Hamptons-Maida Vale-Relocation & Renovation Guide

Relocate & Renovate Design & Build, Schools, Eating out, Health clubs, Shopping & more.

Maida Vale

A very warm welcome to Maida Vale and the surrounding areas from all of us at Hamptons.

You will be moving into one of the most highly regarded villages in London. Desirable homes, tree lined avenues, diverse shops and restaurants and an eclectic, vibrant population.

Hamptons has been matching people with property that’s right for them, locally, nationally and internationally, since 1869.

We were pioneers, setting standards that few of our rivals could match and this hasn’t changed since.

Today, 150 years after we first set up home in Pall Mall, with 15 decades of finding property and looking after people under our belt, our clients now consider us to be their, ‘home experts’.

Yours sincerely,

Steve Kadi- Head of Sales

Tony O’Connell - Head of Lettings

AND SO THE ADVENTURE BEGINS.

Maida Vale

Hamptons offers you a warm welcome to Maida Vale

Congratulations, if you are house hunting in Maida Vale you have already won. A home in this great area with all it offers, automatically makes you the envy of many. Now in order to make your transition as smooth and hassle free as possible Hamptons have put together this great guide which will help you choose the best schools, learn a little about planning and building control, read tips on where to shop, eat and lot’s more, all packed into one little guide with clickable links.

Perhaps most importantly we have researched some of the leading local professionals and experts who can help you add value and personalise your soon to be new home. A big WELCOME and enjoy

A little bit of history

The name Maida Vale is taken from a pub called ‘The Maida’ which stood on the Edgware Road until the turn of the 21st century and whose name in turn was a reference to Napoleonic war general Sir John Stuart, who won a victory at the town of Maida in Calabria and was named its Count. The BBC’S Maida Vales Studios and Abbey Road Studios have played key roles in the British music industry, with the famous zebra crossing at Abbey Road occupying the border between Maida Vale and neighbouring St John’s Wood. Many prominent residents have graced the streets of Maida Vale, with WW2 codebreaker Alan Turing and actor Sir Alec Guinness both born here.

Why move to Maida Vale?

For an area so close to all the amenities of central London, Maida Vale has been able to retain something of a village feel with a strong sense of community. The area of Little Venice is a particular haven with its quiet streets, Georgian townhouses and canal side views.

The Little Venice area of Maida Vale, with white stucco villas overlooking Regent’s Canal and its neat rows of colourful barges, is one of the most picturesque in all London. Maida Vale is only three miles north-west of Trafalgar Square with Kilburn and St John’s Wood to the north; Marylebone to the east; Paddington to the south and North Kensington to the west.

Cheaper than nearby Notting Hill, this central neighbourhood’s prettiness is prized, with white stucco houses and bright canal barges.

www.standard.co.uk

www.hamptons.co.uk

FAMOUS RESIDENTS

Maida Vale and the surrounding area has been a home to rockstars, celebrities, athletes, academics, artists and common or garden members of the upper-crust for generations. Here are a few notable names you may or may not know..

Bjork

Charles Spencer

Terence Fisher, Film Director

Nancy Mitford, Author

James MacColl, Labour MP for Widnes

Hardy Amies, Fashion Designer, Dressmaker to Queen Elizabeth II

Ernest Clark, Actor

Helen Clare, Singer

Alan Freeman, Broadcaster

Enrica Soma, Italian American Socialite and Ballerina, Ruth Rendell, Baroness Rendell of Babergh, the English crime novelist

Joan Collins, Actress, Author

John Inman, Actor

Eddie Linden, Poet and founder of Aquarius magazine

Edward Fox, Film Actor

Elizabeth Emanue, Fashion Designer

Michael Flatley, Dancer and Creator of Riverdance

Jarvis Cocker, Singer

Charles Spencer, 9th Earl Spencer, Peer, Author and younger brother of Diana, Princess of Wales

Björk, Icelandic Singer, resident in the 1990s and early 2000s

Ben Miller, Comedian and Actor

Noel Gallagher, Singer, Songwriter

Bradley Wiggins, Cyclist

Eva Green, Actress

Daisy Ridley, Actress

Kate Stewart, Singer-Songwriter

Interview with Interior designer Soraya from Lounge & Linger

What type of projects get you most excited?

Why should people appoint an interior designer instead of managing their own project?

Creating beautiful, tailored home interiors is achieved with the balance of talent and resources. Talent comes from all around us, including our clients. Finding the right designer can be overwhelming in itself. Many of our clients simply have very little time to apply themselves into creating their own home. Sourcing quality suppliers, unique finds, contractors, art, colour palettes can be time consuming and quite daunting, so hiring in the extra ‘eye’ will make a huge difference. I believe we all create something beautiful even if it’s not your day to day work, it’s how to apply it to your home environment without getting stuck along the way. Our relationship with our customers plays the biggest part in the aesthetic and functionality of a home. It’s all part of the journey.

We have worked on some incredible projects over the last 8 years, including work with Claridges, Soho House and a recent residential project in Kensington was a dream. As no project is the same, each day brings something new. This in itself is exciting. What will the client request from us, what can we add to a space that will truly meet all their expectations? It’s an exciting position to be in. Each new project is a blank canvas, and this is where we begin.

Who or what have been your major influences and role models?

That’s a great question! The first person that came to mind is Vivienne Westwood who I’m drawn to like a magnet. Her philosophy and quintessential attitude, and what she stands for is extremely cool. I also cite my early upbringing in Beirut with it’s faded 70’s glamour as highly influential. The importance of family, art, food can deeply influence me every day. The work of Audubon is wonderful, the Art Deco era is a fascinating time to look into. London itself is inspiring, with its huge diversity and creativity on every corner. Stormzy is pretty incredible too. In terms of fellow interiors designers, I love Kelly Wearstler and also sway towards Alberto Pinto and Martin Brudnizki with huge respect for all three.

What’s your Process from getting that initial phone enquiry from a new client?

We take a unique and tailored approach to each project, we focus on our clients needs and vision, balancing functionality with aesthetics. We begin the journey by meeting where we discuss plans and ideas. We follow this by requesting floor plans, and the team and myself will start by creating a mood board. We build a relationship with you, forming ideas jointly, sourcing unique finds and piecing it all together.

Is there a project that you are most proud of?

Yes! Two actually! In the gloom of 2020 Lounge & Linger were asked to revamp the much loved Hedsor House in Buckinghamshire. It’s a magnificent house and the final results brought tears to my eyes. The other project was the beautifully restored 1920’s Art Deco house in Eastbourne called The Sandcastle. This was a temporary project for a 6 month rental. The house was cleverly designed to make the most of sea views with a Great Gatsby-style swimming pool and was a secret hideaway for Edward and Mrs Simpson in the 1930’s. It’s an Art Deco piece of paradise on the coast of England.

Welcome to Saint Christina’s School

Saint Christina’s is a thriving Co-educational Independent Day Prep School for boys and girls aged 3 – 11, situated in an attractive quiet location on the edge of Primrose Hill. Children who attend Saint Christina’s have strong academic outcomes within a School that prides itself on its strong pastoral care and nurture. In an increasingly busy world, our catholic ethos helps form a calm oasis where children are able to learn and grow to be their very best.

The school has been located in the quiet backstreets of St John’s Wood since 1949, giving it enviable access to unique open spaces in Central London for sports and field trips. An extensive extra-curricular programme including STEM (Robotics, Coding, Science) Clubs, Sports (training, team fixtures, national competitions), Music (Choirs, Orchestra, solo instruments) Languages (Latin, French, Spanish), Drama & LAMDA, and Eco-Warriors, amongst many other offerings, give pupils the opportunity to explore their interests and develop their talents.

Saint Christina’s made the decision to become fully co-educational in 2018 and this year welcomed boys into the upper part of the School for the first time. Enjoying spacious accommodation that is both light and airy, the School currently enjoys a Science room, ICT Suite, Music Department with instrumental teaching pods, Arts and Dance Hall, Forest School and separate play grounds for younger and older children. In April 2022, these facilities will be enhanced further when we open a stunning new Early Years setting, along with additional classrooms and beautiful outdoor learning spaces.

The School has developed an enviable reputation for its STEM programme, which includes a broad range of clubs, competitions and activities and even a space launch! Other projects include an engineering focus where children design, build and race their own ‘Formula 1’ race cars.

Pupil voice is also very important to the School, and children lead numerous initiatives around conservation and the environment. The children pride themselves on achieving an Eco Schools Award in 2021, and dedicated Eco Prefects are proactive in organising litter-picks and even conducting environmental audits of the school!

Our pupils achieve outstanding outcomes in their 11+ assessments and move on to the best senior schools in London.

Children at Saint Christina’s are encouraged to be curious, to build on their independence and to develop a thirst for learning. Visitors are always struck by the warm and friendly atmosphere, sense of community and delightful children. You are warmly invited to arrange a personal tour and visit at a time of your convenience.

Interview with ‘Hodgkinson Design’

Tell us a little about the back story of ’Hodgkinson Design’

Andrew Hodgkinson has had a very diverse career working with some of the leading UK and international retail brands and developers. Concentrating now on bespoke private homes using his knowledge, experience and love of the art world to create beautiful and functional solutions for our aspirational clients.

Do you find most clients have clear image of what they want to achieve in their property or do they look to you for inspiration?

We work with a variety of clients, some who know exactly what they want to achieve, and therefore we help facilitate this for the best outcome. But we have other clients who aren’t sure what they are wanting to achieve but may have some inspirations or an atmosphere they want to curate or have existing furniture and artwork they wish to include. It is our job as highly skilled and trained architects and interior designers to work with and help both set of clients turn their aspirations and dreams into reality.

Tell us about a project you’re particularly proud of?

Our most recent project in Notting Hill resulted in the creation of a calm atmosphere as a desired refuge from the client’s busy life. This is a project both the client and the team at Hodgkinson Design are particularly proud of. We managed to curate a space that facilitates a warm, relaxed and creative atmosphere, working with some of the client’s existing furniture and showcasing both old and new artwork and sculptures. This project blends

texture and colour within a sensitive yet minimalistic design.

What are the most popular types of projects you are asked to undertake at the moment?

We undertake a variety of projects, the most popular type of projects we carry out at the moment are bespoke residential refurbishments or substantial redevelopments for both houses and flats. We offer tailored solutions for our clients’ requirements and ambitions.

Please summarise why house buyers and developers should choose Hodgkinson Design for their project?

