Westminster Property

Buying advice for property searching in Westminster, London

As the focal point of England's monarchy, law, religion and government, Westminster should by rights have grandeur befitting its status. The reality is somewhat different, and a visitor would be forgiven for being disappointed with the mixed, urban appearance of the area, especially alongside the elegant, stucco facades of its better-bred neighbours in Belgravia and Pimlico.

Westminster was colonised by office workers from the mid-nineteenth century, when the grand Georgian houses, once home to the great and the good of politics and aristocracy, were converted into offices. The cannibalisation continued through the twentieth century, with the introduction of high-rise office buildings and later huge retail buildings along the high streets.

However, there are residential pockets. The best houses are in Westminster's only two garden squares, with quaint, Georgian houses surrounding Smith Square, and larger, mostly Victorian terraces overlooking Vincent Square. Don't expect to be able to take a stroll over the thirteen acres of immaculate turf of Vincent Square though; it belongs to Westminster School, and is used as their playing fields.

The best flats are found in the imposing, red-brick Victorian mansion buildings surrounding Westminster Abbey, such as Morpeth Mansions where Winston Churchill kept a flat in the 1930s. The alternative is in modern, purpose-built developments such as the high-rise St Johns building on Marsham Street, which has porterage, valet parking, gym and communal swimming pool.

Westminster undoubtedly has great communications, and is ideal pied-à-terre territory, being within easy striking distance for any City or West End workers. The lack of gardens or greenery virtually precludes families, and there are precious few good bars or restaurants once the commuting population have boarded their trains and left for the day.

For more information on buying advice and property searching in Westminster, London, contact the Property Vision London property search and advice team.