Hammersmith and Fulham is one of West London’s most desirable boroughs, offering a rare combination of riverside living, strong transport links, green spaces, and diverse neighbourhoods. Popular with professionals, families, students, and long-term Londoners, the borough balances an urban lifestyle with pockets of calm that feel surprisingly residential for Zone 2 London.
In this in-depth guide, we explore the best areas to live in Hammersmith and Fulham, examining housing, lifestyle, safety, transport, schools, and who each neighbourhood is best suited for. If you are considering moving to West London or comparing boroughs, this article will give you a clear, realistic picture of what life in Hammersmith and Fulham is really like.
Why Hammersmith And Fulham Is One Of London’s Most Popular Boroughs
Hammersmith and Fulham consistently ranks highly for quality of life, and it is easy to see why.
Excellent Location And Connectivity
Situated in West London, the borough borders Kensington and Chelsea, Wandsworth, Brent, and Ealing. Its transport connections are among the best in London, making it ideal for commuters working across the city.
Variety Of Neighbourhoods
Unlike boroughs that feel uniform, Hammersmith and Fulham is highly diverse. Within a short distance you will find:
- Lively high streets
- Quiet residential squares
- Riverside walks
- Major regeneration zones
- Leafy family-friendly streets
This variety means the borough appeals to a wide range of residents.
Lifestyle And Amenities
From independent cafés and riverside pubs to shopping centres and cultural venues, Hammersmith and Fulham offers a lifestyle that feels vibrant without being overwhelming.
Hammersmith
Best for: Commuters, professionals, renters, convenience
Hammersmith is the commercial and transport heart of the borough. It is fast-paced, well-connected, and ideal for people who prioritise accessibility.
Transport And Commuting
Hammersmith is one of London’s best-connected areas, served by:
- District line
- Piccadilly line
- Hammersmith and City line
- Circle line
- Numerous bus routes
This makes commuting to central London, Heathrow, and the City straightforward.
Housing And Lifestyle
Housing in Hammersmith includes:
- Modern apartment developments
- Converted period buildings
- Some residential streets away from the main roads
The area has a strong nightlife scene, shopping options, gyms, and riverside access near Hammersmith Bridge.
Things To Consider
- Busy roads and traffic
- Higher noise levels near main routes
- Limited green space compared to neighbouring areas
Hammersmith is best for those who want connectivity and convenience above all else.
Fulham
Best for: Young professionals, families, long-term residents
Fulham is one of West London’s most desirable residential areas and offers a refined yet relaxed lifestyle.
Residential Character
Fulham is known for:
- Attractive Victorian and Edwardian terraces
- Tree-lined streets
- A village-like atmosphere in certain pockets
It feels more residential and calmer than Hammersmith while still offering excellent amenities.
Lifestyle And Amenities
Fulham boasts:
- Independent cafés and restaurants
- Boutique shops
- Proximity to the River Thames
- Easy access to Fulham Palace and Bishops Park
Transport
Stations such as Parsons Green and Fulham Broadway provide District line access, making commuting efficient.
Things To Consider
- Higher property prices
- Competitive rental market
Fulham suits people seeking a balanced lifestyle with a strong sense of community.
Shepherd’s Bush
Best for: Renters, creatives, students, first-time buyers
Shepherd’s Bush is one of the borough’s most dynamic areas, known for its diversity and energy.
Transport Links
Shepherd’s Bush offers excellent connectivity:
- Central line
- Overground services
- Multiple bus routes
This makes it particularly attractive to renters and young professionals.
Housing And Regeneration
Housing ranges from:
- Apartments near Westfield
- Period conversions
- Residential streets near Shepherd’s Bush Green
Major regeneration around Westfield has transformed the area, bringing new jobs and amenities.
Lifestyle
Shepherd’s Bush is lively and multicultural, with:
- Shopping at Westfield
- Live music venues
- International food options
Things To Consider
- Busy atmosphere
- Higher footfall near shopping areas
Shepherd’s Bush is ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant, urban lifestyle.
