Tree-lined avenues, bar-lined strips of canal and a host of unique places to grab a bite to eat: sometimes it can be hard to believe that Maida Vale is part of London at all. But this charming corner of north-west London, lying just to the south of the bustling area of Kilburn, is actually only 12 minutes on the Bakerloo line from Oxford Circus.
Liking the sound of it already? Then you might be excited to hear about NOMA – a brand new development in North Maida Vale made up of 248 multi-sized apartments designed with the needs of hard-working millennials in mind. All the two-, three- or four-bed properties have fully-fitted, centralised kitchen spaces filled with gleaming new Siemens appliances, plus there are airy outdoor spaces and expertly chic interiors. Add to this a 12-hour concierge and access to a residents-only gym suite and, yeah, you’re already seeing the attraction.
So while you start thinking about the pot plants, let us help you get to know your (maybe?) new neighbourhood.
The newest edition to the Maida Vale food scene opened over the Christmas break (just when you might have been too busy scoffing turkey to realise). The sleek restaurant offers a distinctly Japanese take on the Italian classic, plus tasty Asian sharing sides and a full drinks menu featuring plenty of sake and whisky. We’re in.
The Elgin remains a firm favourite with the locals for a reason. This is a contemporary take on the classic British pub that’s as perfect for warming winter tipples as it is for a cheeky glass of post-work Pimm’s on a summer evening. We come here for the seasonal menu of hearty gastro pub fare with a European twist and (most of all) the Sunday roasts. Just be warned: you need to book in advance if you want to guarantee a table.
The Puppet Theatre Barge is another long-term hero in the Maida Vale neighbourhood. Everything performed here is suitable for children and families but, frankly, we defy any adult not to have their heart melted and their eyes opened by the delicate skill and boundless creativity of the puppetry shows. Its springtime programme for 2020 includes ‘Brer Rabbit visits Africa’, where the titular bunny travels cross-continent to see his grandma.
Feeling a little bruised and battered from the hubbub of London? Never mind – book a table for brunch at the Quince Tree Café and you’ll soon be feeling a little bit more revived. Concealed in the peaceful surrounds of Clifton Nurseries, the light-soaked café serves food throughout the day – but it’s the veggie feast known as ‘The Scrumper’ on its breakfast menu that really gets our hearts (and stomachs) singing.
The food at this highly-rated local restaurant is about as authentic as Persian food comes. Kish has been a popular neighbourhood haunt since 2009, with some seriously beautiful plates of classic Persian food as colourful as they are delicious. Our tip? The ghormeh sabzi – a traditional Persian lamb stew with red kidney beans, mushrooms and saffron rice.
A stone’s throw from Maida Vale’s iconic Abbey Road lies Lord’s Cricket Ground, one of Britain’s most famous sports venues. And you don’t have to be the most devoted fan of a googly to appreciate the charms of a day out watching a game. Cricket, like tennis, has ‘English summer afternoon’ engraved through it like a stick of rock. Grab some bubbly, take a seat and pray for clear skies. Howzat!
Nestled between north Maida Vale and the bottom of Kilburn is this little gem of a bakery and coffee shop. Grab your regular lattes, pastries and savouries here (and marvel at how much nicer they taste than normal), then start planning a big occasion just so you have an excuse to order a cake from them. Cute as this local favourite may look, it’s actually the supplier of delicacies to Harvey Nicks. So it must be doing something right, eh?
Paddington Recreational Ground might be the best-known green space around these parts, but we love Paddington Old Cemetery for a quiet and relaxing stroll. Yes, it might seem a little bit ghoulish to wander between the tombstones, but like a lot of the capital’s burial spots this one is tranquil and picturesque. It’s also the proud home of a bee yard where a special ‘Tombstones Honey’ is made.
One of the benefits of being a NOMA resident is the opportunity to use the residents-only on-site gym facilities. However, if you’re looking to augment your routine with another local class, we’re fans of Iyengar Yoga Studios. If you’d like to try out the iyengar method, the centre runs free taster sessions throughout the year – just make sure to book before you go.
Looking to cosy up in the warmth on a wet evening? Everyman Maida Vale always has a great range of Hollywood and slightly more indie/artsy flicks programmed for its screens. Head to Sutherland Avenue and take advantage of the fact Everyman cinemas always have excellent snacking menus.
