Discover a wide range of local activities, cultural events, recreational opportunities and entertainment options! P28
Adding value to your home
Six proven strategies to boost your home’s value P42
Local Area
Local Schools
Recommended Eateries
Tips for Parents
When choosing where our kids will learn and grow, it’s super important to think it through. To help you out, we’ve put together some tips to make the decision easier.
Find local food venues and restaurants that are loved by foodies throughout the neighbourhood – from all-day dining hotspots and cosy gastropubs, to local Japanese restaurants, Instagrammable brunch favourites and unique eateries. 8 13
Our Corner of London Knightsbridge, Chelsea, Marylebone, and Mayfair are among the most prestigious and desirable districts in London, offering a combination of luxury living, world-class amenities, cultural richness, and excellent connectivity.
Best Local Restaurants Around Your Area
42 28 36
Entertainment
Pubs & Live Music
Whether you’re looking for a pub or bar to play darts, somewhere to play pool or just want to have a look at a menu before you go, please check our picked list below.
Expert Advice
Mortgage Puzzle
In the UK, obtaining a mortgage is the most common method for individuals to purchase property. Mortgages come in various types, each with its own terms, conditions, and repayment structures tailored to suit different financial situations and preferences.
Adding Value to Your Home
7 Great Strategies
In the realm of real estate, adding value to your home is not just about sprucing up its appearance; it’s an investment that can yield significant returns when done strategically.
EDITORIAL
Work-Haus
ADVERTISING
Simon Peacock DESIGN
Brigita Butvila 2BDesigner
Donna Billsborrow
Winkworth Magazine is published by Work-Haus Limited. Nothing in this magazine can be reproduced in whole or part without the express permission of the publishers. Transparencies or any other material submitted for publication or any other material are sent at the owner’s risk and while every care is taken. Work-Haus has endeavoured to ensure that all the information in this magazine is accurate at the time of going to press, however prices and details may be subject to change.
Welcome,
Dear Prospective Buyer or Renter,
Welcome to Prime Central London – home to some of the capital’s most prestigious and iconic neighbourhoods. At Winkworth, we’re delighted that you’re considering making this exceptional part of London your home.
From the elegant garden squares of Knightsbridge and the chic streets of Chelsea to the timeless sophistication of Mayfair and the village charm of Marylebone, this area offers a truly unique blend of heritage, style, and modern living. Whether you’re seeking a pied-à-terre, a family residence, or an investment opportunity, we’re here to help you find a property that perfectly matches your needs and aspirations.
Winkworth has been connecting people with their ideal homes for over 180 years, and our knowledgeable local team understands the distinct character and appeal of each of these world-renowned neighbourhoods. We pride ourselves on more than simply showing properties – we guide, advise, and support you at every stage of your journey, whether you’re buying, renting, or exploring your options.
As you begin this exciting chapter, you can be assured that we’ll go above and beyond to make your experience seamless, enjoyable, and rewarding. We look forward to helping you find a place you’ll be proud to call home.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch or visit our office. A warm welcome awaits.
Winkworth agents love what they do and pride themselves on having a unique perspective on the entire process of matching people with homes. From the little things we see that others miss, to the neighbourhoods we know like the back of our hands. Because where others see customers, we see people. And where others see houses, we see homes.
Our business model means each and every agent is an established and independent professional in their neighbourhood, making us uniquely positioned to offer you, our clients, a more in-depth and insightful experience.
Christian Lock Necrews Managing Director
Our CORNER of LONDON
KNIGHTSBRIDGE | CHELSEA, MARYLEBONE | MAYFAIR
Knightsbridge, Chelsea, Marylebone, and Mayfair are among the most prestigious and desirable districts in London, offering a combination of luxury living, world-class amenities, cultural richness, and excellent connectivity. These areas have long attracted an international mix of residents, from business leaders and diplomats to creatives and families.
WORK AND LIFE IN KNIGHTSBRIDGE AND CHELSEA
At Winkworth, we understand that choosing a home is never just about bricks and mortar. It’s about securing a lifestyle that balances work, leisure, culture, and community. Few parts of London capture that balance as elegantly as Knightsbridge and Chelsea. These neighbouring districts of Prime Central London offer a rare blend of cosmopolitan living and village-like charm, making them enduringly attractive to both international buyers and long-standing London families.