At Hodgkinson Design we seek to guide you through the often-complex process and procedures of building regulations, planning permission and construction. We work with our clients to design and construct your vision whether it be a new building or adapting an existing property. We create and maximise spaces, facilitating functionality and amplifying light. We aim to bring you new ideas and focus on small details which make a huge difference to the overall project, whilst adding value to your property. We have a seamless approach to architecture and interior design, resulting in the creation of stunning individual homes. We are experts in planning and for each project we believe in applying relevant sustainable solutions. We seek to design and deliver inspirational houses for discerning clients that are beautifully conceived and practically delivered. At Hodgkinson Design, we create homes that we would be proud to live in.

www.hodgkinsondesign.co.uk

Pubs & Live Music

The Elgin - Maida Vale

We work with independent breweries and suppliers to bring you the best of the British Isles. We serve brunch, Dinner and Sunday Roasts, We are passionate about fresh, quality food and we change with the seasons.

255 Elgin Avenue, Maida Vale, NW9 1NJ. 0207 625 55 11

www.theelgin.com/

Queens Arms London

The team have been welcoming customers new and old to the Queens Arms for almost a decade. The pub is a well-established traditional, large corner pub with multiple areas including an old public bar and a large, beautifully screened front terrace.

1 Kilburn high road, Kilburn, NW6 5SE. 0207 625 6880

www.queensarmskilburn.co.uk/

The Hero of Maida

The Hero of Maida is a traditional Victorian pub, situated in leafy Maida Vale between Warwick Avenue and Little Venice. Relax in the buzz of our ground floor pub where you can find an extensive list of wines, beers and cocktails, and tuck into some of our comforting bar snacks.

55 Shirland Rd, Maida Vale, NW9 2JD. 020 3960 9109 www.theheromaidavale.co.uk/

The Old Bell

The Old Bell is a friendly venue offering delicious food, great drinks, and unforgettable experiences. Come and visit us for any occasion whether it’s for your everyday lunch or dinner visits or even something to celebrate like your birthday or any other special occasions. With our large beer garden – this is the perfect place to while away those hot summer days.

38 Kilburn High Road, Kilburn, NW6 5UA. 0207 3724290 www.greatukpubs.co.uk/oldbellkilburn

The Union Tavern

With over a dozen crafts on draught, The Union Tavern prides itself on having one of the city’s largest ale collections. A social place to unwind with a pint or two, we serve up succulent house-smoked BBQ food, a heated canal-side terrace, and regular live music nights for you.

Westbourne Park, 45 Woodfield Road, London, NW9 2BA. 020 7286 1886 www.union-tavern.co.uk/?utm_ source

LV Lounge

Welcome to the only cocktail and wine bar in Little Venice, Maida Vale, London. You will fall in love with this unique gem. Enjoy a signature wine at the bar or take a seat upstairs in the private mezzanine lounge. 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London, NW9 1BZ. 0207 286 4838 www.lvlounge.co.uk/

Should you wish to wet your whistle in Maida Vale you could hardly have a wider choice.

‘Old school’ inns and taverns, cocktail bars, live music venues, gastropubs, they all abide aplenty in MaidaVale. Here are a few suggestions but the best way to find your ‘local’ is surely to take the air and simply explore.

Priory Tavern

A proper pub in Kilburn, London with a collection of delicious drinks and tempting food to match. A wide selection of craft beers, spirits and wines are available.

250 Belsize Road, London, NW6 4BT. 020 7624 8044 www.craft-pubs.co.uk/the-priory-tavern-kilburn

The Warwick Castle

The Warwick Castle is a lovely local’s haunt, welcoming visitors, and neighbours to the area since 1867. Although updated, the changes have been faithful to the original décor and charm of the building. The pub was beautifully captured in the painting by Edward Ardizzone in 1927.

We update our menu seasonally to make the best use of the freshest seasonal ingredients. Our Sunday roasts are served all day. Enjoy all the goodness of a home cooked dinner without the washing up.

6 Warwick Place, Maida Vale, London, NW9 2PX. 0207 266 0921 www.warwickcastlemaidavale.com/

Local Hotspots

Enjoy an artisan coffee, while exploring great fashion boutiques right in the picturesque heart of Maida Vale!

Gail’s Bakery and Coffee Shop

We believe in making good bread. As we’ve grown, so has our menu and our community, yet our values have stayed the same. We take the time to make our bread, pastries, cakes, breakfasts, and lunches as we always have – with care, by hand and according to the season – so that we don’t need to compromise on what we eat, whether we’re on the go, or taking time out in one of our bakeries.

237 Elgin Avenue, Maida Vale, London, NW9 1NJ. 020 7625 7548

www.gailsbread.co.uk/

Maida Hill Cafe Gallery

Enjoy a pleasant journey through the fascinating universe of coffee. Top quality coffee and pastries at reasonable price. Our espresso drinks are prepared according to the Neapolitan tradition. We also offer a choice of freshly roasted coffees imported from all over the world, each of them can be tasted as filter coffee or bought beans or ground in waxed bags.

2 Fernhead Road, Maida Hill, London NW9 3ET. 07935 033312

www.facebook.com/maidahillcafe/

The Peppermint

An independent café n the heart of Maida Vale, serving fresh food and bespoke coffee daily. A fresh vibrant Café with friendly trained Barista’s, Vegan and Vegetarian friendly too. Our power breakfasts are sa healthy way to fuel you for the day.

294 Elgin Avenue, Maida Vale, NW9 1JS.

www.thepeppermint.co.uk/

The Little Coffee Tree

A small, friendly coffee shop & specialist food store. Very much loved by locals and new visitors alike, we provide excellent coffee, tea and other beverages, a wide range of freshly prepared sandwiches, cakes, specialist groceries and snacks. Try our vegan chocolate brownies!

