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Use our guide to find the perfect corner of London for your brood…

On the face of it, the buzzing metropolis of London may not seem the ideal place to live as a young family. However, with a bit of research and knowhow, it is possible to find an area which offers a high quality of family life and allows you to reap the cultural and social benefits the capital has to offer.

Family enjoying the Natural History Museum in South Kensington

For starters, look for the following criteria:

Access to childcare

If neither you nor your partner is a stay-at-home parent, then access to childcare is a crucial factor when deciding where to move to in London. It’s a good idea to call the local council for a list of registered nurseries and childminders in your chosen area. You might also want to take a look at the Ofsted report for the nurseries, as well as checking whether the opening times suit your schedule.

Access to good schools

If you have chosen to go down the state school route, avoid falling victim to the postcode lottery and research the calibre of schools your children will have access to before moving. If opting for an independent school, ensure that it is within walking distance from your home or on an easy route via car or public transport.

Child-friendly restaurants

There’s nothing worse than entering a restaurant, children in tow, only to be met with disapproving glares from clientele and staff alike! So, see if there are food joints that welcome all the family before making the decision on where to move. Kids’ menus are a welcome bonus, as are restaurants that have children’s play areas for when the adults need a bit of peace and quiet.

Green spaces

Choosing to live in London does not mean you and the kids need sacrifice the wide open spaces on offer in the countryside. The capital has a glorious array of leafy expanses, so when renting or buying a property in London, make sure to check where your nearest green space is.

Hyde Park in London

Areas such as South Kensington and St John’s Wood are lucky enough to have one of the Royal Parks on their doorstep – Hyde Park and Regent’s Park respectively – and Hampstead has its gorgeous Heath, but other quarters will also offer beautiful green commons and squares ripe for outdoor exploring.

Cultural attractions for kids

London is awash with cultural happenings, so take a look at what child-friendly attractions your new area has to offer. For instance, South Kensington is home to the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum, both of which frequently hold events for children and teenagers. Best of all, access to some of the best exhibits is free. For budding artists, the Tate Britain in Pimlico invites families every weekend to an interactive experience of sculpture. If you’re buying a property in Chiswick, head to the beautiful grounds of the Chiswick House and Gardens with a picnic for open-air plays and film screenings.