What’s it like living in Strand on the Green? As local Chiswick estate agents, we’re well placed to advise sellers and buyers about the merits of this charming enclave on the River Thames.
A tight-knit riverside community, Strand on the Green is the highly desirable part of Chiswick to the east of Kew Bridge… notably along the riverside. It is easily one of the most picturesque areas in West London. As well as the appeal of being set away from the hustle and bustle, it also boasts an excellent selection of restaurants, cafes, shops, schools and green spaces in and around the village.
In this blog, you can find out key information about living in Strand on the Green, including a brief history that offers a little background of how it came to be.
Where is Strand on the Green?
Strand on the Green forms the most westerly part of Chiswick. The small locale is set on the north bank of the River Thames in the W4 postcode. Nearby is the Kew Railway Bridge and across the river, Kew Gardens.
A footpath runs along the bank of the river parallel to Thames Road and sandwiched in between are numerous 18th-century houses and local pubs.
A brief history of the area
Strand on the Green was originally a fishing village and one of the four Chiswick medieval villages, along with Little Sutton, Turnham Green and Old Chiswick.
It is recorded as being named “Stronde” in the 14th century and later was known as “Strand Green” and “Strand under Green”. Back then there was no scenic footpath to stroll along, just a line of interlocking wharves.
Then in 1759, the Kew Railway bridge was constructed which linked the north and south banks of the river making the village more accessible. By 1800 you could promenade by the Thames; the village was a bustling hive of river trade industries such as malt-houses, barge-building and boat repair.
The bridge, plus the royal family’s presence at Kew Palace, increased the popularity and prosperity of Strand on the Green.
The village attracted nobility and gentry, as well as city merchants who set up home in fine houses.
Today these are protected as part of a conservation area along the riverfront walk. The collection totals around 25 listed buildings of various types.
One of these is an 18th-century inn, the Bulls Head, where workers could grab a pint and sit by the river (as residents still do today).
In 1869, the 175m railway bridge (now Grade ll-listed) was built across the Thames between the Bull’s Head and the City Barge, carrying the District Line and North London Line overground trains.
After the turn of the 20th century, Strand on the Green was purely a residential area and, in 1932, was called “London’s last village”.
Unfortunately, over 100 buildings were destroyed or badly damaged during World War II, including part of the 15th century City Barge pub, just up the road from the Bulls Head. The top half of the pub was rebuilt after the war.
In the late 1960s, Strand on the Green became the first conservation area in Hounslow borough.
The Strand on the Green is now a sought after area for families, professionals, and those looking for a peaceful place to live near the River Thames.
Are there many green spaces in the area?
Those living in Strand on the Green have a wide range of outdoor recreational options at their disposal.
Whether it’s dog walking, areas for children to play, or simply taking a stroll in the fresh air the area has a friendly, community feel.
The village itself has a large green space at the eastern end near Thames Road. It provides a playing field for sports, a dog walking area and a playground for children.
Locals living in Chiswick, in particular Strand on the Green, also like visiting Gunnersbury Triangle, a small nature reserve to the north of the village that is a haven for wildlife.
Kew Gardens and Gunnersbury Park are just a short walk away from Strand on the Green, as are Chiswick House and Gardens.
Local shops
In terms of shops, restaurants, and pubs, these can be found mostly on The Strand and Thames Road.
A scattering of enterprising little independents are hidden around corners in the network of streets that makes up Strand on the Green, but many operate online from back bedrooms and attics, producing jewellery, for example, or delivering freshly squeezed juice.
Thames Road, with the Strand on the Green post office, a dental practice, Thames dry cleaners, and The Coffee Traveller cafe, which operates beneath the slogan The Destination is worth the Journey. A rather apt motto for the area.
Just a short walk away, there is a Budgens convenience store on Fauconberg Rd, along this parade you’ll also find the Grove Park Deli, which, for two decades, has also offered outside catering, home-cooked food, and gift hampers.
Along the stretch of the River Thames at Strand on the Green is Dear Coco Street Coffee, an independent, family-run street coffee business, serving high quality coffee, baked goods and sweet treats. We did an interview with owner of Dear Coco, Anthony Duckworth to find out more about this unique coffee spot.
Places to eat and drink
Strand on the Green has several pubs set along the river that offer traditional decor, waterside views, hearty meals and an eclectic array of beers, ales, wines and spirits.
