Is London Zone 3 the perfect place to call home?

If you’d like to live somewhere that feels suburban whilst not compromising on the connections to central London, a property in London Zone 3 might be ideal.

Living in London’s travel Zones 1 and 2 may mean you are surrounded by many of London’s key attractions and technically closer to most places in terms of physical distance, but there are many areas outside of these central travel zones that offer excellent communication, making travel times similar to the inner zones, one of those is London Zone 3.

Here we consider the best locations to buy a home in London Zone 3.

Where to live in North London

Highgate, N6

Highgate centre is referred to as a ‘village’ and for good reason. It is very pretty and has retained much of the historic character. Also, there are plenty of boutique shops and independent stores, and many popular, charming public houses.

Homes around Highgate village are largely Georgian, with large Victorian and Edwardian properties and some modern homes too. Furthermore, many of the houses are detached and boast large gardens.

Schools in and around Highgate are second to none; several of the state-run schools are highly rated and there are also excellent independent schools including Highgate and Channing.

Highgate also benefits from having Hampstead Heath right on the doorstep along with other green spaces.

In terms of transport, Highgate is located on the High Barnet branch of the Northern Line. It takes roughly 15 minutes to reach the West End and around 20 minutes to reach The City.

Living in North West London

Hampstead NW3

Hampstead is a prestigious area known for its historic properties in addition to expansive green spaces, including Hampstead Heath.

The area is popular with families due to its excellent schools and quiet surroundings, while still offering easy access to central London. Housing options range from Victorian and Edwardian properties to more modern homes.

Attractions such as theatres, museums, and stately homes contribute to Hampstead’s reputation as a culturally rich area.

The high street features a mix of independent shops, cafes, and eateries.

Hampstead is well-connected by the Northern Line, with stations like Hampstead and Belsize Park providing convenient routes into the city.

Property in West London

Acton W3

Acton offers a mix of Victorian villas and modern developments. The area includes Acton Park and Gunnersbury Park, which provide residents with opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Acton is a hub for food lovers, featuring a range of international cuisines. The area has seven railway stations offering easy access to central London and Heathrow Airport, making it an ideal London Zone 3 location for both suburban living and city commuting.

Acton also caters to various interests, from indoor go-karting at TeamSport to mini-golf at Putt in the Park. Art enthusiasts can engage with community projects at Apple Art Block, while educational events are frequently hosted at Gunnersbury Park.

The area is home to several reputable schools. These include Ark Soane Academy and Twyford Church of England High School. The University of West London offering higher education is nearby.

Chiswick W4

Chiswick, a former fishing village turned affluent riverside district, combines the charm of Victorian-era homes and green spaces with the convenience of city living.

It offers a peaceful atmosphere, complemented by a variety of restaurants, pubs, and unique shops along the High Road.

Efficient transport links provide easy access to Central London, making Chiswick a desirable location for both families and professionals.

There are several highly rated schools. The area is also home to notable landmarks such as Chiswick House and Gardens, a stunning mansion set in beautifully landscaped grounds. Also, Hogarth’s House, which is the former residence of the artist William Hogarth.

Chiswick’s cultural offerings include the Chiswick Playhouse and the Chiswick Cinema. The Griffin Brewery and the annual Oxford and Cambridge boat race finish also add to the area’s unique character.

Ealing, W5

Ealing, in London Zone 3, has seen much regeneration in recent years and has become a very desirable location.

For families, the access to excellent schools combined with the short commute times into central London and the leafy surrounds make it a prime spot when looking for a more suburban place to live.

Ealing also appeals to young professionals, especially with the new developments such as Dickens Yard, Perceval House, and Filmworks providing modern apartments within easy reach of the station.

There are many large Victorian and Edwardian double-fronted houses, along with some thirties properties and more modern homes.

Ealing Broadway is located on both the Central and District lines. Ealing Common is on the Piccadilly and District lines. The Elizabeth Line will run through Ealing Broadway when it opens significantly reducing travel times into central London.

