Where to live next in London: Belgravia

This peaceful central London neighbourhood charms with its beautiful architecture and storied history, says Ruth Bloomfield

07 October 2024

1 min read

The Grosvenor Estate, which owns much of the area, has quietly been at work shaping the neighbourhood of Belgravia for 300 years, beginning by building elegant homes fit for politicians and captains of industry in the days of Queen Victoria, and today introducing smarter shops, and more opportunities for eating and drinking.

Wild by Tart’s double-height dining space adds glamour to lunch

In 2019, it opened Eccleston Yards, a complex of shops, restaurants, gyms, and offices set in a former power station which has become a destination for locals and tourists alike. These upgrades, in turn, have changed the face of the local community, which is now more global – and more youthful.

Peggy Porschen’s cakes have global renown

“In the past, people who lived in Belgravia were upper class British,” explains Natasha Efstathiou, Associate Manager of Knight Frank’s Belgravia office. “But there’s been a huge amount of modernisation and that’s brought a variety of new buyers from the Middle East, Eastern Europe and China.”

What all buyers love is Belgravia’s characteristic white stucco architecture, its central location and the kudos of living in a storied neighbourhood which is also considered more peaceful and residential than other Prime Central London locations. The five-star redevelopment of Chelsea Barracks brings new choices – in the form of contemporary townhouses and apartments – to Belgravia. These feature exceptional amenities including the Garrison Club fitness and wellness complex, a private members’ club and spa.

Natasha’s local gems:

“Love a traditional British local? Even in the heart of London, Belgravia’s pubs have a cosy feel – try historic watering holes like The Grenadier on Wilton Row or The Thomas Cubitt on Elizabeth Street.

“Wild by Tart, a modern European restaurant housed in a dramatic, double-height space, is a favourite at Eccleston Yards.

“Surely the most Instagrammed bakery in London, Peggy Porschen, is a pastel pink paradise of patisserie, with an all-day brunch menu.”