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_London’s top independent schools and the best places to live nearby

Your child’s education can be a key factor in deciding where to live. We’ve rounded up some of the best independent schools in London and great locations nearby for family living.
August 18, 2022

Choosing the right school for your child and the ideal place to live for your family are major decisions for any parent. Get that right and it's a win-win for everyone involved! 

Here we list some of London's best independent day schools and family-friendly areas in close proximity to them. Remember, we're here to help you with your move, whether you're buying or renting. If you want some advice on areas, please chat to our local agents who have great knowledge and insights about their locale. 

10 top independent schools and places to live in London

Godolphin & Latymer School

Located in Hammersmith W6, the Godolphin & Latymer school is for 11-18 year old girls. The selective school requires pupils to sit the 11+ entrance exam.

Where to live? 

Nearby Fulham is highly sought after and perennially popular. With exceptional properties, a wonderful sense of community and a superb array of amenities and entertainment, it's a great spot for family life.

Contact our Fulham office to find out more 

St Paul’s Girls School

Located in leafy Brook Green, Hammersmith, St Paul's Girls School dates back to 1904. The red brick day school caters for 11-18 year old girls.

Where to live? 

Just along the river from Hammersmith is the village-like Chiswick. It's super popular with families, has lots of green space and excellent amenities.

Contact our Chiswick office to find out more

St Paul’s School

This independent school caters for boys aged 7-18. Set on 45 acres of green, open space beside the river in Barnes, South West London, the school dates back to 1509.

Where to live?

Both Barnes and Richmond are desirable riverside locations nearby. Richmond is known for its expansive Royal Parks. It's a wonderfully peaceful setting with so much on offer locally, yet central London is still accessible.

Contact our Richmond office to find out more

Putney High School for Girls

This renowned independent day school for girls dates back to 1893. The school prides itself on being down-to-earth and yet dynamic.

Where to live?

Probably best known as the starting point for the Oxford-Cambridge boat race, riverside Putney is perfect for sports enthusiasts. Green space, a bustling high street and good transport links are just a few things to love about the South West London location.

Contact our Fulham office to find out more

Alleyn’s School

Located in Dulwich, South East London, Alleyn's School is independent and co-educational. It has a 400 year history, and has educated girls as well as boys since 1976.

Where to live?
Dulwich, East Dulwich in particular, is a great spot for families. It features sizeable properties, plenty of open space, independent shops and cafes, as well as prestigious schools.

Contact our Dulwich office to find out more

Dulwich College

The renowned selective independent school dates back to 1619. Girls can attend up to the age of 7 and then it's boys only from 7-18 years old. Day and boarding options are available here.

Where to live?

Dulwich, East Dulwich, Dulwich Village, West Dulwich and on to Herne Hill and Camberwell all have plenty to offer families.

Contact our Dulwich office to find out more

University College School

UCS was founded in 1830 as part of University College. Since 1907, it's been in its current Hampstead location. With pre-prep, junior and senior schools, it caters for boys aged 3-16. Girls can join the Sixth Form.

Where to live?

Hampstead is a favourite place to call home. With its beautiful heath and swimming ponds, mix of shops, cafes and restaurants, and local community feel, there's a lot going for this North London location.

Contact our Hampstead office to find out more

Highgate School

This co-educational independent day school has around 1400 pupils aged 4 to 16. It dates back an incredible 450 years. It's situated in Highgate, not far from Tottenham Hotspur FC with which it has links. 

Where to live?
Again, Hampstead is a good choice for families and it's only around a 10 minute drive from Highgate.

Contact our Hampstead office to find out more

City of London School for Boys

City of London School is an independent day school on the South Bank, near Tate Modern. Nearly 1000 boys between the ages of 10 and 18 attend the central London school.

Where to live?

A little further along the River Thames is the family-friendly area of Battersea. With riverside apartments, period properties and new builds, Battersea Park and its surrounding area, there's a lot to like about vibrant Battersea.

Contact our Battersea office to find out more

City of London School for Girls

The sister school to CLS for Boys, CLS for girls is located in Barbican and dates back to 1894. This independent day school educates girls from 11-18. 

Where to live?

Islington is a great choice for families. There's a cosmopolitan mix of cultural activities, family-friendly entertainment, the all-important cafes and independent shops. Plus, central London is so easy to reach.

Contact our Islington office to find out more

Interested in the best grammar schools and their locations? Read our informative blog.

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