South East London Zone 3

Greenwich SE10

Greenwich, just seven miles from central London, offers a perfect blend of history, greenery, and riverside charm. The area is known for its historic landmarks, including the National Maritime Museum, Royal Observatory, and the famous Cutty Sark. Greenwich Park, a Royal Park with sweeping views of the London skyline, provides a tranquil setting, while Blackheath Common adds to the green appeal.

Georgian architecture lines the streets and the town centre features a bustling market, independent shops, and cafes.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Greenwich’s maritime history and role in timekeeping make it unique. With excellent transport links, Greenwich offers both a peaceful, historic lifestyle and easy access to central London.

Forest Hill, SE23

Forest Hill is a leafy suburb in south east London. As its name indicates it comprises a series of steep hills; some of London’s highest points.

The area boasts many independent shops including a popular butcher, several gastro pubs, delis, gyms, and cafes among the various local amenities.

There are many excellent schools in the area including several highly rated state-run establishments. The Horniman Museum and Gardens is a well-known local attraction holding regular farmers markets along with other events throughout the year.

Forest Hill station in London Zone 3 offers services on both London Overground and Southern Rail allowing residents to reach Canary Wharf in just over 20 minutes and Victoria Station in around half an hour.

Herne Hill SE24

Herne Hill, located between Dulwich, Brixton, and Peckham, offers a vibrant neighbourhood atmosphere. Residents can reach London Victoria in just 10 minutes and Blackfriars in 12 minutes by train.

The area is known for its large Victorian houses and the popular Brockwell Park, a sprawling green space with stunning views of the London skyline. The park features a historic lido, cafes, a walled garden, playground, and BMX track, and it regularly hosts summer music festivals.

Herne Hill has a village-like feel.

There are local favourites such as GAIL’s, Blackbird Bakery, and various restaurants and pubs, including the family-friendly Florence. The Sunday Herne Hill Market, located outside the station, offers a variety of artisan foods and crafts.

The area is also home to the historic Herne Hill Velodrome and the Grade II-listed Brockwell Lido, both popular with locals.

South West London Property

Balham, SW12

Balham is a popular place to live with both families and professionals, property here is largely made up of Victorian and Edwardian property.

Whilst the majority of properties considered to be in Balham are within the SW12 postcode some of the properties in the popular area of the Heaver Estate are in fact within the SW17 postcode and are located near Tooting Common.

Families are attracted to Balham for the excellent schools in the area, both state and independently run.

Most of Balham falls within Wandsworth where council tax is lower than most other local authorities.

Balham train station is located on both the Northern Line and mainline which offers a service into Victoria via Clapham Junction in about 15 minutes.

Streatham SW16

Streatham, located in Lambeth, is a lively area with a variety of amenities and attractions.

The neighbourhood has a good selection of primary schools, Woodmansterne Primary and St. Leonard’s Church of England Primary are two of note. Secondary schools include Dunraven School and The Norwood School. Lambeth College is nearby for those requiring further education.

Streatham Common and Tooting Bec Common provide ample opportunities for outdoor pursuits. Regular trains and buses connect to central London from Streatham railway and bus stations.

Streatham High Road is the main commercial hub, featuring a variety of independent shops and restaurants.

Wimbledon, SW19

Wimbledon is known worldwide for its annual tennis tournament. Away from the sporting event this area is one of the most desirable suburbs in London.

Covering a vast area, Wimbledon has an array of property types, from period homes on tree-lined avenues and apartments within modern blocks to large detached houses set within their own grounds, often changing hands entirely off-market.

Wimbledon Village is the most sought-after location within the wider Wimbledon area.

The area is especially green with Wimbledon Common offering residents access to over 1200 acres of space for walking, cycling, riding, and playing golf – there are three courses within the common.

Families are drawn to Wimbledon for the excellent schooling options including private schools such as King’s College and Wimbledon High School.

Wimbledon station offers the District line, National Rail services, and the Tramlink. Trains to Waterloo from Wimbledon take under 20 minutes.

Where to live in London Zone 3

We’ve included several of our top places to live in London Zone 3 in this article, there are many more areas to consider if you’re looking to live just a little further from central London.

Our professional property finders can help you find the ideal location to match your lifestyle and property requirements. For a no-obligation discussion about your plans to move within London Zone 3, please do contact us.