Harlesden is a suburb located in the northwest of London. It was once a small and rural part of the village of Willesden. It benefited from the industrial revolution and the arrival of the railway and thus became a much better and improved place.
In terms of safety, Harlesden, like any other neighborhood of London, has many violence and drug issues. In fact, the area was known to have a drug issue in the past.
However, over the course of time, the crime rates have decreased and are now lower than the average.
Serval community forums along with the police help reduce and prevent crime in the area, making it a safer and peaceful place for the residents.
The area is quite peaceful and homes are affordable. This attracts homebuyers. Some parts of Harlesden have grown in popularity in recent years but have escaped the gentrification and associated skyrocketing housing prices that have plagued much of the city.
How Dangerous Is Harlesden?
Harlesden, like any other London neighborhood, has many violence and drug issues. In fact, it had big drug problems in the past. However, crime rates have declined over time and are presently lower than the average.
It is still populated by many drug traffickers, burglars, thugs, uncultured, uncivilized people, and gangsters. Many shady businesses and activities still take place, like in any other part of London. You’re safe here if you don’t get involved in such activities and keep an eye out for yourself. It is your responsibility to take care of yourself and your belongings and make sure you don’t go to backward areas.
Many people claim it’s a dangerous place to live in, but the majority of them have never visited Harlesden. Most people’s opinions are not based on their experience. The area is quite diversified as many distinct communities reside within this area, attractive, and affordable where you can live for a limited amount of money.
There are many people who live in this area and despite Harlesden’s negative image, they claim that it’s a fantastic area to live in. The community is vibrant, roads are clean, neighbors look out for each other, and there are many elite cafes, eateries, shopping malls, and sources of entertainment for everyone.
What Is Harlesden Known For?
Harlesden has improved so much over the course of time, and now it offers artistic views, great Victorian terraces, affordable houses, and much more.
Harlesden is tremendously lively, despite being associated with many street, gun, and drug crimes. Many parts of it are plagued with poverty. Such areas are backward and not appropriate to raise your families.
On the other hand, there are areas where people look out for each other, and there is an increased level of security.
These areas are advanced and are currently crisscrossed by railway lines. The improved railway lines and great transportation links make this area unique on its own.
There are also a number of shops, salons, barbers, grocery stores, restaurants, cafes, bars, and shopping malls along the High Street. It is also famous for its diversity.
In terms of housing societies, Harlesden contains many streets with attractive Victorian-style houses that are not only beautiful but also quite affordable. Moreover, the rent is low, which is why many bachelors, and struggling young professionals prefer living here.
The educational institutes are highly advanced and elite in this area. There are also many sources of entertainment for people, such as green parks, amusement parks, shopping malls, restaurants, including Caribbean restaurants, and a theater that doesn’t just play movies but also displays live performances for everyone to enjoy.
Furthermore, there are also many golf clubs in the area, and sports enthusiasts enjoy many sports events that take place throughout the year.
One of the best things about Harlesden is that, as it is a diverse area of London, it welcomes people from all kinds of religions. You can visit Hindu temples and churches all year. You might spend hours admiring the beauty of these sacred places.
Is Harlesden Gentrified?
Gentrification is actually a type of urban development in which an area or a city converts from a low-value area to a high-value area in a short span of time.
Harlesden seems like an urban rather than a suburban area, which adds to its appeal. The roads, as well as the housing societies, are advanced. The roads, particularly, are straightforward and clean.
It hasn’t quite reached the whole level of gentrification, but it appears that it will achieve that level. The residences in this area are modern and elite, worth millions of pounds.
All things considered, Harlesden, like any other London borough, is plagued by crime and drug abuse. In fact, it has a history of serious drug issues. Crime rates, on the other hand, have decreased with time and are now lower than the average.
Many people say Harlesden is a dangerous place to live, yet the vast majority of them have never been there. The majority of people’s viewpoints are not founded on personal experience. The location is highly diverse since it is home to many different towns. It is also lovely and economical, allowing you to live on a budget.
These are developed areas that are now crisscrossed by railway lines. This location stands out due to its enhanced railway lines and excellent transportation connections.
Along the High Street, there are also a variety of businesses, salons, barbers, grocery stores, restaurants, cafes, pubs, and shopping malls. It’s also known for its cultural diversity.
Harlesden is quiet, and the houses are reasonably priced. Homebuyers are drawn to this area. Some areas of Harlesden have become more popular in recent years, although they have evaded the gentrification and increasing home costs that have afflicted the rest of the city.
In short, many people who reside in Harlesden say, despite Harlesden’s bad reputation, that it is a wonderful place to live in. It is vibrant, the roads are clean, neighbors watch out for one another, and there are numerous high-end cafes, diners, shopping centers, and entertainment options for everyone.
