Property consultancy Simply London included Twickenham in their top five areas to live after reviewing key factors like house prices, jobs, schools, commute, culture, community spirit and crime rates.

Although it’s globally famous for rugby, locals know Twickenham as a peaceful, leafy suburb nestled along the Thames in south west London.

With its riverside charm, excellent schools and strong sense of community, Twickenham consistently ranks among the capital’s most desirable places to live.

Here are five reasons why Twickenham deserves its place on the list.

A riverside village in the capital:

Despite being part of Greater London, Twickenham feels more like a small riverside town.

Stroll along Church Street and you’ll find cobbled lanes, Georgian townhouses, and locals sipping coffee at pavement cafés.

There’s a strong community spirit, with independent shops and family-run businesses giving the area a warm, neighbourly feel.

There are regular markets, local fairs and live music at The Eel Pie Club bring people together.

On top of all this, Twickenham is blessed with riverside paths and boat moorings, only adding to the charm.

 

Church Street and beyond:

Church Street is the heart of Twickenham’s old town.

Church Street is a picture-perfect lane lined with boutiques, bookshops and flower stalls.

You’ll find everything from artisan bakeries and fine wine merchants to antique stores and candle shops.

Just a short walk away, Twickenham Farmers’ Market takes over Holly Road on Saturdays, offering fresh produce, handmade goods and gourmet treats.

Pubs like The White Swan and The Barmy Arms overlook the river, making them perfect for a long lunch or evening pint, particularly in the summer.

 

Family-friendly:

Twickenham is a favourite for families, especially those looking to settle down long-term.

The area is home to several ‘Outstanding’ primary schools, including Orleans Primary and St Mary’s, while nearby independents like Radnor House and St Catherine’s Prep attract families from across the borough.
Bushy Park, Marble Hill Park and Twickenham Green offer endless space to play and picnic, and Richmond town centre is just a short bike ride away.

The crime rate in Twickenham sits well below the London average, standing at just 25.2 crimes per 1,000 people.

 

Green space and history:

One of Twickenham’s biggest draws is its access to open space and history.

Marble Hill Park, with its grand 18th-century house and sweeping lawns, is a gem right in the heart of the neighbourhood.

There’s also York House Gardens, with its ornate statues and riverside walk, and the wild beauty of Crane Park just a little further out.

History lovers can visit Strawberry Hill House, the gothic revival masterpiece.

Twickenham is also home to what was once London’s counterculture music scene Eel Pie Island.

 

Transport links:

One of Twickenham’s biggest perks is how well-connected it is, despite its suburban feel, getting around couldn’t be easier.

Twickenham Station offers direct trains to London Waterloo in just 20 to 25 minutes, making it ideal for commuters who want the best of both worlds.

You’re also close to the District Line at Richmond, while nearby stations like St Margarets and Strawberry Hill open up even more options on the South Western Railway network.

For drivers, the A316 connects quickly to the M3 and M25, and Heathrow Airport is just a 20-minute drive away perfect for frequent flyers.

Whether you’re heading into the office, the countryside or abroad, Twickenham makes it simple.