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There's more to Kew than world-famous gardens

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Those who know London recognise Kew as home to one of the world's most famous gardens, an exquisitely landscaped 300 acres of flowers and plants from around the globe.

But residents of Augusta House will discover the neighbourhood offers far more than just the renowned botanical collection.

Rich in history and tradition, with former royal palaces, riverside walks and extensive parkland a short distance away, the area also has great shopping, excellent restaurants and fast public transport connections to everything happening in and around London.

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Closest is Kew Village with its Georgian architecture and picture-perfect village green, creating a tranquil ambience and sense of escape from the more bustling parts of the city. There, one can find interesting boutiques, organic delicatessens and small specialist shops, along with some of west London's very best bars, bistros and eating spots.

A few minutes further away is Chiswick, sometimes described as one of the capital's best-kept secrets. It offers a cosmopolitan atmosphere and riverside greenery, but also excellent schools, health and fitness facilities, and a High Street with international designer stores and local favourites. For a break, there are waterside pubs and al fresco cafes. 'The historic Thames Path is easily accessible from Kew Bridge West and is a wonderful place to stroll, jog or take a bike ride, with spectacular views of the Botanical Gardens on the opposite bank,' says Peter Murray, director of residential at Jones Lang LaSalle. 'The grounds there were once royal estates enjoyed by kings, but today they are designated a [Unesco] World Heritage Site, and nearby Richmond Park, with its woodland and herds of deer, is a national nature reserve.'

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Regarding transport options to go further afield, the first choice could be either the Gunnersbury or Kew Gardens stop on the underground's District Line, or main line Kew Bridge station which has services to Waterloo. Major motorways the M4 and M25 are so close as to be almost on the doorstep, as is Heathrow airport for flights to Hong Kong and destinations worldwide.

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