Relocating to Harrow? Understanding housing, living costs, transport, and local amenities is crucial for a smooth transition. Our comprehensive guide, ‘Top Things to Consider When Relocating to Harrow’ provides essential insights into what makes this vibrant area unique. From finding the perfect home to navigating public transport and discovering local hotspots, we cover everything you need to know to make the best move. Let us help you settle into Harrow with ease and confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Harrow offers diverse housing options, from affordable flats in Eastman Village to period properties in Harrow on the Hill, with average property prices around £573,121.
- Harrow boasts excellent transport links, including the Overground and Metropolitan Line, extensive bus routes, and improved step-free access at key stations, making it a convenient spot for commuters.
- Harrow’s educational institutions, including the prestigious Harrow School and several ‘Outstanding’ rated primary and secondary schools, play a significant role in attracting families to the area.
Housing Options
Housing in Harrow caters to diverse preferences and budgets, offering an assortment of options. From affordable flats to charming period properties, there’s something for everyone. Harrow on the Hill is particularly known for its:
- picturesque streets lined with red brick buildings
- old-fashioned pubs
- attractive period-style houses, featuring high ceilings, oak panelling, and ornate plasterwork.
If you’re on a budget, Eastman Village might be a good fit, with 40% of its homes falling into the affordable category, including shared ownership flats. Key areas to consider include West Harrow, Harrow on the Hill, and Pinner.
House Prices
Harrow’s real estate market strikes a balance between affordability and value. The overall average property price in Harrow is £573,121, reflecting a slight increase of 1% compared to the previous year. Semi-detached properties in the area typically sell for around £657,921, while flats average at £346,441.
Terraced properties, on the other hand, fetch an average price of £562,777, making Harrow an appealing option for those looking for more reasonable prices compared to other parts of London.
Rental Market
A diverse rental market provides options that meet various needs and financial capacities in Harrow. Studios start at around £200,000, while one-bedroom flats begin at £230,000. Flats, in general, tend to be more affordable in Harrow, providing a cost-effective alternative for those not looking to purchase a property.
From single professionals to small families, Harrow’s rental market presents a range of reasonably priced options.
Transport Links
With its good transport links, Harrow is a convenient spot for both commuters and local residents. The area is well-served by rail, bus, and road connections, ensuring efficient travel to key London locations. The transport options in Harrow include:
- Overground station services routes to Euston and Watford Junction
- Metropolitan Line offers connections from Chesham or Uxbridge to central London destinations like Wembley and King’s Cross
- Travel times are highly convenient, with journeys from Harrow on the Hill station to Marylebone taking just 16 minutes
- The Four Lines Modernization project has further improved the Metropolitan Line, making it faster and more comfortable for residents
- Step-free access improvements at Harrow-on-the-Hill and Sudbury Hill stations ensure travel is easily accessible for all.
Key roadways, including the A409, A404, A312, and A40, provide robust connections within Harrow and to surrounding areas.
Underground and Rail Services
Exceptional underground and rail services in Harrow ensure excellent connectivity for daily commuters. Harrow-on-the-Hill Station serves as a major transport hub, providing access to the Metropolitan Line, which connects the area to central London and beyond. The ongoing improvements to step-free access at the station ensure that all passengers can travel comfortably and conveniently.
Bus Routes
Featuring roughly 430 bus stops and 39-day bus routes, Harrow’s extensive bus network ensures easy navigation within and beyond the borough. The presence of a central bus station further supports this comprehensive network, providing a convenient hub for public transportation.
Whether you’re commuting to work or school or exploring the local area, Harrow’s bus routes offer reliable and accessible options.
Education and Schools
Harrow’s education system serves as a major attraction for families contemplating relocation. The borough is home to a wide range of outstanding educational institutions, including primary, secondary, and special academies. Notable schools in the area include the famous Harrow School, as well as several highly-rated state and independent schools. GCSE and A-level results in Harrow are well above average, reflecting the area’s commitment to academic excellence.
