Living in Acton

About Acton

Acton means ‘oak farm’ in Anglo-Saxon, and the oak motif is woven into the fabric of the area, from the Oaks Shopping Centre, striking mural of oak trees on the high street. With more train stations than any other area in London and ongoing regeneration projects, Acton is emerging as one of West London’s most desirable places to live.

Compared to nearby areas like Chiswick, Park Royal and Ealing, Acton offers more affordable housing options without sacrificing connectivity or lifestyle. It’s a well rounded neighbourhood with excellent schools, a buzzing social scene and plenty of green space ideal for families, professionals and first-time buyers alike.

Fact file

• In the 1700s, Acton was a popular country retreat for London’s wealthy, drawn by the health benefits of mineral water from Acton Wells.
• Waitrose was founded in Acton in 1904, originally named Waite, Rose and Taylor.
• Harlech Tower in South Acton was the filming location for Only Fools and Horses, despite the show being set in Peckham.

Architecture and property 

The Acton property market is diverse and appealing. Originally a countryside escape, Acton saw rapid development in the 19th century to accommodate London’s growing population. Today, buyers and renters can choose from Victorian and Edwardian terraced homes, charming cottages, spacious flat conversions and modern new build apartments.

Poet’s Corner is one of the most sought-after areas in Acton, known for its large, character-filled Victorian houses. Properties here are in high demand among families and professional sharers. Whether you're looking for period homes or contemporary flats, Acton offers something for every budget and lifestyle.

Going out

Acton’s dining and nightlife scene is lively and varied. Around Acton High Street and Churchfield Road, you’ll find a mix of restaurants, pubs and cafés. Locals love North China for its famous shin of beef and dumplings, while Fed and Watered offers upscale dining in a relaxed setting. Near Acton Park, The Station House serves wood-fired pizzas and hearty pub meals with a modern twist.

The Rocket is a classic British pub with a strong food reputation and the George & Dragon pub features its own microbrewery, perfect for craft beer enthusiasts.

Questors Theatre in nearby Ealing is the UK’s largest amateur theatre company and Acton Market. Open four days a week in the town centre, it is a great place to shop for fashion, fresh produce and unique gifts. The annual Acton Carnival in July celebrates blues, jazz and local talent.

Local amenities

Acton offers a well-rounded selection of amenities that make everyday living both convenient and enjoyable. Residents have access to two Sainsbury’s Locals and a large Morrisons for grocery essentials, while The Oaks Shopping Centre is home to high street staples like Boots and Lidl.

For fresh and seasonal produce, Basil & Toms is a cherished family-run greengrocer known for its quality and friendly service. Grooming and wellness are well catered for too, with Arthur Razor providing classic barbering for gentlemen and Nara Simone Medispa offering indulgent treatments for women.

Fitness enthusiasts are spoilt for choice. The £14 million redevelopment of Acton Town Hall has transformed it into the Everyone Active centre, featuring a gym, two swimming pools, dance studios and a public library. 

For more premium facilities, David Lloyd Acton Park offers racquet sports, a full-service gym, swimming pools and spa areas. Twyford Sports Centre adds even more variety with its four-court sports hall, floodlit tennis courts, netball and football pitches, and group exercise studios, making Acton a great place to stay active and connected.

Green spaces

One of the biggest draws of living in Acton is its abundance of green spaces. Acton Park offers a playground, ponds, bowling green, tennis courts and a cafe – ideal for families and weekend relaxation. Gunnersbury Park has two play areas, a cricket square, 20 football pitches and 15 tennis courts.

Wormwood Scrubs is located between East and North Acton stations and is home to more than 200 acres of common land, with nature reserves, a sports stadium and a pony centre. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.