Living in Hammersmith

About Hammersmith

At the heart of Hammersmith lies a bustling mix of shopping centres, transport hubs and office developments. Yet just minutes away, you’ll find peaceful riverside walks, leafy parks and village-like enclaves to explore. This contrast between convenience and calm is what makes living in Hammersmith so appealing.

The area attracts a diverse population—from families seeking period homes near top schools to young professionals entering the West London property market. Hammersmith’s multicultural vibe is enhanced by institutions like the Ecole Française de Londres Jacques Prévert in Brook Green and its proximity to the A4 and Heathrow Airport makes it ideal for frequent travellers.

Fact file

• Charles Dickens set parts of Great Expectations in Hammersmith.
• Hammersmith Bridge, opened in 1887, is the lowest bridge across the Thames with just 12ft clearance at high tide.
• The patriotic anthem Rule, Britannia! was written in 1740 at The Dove pub by poet James Thomson.

Architecture and property 

Hammersmith offers a wide range of options. Historically an industrial hub, the area has evolved into a residential hotspot with two dominant property types: large period homes and modern flats.

Desirable streets such as Hammersmith Grove and Luxembourg Gardens are known for theirictorian and Edwardian houses. For riverside living, Hammersmith Terrace offers stunning townhouses with Thames views. High-end developments like Sovereign Court and Distillery Wharf provide luxury flats with modern amenities.

Going out

Hammersmith’s riverside pubs are legendary. The Dove is the most atmospheric, dating back to the 17th century and is famed for its tiny bar and being a popular spot from which to view the annual Boat Race as it heads towards Mortlake. The River Cafe, which launched Jamie Oliver’s career and Sam’s Riverside offer refined dining with Thames views. Nearby Brackenbury Village is packed with independent cafes and restaurants.

The Riverside Studios is a creative hub with cinema, theatre and gallery spaces. The Lyric Theatre offers an imaginative programme and a rooftop garden cafe. For big name performances, Hammersmith Apollo is one of London’s most iconic music venues.

Local amenities

Hammersmith locals are spoilt for choice when it comes to retail therapy and everyday essentials. The main shopping hubs are Broadway Mall and King’s Mall. Both offering a mix of high street favourites, including a large Sainsbury’s.

Brackenbury Road provides a slower-paced alternative with independent shops and family-run cafes. Supermarkets are plentiful, with Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and M&S Simply Food all nearby. Every Thursday, Lyric Square hosts the Hammersmith Farmers’ Market, where locals stock up on organic produce and international delicacies.

Fitness is easy to maintain with several gyms in the area, including Virgin Active, Better Fitness and Squash Centre, and PureGym, while outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the Thames for rowing or dinghy sailing at the London Corinthian Sailing Club.

Hammersmith Library is a valuable community resource, open daily and offering a range of events for adults and children, including the unique ‘Play Mandarin’ sessions designed to help young learners pick up the language in a fun and engaging way.

Green spaces

Ravenscourt Park is a local favourite, offering playing fields, a lake and peaceful walking paths just minutes from the station. Across the river in Barnes, the London Wetland Centre is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers.