Is Harrow a Nice Place to Live?

So, you’re thinking about moving to Harrow, are you? Well, grab a cuppa and let’s chat about whether this North West London borough is the right fit for you. Harrow has a bit of a reputation for being a suburban retreat from the chaos of central London, but is it all it’s cracked up to be? Let’s delve into the nitty-gritty, shall we?

Is Harrow safe?

Safety is a biggie when deciding on a new home. Overall, Harrow has a decent reputation for being quite safe. Public opinion tends to back this up, with many residents feeling secure strolling around their neighbourhoods. Just last month, the local news reported a slight uptick in community watch groups which shows that people are looking out for one another.

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Specific spots like parking areas and petrol stations see a higher frequency of petty crimes like anti-social behaviour and some burglaries. Byron Road is another area that gets a bit of a bad rep for similar reasons. But on the whole, crime rates here are lower compared to other parts of Greater London, which is reassuring.

Is Harrow a nice place to live for families?

If you’ve got sprogs in tow, you’ll be interested in the family-friendliness of Harrow. And good news – it’s a pretty decent place to raise a family.

Schools

Education-wise, Harrow has some solid options. Primary schools like Priestmead Primary School and Nursery come highly recommended, with an ‘Outstanding’ rating. Belmont School and Marlborough Primary also get good marks from Ofsted. The competition for these schools can be fierce, so it might be a bit of a scramble to secure a place.

Secondary schools are a bit more of a mixed bag. Salvatorian Roman Catholic College and Hatch End High School both have ‘Good’ ratings, but there’s no ‘Outstanding’ secondary school in the immediate vicinity. It’s worth considering this if you’ve got older kids.

Parks and Playgrounds

When it comes to getting outdoors, Harrow doesn’t disappoint. There are ample parks and playgrounds where kids can let off some steam. Just last weekend, I saw a crowd of mums and dads at the local playground, watching their little ones on the swings and slides. Byron Park and Byron Recreation Ground are popular choices, providing plenty of green space for picnics and kickabouts.

Family Activities

From weekend craft fairs to the local swimming pool, there’s always something family-friendly to do. The community spirit is strong here, with various family-centric events taking place throughout the year.

Is Harrow expensive?

Ah, the million-pound question – or maybe just the £570,000 one. The housing market in Harrow is varied but can be on the pricier side. Semi-detached properties average around £655,000, which is not for the faint-hearted. Flats are a bit more affordable at £340,000, while terraced houses hover around £560,000.

If you’re renting, expect to shell out for a decent place. A three-bed semi-detached house could set you back around £2,450 a month. Nearby areas like Pinner and Northwood might offer more affordable options, but they come with their own set of pros and cons, like longer commute times.

What transport links are there?

Getting around Harrow is a doddle, really. The London Underground’s Metropolitan line services Harrow-on-the-Hill station, whisking you into central London in no time. There are also numerous bus routes crisscrossing the area, making it easy to get from A to B.

For drivers, the A40 and M1 are conveniently close, but be prepared for a bit of traffic during rush hour. Cycling is another popular option, with dedicated bike lanes in some parts of the borough.

What amenities are available in Harrow?

Harrow has a bit of everything when it comes to amenities. For groceries, you’ve got Lidl, Waitrose, and Asda, covering a wide range of budgets and tastes. There are also smaller grocery stores like Mir Food Centre for more specialised items.

Restaurant-wise, take your pick. You’ve got everything from the Turkish delights at Woody Grill to the spicy offerings at Bombay Central. If you’re up for a night out, The Duck In The Pond is a popular local watering hole.

Healthcare facilities are plentiful, with several pharmacies, a doctor’s office, and even a veterinary clinic. Fitness enthusiasts will be happy with the range of gyms and fitness centres available.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

If you love a good walk or a bit of nature, Harrow has you covered. Parks like Byron Park and Whitefriars Public Space offer scenic spots to unwind. Plus, the nearby countryside has plenty of trails and paths for weekend rambles.

So, what’s the verdict?

Harrow has a lot going for it. It’s relatively safe, family-friendly with good schools and plenty of parks, and offers a multitude of amenities. However, it doesn’t come cheap, and competition for the best schools can be tough. If you’re looking for a suburban area with a strong community spirit and don’t mind paying a bit more, Harrow could be a great fit.

What are the alternatives?

If Harrow sounds a bit too steep for your budget, you might want to consider nearby areas like Pinner or Northwood. Pinner offers a similar suburban feel but tends to be a bit more affordable. Northwood has a charming village vibe and excellent schools but might add a few extra minutes to your commute.

Each area has its own unique charm, so it’s worth exploring all your options before making a decision. Happy house hunting!