A cosy village within a megapolis – this is Chiswick.
Bordered by a motorway and a ‘high’ street, with three tube stations nearby, and yet no sign of the hustle and bustle that mars every large city – a pretty neighborhood with a village feel.
Old yet modern houses stand along the tree lined footpaths on quiet, narrow streets. In spring, pink Cherry Blossoms adorn many of the trees.
There are parks big and small, pubs and restaurants, shops and supermarkets, and splendid walks by the river Thames alongside centuries-old inns that offer traditional English fare.
Here’s a map of Chiswick (bordered in pink) with all the places listed here marked.
Chiswick House and Gardens
This 65-acre property comprises a sprawling garden in the middle of which stands a stately mansion. The property is managed by English Heritage (through an independent trust) to preserve this important heritage for the benefit of local residents and visitors.
The building, named Chiswick House, is a glorious example of classic 18th century British architecture designed by the 3rd Earl of Burlington.
The extensive gardens contain classical landscapes, fountains, statues, woodland and lawns. There is a lovely café serving beverages and snacks. It also has a small garden for young kids and a working kitchen garden.
There are waterbodies in narrow canals running through the park with ducks and birds abounding – perfect place for small kids and adults to stop and enjoy. There are loads of paths to cycle and jog or walk the dog or walk with family throughout the park.
Thames Riverfront – Strand on the Green
A short walk from anywhere in Chiswick is the lovely Thames riverfront road (often referred to as Strand-on-the-green) with a long stretch ideal for walks and runs.
It’s fun to watch the rowing boats that pass through here often.
There are at least three pubs and couple of restaurants along this stretch – always a favorite of the locals.
Royal Botanical gardens/ Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens, London’s “lesser-known” UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in Kew with River Thames on one side and Richmond Park on the other. The garden is a longish (30 minutes) walk from Chiswick, crossing the Thames via the Kew Bridge.
There is something here for everyone, from serious botany enthusiasts to those who simply want to walk through a beautiful garden. The place is full of colourful plants and flowers most times of the year, especially in Spring.
Climbers and Creepers is a popular and innovative children’s play area. Based on a botanical theme, it has slides, tunnels, and bridges – perfect for toddlers and young children. There are other structures built for older kids.
The magnificent grounds are immaculately maintained by horticulturists who nurture ten landscaped gardens from ten countries, as well as the Woodland Garden. Other attractions include spectacular glass houses, Victorian greenhouses, The Great Pagoda, and Royal Kitchens.
Get there early to grab a parking spot. Kew Explorer comes to the rescue of those who do not want to walk a lot or have difficulty walking. It is a charming road train with several stops at the highlights. Of course, there is a café and a whole food hall with BBQ and other authentic options. Tip : try a sample from the amazing ice cream stand located by the pavilion restaurant.
Kew Gardens is the perfect day out from Chiswick with plenty to do for everyone.
More Parks
Chiswick has at least half a dozen (perhaps more) parks for kids and adults. Of particular mention is the huge Duke’s Meadows – a riverside park with a section for children, a splash pool, golf, food market, and a long stretch along another side of River Thames.
High street
The high street in Chiswick is just half an hour away from anywhere in Chiswick.
This is the main street full of action with all kinds of shops (includes Whole food market, Sainburys, book shops, Gap for kids, toy shops), dining choices (small cafes and eateries, larger restaurants and Starbucks) and stalls selling fresh fruits and vegetables.
In addition there are bus stops and tube stations (Chiswick Park station, Turnham Green and Gunnersbury) conveniently located.
Some popular Pubs and Restaurants
Hole in the Wall – a gastro pub and grill in the centre of Chiswick – is popular for “Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding”.
In Chiswick’s high street:
Annie’s – a very family friendly casual dining place for lunches and dinners; Kuyamoto – serves traditional Japanese cuisine; Crêpeaffaire is popular for delicious crepes of all types (including desserts).
In Chiswick’s Strand on the Green, there are some truly ancient pubs known for their historical charm and riverside locations:
The City Barge (a 14th-century pub and the oldest pub in London); Bell and Crown was licensed as the Bell & Crown in 1787, was acquired by Fuller, Smith & Turner in 1814 and rebuilt in 1907; The Bulls Head (an 18th-century inn)
Chiswick totally looks like the perfect neighbourhood in London for families, with all the conveniences of a mega city without the hustle and bustle.
I visited London a few years ago, but I didn’t get a chance to explore Chiswick. It looks like such a lovely neighborhood—full of history, charm, and great places to unwind. I’ll definitely check it out next time. Thanks for sharing!
I bet the gardens are pretty amazing in the spring!
It’s been so long since I last visited London, and I have been wanting to go back for years. Your post is a sign that I should make the trip soon. When I do go back, I will be adding Chiswick to the list. The parks and the Royal Botanical Gardens look so charming and peaceful
Chiswick is such a lovely little neighbourhood in London! I’ve only been to this area once, but it was such a nice experience, and I’m so glad I did. It looks like I need to go back though, because I can see from your article that there are a few spots I missed that I should see!
I’m leaving for London tonight, so this is very timely. Thanks for the great tips!
I have been to London more than three times and can’t believe I haven’t visited Chiswick yet. I will add it to my list. It looks beautiful with all the flowers in spring.
Oh I have fond memories of Chiswick House from when I was living in London. I went to Chiswick House just because its entry was included in the English Heritage Pass I had and I totally loved it. The garden is definitely the highlight. Kew Gardens was nice, but I totally loved Richmond Park. It was slightly drizzling when I went and we saw like atleast 50 deers there! Such fond memories!
What a lovely looking neighborhood! It seems like such an oasis compared to the rest of London. I have been to London but not Chiswick but this definitely makes me want to venture there next time I’m in the city.
I’d love to visit Chiswick in spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Love the quieter town with the convenience to the city.
When I lived in London one of my best friends got a nanny job for a family in Chiswick and we use to take the kids to the parks. And on her time off we would frequent some of the pubs for the great food before heading out sightseeing or partying. Chiswick is such a wonderful suburb in London.