THE PROFESSIONAL APPEAL
Knightsbridge and Chelsea are ideally positioned for professionals who require quick access to central business districts without sacrificing quality of life. With efficient transport links into the City and West End, residents can enjoy the convenience of a short commute while retreating each evening into serene, leafy enclaves. For many working at senior levels, this balance is non-negotiable: one can conduct business in Mayfair or Canary Wharf, and still be home within minutes to enjoy dinner in a neighbourhood brasserie.
The areas also host a growing number of co-working spaces and private members’ clubs, catering to a new generation of entrepreneurs and remote workers. Chelsea’s King’s Road, for example, is dotted with stylish coffee shops and shared offices that encourage a flexible working culture. Meanwhile, Knightsbridge offers executive clubs and discreet meeting venues, perfect for those who prefer a more traditional environment.
RETAIL AND DINING EXCELLENCE
Life here is synonymous with luxury retail. Knightsbridge is home to Harrods and Harvey Nichols, global shopping landmarks that place worldclass brands on residents’ doorsteps. Chelsea, by contrast, offers a more boutique experience: from designer showrooms on Sloane Street to independent concept stores along the Fulham Road, shopping becomes both a practical necessity and a leisurely pursuit.
MEET
Interview with DAVID HALL Managing Director
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT THE BACKGROUND OF YOUR COMPANY
Oriel Finance was founded with the vision to provide bespoke mortgage solutions for those UK and international buyers, as well as developers, who often face more complex financial situations. Our goal has always been to bring a personal touch to mortgage brokerage, combining years of expertise with a deep understanding of our clients’ unique needs. We have built our reputation on providing tailored financing strategies, whether for luxury homes, first time buyers, or more intricate cross-border transactions.
With relationships spanning decades across the lending market and an incredibly strong and experienced team, Oriel Finance curates solutions often not available to others. On 20th June 2025, Oriel Finance completed a management buyout - a huge moment for the business. The MBO has allowed our culture of putting clients first, our independence and our people to remain the focus; as when our team thrives so do our clients. As we grow, our goal is to ensure we never lose those foundations but also to look ahead with a new clarity of purpose.
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR CUSTOMER PROCESS
At Oriel Finance, we pride ourselves in offering a highly personalised and client-centric process. From the initial consultation, we take time to understand each client’s specific financial goals, challenges, and aspirations. Our team works collaboratively with clients to craft a solution that is as unique as they are. We guide our clients through every step of the journey and wholeheartedly believe that transparency and communication should remain key throughout, so that clients feel informed and always supported, with swift responses to questions they didn’t realise they had or had needed to ask.
WHY SHOULD PROPERTY OWNERS CHOOSE ORIEL?
We offer more than just a mortgage or finance solution — we offer a partnership. We understand that financing a property, for personal or investment purposes, is a significant commitment. My team has decades of experience navigating complex financial landscapes, and we’ve developed a reputation for finding the right solutions for even the most intricate scenarios. We want to help give support and expertise, that can make all the difference in your property journey - whether that is looking for competitive rates, bespoke financing options, or simply a trusted advisor who understands your vision.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
What I love most is helping people realise their property ambitions –whether it’s a first step on the ladder or solving a complex financial challenge others might avoid. I enjoy everything about the whole process, from building long-term relationships and guiding clients through their entire loan journey - often time and time again. As Managing Partner, I’m also passionate about the opportunity to cultivate an environment where our team can grow and succeed, with integrity, consistency, and care at the heart of everything we do.
Featured partner
Dining is equally varied and world-class. Michelin-starred restaurants like Pétrus and established local favourites such as Bluebird ensure that whether it’s a celebratory dinner or a casual weekend brunch, the neighbourhood delivers at every level. For those working long hours, this accessibility to exceptional dining and social spaces adds immeasurably to daily convenience and enjoyment.
