Flats to rent in Knightsbridge London SW1 , SW3

Living in Knightsbridge offers luxurious living at its best. Despite humble origins, the district has become reputable for two things - firstly for being one of the two international epicentres of London (the other being the West End). And secondly, its array of affluent department stores including Harrods, Harvey Nichols and the plethora of elegant stores in Sloane Square and Beauchamp Place, have made it the envy of the world when it comes to shopping.

Living

But these areas of notoriety are very tourist and day-trip orientated. What is Knightsbridge like to live in, we hear you ask? (Because we have very good hearing). You're unlikely to find prices under £425 per week (ranging all the way up to £25,00 per week), there's more than in enough in the way of choice when it comes to architecture. Many of the buildings in Knightsbridge are grouped around grand squares. The district is extremely leafy, especially considering its position in the heart of London, and it is also one of the capital's most protected areas.

As such, you'll find property here from throughout the ages - particularly pleasing if you can see yourself living in a home with plenty of character. If you go weak at the knees for a red-bricked Queen Anne revival home, have a walk down the Cadogan Estates. On the other hand, if you're a sucker for the white stucco-fronted house found throughout London, your best bet is the Grosvenor Estate.

If safety is your top concern - and let's face it, why shouldn't it be? - Knightsbridge is one of the most secure locations in London. Residential homes are covered with plenty of CCTV or patrolled by security guards, while railings or bars over the lower windows are commonplace.

A grand day out

As well as the array of shops that Knightsbridge has to offer, it also has a wealth of bars, restaurants and eateries to while away the time in. This being Knightsbridge - and home to some of London's richest residents - these are all fairly upmarket. That doesn't mean there's nowhere to locate an affordable bite to eat, though. Like the housing, sheer variety is your choice here.

If it's warm, why bother with a stuffy bar or pub at all? Grab some beers and a picnic and head out to the district's local green space - the truly wonderful Hyde Park.

Travelling

Knightsbridge is very close to being at the centre of London, but for those rare occasions when you don't want to walk into town (while tottering along in high heels on a night out, for instance, or while staggering back after too many beers at the football match) there are plenty of options for local travel. Knightsbridge Underground Station is served by the Piccadilly Line which offers regular services to Covent Garden and Leicester Square - perfect for an impromptu night out or similar.

Despite the expense of living in Knightsbridge, it really is worth it if you can afford it. Why do you think so many of the world's richest choose to live here?