Fulham Area Guide

If you’re looking to be close to Central London but would prefer a more easy-going atmosphere, there’s no better place than Fulham. With trendy boutiques, bars and restaurants, plus some stunning green spaces, this upmarket residential area is perfect for young professionals and families to socialise and relax in a quiet suburban area.

Highlights and attractions

The prestigious King’s Road and Fulham Road are both vibrant shopping streets, renowned across the country for their eclectic mix of stores and dining venues. King’s Road is a 2-mile long road stretching all the way up to Chelsea, and was used as a private Royal road until 1830. Fulham Broadway Retail Centre also offers shopping, eateries, a leisure centre and Vue cinema.

The jewel in Fulham’s crown is Bishops Park in the south of the borough. Scenes from cult classic horror film The Omen were shot here in the 70s, but there’s nothing scary about this place! Lying next to the River Thames, the Grade II listed park and gardens feature beautiful meadows, ornamental and sculpture gardens, an urban beach and walks along the Thames. Young families often gather here to take advantage of the children’s play areas and sports facilities.

One of the country’s grandest buildings, Fulham Palace, lies next to Bishops Park and was the residence of the Bishop of London from the 11th century until the 1970s. The Grade I listed country house is open daily to the public, and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors a year. The Palace hosts regular history tours, children’s activities and workshops in its botanical gardens.

For the more affluent members of society, the Hurlingham Club is internationally renowned as being one of the world’s most influential private clubs. Since its opening in 1869, it’s been acknowledged as the “birthplace” of polo, a favourite sport of the Monarchy.

Commuting

Tube: Fulham is served by three Tube stations: Fulham Broadway, Putney Bridge and Parsons Green, all on the District line. Journeys to Paddington take 15 minutes from Fulham Broadway, and you can reach Westminster in 20 minutes from Parsons Green.

Rail: Fulham has two train stations on the London Overground network - West Brompton and Imperial Wharf. Hop on a train to Heathrow Airport from Imperial Wharf and be there in 40 minutes.

Bus: 9 bus routes serve Fulham, including services to Hammersmith bus station and Putney Heath. Two night buses also serve the area.

Road: Motorists can access the M4 within 15 minutes, making commutes across the West of England much easier.

Cycle: There is a prominent cycling community in Fulham, including members of the Fulham branch of the London Cycling Campaign group. Fulham residents can cycle to Victoria in around 20 minutes, making it a convenient commuting option.

Food and drink

Fulham residents can take advantage of the borough’s picturesque setting next to the River Thames with plenty of cosy riverside gastro pubs. A favourite among locals is The Sands End near Chelsea harbour, a rustic pub with a creative flair on classic British dishes.

If you’re in the mood for more of a global infusion, you’ll find a variety of international cuisines down Wandsworth Bridge Road. From sushi to pizza to curries, there are restaurants from around the world to cater to your needs.

Foodies will love FENN, an upmarket modern European fine dining restaurant in the heart of Fulham. The venue offers private dining and a wine club, so it’s the perfect place for a date night or a night out with friends.

Events

Lovers of the “beautiful game” will already know that Fulham is home to two of England’s most prestigious football clubs, Fulham and Chelsea. Both Stamford Bridge and Craven Cottage stadiums attract thousands of home and away fans every year, injecting a lively atmosphere and economic boost into the area.

In Hurlingham Park, the annual Chestertons Polo in the Park event sees thousands of visitors gather to watch the equestrian sport, indulge in food and socialise with live music and DJs.

For the youngsters, Fulham Palace offers regular events including creative storytelling sessions and family fun days. History tours, gardening workshops and art exhibitions are also on show all year round here.

Schools

There are two French schools in Fulham, catering for the area’s thriving international community. Many nurseries and primary schools are accessible across the borough, as are several secondary and independent schools, many of which are rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted. Langford Primary School, Ashburnham Community School, Servite RC Primary School and The London Oratory School are all rated Outstanding, as are Fulham Cross Girls’ School and Language College, Lady Margaret School and Chelsea Academy. The

Moat School and Sixth Form in Bishop's Avenue provides education for pupils with dyslexia.