Inside London's 'unique' and 'rare' village where Dame Emma Thompson lives in a £3million home
The critically acclaimed actress lives in one of the city's most charming villages
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Dame Emma Thompson has received countless accolades over her career as an actress and screenwriter, which spans over four decades.
Although the actress has shown no signs of shying away from the limelight, she has resorted to a quiet life in London's idyllic West Hampstead.
Her first claim to fame came with the release of Sense and Sensibility, based on Jane Austen’s novel, which Emma Thompson wrote and starred in 1995.
As one of Thompson's first critical successes, the movie set her up for a fruitful career in acting that subsequently landed several leading blockbuster roles.
West Hampstead has become a hub for celebrities
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Emma is now thought to live in a quiet part of London. Her family home is located on the same street she grew up on and across the road from her 91-year-old mother’s abode, actress Phyllida Law.
West Hampstead is renowned for its unparalleled serenity, but in September 2023, Thompson joined other A-list celebs in a battle against plans for a “Malibu mansion” in the area.
The group condemned a redevelopment proposal, arguing it would be “very damaging” and “completely out of character” for the neighbourhood.
A letter co-signed by Thomspos and her husband Greg Wise, who starred in Sense and Sensibility, read: “It would fit in perfectly in Malibu, but not in our Conservation Area.”
Thompson and Wise, who share one daughter, reportedly reside in a £3million home that flaunts the neighbourhood’s attractive architecture. Roads across the area are lined with colourful mansion blocks and bright red brick buildings, leading to beautifully kept green spaces shared by the local community.
“West Hampstead is one of the best of London’s rare villages - a place where you can live a local lifestyle in one of the world’s greatest cities," says the website West Hampstead Central.
“This enviable location combines close proximity to transport links, shops and bars, with easy access to tree-lined stress and beautiful green spaces. It’s a dynamic community, which cherishes the unique spirit and character of this London village.”
Visitors flock to the neighbourhood in great numbers every day to indulge in shopping and kill time at charming cafes, bars and restaurants.
“West Hampstead is a place where residents spend their time in the evening and at weekends, giving the area its own animated atmosphere,” adds the neighbourhood's site.
The likes of Sting, Michael Palin, Ricky Gervais and Judy Dench have moved to the area over the years in recent decades.
Boy George is another prominent figure who once owned a mansion in the area. The singer’s luxurious home recently went on the market for an eye-watering £17million.
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Hampstead Heath has some of the 'best views' in London PAThe house, built with high ceilings and large gardens at the front and back, has existed for more than 150 years.
Known as one of the city’s grandest open green spaces, Hampstead Heath has become one of the most sought-after areas thanks to its sweeping views.
Although the city of London remains a hub for A-list celebrities, some have moved further afield to find a quieter life.
Kate Winslet lives in a quieter corner of the United Kingdom where locals enjoy a slower pace of life, while Tilda Swinton, has secured a 118-year-old home in an ancient Scottish port.