215 Shirland Road, London, NW9 3JP. www.thelittlecoffeetree.com/

www.hamptons.co.uk

Art of Being

Life is like a movie. To Elizabeth Emanuel, you are the star of your own movie, and her exquisite designs are your award-winning costumes. In her new collection there are no rules, just choices. A painted, textured, and disruptive collection of highly distinctive pieces celebrating individuality, in which age and gender are undefined. You can be any character you want to be. After all it’s your movie – it’s your life.

51 Maida Vale, London NW9 1SD. 020 7289 4545 www.elizabethemanuel.com/

Masiel Bebe Ltd

Masiel Bebe is a little boutique dedicated to offering the finest Spanish clothing for babies and children. Depending on the style you are looking for you may wish to go for clothes from the exceptionally renowned Pili Carrera which you will find offer a modern classic collection by using only the best materials to create the most amazing pieces.

56 Abbey Gardens, London NW8 9AT. 020 7998 7006 www.masielbebe.co.uk/

Amir Jewellery

The company specializes in certified diamonds, pearls, precious & semi-precious stones, 18k gold, 21k gold, 22k gold. Customized handcrafted jewellery. Amir Jewellers pride in bringing innovative concepts in jewellery and consistently endeavours to keep up with the latest trends around the world. Today Amir Jewellers is associated with fine jewellery and personalized service that epitomize trust. It has established itself over the last 20 years. Amir jewellers embodies the soul of the contemporary woman.

245 Maida Vale, North Maida Vale, London, NW9 1QJ. 0203 686 2923 www.amirgold.co.uk/

Maida Vale Boutique – Shelter

Our Little Venice boutique charity shop — designed by Wayne Hemingway and his team — sells designer, high-end high street and vintage one-off finds at fabulous prices. By donating to, shopping or volunteering at Boutique by Shelter you’re helping to fund our vital work with anyone facing homelessness or bad conditions.

31 Clifton Road, Maida Vale, London, NW9 1SY. 020 7286 4671

www.england.shelter.org.uk/

The London Tango Boutique

The London Tango Boutique aims to offer you the long-lost experience of an artisanal dress making process. Our garments are made in limited numbers of pieces (we often offer one off pieces) and designed and cut to be classic pieces that will last a lifetime.

201 Randolph Ave, London NW9 1NS. www.thelondontangoboutique.com/

Maida Vale Arts

Why not enjoy a night at one of the great theatres spotted around Maida Vale!

Canal Cafe Theatre

Award-winning Canal Café Theatre has been perched on the edge of the Regent’s Canal since the 70’s . It is a renowned comedy, cabaret and theatre venue and over the years has helped launch some of the biggest names in Comedy ranging from John Oliver to the League of Gentlemen to Miranda Hart. Other notable comedians to have trodden the boards of the Canal include Eddie Izzard, The Mighty Boosh, Catherine Tate and Dara O’Briain to name but a few. Home to Guinness World Record-Breaking NewsRevue and boasting a jam-packed programme of world-class theatre and comedy.

Delamere Terrace, Little Venice, London NW2 6NG. 020 7289 6054 www.canalcafetheatre.com/

The Gate Picturehouse

If you love opera or theatre, we screen it live and direct from stages around the world. If you’re all about superhero films, come to one of our state-of-the-art screens and get yourself a large popcorn. We believe cinema can change lives and broaden perspectives. Catering to a diverse and inclusive audience is part of our DNA. We know that our communities make us and we champion films made for all ages, backgrounds and walks of life. 87 Notting Hill Gate, London, NW11 3JZ. 020 7018 3629

www.picturehouses.com/

Electric Cinema

The Electric cinema hosts 98 leather armchairs, some with footstools, and two massive leather sofas at the back of the auditorium. A bar is installed in the cinema serving everything from cocktails to pints of lager to bottles of wine - and not a carton of popcorn in sight! Finally, a bespoke screen was installed that highlighted and preserved the beautiful proscenium arch and added a bit more pizzazz to the whole experience. 191 Portobello Rd, London W11 2ED. 020 7908 9696 www.electriccinema.co.uk/cinemas/portobello

Hampstead Theatre

Hampstead Theatre is a theatre in South Hampstead in the London Borough of Camden. It specialises in commissioning and producing new writing, supporting, and developing the work of new writers. Roxana Silbert has been the artistic director since 2019.

Eton Avenue, Swiss Cottage, NW3 3EU. 020 7722 9301

www.hampsteadtheatre.com/

Puppet Theatre Barge - Little Venice

The Puppet Theatre Barge is a unique, fifty-seat marionette theatre on a converted barge in London. The theatre presents puppet shows for children and adults and is moored in Little Venice throughout the year and in Richmond-upon-Thames during the summer. The Puppet Theatre Barge has been putting on a programme of unique and magical puppet shows on a converted Thames barge for over thirty years. The audience begin their journey as soon as they step onto the gangplank and climb aboard. They descend below the water line (wellingtons not necessary) and leave the real world behind. Puppets from other parts of the world hang from the walls in retirement. The theatre’s golden curtain is softly lit and banks of seats slope gently to the roof. A ship’s bell is rung, the audience falls silent in anticipation. Music plays, the lights dim, the theatre goes dark and finally the curtain rises to the delight of children and adults alike.

35 Blomfield Road, London NW9 2PF. 020 7249 6876

www.puppetbarge.com/

Interview with North London kitchen guru Anna Wallach.

Tell us a little about how you came to establish High End Kitchens?

I started the company around 8 years ago after working as an architect and interior designer, when I realized there is a need for a bespoke type of kitchen industry in London.

My father runs a similar company back in Germany. We decided to manufacture the kitchens there and bring them to the UK.

