living in richmond upon thames

Moving to Richmond upon Thames: Life in London’s Greenest Borough

If you’re planning to move to London, Richmond upon Thames is a standout choice for those seeking a mix of natural beauty, history, and vibrant community life. Renowned for its stunning parks, riverside walks, and family-friendly atmosphere, Richmond offers a unique charm that sets it apart from other London boroughs. Read on to find out why moving to Richmond upon Thames could be the perfect decision for you.

Areas of Richmond upon Thames | Geographical Location

Richmond upon Thames is located in southwest London, straddling the River Thames. It’s the only London borough to span both sides of the river, offering picturesque views and a village-like ambiance. The borough includes well-loved areas like Richmond, Twickenham, Teddington, Ham, Kew, East Sheen, and St Margarets.

Richmond town center is known for its Georgian architecture, boutique shopping, and riverside dining, while areas like Twickenham attract rugby fans and those seeking a suburban lifestyle. With its excellent transport links, Richmond is just 10 miles (16 km) from central London.

Demographics

Richmond upon Thames appeals to a diverse group of residents. Families are drawn to its top-rated schools and abundant green spaces, while professionals enjoy its proximity to central London. In 2023, the borough had an estimated population of 200,000. Here’s a demographic breakdown:

0-9 years old: 13%
10-19 years old: 9%
20-29 years old: 17%
30-44 years old: 30%
45-59 years old: 18%
60-74 years old: 10%
75 and over: 3%

Cost of Living in Richmond upon Thames

Richmond upon Thames is one of the most affluent boroughs in London, reflecting its desirability. As of August 2024, the average property price in Richmond was around £740,000 with the following averages based on property type:

  • Flats: £500,000
  • Terraced houses: £850,000
  • Semi-detached houses: £1,100,000
  • Detached properties: £1,560,000

For renters, Richmond offers a variety of options. Here’s a look at average rental prices:

  • One-bedroom: £1,500 per month
  • Two-bedroom: £2,000 per month
  • Two-bedroom: £2,350 per month
  • Three-bedroom: £4,500 per month
  • Four-bedroom: £3,500 per month

Schools and Education in Richmond upon Thames

If you’re moving to Richmond upon Thames with children, the borough is known for its exceptional schools. Top-rated primary schools include:

  • Marshgate Primary School
  • Sheen Mount Primary School
  • The Vineyard School

For secondary education, notable schools are:

  • Grey Court School
  • Tiffin School (grammar school in nearby Kingston)
  • Waldegrave School for Girls

Richmond is also home to several nurseries, like the Bright Horizons Kew Day Nursery and Preschool.

For higher education, Richmond is close to Kingston University and St Mary’s University in Twickenham.

Working in Richmond upon Thames

Richmond is a great choice for professionals who want a mix of urban convenience and natural surroundings. While many residents commute to central London, the borough itself is home to thriving industries, particularly in media, retail, and hospitality. The area also has a number of co-working spaces, such as The Bridge Workspace Richmond and Drop-In Richmond, catering to freelancers and remote workers.

Additionally, Richmond’s proximity to Heathrow Airport makes it a practical location for those working in travel and logistics industries.

Getting Around Richmond upon Thames

Richmond is well-connected, with excellent transport options. The District Line and Overground serve Richmond Station, while trains to Waterloo take just 15-20 minutes. The borough is also accessible via the A316 and M3, making it a convenient spot for drivers.

For a scenic commute, the Thames Path offers beautiful cycling and walking routes along the river. Richmond’s public transport options also include numerous bus routes and riverboat services.

Leisure & Culture

Green Spaces

Richmond is London’s greenest borough, with famous parks and outdoor spaces like:

  • Richmond Park, a vast Royal Park with deer, cycling paths, and stunning views
  • Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with botanical wonders
  • Ham House and Garden, a historic National Trust property

Sports & Fitness

Richmond has a thriving sports scene. Rugby fans will love Twickenham Stadium, while rowers flock to the Richmond Rowing Club. There are also plenty of tennis courts, gyms, and yoga studios throughout the borough.

Food & Drink

Richmond offers a mix of riverside pubs, fine dining restaurants, and cozy cafes. Popular spots include:

  • The Ivy Cafe Richmond
  • Stein’s Richmond (a German riverside beer garden)
  • Petersham Nurseries Cafe, known for its farm-to-table dining

Arts & Entertainment

Richmond is home to The Orange Tree Theatre and Richmond Theatre, offering a range of performances from plays to comedy. For film lovers, Curzon Richmond is a boutique cinema with an arthouse selection.

Is Richmond upon Thames Right for You?

Richmond offers something for everyone. Families love the excellent schools and green spaces, while professionals enjoy the convenience of its transport links and the relaxed riverside lifestyle. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery, moving to Richmond upon Thames is the ideal choice for those seeking a mix of urban and suburban living.

Storage in Richmond upon Thames

If you’re need storage in Richmond upon Thames, Store In London offers secure, affordable storage solutions with units in various sizes to suit your needs. Take advantage of our FREE pack and load service, where we handle the heavy lifting for a stress-free move. Trust us to keep your belongings safe while you settle into your new home.

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