A guide to St John’s Wood: Where to stay, eat, and explore
Looking for a peaceful pocket of London with village vibes – but still close to the action? Say hi to St John’s Wood.
Just a few stops from Bond Street, this leafy, upmarket neighbourhood is full of charm. It’s quiet, pretty, and relaxed – but also has plenty of personality. Think historic streets, artsy spots, and a laid-back energy that makes it a great home base for students.
You’ll find grand old houses, cute boutiques, and a mix of local cafes and big names. There’s also a rich creative history here – it’s home to Abbey Road Studios (where The Beatles’ iconic album cover turned a zebra crossing into a global landmark) and the legendary Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Wanting to feel like you’re living in a village but still be minutes from Central London? This is your spot.
Where is St John’s Wood?
It’s in North West London, between Primrose Hill, Regent’s Park and Hampstead - all perfect for weekend walks or picnics. It falls within the London boroughs of Camden and the City of Westminster, and you’re never far from a Tube or bus to get you where you need to go.
It’s a peaceful area - clean, safe, and stylish - with all the perks of city life, minus the chaos. Indeed, statistically speaking, St John’s Wood remains one of the safest places to live in Zone 1, 2 or 3.
There’s a strong community vibe here, with local shops, great schools, and plenty of cosy cafés. And you might just spot a famous face - like Sir Paul McCartney who’s lived in St John’s Wood since 1965.
…even the tube station is nice, with accompanying florist and coffee bar!
Transport links
St John’s Wood boasts excellent transport links, making it a convenient area for students and professionals.
Underground
St John's Wood Underground Station is in Zone 2 and is served by the Jubilee Line. Offering direct access to central London stations like Bond Street, Westminster, and Waterloo – which can all be reached in less than 20 minutes by Tube.
National Rail
While St John's Wood doesn't have its own National Rail station, nearby stations offer additional options:
Marylebone Station: A 20-minute walk or a short bus ride away, providing services to destinations like Oxford.
Paddington Station: Accessible via bus or a short Uber ride, offering services to the West Country, Wales, and Heathrow Airport.
Bus Services
St John's Wood is well-served by buses, providing lots of connections to different parts of London:
13: North Finchley ↔ Victoria
46: Lancaster Gate ↔ St Bartholomew’s Hospital
113: Edgware ↔ Marble Arch
187: Finchley Road, O2 Centre ↔ Central Middlesex Hospital
139: Waterloo ↔ Golders Green
189: Brent Cross Shopping Centre ↔ Marble Arch
274: Lancaster Gate ↔ Islington
The routes provide frequent services, connecting St John's Wood to central London and surrounding areas.
Local universities and schools
One of the biggest perks of living in St John’s Wood is how close it is to some of London’s best universities and language schools. Whether you’re here short-term or settling in for a degree, you’ll find yourself within easy reach of:
American School in London
Royal Central School of Speech and Drama
London Business School
Regents University
Royal Academy of Music
Westminster Business School
Luxury stays nearby
The Regents Park Residences
Looking for a sleek, modern space with all the bells and whistles? The Regents Park Residences are a great shout. These high-end serviced apartments come in a range of layouts – all finished to a seriously high-spec. Think huge outdoor patios, stylish kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, and LED TVs in every bedroom. You’ll also get 24-hour concierge, an on-site gym, and weekly housekeeping – plus perks like air con and underfloor heating to keep things comfy all year round.
Blenheim Terrace
If you’re after something that feels more like home, Blenheim Terrace ticks all the boxes. These 1 and 1.5-bed apartments are bright, airy, and full of charm. Expect wooden floors, inviting interiors, and thoughtful touches like espresso machines, dishwashers, and rainfall showers. It’s a warm, welcoming spot that makes settling in easy.
The Beachcroft
The Beachcroft puts you right on one of London’s most iconic streets (yes, that Abbey Road), with a set of gorgeous one-bed apartments to match. Each space is light, roomy, and fully kitted out – including a proper kitchen, in-unit laundry, fast Wi-Fi, and a dedicated desk for getting things done. Bathtubs offer the perfect place to unwind after a long day of classes (or crossing zebra crossings).
Where to dine
Laurents
Looking for a chill spot to fuel up or unwind? Laurents is your go-to. This family-run deli and coffee shop serves fresh, seasonal meals with a side of cozy vibes. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee between classes or settling in for a colourful salad or light bite, it’s the perfect place to catch up with friends or squeeze in a study session.
The Ivy
Need a break from campus food? The Ivy’s got you covered with a fun, laid-back atmosphere that’s ideal for students. From classic café favourites to vegan and veggie options, there’s something for every craving. With an all-day menu, you can pop in for brunch, lunch, or dinner – plus the stylish interior and colourful cocktails make it a great spot to unwind after a long day of lectures.
Maido Sushi
Craving something fresh and flavour-packed? Maido Sushi brings top-tier Japanese-inspired cuisine to St John’s Wood. From quality sashimi to sushi tacos and yellowtail carpaccio, it’s a must-visit for sushi lovers. Whether you’re dining in with friends or grabbing takeout for a study night in, Maido’s laid-back vibe and premium dishes are sure to impress.
Oree
Got a sweet tooth? Oree’s French-inspired patisserie is a must for any student with a craving for something delicious. Offering everything from fresh pastries and artisan breads to mouth-watering sandwiches and expertly brewed coffee, it's the perfect place to study, snack, or just enjoy a bit of Parisian charm in St John’s Wood.
Things to see (when not studying)
Abbey Road Studios
Music fan or not, this place is iconic. Abbey Road Studios is where The Beatles recorded some of their most legendary tracks – and remains one of St John’s Wood’s biggest landmarks. The famous zebra crossing is a classic photo op and a fun way to brush up on your music history.
Lord’s Cricket Ground
Whether you’re into sports or just love a good bit of tradition, Lord’s is a landmark worth checking out. Known as the Home of Cricket, it’s packed with history, and you can even catch a match if you’re feeling sporty. There’s also a museum if you’re curious about how the game evolved (or just want to sound like you know the rules).
Regent’s Park
Need some green space? Regent’s Park is your local escape from lectures and screen time. Perfect for a jog, a picnic, or just a lazy afternoon in the sun. There’s a boating lake, tennis courts, and even a rose garden – ideal for decompressing between deadlines.
Regent’s Canal
A famous waterway running right through St John’s Wood, Regent’s Canal winds its way into some of London’s prettiest neighbourhoods – and it’s well worth the walk. Lined with narrowboats, cafés, and scenic views, it’s perfect for a slow stroll. Bring your coffee, plug in a podcast, and wander – it’s one of the best low-key ways to explore the area.
Hampstead Theatre
Into live performance? Hampstead Theatre is a gem for new writing and modern productions. It’s close by, affordable for students, and a great way to discover fresh voices in theatre. Whether you’re into drama, comedy, or something a bit experimental, there’s always something interesting on stage.
A little about us
At Student Luxe, we specialise in high-quality, private student accommodation in some of London’s best locations, with great amenities and flexible options to suit your needs.
If you have any questions or need a hand with your accommodation search, feel free to get in touch — we’re always happy to help.
