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West London: Chiswick / Strand-On-The Green

A distinct and typically English village until the 20th Century, parts of historic Chiswick retain a sedate charm not shared by more boisterous neighbours like Acton and Hammersmith. Its riverside location and mixture of Victorian, Edwardian and Georgian architecture have endeared it to a generation of location managers for TV and film period dramas. In fact, it’s entirely possible you’ve already encountered Chiswick on celluloid.

Despite being off a busy road and hidden behind a rather imposing boundary wall Hogarth’s House is a must see. The former home to William Hogarth, one of the nation’s best-loved painters and engravers, it’s been meticulously restored in recent decades - along with its contents and furniture - to the mid-18th Century when Hogarth was in residence. It’s also free to the public.

Further West along Chiswick’s serviceable High Road of shops and eateries is the Strand-On-The Green. Nestling by Kew on the north bank of the River Thames this especially picturesque area of 18th Century houses and cottages dates back to the time before Nelson. If the weather’s with you, take a nature walk along the riverside footpath – you won’t believe you’re so close to the city centre - and choose from the many fantastic old pubs and restaurants along the way. The Bulls Head, which has been serving refreshments in the area since 1722 is an especially great place to stop and rest.

Transport Links

Hogarth’s House: Turnham Green Tube
Strand-On-The-Green: Kew Bridge Rail

For more information on London, visit our destination guide

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About the writer:

Mark Wood is a freelance writer with encyclopaedic knowledge of two British cities - London and Edinburgh, and his specialist subject: music. Often commissioned to write sleeve notes along with his other writing work, his features have appeared in Attitude, Time Out, the Guardian and the Times, amongst others. He is one half of cult London DJ outfit the Readers Wifes and is a founder of Duckie nightclub in Vauxhall.

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