Our Guide to Living in Belgravia

We think that the answer to this question is pretty simple.

Firstly, there is lots to see and do in the area such as exploring Elizabeth and Motcomb Street, each with their own unique feel and vibe. For example, Elizabeth street is ripe with history and hosts an array of signature restaurants and independent fashion brands, whilst, Motcomb Street brings in the more urban living side of this famous quarter.

Then there is the simple fact that Belgravia is home to some of the world’s best restaurants,16 of which are Michelin star quality. That’s not all, the pubs and bars serve a number of exquisite hand-crafted cocktails, mature wines and expertly brewed beers – there really is something for everyone, from connoisseurs to social dabblers.

Of course, we can’t forget the great shopping scene. It’s more boutique based which means more unique items that you wouldn’t find elsewhere – that’s exclusive with a capital E!

Then there is the social aspect of Belgravia. Moving to a location like this means that you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a thriving community dedicated to innovation in food, fashion, co-working and wellbeing. You may also find yourself surrounded by some high calibre celebrities from TV, radio and literature, for those looking to dip their toes into that lifestyle.

Belgravia in short is a cultural hotspot which is why it is so easily regarded as one of the most exclusive and sought after locations to live in the whole of the country.

Living in Belgravia means that you are likely going to come across famous names and faces and moving to such an exclusive area, it might be nice to know who your potential neighbours may be.

Belgravia’s residents have, and still do, include historians, poets, princes, statesmen, industrialists, inventors, field marshals, scientists, actors, politicians, painters and reformers.

Thanks to its geographical importance – back then and today – Belgravia has seen many important faces live in the area.

Mozart wrote his first ever symphony at 180 Ebury Street in 1764 when he was just eight years old. He was influenced by Johann Christian Bach, son of Johann Sebastien, who was living in Belgravia at the time.

Prime Ministers Margaret Thatcher, Neville Chamberlain and Stanley Baldwin and former Foreign Secretary Lord Halifax and Richard Bingham, better known as the 7th Earl of Lucan have also lived in the area.

Joan Collins, Sir Michael Caine, Sir Lawrence Olivier, Sir Christopher Lee, Vivien Leigh, Lillie Langtry, actress and famous mistress of Edward VII, Sarah Brightman, Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber and Elizabeth Hurley plus James Bond actors Sean Connery and Roger Moore have all lived in Belgravia, as did Ian Fleming – the writer who created the fictional spy.

More recent faces who lived in Belgravia included Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovich, who owned a 30,000 square foot property and former Chelsea FC manager Jose Mourinho also lived near Abramovich in a property overlooking Eaton Square.

Lord Saatchi, Nigella Lawson, George Soros and Lord Norman Foster have made up a more recent influx of well known faces to the area. Without a doubt there will be more names added to this list over the coming years.

There is lots to see and do in Belgravia, much of it centres around a few key streets. Let’s take a quick virtual tour of the quarter and get you ready to start enjoying everything this wonderful location has to offer.

Head down Elizabeth Street and start to experience the highlight of one of the country’s most fascinating locations. If you love photography or are into social media then getting snaps in this area is sure to get your feed trending! From the bright pink corner buildings to the Victorian stonework of the townhouses that juxtapose boutique fashion, restaurants and living, it’s a perfect hodgepodge of telegenic delight.

Eaton Square Gardens is where you will find an oasis in a bustling part of town. With sculptures all around, you get to sit on a bench and take in Eaton Square. Be prepared with flag knowledge as much of the area houses numerous embassies with their own flags proudly flying.

There are 16 Michelin star restaurants on offer, so fine dining is definitely on the cards in Belgravia. Restaurants like Amaya and MUSE by Tom Aitkens are two of the standout candidates but there are many more so why not try them all?

Love a bit of brunch? The Morena is the place for you. This Latin-American restaurant serves everything from Arepa’s to tacos with a delicious glass of pink lemonade to wash it down. Fancy gastropub cuisine? Then the Thomas Cubitt is for you – especially if you love a Sunday roast as this is one of the best in the city.

When it comes to places for a drink, you are spoiled for choice in Belgravia. Firstly, there are many great pubs, each with their own unique atmosphere and vibe. For example, The Nag’s Head is over 300 years old and the unspoilt interior has remained practically unchanged in that time – bar some more modern instalments. This is the place you come for a digital detox.

