Staging a comeback: 'faded star' of north-west London getting great value new homes, fast routes to the City and Crossrail nearby

Willesden might be described as the old lady of north-west London suburbs, a faded star now intent on staging a comeback.

The area has some elegant pockets, as well as rougher corners where it meets Neasden and Harlesden.

Grand houses stand in close contrast to council blocks. Most homes are Edwardian or Thirties.

Vitally, you get more for your money here than in nearby Maida Vale or Queen’s Park, but the price gap is narrowing.

It’s a good location for young professionals working in the finance sector as the Jubilee line cuts through this part of London, meaning you don’t have to live in the City or Canary Wharf to be early in the office.

Gladstone Village is a new micro-neighbourhood where Willesden meets Dollis Hill.

Housing association Octavia Living is selling four-bedroom houses priced from £995,000. Flats will be available later. Call 020 8208 8355 for more details.

New flats from £450,000 have been unveiled at Shoot-Up Hill. Call Hamptons on 020 3151 7649.

Over at Willesden Green, Notting Hill Housing has 16 flats from £400,000 at Beat NW10. Call 020 3815 1234.

Major regeneration at the Willesden fringes includes the giant new transport hub at Old Oak, linking Crossrail and eventually HS2, the high-speed rail line between London and Birmingham.