Welcome to St. John’s Wood, an elegant and peaceful neighbourhood in North-West London, renowned for its upscale residential area alongside Regent’s Park. Its charming high street, lined with boutique shops, attracts professionals seeking sophistication and convenience. Positioned between the vibrant West End and serene Regent’s Park, St. John’s Wood offers a perfect blend of city buzz and tranquillity, bordered by Primrose Hill, Marylebone, and Maida Vale. Famous for its tree-lined streets and celebrity residents, it provides easy access to central London’s attractions. Key attractions include the American School in London, the Liberal Jewish Synagogue, the London Central Mosque and, of course, the iconic Zebra crossing located on Abbey Road.

Eating and Drinking in St. John’s Wood

St. John’s Wood caters to a variety of tastes, from cosy pubs and cafes serving traditional British dishes to upscale restaurants offering inventive cuisine, ensuring there’s something to please every palate.

Pubs and restaurants:

• The Duke of York: This traditional gastro pub offers a relaxed atmosphere and classic interiors for a warm and welcoming experience.
• Soutine: Drawing inspiration from Parisian boulevard cafés, Soutine offers a selection of bistro dishes, including Steak Tartare and Coq au Riesling.
• The Ivy: Owned by The Ivy Collection, this restaurant offers modern British cuisine, classic café-style dishes, and a range of vegetarian and vegan options.

Cafés and Bakeries

• Gails, A beloved neighbourhood staple, delights locals and visitors with artisanal breads and delectable pastries.
• Orée: Our product range includes freshly baked artisan morning pastries, artisan bread and fine pâtisseries, alongside a selection of savoury snacks, sandwiches and coffees to eat in, takeaway or have delivered to your home. 

Green Spaces in St. John’s Wood

In St. John’s Wood, lush green spaces await your exploration. Climb Primrose Hill for breathtaking views of London, or venture to Regent’s Park, boasting 410 acres of verdant landscapes, boating lakes, and vibrant rose gardens. Don’t miss the serene St. John’s Wood Church Grounds, a Local Nature Reserve teeming with wildlife and tranquillity. Regent’s Park is also home to London Zoo, one of the world’s oldest and most famous zoos. Whether picnicking in formal gardens, playing in the playground, or rowing on the Serpentine, these green havens offer something for everyone.

Shopping in St. John’s Wood

Welcome to shopping in St. John’s Wood! This charming neighbourhood in northwest London offers a delightful array of shops and boutiques catering to every taste. From high-end fashion to iconic memorabilia, St. John’s Wood has something for everyone.

• St. John’s Wood High Street: Start your shopping adventure on St. John’s Wood High Street, the heart of the neighbourhood’s retail district. Here, you’ll find a mix of high-end fashion boutiques, upscale homeware stores, and cosy cafes. Explore renowned brands like Reiss for men’s and women’s fashion and Space NK for makeup essentials.
• Abbey Road Studios Gift Shop: No trip to St. John’s Wood would be complete without a pilgrimage to Abbey Road Studios. While you’re there, be sure to stop by the gift shop and pick up some iconic Beatles merchandise, including t-shirts, posters, and music memorabilia. It’s a must-visit destination for music lovers and Beatles fans.

Transport around St. John’s Wood

St John’s Wood offers convenient transportation links to central London via two Underground stations: St John’s Wood and Swiss Cottage, both situated along the Jubilee line. . Additionally, regular bus services connect St John’s Wood with central London and various areas in North West London, including Chesham, Golders Green, Kilburn Park, Kingsbury/West Hendon, and Hampstead Heath. For those who prefer taxis, reaching central London from the heart of St John’s Wood typically takes around 15 minutes, making it a convenient location for post-shopping trips from Oxford Street.

Schools in St. John’s Wood

St Johns Wood is a sought-after area for families and students, boasting strong educational connections with several universities nearby. The area offers a variety of excellent primary schools, along with two reputable state secondary schools. For those considering private education, options include Arnold House, Abercorn School, St Christina’s and St John’s Wood Pre Prep. Additionally, alternatives to the British education system are available through The American School.

The History Of St. John’s Wood

St. John’s Wood, once part of the Great Forest of Middlesex, earned its name from the Knights of the Order of St John of Jerusalem, who owned the land during medieval times. Initially a wooded area, it provided refuge to conspirators like Anthony Babington during the Elizabethan era. Initially, the region was predominantly woodland, part of the Forest of Middlesex, and named after the Manor of Lileston, serving the Parish of Marylebone. When the Knights Templar were suppressed in 1312, the land was granted to the Order of Knights of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem, known as the Knights of St John. Charles II later awarded the estate to Charles Henry Wotton in 1675. Eventually, it passed to the Eyre family, who transformed it into London’s first garden suburb in the 19th century.