How would you describe your style?

We specialise in a modern design, slick lines and simplicity. We also provide more traditional style, everything in our company is bespoke, we adjust to clients needs and taste.

Talk us through your customer process?

The process starts with a free of charge first design and quotation, next step would be a meeting at our showroom when we talk in detail about finishes, storage solutions etc After that I visit the property to take detailed measurements and if there is a need introduce my self to the builder or architect.

What other services to you offer?

Other than design and all kinds of bespoke joinery , we supply the work surfaces and we provide the installation, We are also in charge of the appliances. It’s a full package from A to Z. Without any headache to the client.

What advice would you give to a client who want a kitchen that will work for them but also add value to their home?

We believe the kitchen is the heart of the home. I wouldn’t compromise on the quality of the materials. Well made kitchen should last for at least 25 years. If you want to sell the property, be careful with the colours. and of course worktop - dealbreaker.

end kitchen

Interview with Carpets & Wooden flooring experts Chic Flooring

Tell us a little about how you came to establish Chic Flooring?

Chic Flooring was established in 2012 by my brother Mohamed and I. Between us we have over 35 years of retail experience and knowledge, which we wanted to use to bring a new level of service and quality to customers looking for flooring solutions, a product we love. Since then, we have gone on to offer a wide selection of high-quality products, to suit every requirement and budget, from luxurious woods and carpets to modern laminate and LVT.

How do you explain peoples love of Carpets and woods as a building material?

Both carpeting and woods create a sense of luxury, comfort, and security in the home. From the first warm step, out of bed on a cold winters day to the cozy underfoot feeling, as you watch some evening TV, carpeting exudes an enveloping feeling of luxury and warmth our customers love. Hardwood floors are extremely stylish and appeal to our age-old connection the outdoor world. Used in construction for centuries wood and wood flooring don’t just look great but bring a great sense of security and peace of mind, able to withstand the wear and tear of day-to-day life, whilst also able to accommodate modern, cost saving, eco-friendly technologies, such as underfloor heating.

Is there a project you’ve done that you’re most proud of?

Although we are immensely proud of all our projects, one that stands out, consisted of 4 floors of stair runners in a zebra patterned carpet with binding (please see photo), which looks amazing, and the customer was extremely happy with the result. We also did a project for Sadie Coles HQ at 62 Kingly Street were the exhibiting artist said our fitter was an artist at his job, a great moment for us and our fitters to have incredible recognition for our work.

What types of flooring do you find most popular with clients?

Our most popular flooring is carpet, the UK climate is primarily cold for most of the year apart from a few months in the summer. The reason why carpets have remained high in popularity is that they provide great insulation to our homes and help keep heat in and cold air out.

Please summarize why people should choose Chic Flooring?

Chic Flooring prides itself on delivering incredible customer service and after-care with a great selection of products and advice to guide our customers. We never rebrand any of our products, so the customer can look up the product and get all the information and specifications on the products.

To us it’s not just about making the sale, it’s about the customer experience making sure they are happy with the product and getting right information. We also have great team of fitters, painters and decorators, that are very helpful and accommodating to all our customer’s needs, not only flooring but we are also able to do all aspects of home improvement.

www.chicflooring.co.uk

Family days out

Maida Vale is a great destination for a family trip offering entertainment for kids of all ages. We’ve picked some of the most popular family-friendly things to do and sorted them into a handy list.

The Regent’s Park

The Regent’s Park combines large open spaces with tree-lined pathways, formal gardens, and four children’s playgrounds. It has excellent sports facilities and contains central London’s largest outdoor sports area. Walk through the elegant flowerbeds in the Avenue Gardens, see more than 12,000 roses in Queen Mary’s Gardens, or hire a rowing boat and join the ducks on the boating lake. Visit the Open-Air Theatre and London Zoo, then take a stroll up Primrose Hill for excellent views of the London skyline.

London NW1 4NR. 0300 061 2300 www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/the-regents-park

Hyde Park

Set right in the heart of London, Hyde Park offers both world-class events and concerts together with plenty of quiet places to relax and unwind. Dip your toes in the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, brave an open water swim in the Serpentine, or just admire the views across the lake from a waterside café. Have a go at tennis, horse riding, or join the many joggers, walkers and cyclists enjoying the open air.

London, NW2 2UH .0300 061 2000 www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/hyde-park

Hyde Park Stables

Fancy going horse riding in London’s most iconic park. Head over to Hyde Park Stables and meet plenty of friendly horses and head off on a ride through the picturesque park. We welcome kids as young as 4 years old being able to jump in the saddle, it’s the perfect place for families to experience the fun of horse riding and discover a new outdoor passion. You don’t need to be an expert in horse riding too, with a selection of horses suited to all abilities and riding lessons available too, it’s great for beginners too.

63 Bathurst Mews, London, Greater London, NW2 2SB.

www.hydeparkstables.com/

London Waterbus Canal Trips

London Waterbus Canal Trips offers cruises along the historic Regent’s Canal as it slips quietly along the green and leafy fringes of Regents Park. Trips from the Pool at Little Venice, where Brownings Island is surrounded by the elegant graciousness of Regency architecture, through the damp, dark mysteriousness of the Maida Hill Tunnel, to the lively bustle of Camden Lock, the famous market for everything from craft shops and clothing to the interesting and unusual. Trips one way, either way, or return. Make a stopover for a picnic at Little Venice or to shop and try out the unusual food stalls at Camden. If you want to visit the animals at London Zoo, take the Waterbus from either end, pay their special low prices, and enter through their own canal gate.