School and childcare vacancies are also readily available, making it an accessible choice for families. Popular secondary schools such as Whitmore High and Claremont High are known for their academic achievements.
Famous Harrow School
Founded in 1572, Harrow Boys School, also known as Harrow School, is one of the most prestigious and most famous schools in the world. Located in Harrow on the Hill, the school boasts an impressive alumni network, including:
- Seven British Prime Ministers
- Poet Lord Byron
- Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill
- Actor Benedict Cumberbatch
- Singer James Blunt
Its historical significance and academic reputation make it a key attraction for families considering relocating to Harrow.
Other Great Schools
In addition to Harrow School, the borough is home to several other outstanding educational institutions. Some notable schools in the area include:
- Claremont High School, which has received an ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted
- Pinner High School, also rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted
- Whitmore High School, recognized for its academic excellence
For primary education, schools like St. Anselm’s Catholic Primary School, Vaughan Primary School, and Byron Court Primary School have also achieved ‘Outstanding’ ratings from Ofsted. Further education opportunities are available at institutions like Stanmore College and Harrow College, which offer a range of programs for students.
Employment Opportunities
With a diverse assortment of job opportunities across different sectors, Harrow is an appealing destination for job seekers. The key sectors in Harrow include:
- Retail
- Healthcare
- Education
- Professional services
The employment rate for those aged 16 to 64 was 73.4% for the year ending September 2023, with an unemployment rate of 4.8% for those over 18.
Harrow Council also offers various job vacancies and support systems for candidates. The Xcite programme provides free training and employment support, further enhancing job prospects in the area.
Local Businesses
Harrow town centre features a variety of independent shops, tea rooms, and pubs, contributing to the local economy and providing job opportunities. From boutique clothing stores to artisan bakeries, the town centre offers a charming shopping experience.
Several tea rooms and cafes provide cosy atmospheres for residents and visitors alike, while local pubs offer a blend of traditional and modern experiences.
Commercial Offices
Harrow is an important hub for commercial activities, making it an attractive location for businesses considering relocation. The area hosts a range of serviced office spaces that cater to both startups and established businesses. Major employers in Harrow include:
- Educational institutions
- Healthcare providers
- Financial services companies
- Harrow Council (administrative and decision-making roles)
- Orbis Consumer Products Limited
- Ripro Health UK Ltd
These businesses provide substantial employment opportunities in the area.
Cost of Living
Compared to central London, Harrow presents a balanced cost of living with more reasonable prices. Here are some average costs in Harrow:
- The average monthly net salary is approximately £2,900 after tax.
- Monthly utility bills for an 85m2 apartment are around £135, making it relatively affordable.
- A meal at an inexpensive restaurant typically costs around £15.
- A monthly public transport pass is about £90.
To save money, residents can invest in a Tastecard for dining discounts and spend time in Harrow’s many green spaces.
High Cost Areas
Harrow’s city centre is considered a high-cost area, with one-bedroom apartments renting for around £2,200 per month. Despite this, property prices in Harrow are significantly cheaper compared to London’s overall average, which is well over £700,000.
The high rent in the city centre reflects the premium for its central location and amenities, offering residents easy access to various facilities and services.
Budget-Friendly Tips
For those looking to manage their expenses, there are several budget-friendly tips to consider. Utilities for an 85m2 apartment can cost up to £150 per month in high-cost areas, but savings are possible through smart shopping and spending. Investing in a Tastecard can offer significant discounts at various restaurants in Harrow, making dining out more affordable.
FUN FACT
Spending time in Harrow’s green spaces is a cost-effective way to enjoy recreational activities. These beautiful parks and outdoor areas provide ample opportunities for relaxation and leisure without breaking the bank.
Green Spaces and Outdoor Activities
Harrow’s abundance of green spaces and outdoor activities are among its most attractive features. The borough boasts several large parks and nature reserves, including:
- Kenton Recreation Ground
- West Harrow Recreation Ground
- Harrow Recreation Ground
- Fryent Country Park
Approximately 50% of Harrow on the Hill is covered in green space, offering residents ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.