CULTURAL AND LIFESTYLE AMENITIES
Both Knightsbridge and Chelsea provide unparalleled access to London’s cultural scene. The Victoria and Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, and Saatchi Gallery are all within walking distance. For professionals seeking a balanced life, the opportunity to step out of the office and into a world-class exhibition or evening performance is a privilege unique to this part of the capital.
Green spaces further elevate the quality of life. Hyde Park, adjacent to Knightsbridge, offers jogging trails, boating lakes, and open lawns for morning exercise or weekend relaxation. Chelsea boasts the Chelsea Physic Garden and riverside walks along the Thames. These oases of calm make it possible to maintain a healthy lifestyle while living in the very heart of London.
COMMUNITY AND FAMILY LIFE
For families, education is a cornerstone of the decision to move. Knightsbridge and Chelsea are home to an array of outstanding schools, from highly regarded state primaries such as Fox Primary to independent establishments like Wetherby Prep and Thomas’s Kensington. This diversity of choice ensures that children have access to exceptional learning opportunities within walking distance of home.
Beyond education, the areas maintain a strong sense of community. Chelsea retains its village feel, particularly around Pavilion Road and Chelsea Green, where local markets and familyrun shops thrive. Knightsbridge, though international in outlook, offers discreet luxury and a quieter pace just a few steps from its glamorous retail avenues. Together, they provide an environment where residents can enjoy both privacy and neighbourly warmth.
PROPERTY AND INVESTMENT VALUE
From elegant stucco-fronted townhouses to contemporary riverside
apartments, the property landscape in Knightsbridge and Chelsea is as diverse as the people who live here. These areas remain highly desirable for both UK and overseas buyers, offering long-term investment stability. Demand is consistently underpinned by the blend of heritage architecture, world-class amenities, and unrivalled location.
CONCLUSION
Work and life in Knightsbridge and Chelsea is defined by convenience, culture, and community. Professionals enjoy seamless connectivity, families benefit from excellent schools, and all residents have immediate access to some of London’s finest dining, shopping, and green spaces. For those seeking the ultimate combination of prestige and practicality, these areas represent the pinnacle of London living.
At Winkworth, we take pride in guiding our clients to properties that not only meet their practical needs but also enrich their lives. Knightsbridge and Chelsea are not simply places to live — they are destinations to thrive.
When choosing where our kids will learn and grow, it’s very important to consider carefully. To help you out, we’ve put together some tips to make the decision easier. Lots of schools and daycares offer free tours, so we really recommend checking them out before you decide where your child will go.
TIPS FOR PARENTS
Interview with Metro Storage
Find out more about Metro Storage – one of the biggest providers of self-storage in Central London – who like to consider themselves your spare room on your doorstep!
Why should people choose a storage provider?
Self-storage is an easy and convenient way to store your belongings especially if you’re moving house and have a gap between your last property and the next. Storage can also be ideal if you’re looking to redecorate after you’ve moved house and need to create some room.
At Metro Storage we offer a range of unit sizes so you can find one that works for you. Our extensive opening times mean you can visit at a time that suits you and our flexible terms allow you to extend or end your storage when you need to without incurring unnecessary fees.
What would you say to someone who is hesitant to use a storage facility?
Try a viewing and ask as many questions as you can whilst you’re there. Self-Storage is still relatively misunderstood but booking a viewing and seeing the storage space for yourself can help to overcome this.
At Metro Storage we offer a personal customer service assistant that will be able to help you every step of the way should you have any questions. There is also a wealth of information and videos on our website that will help to explain how storage works.
With us you only pay for the days that you use. If you decide you’re not happy after 14 days we’ll refund for any days that you haven’t used, so why not give it a try?
Who or what have been your major influences and role models?
We first saw the self-storage concept in Manhattan, New York, USA. A company called The Manhattan Mini-Storage company used to have a near monopoly in the city back in the mid-to-late 90’s. We were heavily involved in the Central London parking market at the time, having at one time 13 car parks in Chelsea and the West End, but the Congestion Charge was just around the corner and we knew we needed to diversify quickly. Self-storage seemed the perfect partner business – ultimately taking a large area, splitting it into smaller segments and renting these out – either for customer’s cars or belongings.
