: Exceptional private schools
For families looking to move to Highgate, you should set your sights on securing a place at one of the two most reputable private schools in the area, Highgate and Channings.

The local state primary schools; Highgate Wood, St Michael’s and Highgate primary are also held in high regard.

4: Convenient commuting
Highgate is within easy reach of two underground stations: Archway and Highgate, which are both a short walk or bus ride from the centre of town. For commuters working outside of the city, the M1 motorway is a short 20-minute drive away, giving you easy access to escape out of London to the north.

5: A great local pub scene
You don’t even have to travel to the centre of London to enjoy a good night out. Highgate boasts a great pub scene with a good range of drinking establishments on offer. Many of the pubs in Highgate date back hundreds of years and have a fascinating history and unique ambience you don’t get from modern public houses.

6: So much to do!
It is well worth exploring Highgate to discover plenty of hidden treasures it holds. From fine architecture to admire, leafy streets to wander and an atmospheric Victorian cemetery, it’s well worth a stroll on a fine day.

Highgate Wood has a truly magical feel to it, especially on a chilly misty day at dawn. After a chance to stretch your legs and to get some fresh air, head into town to browse the streets lined with bookshops, pubs, tearooms and historic chapels to visit.

If you are looking to move to Highgate, you can view our property listings here.