Defining Prime Central London - or ‘PCL’ as agents like to refer to it, is a tricky thing. Because like the rest of the capital, it’s always changing. And it’s this push and pull that makes London such an exciting place.

And while there is no official definition of where ‘Prime Central London' begins and ends, it’s easier if we think about it in terms of the quality, and, obviously, the corresponding price. The growth in popularity and increases in prices have meant that some people have left PCL, and moved to areas such as Maida Vale, for example. This has increased prices in the area closer to PCL prices, and yet it wouldn’t fit into the definition of Prime Central London. Tricky, isn’t it!

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Wandering through these little ‘villages’ is a pleasure, each with their own story and mix of residents, shops and history.

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Prices here are driven by international demand and money, these areas tend to be the ‘brand names’ in London that have become powerful enough to register on global elites radars. You can safely say that Prime Central London definitely includes Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Kensington, South Kensington, Chelsea and Notting Hill. Some pretenders to the crown which are edging in on the old guard include Earls Court, Marylebone, Westminster, Bayswater and even The City. The attraction to London from international money is three fold. Firstly the U.K. is an incredibly powerful global brand in its own right and owning a property in a prime area of the capital is an accolade of achievement, especially for wealthy internationals. Secondly London property is seen as a safe place to park money. Thirdly, who wouldn’t want to be able to live or holiday in your own home in one of the best cities in the world?

In terms of what property is available in these areas, it’s a case of pretty much you name it, it exists. From basement flats to multi-level penthouses, towering townhouses (both above and below ground) to multi-million pound mansions. Then there are the beautiful, hidden muses, modern conversions and opulent apartments.

Prime Central attracts many property investors from around the world, and despite what some may think, these areas do still have distinct personalities despite being within close proximity to each other. You still have your favourite coffee shop, pub and restaurant. There is a nuanced sub-culture that exists between such places which makes it even more of an interesting place to live. Wandering through these little ‘villages’ is a pleasure, each with their own story and mix of residents, shops and history.

In fact, Prime Central London’s neighbourhoods are each as individual as anywhere else in London. The famous colourful streets and bohemia of Notting Hill is perfect for some, while others dream of the opulence of Mayfair, the nightlife and shopping of the King’s Road in Chelsea, or the intellectual vibe of South Kensington with it’s universities and world class museums.

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Everywhere is close to a prestigious public or private green space, there are some of the best schools in the world, an impossible amount of shops and some of the finest dining you could conceive of.

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Prime Central London is a special place, and the prices and global demand reflect this, but it can also be a wonderful home.

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