Once we decided to get seriously involved in the industry, we worked very closely with a number of key suppliers, but soon settled on working with Mark and Andrew at Active Supply & Design. Both were
great to work with. They were very knowledgeable, happy to share their knowledge and good people!
Is there a project that you are most proud of?
Our first will always stand out in my mind. I was in my late 20’s, had just secured a long lease on a 30,000 sq.ft. warehouse next door to the Oval cricket ground in Kennington, London. And when we got the keys and walked around this massive three storey warehouse, we were a little ‘nervous’ about how on earth we were going to fill it!
We had some prior knowledge of the self-storage industry – having put storage units in all the nooks and crannies where we couldn’t park cars in our car parks in Chelsea and the West End. They had filled and thankfully stayed full.
However, we were about to embark on a much bigger project, so there was a certain amount of ‘learning on the job’. One of the best ideas we had was to do the fit out floor by floor, learning as we went. By the time we got to the top floor, we had just about figured it out!
What would a typical storage package look likeend to end?
At Metro Storage, we like to include everything in one, simple price. That’s why we include the storage fee, VAT and FREE INSURANCE in our already competitive prices. There are no admin or sign up fees or compulsory extras for insurance. We even provide the use of a free padlock while you store with us, and there is free customer WiFi in all our stores. We can even organise free 24 hour access at some of our stores, but we do ask customers who want this extra free service to undergo further online security checks.
We have excellent value ‘move in bundles’ to help customers make the most of their storage – from basic packaging supplies, to a complete service that includes Man and Van and even a packing service.
Customers can sort out extra insurance with us if they need it over and above our free included cover. We can also provide all the packaging supplies you need – either in store or delivered to your door.
All this is managed by your own Storage Personal Assistant - Our aim is to make the whole selfstorage experience as smooth as possible, every time.
St Marylebone School
All-girls secondary (co-ed Sixth Form) rated Outstanding, known for academic excellence and creative programs. www.stmaryleboneschool.com
Lady Margaret School
Outstanding girls’ C of E secondary with a strong reputation for leadership, music and results. www.ladymargaret.lbhf.sch.uk
Kensington Aldridge Academy
Outstanding state secondary celebrated for its progressive curriculum and community focus. www.kaa.org.uk
Fox Primary School (Chelsea) Outstanding Church of England primary with small cohort size and excellent outcomes. www.foxprimary.co.uk
St Thomas’ C of E Primary (Chelsea)
Outstanding state primary, wellresourced with strong pastoral support.
www.st-thomas.rbkc.sch.uk
Chepstow House School
Independent prep school with a joyful ethos and excellent inspection ratings. www.chepstowhouseschool.co.uk
Kensington Primary Academy
Outstanding primary offering a forward-looking, inclusive curriculum. www.kensingtonprimary.academy
Thomas’s Kensington
Independent prep (ages 4–11) noted for creative curriculum and nurturing environment.
www.thomassfoundation.org.uk/ thomass-kensington
St Stephen’s C of E Primary (Shepherd’s Bush)
Outstanding primary with strong community and creative emphasis. www.ststephensce.lbhf.sch.uk
Greenside Primary (Hammersmith)
Architecturally iconic, arts-first school with strong results. www.greensideschool.org
The Knightsbridge Kindergarten
Highly rated early years provider with excellent Ofsted reviews. www.knightsbridgekindergarten. co.uk
Wetherby Prep (Notting Hill, serving Marylebone)
Independent prep with Outstandingquality inspection. www.wetherbyprep.co.uk
Four Steps To Selecting A School For Your Child
STEP 1
Understand your child’s needs
When selecting a school for your child it is important to take into account your child’s individual needs, learning style, interests, and goals when making this decision.
STEP 2
Research different schools
Once parents know what type of a school their child will benefit in, they should start researching these schools and make a list. By researching different schools, parents can get an in-depth understanding of the educational opportunities that each school provides and determine which school would be best suited for their child’s needs. Additionally, researching on different schools can provide parents with insight into the safety and security measures that are in place at each school, and give them a better idea of the quality of education they will be providing for their child.
STEP 3
Visit the shortlisted schools
Once parents have made a list of the shortlisted schools, the next step should be to visit them. Visiting different schools gives parents an opportunity to assess the quality and worthiness of each school and determine which one is best suited for their child.
