Relocating to London’s Luxury Neighbourhoods From Overseas

Relocating to London can feel daunting for many overseas movers. 

London is an undeniably large city, with hundreds of neighbourhoods to consider as a potential home, and many enclaves of luxurious property to explore. Despite the wealth of areas to live, it’s hard to acquaint yourself with all of them before making a move. 

Prestigious neighbourhoods such as Belgravia, Mayfair and Kensington offer impeccable properties with a community feel, from which to explore the city. Culture and heritage are woven into the city’s fabric, and you are never far from a green space, with secluded garden squares and rolling parkland often just a short distance away.  

If you’re thinking about relocating to London, read on as we share some tips on moving to London’s best neighbourhoods from overseas. Hopefully, that will make your move significantly less stressful. 

Why move to prime central London from overseas?  

Prime central London offers high-net-worth individuals secure residences in some of the safest places to live – in an elegant setting. The UK property market is well-regulated and prime central London is generally considered to offer the potential for capital growth. Homes also tend to hold their value over a long period of time, meaning that it’s an excellent property investment if you’re a high-net-worth individual who can afford the significant buy-in prices. 

Aside from that, you have the history, culture, green spaces, famous residential areas and world-spanning business opportunities from the 3^rd most visited city in the world. It’s an excellent place to network and build up contacts across London’s numerous private members’ clubs and associations. This is why many Americans buy property in London, as well as many HNW individuals from southeast Asia, Nigeria and the Gulf States. 

What to consider before relocating to central London  

Before moving to London, England, find out about the paperwork and everyday differences to be aware of. 

1 Immigration rules 

Your nationality will determine how easily you can make the move to London. Consult your closest British embassy, high commission or consulate for advice on visa requirements – the exhaustive list is provided here. 

2 Employment opportunities 

Find out where you fit into the London job market, and the many business opportunities you’re likely to encounter there. Prime central London is well-connected by public transport, but consult Transport for London (TfL) to ensure your prospective London home suits your rush hour commute. For example, many who work in finance want easy access to Canary Wharf and the City. 

3 Logistics and costs 

Once in London, movers and storage services are readily available. But first you must deliberate over the pros and cons of speedier air freight versus saving money with lower-cost yet slower sea freight. You’ll also have to consider the costs of purchasing property as an overseas buyer, and familiarise yourself with the English tenancy system if you plan to rent. Our team can help you understand what buying and renting involves as a person moving to London from overseas. 

4 Climate and weather 

England’s rainfall may be a stereotype, but it’s true the weather can be changeable. Air conditioning is certainly not ubiquitous, but it can be found in contemporary and luxury apartments in London. It’s a good idea to select a home or apartment with plenty of natural light to lift your mood on gloomier days. 

5 Educational institutions 

Families will find respected educational settings at all levels from kindergarten to university, with many, many international schools in easy reach across London.  

Benefits and highlights of moving to prime central London  

Prime central London offers access to the city’s financial and political hubs, elite schooling and world-class arts and leisure scenes. London is a global city with thriving expat communities, on top of the unique atmosphere fostered by its village-like neighbourhoods. 

Leisure, landmarks and places to eat and drink  

When Friday and Saturday roll round, you can explore the city. Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, cultural titans such as the Royal Opera House and National Theatre, renowned art galleries like the Tate Modern and National Gallery… the list goes on.  

Luxury shopping opportunities are plentiful, from Oxford Street’s department stores to the tailors of Mayfair’s Savile Row. State-of-the-art luxury gyms and sports clubs are readily available. London is also home to world-class dining from a sparkling array of Michelin-starred restaurants, from Akoko’s West African cuisine to seasonal French cooking by the three-starred Hélène Darroze at the Connaught. 

Best areas to live in London as a wealthy international  

1. Mayfair  

Hyde Park and Green Park are a pleasant stroll away from Mayfair’s exclusive period properties and modern apartments. This sought-after area is particularly well-connected, with numerous private members’ clubs such as King Charles III’s club, Annabel’s and Soho House’s Little House. 

2. Knightsbridge 

It’s easy to indulge in fine dining, leisure and cultural experiences from Knightsbridge’s impeccable period properties. Harrods and Harvey Nichols lead the list of opulent retailers in Knightsbridge, while the Royal Albert Hall and Hyde Park are on your doorstep. 

3. Chelsea 

Chelsea is perhaps less ostentatious, yet its credentials are unmistakeable with the iconic King’s Road and Sloane Square. One of the best areas to live in London with family with many schools nearby, Chelsea is also a short distance from the American Embassy at Nine Elms. 

4. Kensington 

Offering luxury living in its mews houses and red-brick Victorian mansions, Kensington is renowned for its expat community and another good area to live with family. You’ll find the V&A and Natural History Museum, and Michelin-starred restaurants aplenty. 

5. Belgravia 

Set between Knightsbridge and Westminster, Belgravia is an impressive part of town where stuccoed townhouses line avenues and garden squares. Stately yet secluded, this village-like area is beloved by high-net-worth families. 

An overview of luxury property in London  

Whether you rent or buy, prime central London offers a diverse selection of luxury property. You’ll find heritage settings in the form of charming Victorian terraces, characterful mews houses, stuccoed Georgian townhouses, and exclusive luxury apartments offering high security and contemporary features. There are also many Victorian mansions, newly built apartments overlooking the Thames in Battersea, and large, family homes in areas like St. John’s Wood. 

How much does it cost to live in London?  

The cost of living in London, England, ranks among the highest in the world, along with international centres such as New York and Singapore. Childcare costs can be high, as per OECD data. However, education is readily available at a range of price points. Private healthcare is available, though the National Health Service (NHS) provides free or low-cost healthcare, with an immigration health surcharge for certain nationalities.   

Relocating to London? We can help  

Where should you begin with your relocation to prime central London? Finding the right estate agent is a good place to start. Eaton Premier can connect you with luxury property that meets your requirements and help you with the process of relocation. Discover a home in the city’s most sought-after neighbourhoods such as Chelsea and Knightsbridge.