Blomfield Road, Maida Vale, Greater London, NW9 2PD. 020 7482 2660

www.londonwaterbus.com/

Local Schools

Where our children spend most of their week and how they are being educated is a decision which should take some serious consideration. We have put together this list of suggestions to make your life a little bit easier. Many local schools and nurseries offer free tours so please go and visit your choice options before making that final important decision.

Maida Vale School

With a broad curriculum, a vast enrichment programme and an extended School day, Maida Vale has the variety and flexibility to enable Pupils to develop their individual talents and fulfil their potential.

Our small teaching and tutor groups, combined with the importance we place on communication between home and School, allow us to provide the highest level of pastoral care.

18 Saltram Crescent, London, NW9 3HW. 020 4511 6000 www.maidavaleschool.com/

Essendine Primary School

At Essendine we are very proud of our children and their achievements and are constantly looking at ways in which we can improve our provision, so that all our children thrive academically, socially and emotionally. To do this we aim to provide a safe and caring environment, where all pupils are nurtured and challenged to reach their full potential and become well rounded confident individuals. Essendine Rd, London W9 2LR. 020 3329 0201 www.essendineprimary.co.uk/

Naima Preparatory School

At Naima JPS we offer a warm, nurturing atmosphere that develops self confidence in our children, prepares them for the challenges ahead whilst never forgetting that childhood is a stage of life rather than a waiting room for adulthood. There is a temptation to hurry children through their formative years. Here we respect their individuality, know and love each child and enable them to reach their potential in a happy, relaxed yet purposeful environment. Our recently introduced “Things to do” programme gives children of all ages opportunities to just be innocent children, and have fun, whilst learning new things for the first time.

21 Andover Pl, North Maida Vale, London NW6 5EL. 020 7328 2802 www.naimajps.org.uk/

Paddington Academy

Paddington Academy ensures that every student is well-educated, can attend university, and is able to lead a happy and fulfilled life. At Paddington Academy we are about outstanding learning. Every decision is made with the question in mind ‘will this help the students to learn better and achieve more?’ We believe in a relentless focus on high achievement in all areas of the life of the Academy. We are clear that there are no excuses for underachievement. We aim to identify barriers that may be standing in the way of achievement, understand them in relation to our context and then focus on breaking them down, one by one. There are no excuses. We specialise in knowing our community and how best to support all our learners.

50 Marylands Rd, London NW9 2DR. 020 7479 3900 www.paddington-academy.org/

St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School

Our school was founded by and is part of the Catholic Church. The school is to be conducted as a Catholic school in accordance with Canon Law and teachings of the Catholic Church, and in accordance with the Trust Deed of the Archdiocese of Westminster. At all times the school is to serve as a witness to the Catholic faith in Our Lord Jesus Christ. The Governors of the school ask that all parents support them in this mission.

Lanark Rd, London NW9 1DF. 020 7286 3518

www.stjosephsschool.org.uk/

St Saviour’s C of E Primary School

The school is staffed by an enthusiastic body of teachers and support staff, all of whom are dedicated to the pursuit of excellence. There is a great feeling of warmth and friendliness at St. Saviour’s, which is apparent immediately upon entering the building. We have very strong links with St. Saviour’s CE Church on Warwick Avenue and there is a weekly School Mass which all children take part in. Many families regularly worship at the church on Sundays and many children take an active part in the services. Our school choir regularly sings during communion and children are prepared for Holy Communion and Confirmation each year.

Shirland Rd, London NW9 2JD. 020 7084 6772 www.stsavioursprimary.co.uk/

Windmill Montessori Nursery School

Our School has been an early year’s education provider in Maida Vale since 1987, providing the best quality Montessori Nursery education for children from the age of 2 years until they start their school. We provide an environment in which children develop on an individual basis guided from within by their natural curiosity and by the careful guidance of our experienced Montessori teachers.

62 Shirland Road, London, NW9 2EH. 020 7289 3410

www.windmillnurseryschool.co.uk/

Ark Atwood Primary Academy

Welcome to Ark Atwood. We are a two-form entry primary school offering a great education for local children in north Westminster. Our vision is for every child at Ark Atwood to fulfil his or her potential and be set up for success when they move on to secondary school. We offer a broad and engaging curriculum that provides opportunities, through learning in school and beyond, for children to increase their knowledge and understanding of the world around them. Central to our vision are our ‘Aspire’ school values which run through everything we do. Amberley Rd, London, NW9 2JY. 020 7266 7070

www.arkatwoodprimary.org/

Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee School

Welcome to Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee School, part of the Federation of Westminster Special Schools & Bi-Borough Inclusion Service. QEII School is a special school for pupils aged between 4 – 19 years, with severe learning difficulties and profound and multiple learning difficulties. It is a maintained school, part of the City of Westminster Education Authority. We offer our pupils a positive and supportive learning environment within which we deliver the best possible education to meet their individual learning needs. We work hard to ensure that all our children feel positive about themselves and their learning, and consequently acquire a high level of self-esteem. All successes, no matter how small, are celebrated.

Kennet Rd, Maida Hill, London NW9 3LG. 020 7641 5825

www.qe2cp.westminster.sch.uk/

www.hamptons.co.uk

About Beattie construction

Built on client satisfaction

Beattie Construction is a leading London based Residential and Commercial properties construction company with years of experience in the industry. We are specialists in Extensions. Loft conversions and full refurbishments. We pride ourselves on High-Quality, Stress-Free Service. We know that the reputation of our company is built on the satisfaction of our clients. That’s why we stand behind the quality of our workmanship and our customer service.