Roxbourne Park provides facilities for sports like cricket, tennis, and football, and even features a model railway. Bentley Priory Nature Reserve is known for its wildlife and walking trails, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts. Headstone Manor Recreation Ground includes an outdoor gym and tennis courts, adding to the variety of outdoor activities available.
Pinner Memorial Park
Pinner Memorial Park is a peaceful haven in Harrow, offering a tranquil escape for residents. The park features a serene duck pond, which is a popular spot for families. Additionally, the park offers a café and a kids’ play area, making it an ideal location for a family day out.
Whether you’re looking to relax with a book or enjoy a picnic, Pinner Memorial Park provides a beautiful setting for outdoor leisure activities.
Harrow Weald Common
Harrow Weald Common is renowned for its natural beauty and scenic walking trails, offering visitors a serene escape into nature. The common provides a perfect setting for outdoor recreational activities, including:
- Walking
- Hiking
- Birdwatching
- Picnicking
- Photography
With its woodland areas and picturesque landscapes, Harrow Weald Common is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Whether you’re hiking, jogging, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk, Harrow Weald Common offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Shopping and Dining
With a vibrant and diverse shopping and dining scene, Harrow caters to a broad spectrum of tastes and preferences. The main shopping centres, St George’s and St Ann’s offer a mix of retail favourites and dining options. St Anns is home to high street shops and brands such as M&S, Boots, H&M, Subway, KFC, Pizza Hut, and Burger King, while St George’s shopping centre houses stores and branches from Fitness First, Vue, Nando’s, Boots, and TK Maxx. These shopping centres not only provide a convenient shopping experience but also contribute significantly to local employment.
Recommended dining spots in Harrow on the Hill include The Doll’s House and La Collina.
St George’s Shopping Centre
St George’s Shopping Centres are a key destination for shoppers in Harrow, offering a variety of stores and services. Major retailers like Boots and TK Maxx can be found here, providing a comprehensive shopping experience.
The shopping centre also offers a range of dining options, including popular restaurants like Nando’s and Pizza Express, making it a convenient spot for both shopping and dining.
Independent Shops and Restaurants
In addition to the major shopping centres, Harrow features a number of independent shops and restaurants that add charm and character to the area, including those located on Baker Street. The Old Etonian is a popular independent restaurant influenced by French cuisine, offering a unique dining experience. The Doll’s House On The Hill is a vintage café and restaurant known for its nostalgic atmosphere, vintage tea cups, and original Victorian bread ovens. It caters to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Other popular high-street restaurants include Nando’s and Prezzo, while local Indian cuisine can be enjoyed at Chennai Srilalitha and Degrees.
Entertainment and Leisure
Harrow offers a plethora of entertainment and leisure activities, guaranteeing a never-ending list of things to do. Harrow Arts Centre hosts a wide range of cultural performances, including theatre, dance, music, and comedy shows. The centre also offers diverse workshops catering to different artistic interests.
The Harrow Leisure Centre offers a range of facilities such as:
- A gym
- A main swimming pool
- A training pool
- A sports hall
These amenities make it a versatile and well-equipped facility for visitors to enjoy. Visitors can engage in various sports activities such as basketball and squash, and even enjoy a nine-metre high climbing wall suitable for all abilities.
Harrow Vue Cinema offers the latest movie releases, making it a key entertainment destination.
Harrow Arts Centre
Harrow Arts Centre is a cultural hub that offers workshops catering to various interests such as arts and crafts, dance, and music. This centre also includes specialised programs for different age groups, ensuring broad community engagement. It serves as a venue for local artists and performers to showcase their talents, fostering a vibrant arts scene in Harrow.
Harrow Leisure Centre
Harrow Leisure Centre is a comprehensive facility that includes a 160+ station gym equipped with the latest equipment. The centre features two swimming pools suitable for all levels of swimmers, making it an ideal spot for both recreational and competitive swimming.
Group fitness classes are available in both virtual and video-led formats, providing a variety of options for staying active.
