Living in Hendon

Hendon enjoys a welcoming and active community atmosphere, supported by a mix of long-term residents, new arrivals, and a substantial student body. Community centres and places of worship — including synagogues, churches, and mosques — act as social hubs and offer various classes, clubs, and support networks.

The area is proud of its green and blue spaces, such as the Brent Reservoir and Sunny Hill Park, where locals can jog, picnic, and take part in water or nature activities. Seasonal events, including festivals and fairs at Middlesex University and the Brent Cross area, provide opportunities for socialising and celebrating the local identity.

Hendon’s numerous local shops, markets, and regular community projects foster a tight-knit and inclusive environment, making it a desirable place for those seeking a strong sense of local belonging amidst London’s urban sprawl.

Safety in Hendon is in line with many diverse and well-populated London suburbs. While it does experience some of the typical urban challenges such as property-related crimes, the overall perception is that Hendon is a safe and stable place to live. Active policing by the Metropolitan Police helps to keep crime rates manageable, and there are ongoing initiatives to further reduce antisocial behaviour, with close collaboration between local authorities and resident groups.

Neighbourhood Watch schemes are active in parts of Hendon, and the presence of the Middlesex University campus and large family population contribute to a lively, visible community. Areas closer to main transport hubs are typically busier, while residential streets tend to be quieter and perceived as safe by residents. Ongoing community-led projects and strategic investment continue to focus on making Hendon a welcoming and secure environment for all.

Parking in Hendon can be variable depending on the specific street and proximity to commercial hotspots like Brent Street or close to Middlesex University. Many residential roads operate permit schemes for residents, and limited on-street parking is available in most parts of Hendon. Pay-and-display bays can be found near shops and public spaces, but during peak times, particularly on market or event days, demand for parking can increase.

The area enjoys excellent road connections; the M1 motorway begins just north of Hendon, providing a direct route to northern England. The A41 and A406 North Circular Road cross through or near the suburb, offering swift access to the wider London area and beyond. Brent Cross – approx. 10 minutes via A41, Finchley – approx. 15 minutes via A504, Golders Green – approx. 10 minutes via A502, Central London – approx. 30–40 minutes via A41 and A501.

While Hendon has sections where congestion can occur during the morning and evening peaks, its road infrastructure is considered a strength for commuters reliant on car travel.

Hendon offers a diverse food scene reflecting its multicultural community. Brent Street is known for its mix of independent cafés, bakeries, international restaurants and kosher eateries. For traditional British fare, The Greyhound and The Claddagh Ring are longstanding local pubs. Japanese, Middle Eastern, and Indian cuisine feature prominently among local dining choices.

Nightlife in Hendon is typically low key, more focused on pubs and relaxed bars than on clubs. There are several shisha lounges and late-night cafés frequented by students and locals alike. For more vibrant nightlife and late-night entertainment, residents often venture to nearby Camden or West Hampstead.

Takeaway options cater to every taste — from pizza and kebab shops to kosher delis. On weekends, residents enjoy brunch spots and artisanal coffee shops, while nearby Golders Green opens up further culinary horizons.

School quality: Hendon is considered an attractive option for families due to its choice of highly regarded primary and secondary schools, as well as faith-based and independent offerings, ensuring options for various educational priorities.

Parks and green space: Families benefit from access to green areas like Sunny Hill Park and the Brent Reservoir, ideal for picnics, play, and outdoor sports.

Childcare: Childcare providers, nurseries, and afterschool clubs operate throughout Hendon, giving working parents flexible options close to home.

Safety: The neighbourhood maintains good levels of safety, and community policing is visible and proactive, making Hendon feel secure for raising children.

Family activities: Activities for all ages are accessible locally — from children’s library sessions to watersports at the Welsh Harp, ensuring families have plenty of options for recreation.

Hendon is well suited to pet owners, thanks to an abundance of green space and dog-friendly routes through local parks, especially around Sunny Hill Park and Brent Reservoir, both favourites for dog walkers. The area supports several reputable veterinary practices and pet supply shops, making animal care convenient for residents.

Community attitudes towards pets are positive, and local housing — including flats and houses with gardens — is generally accommodating to responsible pet ownership. Opportunities for countryside walks are a short drive away, and a number of pubs and cafés in the area welcome dogs in outdoor seating areas, reflecting Hendon’s friendly approach to pet living.

Hendon is exceptionally well connected, making it a strategic location for commuters and travelers seeking access to central London and beyond. The suburb is served by Hendon Central underground station on the Northern line, with direct journeys to Camden Town, King’s Cross, and Bank. Mainline rail services from Hendon station connect the area with Luton, St Albans, and London St Pancras International.

A comprehensive local bus network links Hendon to neighboring areas such as Golders Green, Brent Cross, Colindale, and Finchley. Major roads including the M1 motorway, A406 North Circular, and A41 are easily accessible, facilitating car travel across North London and to the Midlands.

The closest airport, London Luton Airport, is around 40 minutes by train or car, while London Heathrow Airport is about 45–60 minutes’ drive, depending on traffic. Popular commute times:

• Central London (West End): ~30 minutes by Northern line
• City of London: ~35-40 minutes by tube
• St Pancras International: ~20 minutes by Thameslink
• Brent Cross Shopping Centre: ~5–10 minutes by bus or car

Primary Schools:
Hendon is home to a range of both state-funded and independent primary schools. Sunnyfields Primary School is popularly regarded for its inclusive approach (Ofsted rated Good, 2022). Parkfield Primary School, on Park Road, is also highly sought after by local families (Ofsted Good, 2021). North West London Jewish Day School stands out for its distinctive ethos and family atmosphere, catering to the area’s sizeable Jewish community.

Secondary Schools:
The suburb benefits from several reputable secondary schools. Hendon School, a co-educational academy on Golders Rise, has a consistent record and remains popular with families (Ofsted Outstanding, 2011). Whitefield School serves a broad catchment area and is known for its diversity (Ofsted Good, 2019).

Independent & Faith Schools:
St. Mary’s and St. John’s CofE School offers education from primary through secondary years with a distinctive Christian ethos (Ofsted Good, 2018). Independent education options include The Hendon Preparatory School, which provides a nurturing setting for younger children aged 2–11.

Colleges & Universities:
Hendon is particularly notable as the main base for Middlesex University, which attracts thousands of students from the UK and globally. This modern campus brings a youthful energy and academic culture to the area, with a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across business, health, arts, and sciences.