STEP 4
Application Form
For a parent, the final step to selecting a school for your child should be to apply to the top selected schools. It’s important not to restrict yourself to only one application—apply to at least 2–3 of the best schools in case your child doesn’t get selected by one. Also, try to start the application process as early as possible before the schools stop taking in more students.
Featured partner
Featured partner
LOCAL RESTAURANTS
AROUND YOUR AREA
OUR PICK OF THE LOCAL NEIGHBOURHOOD RESTAURANTS
Chelsea and Knightsbridge are home to some of London’s most sophisticated dining experiences. From acclaimed Michelinstarred addresses to refined neighbourhood favourites, this curated selection showcases exceptional restaurants where exquisite flavours meet elegant settings.
Pétrus by Gordon Ramsay (Belgravia/Knightsbridge)
Refined, Michelin-starred modern French cuisine in a striking glass-walled circular dining room. Intimate and elegant, it’s polished to perfection. www.gordonramsayrestaurants.com/ petrus
Bluebird (Chelsea)
Iconic Art Deco gem on King’s Road with a bright, airy design perfect for brunch, lunch, cocktails, or dinner. Its fashion-forward vibe and terrace make it a neighbourhood staple. www.bluebird-restaurant.co.uk
Medlar (Chelsea)
Polished modern-European plates with seasonal ingredients served in a relaxed, stylish atmosphere. Consistent quality and refined daily menus attract many a repeat visit. www.medlarrestaurant.co.uk
Scalini (Chelsea)
Beloved for its hearty Italian classics, studio-lit interiors, and a sense of old-
and
by celebrities. www.scalinilondon.co.uk
Daphne’s (South Kensington/ Chelsea)
Elegant, mid-century Italian hotspot with discreet glamour. Rich flavours and an intimate setting make it a favourite for quiet celebrations. www.daphnes-restaurant.co.uk
Ottolenghi Chelsea (Chelsea)
Bright, design-forward deli café specializing in vibrant Mediterranean fare and inventive sharing dishes. A goto for brunch dates and pastry hunts. www.ottolenghi.co.uk/pages/ locations/chelsea
The Ritz Restaurant (Mayfair)
Ultra-glamorous, two-Michelin-star dining room in the legendary Ritz Hotel. Classic haute cuisine in one of London’s most iconic settings. www.theritzlondon.com/dine-with-us/ the-ritz-restaurant
school Chelsea charm. Often popular with style-savvy locals
beloved
Hakkasan Mayfair (Mayfair)
Modern Cantonese dining elevated to dramatic spectacle: sleek interiors, refined dim sum, and impeccably crafted cocktails. Glamorous and unforgettable. www.taogroup.com/venues/ hakkasan-mayfair-london
J. Sheekey (Covent Garden edge)
Seafood institution since 1896 offering shellfish, oysters and fish grills in a cosy, theatre-land ambiance. Timeless and beloved. www.j-sheekey.co.uk
Gordon’s Wine Bar (Embankment edge of Mayfair)
London’s oldest wine bar (est. 1890), hidden in candlelit cellars beneath Trafalgar Square. A romantic, rustic rapture for wine lovers. www.gordonswinebar.com
Mercato Mayfair (Mayfair)
Cultural hub in a former church, offering global street-food stalls, rooftop terraces, wine cellar and communal vibes. Casual, creative and always buzzing. www.mercatometropolitano.com
Barrafina (Soho/Marylebone edge)
Stylish Spanish tapas bar with awardwinning counter-style dining. Refined yet unpretentious, ideal for late-night small plates. www.barrafina.co.uk
Featured partner
PUBS & LIVE
Music
OUR PICK OF THE LOCAL NEIGHBOURHOOD PUBS
Steeped in charm and character, Chelsea and Knightsbridge pubs offer more than just a pint. From historic haunts with timeless appeal to stylish gastropubs with contemporary flair, discover inviting spaces where tradition, comfort and conviviality come together effortlessly.
