This part of the borough of Richmond sits right up against the beautiful Kew Gardens, and is located mainly in the neighbourhood of North Sheen. The area has been attracting families for years for its plethora of semi-affordable but large housing options, as well as its easy access to the outdoors. Between Old Deer Park, and the Royal Mid-Surrey Golf Club, there are plenty of ways to stay active outside. Just because it’s a popular family-oriented suburb, doesn’t mean it’s a struggle to stay entertained though. On a typical weekend, residents love catching a show at the community run Orange Tree Theatre. Plays are best followed up with a gourmet meal at the modern Rock & Rose Restaurant, or a round of drinks at the country-style Shaftesbury pub. With all that the neighbourhood has to offer, it’s no wonder that more and more London families are making the move!

Old Deer Park dates back to 1604, when James I created the site as a hunting park. The site went on to become an important part of the royal estate. Later on, a monastery on the site began to function as George III’s Royal Observatory, being used to observe the Transit of Venues in 1769. This was used as the Meridian Line before Greenwich became the Prime Meridian in 1884. Today, it functions as a well-loved public park.

Famous poet, James Thomson (1700-1748), once lived in the neighbourhood. He’s most well-known for writing to lyrics to “Rule, Britannia!.” This area has traditionally been the less exciting part of Kew - with houses built mostly after the 1920s. However, in recent years, many families have begun to be attracted to these houses - especially because of the homes’ potential for expansion.

Families moving into the area are often quick to do major renovations that include the creation of combined kitchen and family rooms. 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 Richmond tube and rail station.