We provide the tools you need to create a beautiful home. We don’t contract out a single service, which means we can keep control of all elements of each job – this includes building work, electrical fitting, plumbing, carpentry, and plastering. Our Philosophy Is to Provide Quality Service to All Clients. Our experienced designers visit your home to assess and discuss the project and then elaborate a detailed quotation and works schedule.

Extensions & refurbishment

You don’t need to move into a new house to find more space. At Beattie Construction Ltd. our team of expert architects and builders can help you extend your property to give you the space and layout you need for the perfect home.

A well-designed extension adds more space and increases the value of your property. We work on a wide range of extension projects, including kitchens, lofts and garages. Extensions are about balancing quality with creativity, so make sure you contact us so we can explain all the options.

Project Management

All successful builds need a dedicated and experienced project manager. We have a flexible team and can dedicate the resources you need to manage a larger project and work with other construction partners.

While we specialise in residential properties in London, our experience and certifications mean we can manage big projects like apartment and housing developments and commercial properties. We have a solid reputation in the construction industry in London of delivering projects on time and on budget to top standards and project managing new builds is no exception.

Add value by refurbishing your property

At Beattie Construction LTD we provide thorough property refurbishment services for home owners across London.

Our skilled team of experts is made up of designers and builders who can take your refurbishment project from planning and development right through to completion.

We don’t contract out a single service, which means we can keep control of all elements of each job – this includes building work, electrical fitting, plumbing, carpentry and plastering. To read more about our full range of services, click here.

Tel: 020 7183 3773 or 01462 600 199

9 Lauderdale Parade, Lauderdale Road, London W9 1LU

If you wish to send plans etc. email us info@beattieconstruction.co.uk

Hampstead Retro House

Fitness & health

Leading a hectic life? Need somewhere to tone your body, recharge your muscles or simply stretch? We have put together the best locations for you to do just that. Whether you fancy going for a swim or need regular fitness classes, we know that our recommended providers will do their best to keep you in shape.

Bannatyne Health Club Maida Vale

Here at Bannatyne Health Club Maida Vale, we have transformed our facilities following a full gym refurbishment. Our refurbished gym has upgraded cardiovascular, resistance and functional training equipment to suit all abilities. The latest innovative equipment is available. This includes a specialist functional training zone. Plus, we offer an exceptional variety of classes from Yoga to Les Mills. Alternatively, you can discover true relaxation in our sauna and swimming pool. There has never been a better time to become part of the Bannatyne community.

4 Greville Rd, North Maida Vale, London NW6 5HZ. 020 7372 3232

www.bannatyne.co.uk/health-club/maida-vale

GTN Fitness

GTN Fitness is a Company that was founded by “Nick Gtn Mason” in January 2014 to introduce people to the most effective & natural way of getting fit & healthy. Our Company specialises in Bodyweight training in a style that you will not see anywhere else. The fantastic mix of Bodyweight Training (Calisthenics), HIIT, Martial Arts, Movement, Athletics, Functional Training and Boxing has made GTN Fitness a unique way to get fit and stay fit.

Randolph Ave, London NW9 1PD. 07958 535112

www.gtnfitness.co.uk/

Enlite Fitness

REAL PEOPLE, REAL RESULTS! If your goal is healthy weight loss, you have come to the right place. We provide personal training in Maida Vale, St Johns Wood, Notting Hill, Queens Park and Hampstead to give you the achievable transformation you have dreamed of. At Elite, we pride ourselves in being body transformation and personal training experts.

Randolph Avenue, Paddington Recreation Ground, Maida Vale, London W9 1PD. 020 7078 4213

www.enlitefitness.com/

Energie Fitness Gym Kilburn

At Energie we take pride in helping our members achieve their fitness goals, building and developing each individual club to offer an excellent level of service and all the tools you need for success – all within a fun and empowering environment. A key part of what we do is deliver the Energie Promise to every member, in every club.

34a, 36 Kilburn High Rd, North Maida Vale, London NW6 5UA. 020 7624 8080

www.energiefitness.com/kilburn

Iyengar Yoga Maida Vale

The most experienced Yoga teachers in the country. We teach yoga at all levels from yoga beginners to advanced, including specialised children’s yoga classes and pregnancy yoga classes As a registered charity, the Iyengar Yoga Institute, Maida Vale in West London provides excellence in yoga teaching and a connection to its classical Indian source.

223a Randolph Ave, London NW9 1NL. 020 7624 3080

www.iymv.org/

Pilates & Yoga Movement Studio

No matter what your aim is, be it peak fitness, meditative exercise, or restorative practice, or your condition, you may be living with a chronic condition, recovering from surgery or just fighting fit. Our warm, friendly, expert teachers can help you.

Methodist Church, Quex Rd, London NW6 4PS. 020 7624 3948

www.pilatesyoga.com/

Local Restaurants

Le Cochonnet - Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria

We offer a warm and welcoming service, and we provide exquisite classic and contemporary Italian dishes at an affordable price.Our menus boast a variety of sensational dishes built around fresh and classic ingredients.

Our Lunch-Menu is featuring eggs, toasts and bacon rolls, which is one of the favourite ones and during weekends we offer a Brunch Menu which is perfectly suitable for every palate. Let your kids go crazy with one of our Pizza or Pasta plates and remember that we are always happy to welcome big groups, especially numerous families & friends. We also welcome well-behaved dogs so please don’t hesitate to bring your puppy friends in! Pop in for some fun time accompanied by a good meal.

