Living in St Johns Wood

About St Johns Wood

Despite its proximity to the West End, there’s little reason to leave this charming enclave on weekends, thanks to its vibrant mix of bars, restaurants and independent shops. Nearby, you’ll find the tranquil waterways of Little Venice, the stunning rose gardens and sports facilities of Regent’s Park and panoramic views from Primrose Hill. Many young professionals who start their London lives here find it hard to leave. Initially drawn by the lively high street and social scene, they often stay for the excellent schools, strong sense of community and the area’s village-like atmosphere.

Fact file

• St John’s Wood was the favoured place for Victorian gentlemen to keep their mistresses. Close enough to town but far enough from their Mayfair and Knightsbridge homes to avoid suspicion. The exiled Napoleon III kept Elizabeth Anne Howard at a residence in Circus Road.
• Don’t head down Abbey Road if you’re in a rush: every day, traffic is held up at the zebra crossing at Grove End Road as Beatles fans recreate the Fab Four’s iconic 1969 album cover image. There is even a webcam on the crossing so you can see people making the most of this photo opportunity.

Architecture and property 

St John’s Wood stands apart from much of London thanks to its distinctive architectural heritage. In the early 19th century, developers deliberately moved away from the dense terraced housing typical of the capital, instead creating a semi-rural retreat of grand Italianate villas and Victorian Gothic pairs. This unique approach gave the area a spacious, village-like character that still defines it today.

In the 1960s, St John’s Wood was designated a Conservation Area and many of its most architecturally significant homes are now protected by English Heritage. Today, the property market here offers a rich mix from mansion flats and contemporary apartments to detached villa-style houses, with the most prestigious addresses found along Avenue Road. Modern luxury developments also feature prominently, offering porter services, private gyms and concierge facilities, catering to those seeking both elegance and convenience.

Going out

Whether you're after a cosy pub or a glass of wine and some small plates, St John’s Wood offers a wide range of pubs and gastropubs to suit every taste. The Duke of York is a local favourite - warm, welcoming and often filled with regulars. Oslo Court and The Ivy Café are consistently popular, while Soutine, a Parisian-style cafe and restaurant, adds a touch of continental charm. And no visit to the area is complete without a stop at Harry Morgan’s – what began as a tiny takeaway deli is now London’s largest and most iconic New York-style deli restaurant.

Nearby in Little Venice, The Winery is one of west London’s best independent wine shops, hosting regular tastings for locals. 

The area also offers a rich cultural and recreational scene. London Zoo, home to over 12,000 animals, opened in 1828 and remains the world’s oldest scientific zoo. Just as iconic is Lord’s Cricket Ground, a historic sporting landmark that hosts everything from county matches to international test cricket, with daily tours available for visitors. For book lovers, the St John’s Wood Library runs two monthly book clubs, including one dedicated to crime fiction fans.

Local amenities

While Sainsbury’s and Waitrose are just a mile away on Finchley Road, the area is known for its excellent local delis. Panzer’s Deli is a standout, catering to the area’s international community with a wide range of global produce. 

For added convenience, Kent & Sons, the local butcher, offers same-day delivery for orders placed before 11am, perfect for busy families.

Green spaces

Stroll to the top of Primrose Hill and take in one of London’s most iconic views. On a clear day, you can spot landmarks from the London Eye and Big Ben to Crystal Palace on the horizon. It’s a favourite summer hangout for locals and celebrities alike, so keep an eye out for familiar faces like Jamie and Jools Oliver, Daniel Craig or Harry Styles.

Just next door, Regent’s Park offers 410 acres of beautifully maintained green space, including boating lakes, formal rose gardens and the largest outdoor sports centre in Central London.

For something more tranquil, St John’s Wood Church Grounds, a former graveyard turned public park, is the only Local Nature Reserve in the City of Westminster. This award-winning green space has held a Green Flag Award since 2004 and features a playground, formal gardens and a dedicated wildlife area, making it a peaceful retreat for families and nature lovers alike.