Like all of the world’s great metropolises, London is made up of dozens of districts and ‘villages’ that merged over the centuries to become the huge city we know today.
But each area has retained its own identity and, as you head just a few stops on the Underground to West London, you’ll find the bustling trio of Hammersmith, Fulham and Chiswick. Attractive residential streets lined with Georgian and Victorian houses, thriving shopping streets, glorious parks and the mighty River Thames all feature strongly.
And you still get the occasional sense that this was once an area, far from the city smoke, where well-to-do London folk found peace and quiet.
Here’s our guide to these charming neighbourhoods.
Hammersmith
Arrive in Hammersmith and it may not feel like the highlight of a tourist trip. As you step out of the tube by the huge Apollo music venue, you land at a busy road crossing where vehicles whizz past on all sides of a major roundabout and the Hammersmith Flyover takes traffic on an overhead bypass for the A4 – one of London’s busiest East-West roads.
But, once you get your bearings and head away from this slightly confusing centre, Hammersmith splits between riverside walks, with pubs and Victorian industrial buildings, and attractive, tree-lined residential streets with some truly eye-watering house prices (a major preoccupation of many native Londoners!)
Ravenscourt Park
Something of an oasis in the heart of Hammersmith, Ravenscourt Park, with its District Line tube stop, features expansive green spaces, a lake, children’s play areas, and sports facilities, it provides a great environment for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Kelmscott House
The former home of the leading Arts and Crafts designer and writer William Morris, Kelmscott House is a must-visit for history and art lovers. The house is now a museum dedicated to his life and work, showcasing stunning examples of his textiles, wallpapers, and furniture.
Hammersmith Bridge and Riverside Walks
The striking Victorian towers of Hammersmith Bridge make for a beautiful starting point for a riverside walk. The Thames Path stretches from Hammersmith towards Barnes and Putney, offering stunning views of the river, historic buildings, and abundant wildlife.
Fulham Palace
Home to the Bishops of London for over 1300 years, Fulham Palace is a fascinating historic site. You can explore its museum, chapel, and carefully manicured gardens, which offer a peaceful retreat from city life. The gardens are particularly stunning in spring and summer, making this a perfect spot for a stroll.
Bishops Park
Right next to Fulham Palace is Bishops Park – one of West London’s most picturesque spots. It’s an excellent place for a picnic, and you’ll find ornamental gardens, an urban beach, a rose garden, and riverside walks.
Parsons Green
A charming part of town surrounded by elegant townhouses and a great café culture, Parsons Green won’t be on many people’s tourist trail, but it’s an attractive spot with an affluent, village-like vibe.
Chiswick House and Gardens
With its 18th-century Palladian architecture, Chiswick House is one of London’s most beautiful historic houses, conceived by Lord Burlington as part home, part gallery, designed to display his art, furniture and collections from his travels abroad. Its gardens feature classical statues, grand fountains, and peaceful woodland walks
Turnham Green and Chiswick High Road
Turnham Green is a lovely open space in the heart of Chiswick, surrounded by independent shops, cafés, and historic buildings. Walk from here to Chiswick High Road, a bustling, affluent, local town centre with great places to eat, drink and shop.