East Brentford

This part of Brentford sits along the River Thames, and has recently been undergoing a transformation into a desirable waterfront community. While there are still some smaller terraced houses in the neighbourhood, the area along the water has become characterised by many luxury apartment towers-all with private balconies and wonderful views. Even if not considering the move, there are still plenty of reasons to visit the area. For a small suburban neighbourhood, the area boasts multiple interesting museums and arts venues. Locals love spending time exploring the displays at the London Museum of Water and Steam, while also learning about the self-playing instruments at The Musical Museum. Throughout the warmer months, the area’s Watermans Park and Carville Hall Park are both lovely spots for a stroll. During the winter, though, most residents pack into the Brentford Fountain Leisure Centre when looking to stay active. If stopping by on a weekend night, you’ll find many families catching a film at Watermans Art Centre, often followed by a meal at One Over the Ait.

Where Brentford High Street stands to day was once the main road west from London and it’s believed that even the Romans used this road knowing this. It’s no surprise then that the road’s presence helped transform the neighbourhood into a popular stopping-off point for merchants during the 13th century. By the 16th century, the traffic on the road had increased to the point that it had become covered with potholes. In order to ensure that trade continued, an Act of Parliament was passed to lead the maintenance of roads like this one. Later on, in the 18th century, the road became a favourite path for King George II as he travelled between London and Windsor. Today, the road has been rebuilt and refurbished many times, but it still remains an important commercial centre in the neighbourhood.

Brentford is home to the quirky Musical Museum. This museum houses displays of self-playing musical instruments. These range from tiny music boxes to the Mighty Wurlitzer theatre organ.

Unfortunately, there’s no rail station in this part of the neighbourhood. Still, residents find it easy enough to take any of the many bus lines, and don’t mind the short walk to the nearby Brentford, Kew Bridge or Boston Manor stations.

The beloved Waterman’s Park has been undergoing a £5.45 million upgrading project led by Hounslow Council. This money is being invested into converting the space into a desirable waterfront district. The improvements have included the installation and development of new cycleways, footpaths, pergolas and play areas. New trees and shrubs have also been planted. The refurbishment and enhancement works have already gained a lot of praise. In addition to new housing developments nearby, the council is also building new moorings to accommodate larger houseboats.