Synonymous both with a vibrant carnival and a 1990s rom com centred around a book shop, which so happens to be celebrating its 25th anniversary this week, Notting Hill is an area of London that has long been celebrated for its lively culture and creative flare.

Acquiring its name in medieval times, Notting Hill was developed into a suburb for the wealthy in the early 19th century and has in more recent years undergone somewhat of a residential renaissance. Today it takes in the W11 postcode, but also encompasses two adjoining postcodes: W2 for Bayswater and W10 for North Kensington.

Atmospheric streets

The atmospheric streets around Westbourne Grove are lined with independent shops, boutiques and a good number of popular and upmarket bars and restaurants; Portobello Road attracts a plethora of locals and tourists to its antique stalls and trove of treasures all year round; while its annual carnival celebrates Caribbean culture with parades and performers taking to the streets over the August bank holiday.

Notting Hill can also be recognised by its housing stock. Host to rows of pastel-coloured Victorian terraced houses (pictured top), stucco-fronted townhouses, detached villas and modern developments, this is an area that, once settled, buyers rarely choose to leave, instead working their way up the property ladder.

House prices in Notting Hill

Starting at around £550,000 for a one-bedroom apartment, property values here range widely and can achieve between £1,000 and £5,500 per sq ft.

House prices have increased by 264.3% over the 25 years since the film was released and went on to have global success. In value terms, the average price for prime properties in Notting Hill is now £4.3 million compared to £1.2 million 25 years ago. The very best-in-class homes such as those in Artesian Village can fetch in the region of £3.5 million to £7 million while those on garden squares can seek upwards of £8 million.

Despite its visitor numbers, Notting Hill manages to retain a sense of community and village spirit. With one of the highest concentrations of garden squares in the capital, it's an ideal enclave of London for families to settle down in, with micro communities often formed among residents. The quality of schools in the area is another big draw for families, many of whom relocate here to be within walking distance of the school gates.

With its ease of access to the rest of London via the Central line, city workers in the finance, tech and legal sectors opt for the leafier parts of Notting Hill, while artists, musicians and creatives stay for its bohemian scene.

While Notting Hill has performed well in recent years, this dynamic district remains very popular with both domestic and international buyers presenting exciting opportunities for buyers, especially for those purchasing in foreign currencies given the recent improvement in currency advantage.

Further information

Contact Mark Redfern

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