Is Harefield a Nice Place to Live?

When considering a move to Harefield, you might be imagining tranquil village life within the hustle and bustle of Greater London. Situated in the Hillingdon borough, Harefield is a charming village that’s seen as a calm and somewhat remote enclave compared to its busier neighbors. But the big question remains: is Harefield a nice place to live? To answer that, we need to break it down into various aspects, some delightful and others, well, less so.

Is Harefield safe?

Safety is a crucial concern for anyone moving to a new area. Harefield, on the whole, fares reasonably well in terms of safety. While some areas like Ash Close and Ash Grove have seen their fair share of anti-social behavior incidents, the overall crime rate in Harefield is significantly lower than the regional average. Mount Pleasant has a higher incidence of crime, mostly related to anti-social behavior, but nothing that would make you bolt the doors in broad daylight.

However, it’s essential to be cautious and aware of these spots, particularly during late hours. Public opinion generally reflects a sense of security with a caveat to stay vigilant, much like you would anywhere.

Is Harefield a nice place to live for families?

For families considering Harefield, the village offers a range of amenities and a generally peaceful environment. Let’s dive a bit deeper:

Primary & Secondary Schools

The schooling options in Harefield are decent but not extraordinary. The primary schools like Harefield Junior School and Harefield Infant School are rated ‘Good,’ which is reassuring. However, you won’t find any ‘Outstanding’ rated schools here, which might be a point of concern for some parents.

Secondary education is a bit more competitive. Harefield School is also rated ‘Good,’ but if you’re looking for anything ‘Outstanding,’ you might need to explore schools in neighboring areas. This can sometimes make securing a place a bit of a challenge.

Parks and Playgrounds

When it comes to outdoor spaces, Harefield has got your family covered. There are several parks and playgrounds, making it a haven for kids to run around. Whether it’s Mount Pleasant Children’s Playground or the parks at Hill End, there’s plenty of green space for weekend picnics and after-school playdates.

Family Activities

Family-friendly activities are abundant, from nature walks and bike rides along the Grand Union Canal to community events that often pop up in the village. The sense of community is strong, which can be a significant plus for families looking to integrate quickly.

Is Harefield expensive?

Harefield’s property market can be a bit of a mixed bag. The average house price here is around £500,000, with semi-detached properties going for about £555,000. Detached properties can set you back a cool £850,000, while flats are a more affordable option at approximately £335,000. In comparison to other parts of Greater London, it’s pretty standard, but you’ll find cheaper options in nearby areas if you’re willing to compromise on the village ambiance.

Rental properties are somewhat scarce, so if you’re looking to rent, be prepared for a bit of a hunt. One-bedroom apartments typically go for around £1150, while two-bedroom options can hit the £1500 mark.

What transport links are there?

Transport links are one of the less exciting aspects of Harefield. The village isn’t directly served by a train station, so you’ll generally need to rely on local bus services to get you to nearby stations like Northwood and Uxbridge. The closest Underground station would be Northwood on the Metropolitan line, which isn’t exactly a stone’s throw away.

For road commuters, the A40 provides a relatively quick route into Central London, but bear in mind that traffic can be a bit of a nightmare during peak hours. All in all, if you’re dependent on frequent public transport, Harefield might feel a bit remote.

What amenities are available in Harefield?

Despite its village feel, Harefield has a surprising range of amenities. You’ll find everything from cozy coffee shops like We Love Coffee to delightful eateries like Harefield Village Café and Nabab Restaurant. For a pint, you can head to The Old Orchard or The Kings Arms.

Shopping isn’t too bad either. The Co-op and Costcutter provide your grocery essentials, while Sarna News Food & Wine covers your convenience needs. Additional amenities include a post office, a couple of libraries, pharmacies, hair salons, and even a veterinary care center.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

Harefield offers some stunning outdoor spaces, perfect for nature lovers. The Harefield Village Green and Village Pond are lovely spots for a leisurely stroll. For those who love a bit of gardening, the Hill End Allotments are a hit with the locals. The Northwood Way Open Space offers more open land for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

So, what’s the verdict?

Harefield offers a charming village life that’s relatively safe and family-friendly. Its schools are good, if not outstanding, and the property market is reasonably balanced. Transport links could be better, but the rich availability of amenities and beautiful outdoor spaces make up for it. If you love a close-knit community feel and can tolerate its minor inconveniences, Harefield might just be the place for you.

What are the alternatives?

If Harefield doesn’t quite hit the mark, there are nearby alternatives worth considering. Uxbridge offers better transport links and a more bustling atmosphere. Northwood is another excellent option with more ‘Outstanding’ schools and quicker access to the Underground. Each of these areas has its own set of pros and cons, but they all provide viable alternatives if Harefield isn’t your cup of tea.