If you appreciate the finer things in life – Michelin-starred meals, world-class art exhibitions, and impeccably tailored bespoke suits – London is certainly the right city for you. From Harrods and Savile Row to the decadent restaurants of Mayfair and countless five-star hotels, the British capital has plenty to offer in the way of luxury. And where to make a base to really take advantage of these opulent amenities? Prime Central London (PCL), of course. If your heart is set on a home in the highly coveted neighbourhoods of Marylebone, Mayfair, Kensington and beyond, JLL is on hand to help you find your perfect address with ease – while getting more bang for your buck.
While the tumultuous global political and economic climate of the last few years has led to a general cooldown in property prices, according to a recent JLL report, the luxury market remains robust and largely insulated from inflation turmoil. Prime Central London, in particular, remains a favourite with buyers according to Alex Carr, senior director of Prime Central London development at JLL. “London is revered as one of the top global cities in terms of lifestyle, education, politics, culture, and economy, and is seen to be one of the most stable places to invest in with a long track record of stability and strong capital growth. PCL’s postcodes, offer an enhanced lifestyle whilst also providing a strong connection to the nobility and history of London. This continues to make owning a property in PCL extremely appealing.”
Carr also highlights the rarity of some of the homes for sale in Prime Central London. “The supply shortages and restrictions on available land, against the aspirational demand for PCL property, means that prices will continue to rise as demand outstrips supply for the foreseeable future,” he says.
While the challenges faced by the property market over the last few years might have you justifiably hesitant at making the move into the heart of the capital, now might be the perfect time to sign on the dotted line. August 2024 saw the Bank of England’s first rate cut since 2020, a drop from a 16-year high of 5.25 per cent to 5 per cent, which, combined with greater political clarity following July’s elections, puts London’s property market in a strong position. “It’s very possible that we will see a market boom over the next six to 12 months,” says Carr.
If you’re thinking of making the move to or within the golden triangle, read on for JLL’s pick of the best properties to snap up now in London’s most exclusive neighbourhoods.
Marylebone Mansions, W1H
Looking for a blend of period features and modern convenience? Marylebone Mansions should be at the top of your list. While the collection of 32 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments boasts contemporary interiors, the mansions’ facade leans into the area’s typical townhouse aesthetic, with bespoke long bricks hand made in York, Portland stone windows and metalwork inspired by Georgian terraces. Plus, each property boasts access to underground parking, concierge services, a private residents’ media lounge and a gorgeous reception lobby that we can’t get enough of.
Prices from £975,000, jll.co.uk
Mandarin Oriental, W1S
On the hunt for a home with five-star services? Consider Mandarin Oriental’s collection of luxury serviced apartments. Located in Hanover Square, 80 ultra-premium one- and two-bedroom apartments come with hotel-style amenities including a spa, gym, heated indoor pool, in-residence dining, access to the hotel’s fine dining options, and, of course, a dedicated team of Mandarin Oriental trained staff – think a 24-hour concierge, valet, maintenance, housekeeping, and security.
While branded residences are a relative newcomer on London’s premium property scene, Carr believes they offer an unparalleled living experience. “Branded residences offer an opportunity for investors looking to diversify their income by owning a trophy asset investment that boasts potentially higher rental yields. Many of the branded residences offer an optional rental program as well which allows the apartment to form part of the hotel room pool when vacant, which therefore provides a combination of personal use and investment income for purchasers who may not always be living there.”
Prices from £4,188,800, jll.co.uk
Paddington Gardens, W2
Paddington has enjoyed a major facelift in the past few years prompted by the arrival of the Elizabeth line, making it a smart place to invest. Situated in the Paddington Basin – an up-and-coming neighbourhood surrounded by delectable restaurants, bars and gyms – the towering Paddington Gardens development comprises four buildings, with Camellia House marking its latest and final release. Set over 20 floors, the building features one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments, as well as penthouses, all ready for immediate occupation. Each apartment promises stunning views: lower levels look over landscaped gardens while upper floors offer far-reaching views of Prime Central London and beyond. If you like well-connected addresses, this is the home for you.
Prices from £785,000, jll.co.uk
Queen’s Gate, SW7
Nestled within Kensington’s culturally-rich borough, this opulent two-bedroom, two-bathroom luxury apartment is a rare find. Don’t believe us? Consider the metrics: it won the Luxury Lifestyle Awards gong for Best Luxury Apartment Interior Design in 2022, as well as the INT Interior Design Awards 2023. The first-floor apartment features lift access, under-floor heating, air conditioning, and four south-facing terraces overlooking the private Onslow Gardens. Inside, bespoke interiors by Jonathan Eav Atelier include handmade furniture, stylish metallic accents and marble-clad surfaces, while floor-to-ceiling windows flood the elegant spaces with natural light.
Price from £4,890,000, jll.co.uk
Buckingham Gate, SW1E
If you’re looking to live like royalty (and since you’re reading about some of the most expensive addresses in London, we can safely assume you do), you’d be hard pressed to find anywhere better than No. 6 Buckingham Gate. The stucco-fronted, Grade II-listed mansion was completely refurbished in 2014 and is as grand as they come. Brimming with classical charm, it offers eight bedrooms spread over seven floors, as well as terraces, multiple living rooms, a 10m swimming pool, spa, sauna, and gymnasium. Elegant and impressive, we particularly love the soaring ceilings that reach heights of 3.7m in the main reception rooms – and, of course, the fact you could count King Charles as a neighbour
For £45,000,000, jll.co.uk
To learn more about JLL’s Prime Central London properties, visit jll.co.uk