Is Mill Hill a Nice Place to Live?

Mill Hill, located in the London Borough of Barnet, Greater London, is a suburban area known for its greenery, excellent schools, and community spirit. But is it genuinely a lovely place to live? Let’s take a closer look at its various aspects to get an honest assessment.

Is Mill Hill safe?

When it comes to safety, Mill Hill enjoys a relatively good reputation. The overall crime rate here is quite low compared to the regional average. Most crimes tend to occur in specific hotspots. For instance, The Broadway is a bit of a magnet for shoplifting, and Long Mead has seen a few instances of anti-social behaviour.

However, what’s worth noting is that these incidents are not the norm for the area. Most residents feel quite safe walking around at night, and the local community is tight-knit, which always helps in keeping crime at bay. It’s one of those places where neighbours still look out for one another, which can be very reassuring.

Is Mill Hill a nice place to live for families?

Mill Hill is particularly attractive for families, thanks to its excellent schools, parks, and family-friendly activities. Let’s break it down further.

Primary & Secondary Schools

The area boasts several outstanding primary schools like The Orion Primary School and Blessed Dominic Catholic Primary School, which are known for their high academic standards and community involvement. However, getting a place in these schools can be competitive as they are very popular.

When it comes to secondary schools, options are slightly more limited. While there are no outstanding secondary schools within Mill Hill itself, nearby schools like Copthall School and Hasmonean High School for Girls, both rated ‘Good’, serve the area well. However, Mill Hill families occasionally find it challenging to secure places in these schools due to catchment area issues.

Parks & Playgrounds

Mill Hill is blessed with numerous parks and playgrounds. Mill Hill Park, for example, offers a fantastic playground and plenty of open space for kids to run around. There are also several family-friendly activities like local sports clubs and community events, making it a great place for raising children.

Is Mill Hill expensive?

Now, let’s talk money. Mill Hill is not the cheapest place to live, but it’s not the most expensive either. The average property price here is around £755,000. Flats are the most affordable option, averaging about £450,000, while semi-detached and terraced houses go for around £750,000 and £565,000 respectively.

Renting is also on the pricier side, with a 2-bedroom flat costing around £2,150 per month and a 3-bedroom semi-detached house going for about £3,000. There are more affordable options in neighbouring areas like Colindale and Burnt Oak, but you might have to compromise on the quaint suburban charm that Mill Hill offers.

What transport links are there?

Mill Hill is well-connected, making it a convenient choice for commuters. Mill Hill Broadway station offers Thameslink services, which can get you to Central London in under 30 minutes. There are also several bus routes that serve the area, making it easy to get around even without a car.

For those who prefer to drive, the M1 motorway is easily accessible, providing quick routes to the North and other parts of Greater London. Overall, Mill Hill’s transport links make it a practical place to live, especially for those who work in the city but prefer a quieter home environment.

What amenities are available in Mill Hill?

Mill Hill has a good range of amenities to cater to almost every need. Shopping options include supermarkets like Tesco Express and Iceland, as well as more specialised stores like Mill Hill Food Centre and Hamish.

When it comes to dining out, there’s something for everyone. You can enjoy a meal at The Good Earth for some tasty Chinese cuisine or grab a pizza at Pizza Express. For a more relaxed setting, Joice Cafe offers a cosy spot for coffee and light bites.

The area also has no shortage of pubs, with places like Adam & Eve and The Three Hammers providing great spots for a pint. Healthcare facilities, gyms, and salons are plentiful, ensuring you don’t have to travel far for your everyday needs.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

If you love the outdoors, Mill Hill won’t disappoint. Mill Hill Park is fantastic for a leisurely stroll or a more energetic game of tennis or basketball. The Mill Field offers more green space to explore, and you can even venture a bit further to enjoy the countryside attractions in the surrounding area.

So, what’s the verdict?

Mill Hill offers a lot of positives: excellent schools, good transport links, and a range of amenities. It is a bit on the pricier side, and the competition for school places can be fierce. However, if these aspects align with your priorities, it can be a wonderful place to call home.

What are the alternatives?

If Mill Hill doesn’t quite tick all your boxes, there are nearby alternatives worth considering. Colindale offers more affordable property options, although it lacks some of the charm. Burnt Oak is another nearby area with lower property prices but doesn’t have the same level of amenities or green spaces.

Overall, while Mill Hill has its drawbacks, it offers a balanced mix of suburban living with easy access to city amenities, making it a compelling choice for many.