Some may think of renting or buying in central London as too expensive – or you may think the heart of the city is too busy, or that it would be impossible to find somewhere suitable to live. But it could be worth thinking again.

Not only could it be more affordable than you may have realised, but you’ll be living in one of the most exciting cities on earth, with unrivalled access to culture via world-class museums, theatres and galleries, alongside superb restaurants, thrilling nightlife, unparalleled transport links and unmatched convenience. Not to mention the incredible shopping! And, even in the heart of town, you can find tranquil residential streets and communities which feel more like a village alongside the hustle and bustle and historic landmarks.

Plus, if you have children, the UK’s capital is where you’ll find some of the country’s finest schools.

A mix of living options

If you’re buying in central London, you can take your pick from streets lined with Georgian and Victorian townhouses to modern riverside apartments in areas such as Westminster or the South Bank between Westminster and Blackfriars Bridges, a location known for its vibrant Thames-side walkway.

The market for renting or buying in central London is one which moves rapidly, so be prepared to act quickly once you’ve seen somewhere where you want to live, whether you’re buying or renting.

Here’s an overview of some areas to consider:

• Marylebone

Located between Oxford Street to the south and Regent’s Park to the north, affluent Marylebone combines elegant Georgian architecture and period properties with a strong sense of community. Despite its central London location, the area retains a village-like atmosphere, with independent boutiques, cafés and restaurants lining its attractive streets.

Residents benefit from excellent transport links and easy access to some of London’s most famous destinations, while enjoying the character and charm that make Marylebone one of the capital’s most desirable neighbourhoods. With its blend of historic architecture, vibrant local amenities and welcoming community feel, it is easy to see why Marylebone remains such a sought-after London address.

• Mayfair

This is the most expensive square on the board in Monopoly, and with good reason. No one could pretend that this is a cheap neighbourhood. With Oxford Street to the north and Piccadilly to the south, Mayfair is right in the heart of things and lies within the City of Westminster. Its two Tube stations, Green Park and Bond Street, mean you’ll enjoy impeccable transport connections. What’s more, much of central London is within walking distance.

The area is moments from major landmarks and is home to a rich architectural heritage, plus some amazing luxury shopping as well as numerous embassies. So no wonder it’s one of London’s most prestigious addresses.

• Soho

Located right in the heart of the West End, Soho is compact and walkable. Vibrant and bohemian, it’s known for its theatres, world-class dining and incredible nightlife. So it’s perfect if you want a 24/7, city-centre lifestyle. Transport-wise, it’s exceptionally well connected, with Tube hubs at its four corners.

Many creatives live and work here, plus the neighbourhood has a high number of tenants, so it could work if you want to rent in central London. There are many period conversions here, including Georgian townhouses, while there are also luxury duplexes tucked away down quieter side roads like Meard Street.

Soho is typically better suited to couples or people living alone, rather than those with young families.

• Fitzrovia

This vibrant neighbourhood is based between Marylebone, Soho and Bloomsbury. Known for its media hubs and bohemian heritage, there’s a buzzing culinary scene on the area’s Charlotte Street. You can also, again, look forward to excellent transport Zone 1 transport links while the local atmosphere is described as urban village.

Fitzrovia retains its characterful past heritage while being home to ultra-modern design, tech and media organisations.

Expect a blend of stucco-fronted townhouses, apartment conversions and new builds. Grand addresses such as Fitzroy Square rub shoulders with more affordable options including Holcroft Court.

• Knightsbridge

This exclusive residential district is home to top designers, jewellers and department stores like Harrods and Harvey Nichols. It’s a truly glamorous area in which to live in central London, and you’ll find numerous sports cars around the neighbourhood, alongside luxury flats. Number One Hyde Park, for example, is one of the UK’s most expensive addresses.

Most houses are spacious white stucco affairs built around the middle of the nineteenth century, including Hans Crescent, Montpelier Street and Brompton and Overton Squares. Meanwhile you’ll find smaller mews properties, especially if you house-hunt in the area parallel to Sloane Square or on Pavilion Road.

Lastly, the cultural riches of the Royal Albert Hall are on the doorstep.

• Chelsea

Located right by the River Thames, Chelsea is one of the UK capital’s most affluent districts. And it’s renowned for its high-end shopping, fine dining, cultural attractions and historic charm. No wonder it’s one of the city’s most sought-after areas. Its Kings Road was at the heart of ‘Swinging Sixties’ London – the area retains strong connections with the world of fashion today.

When it comes to housing, you’ll find luxury riverside apartments, brick mansion blocks (there are some very grand buildings locally) as well as Victorian terraces plus spacious Georgian residences with their own garden.

Renting and buying in central London with McGlashan Property Services

At McGlashans Property Services, we’ve been operating in the prime central London market since the late 1980s – and we pride ourselves on being family-run, our attention to detail and the highly personalised, tailored service we offer. With a focus on values of trust, integrity and honesty, we specialise in executive properties and know our sector inside out, while also having a deep understanding of all the different areas across the heart of town.

Whether you’re buying or renting in central London, we can help. Get in touch today for an initial conversation and we’ll take it from there.