Near the Kew Railway Bridge, the Bulls Head waterside inn has recently been refurbished and is open daily for pub food and drinks.
The inn has outdoor seating for enjoying views of the river on a fine day. Their Sunday lunch is particularly popular following a walk along the Thames path.
The City Barge serves Sunday lunches by the river and offers a wide range of drinks, including hand-pulled ales and an extensive wine list.
Slightly further up Thames Road, is the Bell and Crown, another 18th-century pub overlooking the Thames, which has a conservatory, restaurant and great selection of beers. It is also dog friendly.
Next door is the Steam Packet, spanning two floors and offering a seasonal menu seven days a week plus a varied wine list.
A popular establishment on Thames Road is Annie’s, a local favourite for its outdoor cafe seating, Mediterranean and British dishes and artsy decor.
A short stroll away, by Chiswick railway station, at 1 Station Parade, Burlington Lane, you’ll find a tiny Asian fusion diner called Little Bird which has built a loyal local following.
The Copper Cow at 2 Fauconberg Road is a friendly, relaxed keenly priced bistro-style café bar
Schools in and around Strand on the Green
Parents with young children have several schooling options on the doorstep.
Chiswick Toddlers’ World in St Paul’s hall, Pyrmont Road, W4 3NR. It opened way back in 1977, and promises a warm, supportive environment for children from one year up to ‘big school’.
Strand on the Green Junior School on Brooks Lane takes pupils 7 to 11.
The school provides a safe and supportive learning environment and offers a range of clubs and activities. The school’s aim is to be ‘Spirited, Scholarly and Supportive’, with a determination to ‘make every Strandite an active member of their community’.
Next door, Strand on the Green Infant and Nursery School takes children 3 to 7.
Nearby in Grove Park, just a short walk from most homes in Strand on the Green, there are several schools including Grove Park primary in Nightingale Close, W4 3JN.
Trust, respect, enthusiasm, and empathy are the ‘tree’ watchwords and summed up by the pupils’ own leadership team’s comment: “The teaching in this school is very impressive; the teachers are very supportive and kind.”
The Falcons pre-prep school at 2 Burnaby Gardens, W4 3DT, takes boys and girls from 2+ at nursery level, and boys from 2-7 as an independent day school. It was founded in 1956 as Faulkner House. Outdoor activity is important, with weekly forest school sessions
At secondary level, Chiswick School in Burlington Lane has a curriculum to lead students towards Russell Group universities and top apprenticeships.
There is also Kew House School next to Kew Bridge Station, which is a private secondary school.
Property in Strand on the Green
Strand on the Green, with its relaxed riverside setting, charming local pubs and beautiful homes, is one of Chiswick’s most coveted areas to live.
This extremely desirable location offers semi-detached terrace houses, purpose-built flats, as well as larger Victorian family homes in leafy, well-kept streets.
The most treasured homes are the ones close to, or facing, the Thames.
Transport connections
Those living in Strand on the Green can commute directly into central London via the South Western railway at Kew Station, which is also well-served by regular buses.
The closest District line tube stations are Kew Gardens and Gunnersbury. The village is connected by road to Heathrow Airport and Greater London, thanks to the M4.
What’s so special about living in Strand on the Green?
Living in Strand on the Green is a welcome escape from city life.
There’s always been a free-spirited, artistic core to Strand on the Green, with proximity to the river making the area high on the list of many who choose to migrate out of the centre of the capital.
The Strand on the Green Sailing Club is based under Kew railway bridge. Set up shortly after the end of the Second World War, it initially held meetings at the Bell & Crown pub. There are regular races and regattas.
Underlining the importance of the sense of community in the area, SoGA, the Strand on the Green Association, has been an influential body since being formed 63 years ago to protect the area’s character and history. One of its major successes was rebuffing an attempt by the Port of London Authority to sell off Oliver’s Island in the early 1970s. The association’s archives are indexed and can be inspected in Chiswick Library.
The area offers excellent schools, ready access to several of West London’s green spaces, plus amenities and transport connections. No wonder people gravitate towards this picturesque stretch of the Thames and wish to put down roots.
Property in Chiswick
To talk to us about property in Strand on the Green, whether you are selling, buying, letting your property or looking for a home to rent, get in touch with us for a no obligation discussion.
