Where to live next: Richmond, London

Consistently ranked among London’s happiest boroughs, Richmond pairs exceptional green space, top-performing schools and elegant homes with effortless access to the capital

Ellie Pryor

11 September 2026

2 mins read

Where to live next: Richmond, London — Photography by Juan Trujillo Andrades

Sir David Attenborough may be one of the most widely travelled people of modern times, but when asked to name his favourite place, he returns to the place he calls home: Richmond.

“Richmond is a beautiful pocket of London – it’s not quite in the city… it’s right on the cusp,” he told Discover Britain. “And it is wonderful. I’ve been to the Great Barrier Reef many times, the wilds of the Amazon; I’ve ventured to both the Arctic and Antarctica, yet there’s something so lovely and warming about watching the deer in Richmond Park while the morning mist rises up. It’s one of life’s simplest yet greatest gifts.”

Edward Adler, Knight Frank’s Head of Richmond Sales, has been selling homes in the area for more than a decade. Like many of his clients, he has found Richmond difficult to leave. Rather than moving elsewhere, homeowners often choose to upsize or downsize within the neighbourhood.

“We have a house coming to market with owners who have lived there for 48 years, and I previously sold the house next door after its owners had been there for 55 years,” he says. “It really speaks to how special this neighbourhood is.”

In a London rental market often characterised by transience, Richmond bucks the trend, says Ivanka Modesteva-Gyurova, Head of Richmond and Chiswick Lettings, who has worked across the area for more than 15 years. Its enduring appeal as a family-friendly neighbourhood encourages both buyers and renters to put down long-term roots.

“We see many returning tenants, people who may have moved overseas for work and, when they come back to London, Richmond remains their first choice,” she adds.

A neighbourhood that supports family life

Despite its leafy, village-like atmosphere, one of Richmond’s greatest strengths is its connectivity. Situated in London’s Zone 4, the area offers fast rail services to London Waterloo in just over 20 minutes, while also being served by the District and Mildmay lines. Easy access to major road networks, including the M3, and proximity to Heathrow Airport make it equally attractive for those travelling further afield.

A long-standing favourite with families, Richmond manages to retain a close-knit community feel while offering an impressive range of amenities. “One of the things I love most about the area is that everything you need is on your doorstep,” says Ivanka. “You don’t have to go anywhere else. There are boutiques, patisseries, independent cafés and restaurants, alongside established favourites such as The Ivy and Scott's, where you can dine overlooking the river.”

Richmond upon Thames was recently named London's happiest borough, thanks in no small part to its abundance of green space and natural beauty. At its heart lies Richmond Park, London's largest Royal Park. Nearby, Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spans 320 acres and is home to more than 50,000 living plants. The area is also home to the famous view from Richmond Hill, the only view in England protected by an Act of Parliament.

Edward adds that, in the years since the pandemic, he has seen many buyers gravitate back towards London from the countryside, with Richmond offering the ideal compromise. “It’s unusual to find this level of connection with nature while also benefiting from a thriving high street and easy access to central London.”

For many prospective buyers and renters, proximity to the area's highly regarded schools is a key consideration. Richmond Hill is particularly sought after, placing residents within easy reach of leading state and private schools including The Vineyard School, The Old Vicarage School and King's House School. The wider area is also well served by international options, including The German School London.

Richmond, London

Beyond the elegant Victorian and Edwardian homes that characterise the streets around Richmond Hill, properties close to Richmond station are highly prized for their convenience. “Just over the bridge in East Twickenham is another highly desirable area, with streets such as Cresswell Road and Cambridge Road offering easy access to central Richmond,” says Edward.

Newer developments remain relatively rare, making high-quality apartments especially sought after when they come to market. “The Star and Garter is a rare example,” says Ivanka. “Set within a landmark historic building, it offers residents exceptional amenities, including fitness and concierge facilities.”

Those looking to buy on Richmond Hill can expect to pay between £3 million and £5 million for a family home, although the finest properties command significantly higher prices. “We currently have some exceptional homes on the market between £20 million and £25 million,” says Edward. “They are not only among the best properties in Richmond, but in all of south-west London, representing a remarkable opportunity for the right buyer.”

Rental values vary widely depending on size, location and specification. A typical two to three-bedroom home rents for between £3,500 and £7,500 per month, while the most desirable properties can achieve considerably more. “Demand is incredibly strong and supply remains limited,” says Ivanka. “When people find a home they love, it pays to act quickly.”

Ivanka and Edward's local gems

“Nearby is the National Trust's Ham House and Garden, as well as Kew Gardens. They are both absolutely beautiful and somewhere you can easily spend an entire day.” - Ivanka

“Richmond is lucky to have two fantastic theatres: the historic Richmond Theatre and the independent Orange Tree Theatre.” - Ivanka

“I love spending a relaxed weekend with my children in Richmond Park, stopping for coffee at Roehampton Gate Café or Pembroke Lodge” - Edward