1, Lauderdale Parade, London NW9 1LU. 020 7289 0393 www.cochonnet.uk/

The Elgin - Maida Vale

We work with independent breweries and suppliers to bring you the best of the British Isles. You will find lots of good stuff to drink, craft beers from London, the UK and Abroad and a wide range of old and new world wine. We serve brunch, Dinner and Sunday Roasts, We are passionate about fresh, quality food and we change with the seasons.

255 Elgin Avenue, Maida Vale, NW9 1NJ. 0207 625 55 11 www.theelgin.com/

Banana Tree Maida Vale

Welcome to the home of Indochina Food. At Banana Tree, we want to offer you an authentic selection of dishes and specialities from the Indochina region, the lemongrass growing countries of Southeast Asia that include Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand and the peninsula of Malaysia and Singapore. Come and try our fresh new flavours at one of our restaurants today.

166 Randolph Ave, London NW9 1PG. 020 7286 3869

www.bananatree.co.uk/

Thai Rice Maida Vale

A beautiful restaurant that serves an extensive Thai menu with authentic dishes made from fresh ingredients, all served in comfy and casual restaurant, with regular, specials and set meals. We have something for everyone.

239 Elgin Ave, London NW9 1NJ. 020 7328 8883 www.thairicegroup.co.uk/

Chelo

A beautifully decorated restaurant serving authentic recipes and fabulous flavours from Iran. We guarantee you an authentic experience with all our dishes made from fresh ingredients.

8 Lauderdale Parade, London NW9 1LU. 020 7289 1222

www.chelo-london.co.uk/

Sushi Murasaki

Maida Vale’s New, and Elegantly Exciting Sushi Restaurant. Delicious, high-quality, authentic sushi is now available in Maida Vale from the new and exciting restaurant, Murasaki. Freshly prepared by experienced Japanese chefs, Murasaki offers only the best fish available through a dedicated fish supplier and uses the finest rice imported from Japan. We take extra care for each of our premium sushi selections, so that you’ll taste a noticeable difference.

12 Lauderdale Parade, Lauderdale Road, Maida Vale, London, NW9 1LU. 020 3417 8130

www.sushi-murasaki.co.uk/

Da Daniela

A wonderful Family-run, BYO nook with a feeling of being at home, serving authentic pizza along with many other traditional Italian dishes and desserts.

49 Shirland Rd, London, NW9 2JD. 020 7289 0008

www.dadanielarestaurant.co.uk/

The Summerhouse

London’s finest seasonal canal-side restaurant. We can’t control the weather but we can offer you that holiday feeling in the centre of London!

60 Bloomfield Road, London, NW9 2PA. 020 7286 6752

www.thesummerhouse.co.uk

Kish Persian Restaurant

Kish Restaurant was created out of passion for excellent customer service and traditional Persian cuisine. I opened Kish in 2009 having worked in the hospitality industry for many years and have grown it ever since into one of the most popular Persian restaurants in London. With an unwavering policy of using the finest ingredients and serving generous portions of authentic Persian dishes in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

7-9 Kilburn, High Road, London, NW6 5SD. 02076242525

kishpersianrestaurant.com/

‘Virtually’ all you need

Some suggested local social media groups to help you connect, learn, buy, sell and have fun.

Maida Vale Mums’ Buy and Sell Group

www.facebook.com/groups/749672791762890

Maida Vale

www.facebook.com/groups/maidavale

Local business directory, Maidenhead, Windsor & Slough

www.facebook.com/groups/1608720232753390

THE VALE

www.facebook.com/groups/559634678298472

My Maida Vale

twitter.com/mymaidavale

Maida Vale Muse

twitter.com/maidavalenews

Maida Vale chat

twitter.com/silkchat

Maida Vale Action

twitter.com/savemaidavale

Help and support from your localCouncil

You should inform your Local Authority of where you are moving from and where you are moving to around a month before you move. You can do this here.. www.westminster.gov.ukmoving-out-your-home

You’ll need to include the forwarding addresses for every adult in the property that pays council tax.

Search for information and services from your council. Information for residents about Windsor town Council including council tax, bins and recycling, schools, leisure, streets and parking, this and lot’s more at the below link.

www.westminster.gov.uk

Planning and Building Control

Unsure which services you need?

If you are thinking of making changes to your property, you may need to apply for planning permission and / or Building Regulations approval. If you’re not sure which applications to make, please use the guidance below to help you to decide what you need to do.

Please note that many developments will require both.

What is planning?

Planning is the process of deciding whether a proposed development should go ahead or not. It uses national and local policies to consider the development in its context and may look at the impact of the work on neighbours and the wider community, existing architecture, the land, the layout, and existing or proposed infrastructure (such as drains, transport and schools).

You will probably need planning permission if your proposed development will do any of the following:

• create a new building, or change the use or appearance of an existing building

• affect the sunlight, privacy or outlook for neighbouring properties

• affect the nearby area with noise disturbance, smell or fumes

• work on or around listed buildings or any conservation areas

• affect traffic volumes, road safety or access

• change the density of development in an area

• use significantly different materials or finishes from nearby properties

• have an effect on existing trees

What is building control?

Building control applies national statutory regulations to ensure the structural quality of any building work, in areas such as safety, public health, accessibility, and the materials used. Most substantial building projects (such as an extension, knocking down walls or converting a garage or loft) will need Building Regulations approval.

www.westminster.gov.uk/planning-building

7, Lauderdale Parade, Lauderdale