Living in Wood Green

Wood Green is a vibrant area combining an eclectic mix of historical charm and modern conveniences. A leafy residential suburb located in North London, Wood Green boasts a bustling main street with a plethora of lovely cafes, traditional pubs and independent restaurants throughout the neighbourhood. The iconic Alexandra Palace is located nearby, where in 1936, the first BBC Television broadcast was made.

First recorded as Woodlegh in 1256, today Wood Green is a thriving community offering solace and historical charm from London’s busy city centre.

Did You Know?

• The name Wood Green derives from Woodlegh or Woodlea, a Saxon word meaning ‘open ground near a wood’. The area was first recorded in 1256, referring to Tottenham Wood, an expansive area of woodland that covered most of the area.
• Between Wood Green and nearby Muswell Hill, you’ll find Alexandra Palace, a Grade II listed entertainment and sports venue. Built in 1873, the palace was rebuilt in 1875 following a fire and is often referred to by locals as ‘Ally Pally’.
• Alexandra Palace is located in Alexandra Park, an expansive green space boasting 196 acres of lush parkland, providing recreation to Londoners for over 150 years.
• Wood Green was part of nearby Tottenham within the county of Middlesex until it officially became part of both Haringey and Greater London in 1965.

Why Wood Green?

Wood Green is steeped in historical charm. Alexandra Palace Station opened in 1859 and continues to connect the area with central London. The neighbourhood has evolved to become one of North London’s major commercial centres, offering some of the best value properties in the area.

Wood Green offers excellent transport links and a range of amenities, making it particularly popular with families and young professionals. Residents are spoilt for choice with great areas to relax, picnic, play and enjoy some of London’s best entertainment, for both children and adults alike. The area benefits from ongoing regeneration whilst maintaining its authentic character and community feel.

The neighbourhood boasts excellent shopping facilities at The Mall Wood Green and a diverse high street reflecting the area’s multicultural community. Property prices remain competitive compared to neighbouring North London areas, offering excellent value for first-time buyers, families and investors seeking good rental yields and growth potential.

Architecture & Property

The neighbourhoods in Wood Green all have very distinct personalities. The area to the west of the High Road was developed as a predominantly middle-class residential area with attractive Victorian and Edwardian properties, whilst the area to the east consists mostly of smaller homes constructed for railway workers in the 19th century and 20th-century social housing.

Wood Green boasts an eclectic mix of old and new. The area is well known for its late 19th century and early 20th century housing estates, alongside post-war properties and more recent developments, offering diverse options for different budgets and lifestyle preferences.

Going Out

Residents living in Wood Green and the surrounding communities of North London really are spoilt for choice when it comes to going out. The area offers excellent coffee shops and independent cafes throughout the neighbourhood, perfect for working or casual meetings.

When it comes to international fare, there’s no shortage of choices for Wood Green residents. On Turnpike Lane, you’ll find Salim’s – a highly regarded curry house and local favourite established since 1972, known for authentic Pakistani cuisine and excellent value. The area also boasts several Turkish restaurants including establishments on nearby Green Lanes offering authentic grilled meats and mezze.

For a night out or sunny afternoon pint, The Nag’s Head Wood Green is a spacious sports pub with a beer garden. There’s also Spouter’s Corner, The Prince and The Starting Gate offering traditional British pub experiences.

Local Amenities

• The Mall Wood Green has over 100 national, international and local independent stores, plus a multi-screen cinema
• Residents can enjoy yoga and pilates at More Yoga, a studio near Turnpike Lane
• Every November Collage Arts, a creative hub in Wood Green, opens to the public so the artists who rent out the studios are able to sell and promote their work
• There are several swimming pools in and around Wood Green, including facilities at Park Road Leisure Centre in nearby Hornsey and other pools accessible from the area
• Alexandra Park hosts numerous different events throughout the year, including food, craft and beer festivals. Every Saturday morning, residents and visitors flock to the park for a weekly Parkrun

Green Spaces

Wood Green boasts numerous lush green spaces, including Highgate Woods and Queen’s Wood. One of the most popular green spaces in Wood Green is Alexandra Park which has been serving the communities of North London for more than 150 years, offering 196 acres of beautiful parkland with panoramic views across London.

Education

Trinity Primary Academy and Noel Park Primary School are rated Outstanding by Ofsted. St. Michael’s CofE and St. Paul’s RC Primary Schools receive Good ratings from Ofsted. The area is well-served by several schools providing excellent educational opportunities for local families.