Brook Green
Best for: Families, professionals, quiet living
Brook Green is one of the borough’s most sought-after residential areas.
Why Brook Green Stands Out
- Leafy streets and garden squares
- Proximity to Brook Green park
- Period homes and elegant conversions
It feels distinctly calmer than nearby Hammersmith while remaining well connected.
Schools And Community
Brook Green is popular with families due to:
- Access to good schools
- Safe, residential feel
- Community-focused environment
Transport
Close to Hammersmith stations and Kensington Olympia, offering multiple transport options.
Things To Consider
- Premium property prices
- Limited nightlife
Brook Green suits those seeking peace and stability in central London.
Barons Court
Best for: Professionals, value seekers, long-term renters
Barons Court sits between Hammersmith and West Kensington and offers good value relative to neighbouring areas.
Housing And Value
The area features:
- Large period properties
- Converted flats
- Good space compared to price
It attracts professionals who want proximity to central London without paying top-tier prices.
Transport
Barons Court Underground Station provides District and Piccadilly line services.
Things To Consider
- Less of a defined high street
- Quieter nightlife scene
Barons Court is a solid choice for space and value.
White City
Best for: Young professionals, investors, modern living
White City has undergone one of London’s most dramatic transformations in recent years.
Regeneration And New Homes
White City now offers:
- Modern apartment developments
- Improved public spaces
- New retail and leisure options
Transport And Employment
With Central line access and proximity to major employers and media hubs, White City is increasingly popular with professionals.
Things To Consider
- Still developing in parts
- Less established community feel
White City suits those looking for new-build living and long-term growth.
Sands End
Best for: Families, professionals, quieter Fulham living
Sands End is a lesser-known part of Fulham that appeals to those wanting a calmer environment.
Residential Appeal
The area offers:
- Modern developments alongside older housing
- Riverside proximity
- Family-friendly streets
Transport
Access via Fulham Broadway and nearby bus routes.
Things To Consider
- Fewer shops and nightlife
- Ongoing development in some areas
Sands End is ideal for people seeking quiet Fulham living.
Safety And Quality Of Life
Hammersmith and Fulham is generally considered a safe borough, particularly in areas such as Brook Green, Fulham, and Sands End. Busier areas like Shepherd’s Bush and central Hammersmith experience higher footfall but benefit from strong transport policing and lighting.
As with all London boroughs, safety can vary by street, so local research is important.
Schools And Education
The borough offers:
- Highly regarded state schools
- Independent schools
- Access to universities and colleges nearby
This makes Hammersmith and Fulham attractive to families and academics alike.
Green Spaces And Riverside Living
Despite its urban feel, the borough benefits from:
- Riverside walks along the Thames
- Parks such as Bishops Park and Brook Green
- Easy access to larger green spaces in neighbouring boroughs
This balance enhances overall quality of life.
Transport Overview
Hammersmith and Fulham is one of London’s strongest boroughs for transport:
- Multiple Underground lines
- Overground services
- Excellent bus coverage
- Road links to the West End and Heathrow
This makes it highly practical for commuters.
Who Hammersmith And Fulham Is Best For
The borough is ideal for:
- Professionals working in central or West London
- Families seeking strong schools and parks
- Renters wanting connectivity
- Buyers looking for long-term value in Zone 2
It may be less suitable for those seeking low-cost housing or a very quiet suburban environment throughout.
Final Thoughts
The best areas to live in Hammersmith and Fulham depend on your lifestyle priorities.
- Hammersmith for transport and convenience
- Fulham for community and lifestyle
- Shepherd’s Bush for energy and value
- Brook Green for families and tranquillity
- Barons Court for space and affordability
- White City for modern living and growth
- Sands End for quieter Fulham life
Hammersmith and Fulham remains one of London’s most well-rounded boroughs, offering something for almost everyone. one of London’s most exciting and desirable places to live.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only. Information about areas, property, safety, transport, and amenities may change over time and can vary by location.
Nothing in this post should be taken as professional, legal, financial, or property advice. Readers should carry out their own research before making any decisions.
London 33 accepts no liability for reliance on the information provided.