Ixchel (Chelsea)
Mexican restaurant & tequila bar featuring house-DJ live music Thurs–Sat nights. www.ixchellondon.com
The Cadogan Arms (Chelsea) Chic gastropub with a creative seasonal menu and live weekend music.
www.thecadoganarms.london
PizzaExpress Live at The Pheasantry (Chelsea)
Iconic cabaret and jazz space beneath historic townhouses. www.pizzaexpresslive.com/venue/ the-pheasantry-chelsea
Annabel’s (Mayfair)
Legendary, ultra-lux members’ club with DJ, cabaret, and unforgettable parties.
www.annabels.co.uk
The MAINE Mayfair
Mediterranean brasserie doubling as a nightly live music venue. www.themainemayfair.com
Gordon’s Wine Bar
The world’s oldest wine bar, often with seasonal music events. www.gordonswinebar.com
Mercato Mayfair
Food-hall style venue with community events and music nights in a former church.
www.mercatometropolitano.com
Opera Tavern (Covent Garden edge)
Lively tapas bar with buzzing post-show vibes.
www.saltyardgroup.co.uk/venue/ opera-tavern
J. Sheekey
Elegant seafood restaurant near theatreland, sometimes hosting acoustic music.
www.j-sheekey.co.uk
Hakkasan Mayfair
High-end modern Cantonese with occasional live piano/lounge. www.taogroup.com/venues/ hakkasan-mayfair-london
Stylish seafood & oyster bar with frequent jazz evenings. www.scotts-restaurant.com
adding to your home value
6 GREAT STRATEGIES
In the realm of real estate, adding value to your home is not just about sprucing up its appearance; it’s an investment that can yield significant returns when done strategically. Whether you’re looking to sell your property in the near future or simply aiming to enhance your living space, here are six proven strategies to boost your home’s value.
KERB APPEAL ENHANCEMENT
The first impression matters. Invest in enhancing your home’s kerb appeal by maintaining a well-manicured lawn, planting colorful flowers, and adding appealing exterior lighting.
Fresh paint for the front door and clean, well-defined pathways can make a world of difference. Potential buyers or visitors should feel drawn to your home from the moment they arrive.
KITCHEN REMODELING
The kitchen is often considered the heart of a home, and it’s a prime area for adding value. Focus on modernizing the kitchen with updated appliances, countertops, and cabinetry. Opt for timeless designs and neutral colors that appeal to a broad range of tastes. Additionally, consider adding functional elements such as a kitchen island or a pantry to increase both aesthetics and utility.
BATHROOM UPGRADES
Similar to kitchens, bathrooms are key selling points for homes. Upgrading fixtures, such as faucets and showerheads, can instantly give a bathroom a more luxurious feel. Consider replacing worn-out tiles, installing energy-efficient toilets, and adding extra storage space. A clean, well-maintained bathroom can significantly increase your home’s value and appeal.
ENERGY-EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS
In today’s environmentally conscious world, energy-efficient homes are highly sought after.
Investing in energy-saving upgrades not only reduces utility bills but also adds value to your property. Consider installing solar panels, upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors, and enhancing insulation. These improvements not only benefit the environment but also make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
a more open floor plan. This can make your home feel larger and more inviting, ultimately increasing its value. However, be sure to consult with a professional to ensure structural integrity and compliance with building codes.
SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION
Incorporating smart home technology can make your property more desirable and valuable in today’s techsavvy market. Install smart thermostats, lighting systems, security cameras, and door locks that can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps. Not only do these technologies enhance convenience and security, but they also appeal to buyers looking for modern amenities.
in conclusion
OPEN FLOOR PLAN
Many modern homeowners prefer open, spacious layouts that facilitate seamless interaction between different areas of the house. If feasible, consider knocking down non-load-bearing walls to create
Adding value to your home involves a combination of aesthetic enhancements, functional upgrades, and strategic investments. By focusing on areas such as kerb appeal, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, energy efficiency, open floor plans, smart home technology, and additional living space, you can significantly increase your property’s value and appeal to potential buyers. Remember to prioritize improvements that align with your budget, market trends, and the preferences of your target demographic. With careful planning and execution, your home can become not only a comfortable living space but also a lucrative asset.
