If you work in London but want to escape the city’s pressures, head up the hill to historic Highgate. This area stands at one of the highest points in London and legend has it that this is where, in medieval times, Dick Whittington paused to listen to London’s bells before making the momentous decision to retrace his steps, returning to win fame and fortune as a thrice elected mayor of London.
Highgate offers a friendly, village environment although it is located only four and a half miles from Oxford Circus. The area is home to a number of well-known actors, musicians and artists so it enjoys a slightly bohemian vibe. With independent shops and cafes, good pubs, access to Hampstead Heath and a wealth of historic buildings, Highgate is a great environment for families and young professionals alike.
You’ll find plenty to do in Highgate with two theatres – including Jackson’s Lane arts centre and Upstairs at the Gatehouse, the famous Kenwood House with its gallery of Old Master paintings and a golf course. If gothic gloom is your thing, you can even take a turn around Highgate Cemetery, which has been the final resting place for many famous names.
Highgate Property Profile
Highgate has an active conservation society and many parts of the village are protected from development. The architecture here is mostly traditional period housing, with elegant Georgian properties, Victorian gothic buildings, Edwardian family homes and even some interesting 20th century apartment blocks such as Berthold Lubetkin’s iconic Highpoint buildings, built in the 1930s.
Schools in Highgate
Highgate is an excellent choice for families as there is access to excellent state run and independent schools in Highgate itself and in the neighbouring area of Hampstead. Many private schools offer education through from age 4 to age 18.
Primary Schools
Popular state run schools include St Michael’s C of E Voluntary Aided School and St Joseph’s RC Primary School while independent schools include the Avenue Nursery Pre-preparatory School, Channing School and Highgate School.
Secondary Schools
Popular state run schools include St Aloysius RC College, La Sainte Union Catholic Secondary School and Mount Carmel Catholic College for Girls. Independent schools include Channing School and Highgate School.
Why live in Highgate?
- Excellent travel links via Northern line to West End and City.
- Fresh air and open green spaces offering that away-from-it-all feeling.
- A wealth of historical buildings in an important conservation area.
- Access to excellent state run and private schools.
- Close to Hampstead’s shops, restaurants and cafes.
Highgate Attractions
- Kenwood House with its programme of seasonal events.
- Children’s adventure playground in Queen’s Wood.
- Waterlow Park and Highgate Cemetery.
- An arts centre and a fringe theatre.
- Close to Hampstead Heath with outdoor bathing pools and walks.
- Golf course.
- Good pubs, cafes and restaurants – independents and chain outlets.
Getting around in Highgate
The area has two Northern line tube stations – Highgate and Archway – both of which offer direct travel to the West End and City. The area is also well served by bus routes into London’s centre including the 134, the 214 and 271. You can also catch a 143 to Brent Cross Shopping Centre. Major road routes include the B550, which connects with the A504/A406 North Circular Road and the B519, which connects to the A1.
Property for Sale in Highgate Property to Rent in Highgate