The Alfred Tennyson is inspired by the great British poet of the same name. described as “a real community pub” in the heart of Knightsbridge. Positioned at the end of the cobbled Motcomb Street, this beautiful grand dame of public houses is set over four floors – each one as cosy as the next.

Looking for a cocktail or two? You need to try The Pantechnicon, especially if your taste buds are in need of a wakeup call. With its Roof Garden and south-facing terrace this is one for those who love a good outdoor drink. Or try out the stylish Library Bar at the Lanesborough for a sophisticated and leisurely drink.

There’s plenty to keep you entertained in Belgravia. Eccleston Yards is a popular hub for independent business, entrepreneurs and creative talent, located on the boundaries of Victoria and Belgravia. There many shows and events being put on in the area including showings of old films sure to set your creative fervour alight.

Then there is Cadogan Hall, a 950-seat capacity concert hall in Sloane Terrace in Chelsea in the Royal Borough of Kensington. The resident music ensemble at Cadogan Hall is the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the first London orchestra to have a permanent home.

Park Tower Casino is one of London’s most exclusive gambling destinations. Just a short walk from world famous establishments like Harrods, Harvey Nicholls, and the Lanesborough and Mandarin Hotels, you can get your fix for a game of blackjack or watch as patrons enjoy an adrenaline filled evening of fun.

Naturally, thanks to Belgravia’s location, getting to and around the quarter is not that hard, there are lots of different ways to enjoy moving around and getting to and from the area.

By Bike
Santander Cycle docking stations are located on Harriet Street, Belgrave Square, Sedding Street (Sloane Square), Bourne Street, Ebury Bridge, Eaton Square, Eccleston Place and Elizabeth Bridge.

By Bus
Luckily you are well connected with bus routes to Belgravia with routes 11, 19, 22, 137, 170, 211, 452 and C1 servicing the area. The London Victoria Coach station is located nearby as well.

By Car
Central London can be a little more complicated to navigate by car. Motcomb street in the heart of Belgravia is a pedestrianised zone between 12pm-12am for example. However There are several Westminster pay-and-display parking bays, and a number of car parking operators in the area, including Q-Park Knightsbridge located on Kinnerton Street and NCP Car Park.

By Tube
Arguably one of the most accessible ways to enjoy London is via the Tube. You can access Belgravia through Knightsbridge, Sloane Square and Victoria Underground stations. Motcomb Street is approximately a 7-minute walk from Knightsbridge station via Sloane Street, or 11 minutes from Sloane Square Underground station. Both Elizabeth Street and Eccleston Street are moments away from Victoria station.

As with much of the UK and especially Central London, homes in Belgravia continue to outstrip their supply. Whilst this may be causing an inflationary price adjustment, Belgravia continues to be highly sought after.

For example, here are traditional prices in the area;

• 2 Bedroom House: Current price: £3,950,000
• 2 Bedroom Flat: £950,000
• One bedroom apartment in Motcomb Street – Rental: £3900 pcm
• Secure underground parking space in Ebury Street: £512 pcm
• Eaton place 4 bed property to rent: £21,667 pcm

Eaton Mews
Eaton Mews North is located in between Eaton Place and Eaton Square and is a popular location for house hunters. Hosting some of the more exclusive houses, Eaton Mews is especially for those who are looking for a luxury lifestyle in a beautiful neighbourhood.

Lowndes Square
Lowndes Square is extremely well-located adjacent to Sloane Street and just a few minutes’ walk to Harrods and Knightsbridge station this is an ideal place to live for those who love the shopping and lifestyle of the area.

Kinnerton Street
A short walk from Hyde park, Kinnerton Street connects Motcomb Street to Knightsbridge and has a wonderful sense of community with an eclectic selection of restaurants, bars and shops.

Although Belgravia is known for its famous population, there are also many families who live in the area. Schools are therefore necessary, and in Belgravia there are prestigious schools such as St Barnabas’ CoFE Primary School and St Peter’s CoFE Primary School.

There are also plenty of Secondary Schools and academies such as The Westminster School, King’s College London Maths School, Queen’s Gate School and Lycee Francais Charles de Gaulle among others.