Staying in Brentford: a neighbourhood guide

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Thoroughly modern open-plan living marries beautifully with the characterful Victorian charm of our new serviced apartments in Brentford – St Georges. Set on the Thames in a converted former church, with the verdant expanse of Kew Gardens across the water and the busy high streets of Chiswick and Richmond in easy reach, these apartments offer an incredible stay for corporate and leisure travellers alike. In this blog we delve into the building’s storied history and round up the local area’s best attractions for you to explore.


A site steeped in history

Designed by esteemed architect A.W. Blomfield, St Georges was an active house of worship from 1887 until it was integrated with two local churches in 1959. The adjacent Grade II listed Sarah Trimmer Hall was home to one of the country’s oldest Sunday schools and was frequently visited by Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III, who had a keen interest in the education of Brentford’s less advantaged population. 

From 1963 to 2008, St Georges was home to the Musical Museum, housing a collection of working instruments of rare and antiquarian origins; the museum has now moved to a new purpose-built location just up the high street, which also includes a concert hall for live performances and a café.

The St Georges development

The site has been beautifully converted into a unique collection of two- and three-bedroom luxury apartments by IDM Properties. There’s been a conscious effort to preserve historic details, such as original arches and masonry, while also celebrating modern open-plan living with carefully zoned areas in which to cook, dine and relax. As part of the development, the stained glass windows and a number of memorial stones that were removed are due to be preserved at the London Museum of Water & Steam, a historic pumping station located up the road near Kew Bridge which offers a great day out for all the family.

A vibrant local area with plenty to see and do

From some of our apartments you can glimpse the sprawling expanse of the UNESCO world heritage site Kew Gardens. The globally-renowned botanical gardens are home to more than 50,000 living plants. You can also explore the 17th-century elegance of Kew Palace, a former royal summer home, or head through a bluebell wood to find the tucked-away rustic gem that is Queen Charlotte’s Cottage.

Overlooking the gardens is Watermans Art Centre, with a 239-seat theatre, a 125-seat cinema and two galleries to enjoy. On sunny days, walk along the Thames Path and admire the colourful houseboats, or head to nearby Syon Park to explore its 40 acres of gardens and historic house filled with incredible art.

The multitude of independent retailers and brand-name shops on Chiswick High Street can be found just a short 10-minute bus ride from our apartments; check out fashion boutiques, homeware stores or quirky places to pick up a perfect gift. On the first Sunday of the month, head across the bridge to the Kew Village Market, where independent traders sell everything from artisan food to handmade crafts and unique gifts – it’s a real community hub, with live music and charity stalls helping to raise funds for local initiatives.

Great places to eat and drink can be found in easy walking distance, with plenty of cafés, restaurants, pubs and bars to enjoy. Head down the high street to Galata Pera, a warmly-lit restaurant serving Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine; La Rosetta for traditional Italian in a rustic setting with outdoor tables; or Makai for upmarket seafood across three boldly-decorated floors. The Black Dog Beer House and The Brook are also popular options for relaxed drinks and eclectic menus in the heart of Brentford. Clustered around historic Brentford Docks on the banks of the River Brent (about 14 minutes’ walk from our apartments), you’ll find great cocktails at The Weir Bar, an award-winning venue which has been serving the Brentford community for 20 years.

 

Stay connected while enjoying a peaceful pocket of West London

With Kew Bridge station just 0.4 miles away and Brentford Station 0.9 miles away, getting around London is easy, making these apartments a perfect location for travellers who want to remain connected. Heathrow Airport is reachable in a 20-minute drive, while the key business hub of Brentside Park is a 6-minute drive away.

 

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