Safety and Community
Known for its security and robust community spirit, Harrow is considered one of London’s safest boroughs. Harrow has the second lowest crime rate in the city, after Richmond, and boasts lower crime rates compared to many other London boroughs. The area is well-protected by the police, contributing to its safe environment.
Additionally, community programs such as the Local Youth Crime Prevention Plan and Harrow Safer Neighbourhood Board play a significant role in maintaining safety and fostering community engagement.
Low Crime Rates
Harrow’s low crime rate of 66.14 per 1,000 people makes it one of the safest places to live in London. This safety is further emphasised when compared to other London boroughs with similarly low crime rates, such as Richmond-upon-Thames and Kingston-upon-Thames.
Residents living in Harrow, including the North Harrow and South Harrow areas, can enjoy peace of mind knowing that it is a secure and well-protected community.
Community Programs
Harrow’s community programs contribute significantly to the area’s safety and cohesion. The Local Youth Crime Prevention Plan and Harrow Safer Neighbourhood Board are key initiatives that help maintain a secure environment.
Cultural events, such as the Black History Month exhibition at Headstone Manor Museum, foster community engagement and cultural appreciation, enriching the lives of residents.
Historical and Cultural Attractions
Harrow’s rich cultural and historical background provides a variety of attractions for both residents and tourists. Some of the notable attractions in Harrow include:
- Harrow on the Hill, which holds historical significance due to its mediaeval origins and the presence of an important church and Harrow School, established in 1572.
- The area was granted a market charter in 1262, indicating its importance in mediaeval commerce.
- St Mary’s parish church, consecrated by St Anselm in 1094, adds to the historical depth of Harrow on the Hill.
Pinner, another culturally mixed neighbourhood, is known for its historic Tudor buildings and annual street fair, adding to Harrow’s rich cultural landscape.
Headstone Manor Museum
Headstone Manor Museum is a treasure trove of Harrow’s social history, ancient artefacts, and natural history. The ‘Harrow’s Young People’ exhibition showcases photographs by young residents of Grange Farm Estate, highlighting their perspectives and experiences.
The ‘Silver Screens and Stage Lights’ exhibit explores the history of cinemas and theatres in Harrow during the early 20th century, offering a glimpse into the borough’s entertainment past. The ‘Lights, Camera, Kodak’ exhibition highlights the impact of Kodak on family photography, reflecting the evolution of personal and communal memories.
Heritage Sites
Harrow is home to several significant heritage sites, reflecting its rich historical and cultural background. Pinner Memorial Park houses the Heath Robinson Museum, dedicated to the famous British cartoonist and illustrator, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors.
These heritage sites not only offer a window into Harrow’s past but also enrich the community’s cultural tapestry.
Summary
Harrow stands out as a vibrant and appealing place to live, offering a blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and strong community values. From diverse housing options and excellent transport links to outstanding schools and job opportunities, Harrow caters to a wide range of needs and preferences. The cost of living is balanced with budget-friendly tips, while green spaces and outdoor activities provide ample opportunities for recreation. Shopping and dining options are plentiful, complemented by a rich array of entertainment and leisure activities. Safety and community programs ensure a secure environment, and the historical and cultural attractions add to the borough’s unique character. Whether you’re moving to Harrow for work, education, or simply a change of scenery, this borough offers a welcoming and fulfilling lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the average house prices in Harrow?
The average property price in Harrow is £573,121, with semi-detached properties averaging £657,921 and flats at £346,441.
How good are the schools in Harrow?
The schools in Harrow are considered outstanding and highly rated, with the famous Harrow School and other excellent primary and secondary schools.
What are the transport links like in Harrow?
Harrow has excellent transport connectivity, including rail, bus, and road connections, providing convenient travel times to key London locations. This makes it easy to get around the area.
Is Harrow a safe place to live?
Yes, Harrow is considered one of the safest boroughs in London, with a low crime rate of 66.14 per 1,000 people.
What are some budget-friendly tips for living in Harrow?
To live on a budget in Harrow, consider getting a Tastecard for dining discounts, managing utility costs wisely, and enjoying the city’s green spaces for affordable leisure.
