Guide to living in Chelsea

About Chelsea

Chelsea is an affluent area of south-west London, known for its sense of community spirit and superb lifestyle options. To the south, the River Thames runs from Chelsea Bridge along the Chelsea Embankment, Cheyne Walk, Lots Road, and Chelsea Harbour. You will find South Kensington, Knightsbridge, and Brompton to the north. 

Houses, homes and properties in Chelsea, London

Chelsea has a mix of architecture, including impressive Georgian, Regency, and Victorian homes. The terraces, detached houses and mews dominate the well-heeled streets, with many of these surrounding historic private gated gardens. These period properties also complement the modern Chelsea Harbour apartments, which provide enjoyable river views across the Thames. 

Living in Chelsea

Chelsea is one of London’s most sought-after and affluent corners, home to many celebrities and aristocrats who enjoy the prestige that comes with living in the postcode. The shopping is some of the best in the capital, with top designers such as Gucci, Chanel, and Tom Ford on Sloane Street and Duke of York Square.

King’s Road

One of London’s most iconic streets, King’s Road was once the epicentre of 60’s and 70’s culture, having been home to the likes of Vivienne Westwood, the Sex Pistols, and Mick Jagger, to name a few. Though more subdued today, King’s Road is still full of character, and its social capital remains strong, hosting top restaurants from Restaurant Gordon Ramsay to The Ivy Chelsea Garden and Bluebird, to name just a few. And with the road extending all the way from Sloane Square to Parson’s Green, there’s plenty for locals to explore. 

Shops and leisure

Chelsea is renowned for its wide range of designer boutiques, high street retailers, independent grocers, and wine merchants—especially on Sloane Square and King’s Road. Some local favourites include Daylesford, Peter Jones, Soho Home, and The Conran Shop. 

Sloane Square and Sloane Street are known shopping streets and are fantastic places to people-watch whilst grabbing a coffee or lunch in one of the upmarket eateries.  

Alternatively, you could soak up the cultural riches of local attractions such as The Natural History Museum, Saatchi Gallery, Cadogan Hall, and the nearby Victoria & Albert Museum. 

Chelsea Flower Show

The Chelsea Flower Show is a major event that draws royalty, celebrities, businesspeople, and crowds from around the world.  

While many Chelsea locals enjoy participating in the show, it is also typical for residents to capitalise on the fantastic short-term rental opportunities arising from this world-renowned event. 

Green spaces, parks and squares

Chelsea is near some of London’s finest green spaces and Garden Squares. The Chelsea Physic Garden, Chelsea Green, and Kensington Gardens are local favourites, though for somewhere more expansive, one may enjoy taking a stroll to Battersea Park or Hyde Park—each within close distance.  

Schools

Chelsea is a highly desirable place for families to settle. Part of its allure is the outstanding schooling options nearby. Desirable schools in the area include: 

• Hill House School 
• The Hampshire School 
• Park Walk Primary School 
• Cameron Vale School 

Transport links

Chelsea is notoriously well connected, with multiple underground lines available nearby, which can take you into central London within minutes. The nearest lines include the Piccadilly, Circle, and District Lines. The closest tube stations are: 

• Sloane Square 
• South Kensington 

Living in Chelsea – frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the Chelsea Flower Show? 
The show is held on the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, London. 

How far is Chelsea from Knightsbridge? 
It takes about 25 minutes to walk from Chelsea to Knightsbridge. By car or public transport, it takes roughly 10 minutes. 

Where is your nearest office in the area? 
Our nearest office is located at 73 Sloane Ave, London SW3. Contact us today for more information on the area and local property market.