Top Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in London, Ontario
The question we hear most often from new patients arriving in our chair is not about teeth. It is some version of “we are moving to London with kids, where should we live?”
Plenty of neighbourhoods in the Forest City work for families. Only a handful consistently rise to the top when the criteria are family-friendly in the real sense: schools you can walk to, green space at the end of the street, and family services close enough that a 4 p.m. doctor’s appointment does not eat your evening.
This is our shortlist. For a deeper, ten-neighbourhood breakdown with trade-offs and price context, see our comprehensive guide to the best neighbourhoods in London for families.
For a curated top five, keep reading.
What "Family-Friendly" Actually Means in London
A London neighbourhood that genuinely works for raising kids tends to score on five things, not one:
- Public school catchment at the elementary level through the Thames Valley District School Board or London District Catholic School Board
- Walkable green space with a playground, splash pad, or trail access within a few blocks
- Community recreation like a City of London community centre, pool, or library branch within a short drive
- Quiet residential streets with sidewalks and safe school routes
- Proximity to family services including a family doctor, paediatrician, and family dentist
1. Byron (Southwest London)
Byron’s family pitch is built on outdoor access. Springbank Park, London’s largest park, runs along the Thames River through the neighbourhood and contains Storybook Gardens. Boler Mountain sits at the western edge for winter skiing and summer mountain biking.
Elementary schools (Byron Northview, Byron Somerset, Byron Southwood) are strong through TVDSB, and the Byron Optimist Community Centre at Jorgenson Park anchors year-round programming. The trade-off is a 15 to 20 minute drive to central London.
2. Old North (Central, North of Downtown)
Old North trades suburban space for genuine walkability. The neighbourhood sits between Western University and the Thames River, with Gibbons Park as its main green space and direct connection to the Thames Valley Parkway.
Families value the catchment for Lord Roberts French Immersion and St. George’s Public School, the short walk to Richmond Row, and proximity to LHSC University Hospital. Heritage homes mean ongoing maintenance, so this fits families who prefer walking-distance amenities and do not mind a renovation list.
3. Wortley Village and Old South (Central South)
Wortley Village and Old South remain among London’s most charming, community-oriented neighbourhoods, known for their historic homes, walkable streets, local shops, and strong village feel. Wortley Village has also been named the Best Neighbourhood in Canada by the Canadian Institute of Planners, a recognition that reflects the community character still evident today. Wortley Road Public School and Tecumseh Public School sit within walking distance for many Old South families, while the Wortley Village BIA supports resident-driven events throughout the year, including Gathering on the Green and Christmas in the Village. Thames Park adds outdoor recreation with a seasonal pool and access to the Thames Valley Parkway.
4. Masonville and Sunningdale (North London)
This part of north London skews to newer construction and larger family-sized homes. A.B. Lucas Secondary School is the public high school anchor for the area, and Plane Tree Park and Medway Valley Heritage Forest North provide nearby green space. Western University, LHSC University Hospital, and Masonville Place are all roughly 10 to 15 minutes away. Best fit for families who want move-in-ready housing with strong school catchments and easy north-end commutes.
5. Hyde Park (Northwest)
Hyde Park is one of the faster-growing parts of London, and most housing here is from the last two decades. Jack Chambers Public School and several newer-build schools serve the area, and the Hyde Park Power Centre handles weekend errands without leaving the neighbourhood. Easy access to Highway 401 and 402 helps families with one parent commuting outside the city. The trade-off is the lack of mature trees and heritage character that central neighbourhoods have.
How to Choose Between Them
Working at LHSC or Western? Lean north (Masonville, Sunningdale, Old North).
Want a village feel and outdoor access? Byron or Wortley.
New build with backyards? Hyde Park or Sunningdale.
Tight budget but still want southwest London access? Westmount is the sleeper pick, covered in our full neighbourhood guide.
Family Services Are Part of the Decision
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Explore London, Ontario Guides & Neighborhoods
Discover everything about living in London, Ontario—from family-friendly neighborhoods to relocation guides, local hotspots, and lifestyle insights. Explore the articles below to learn more:
➤ Best Neighborhoods to Live in London, Ontario for Families
➤ Moving to London, Ontario? Complete Relocation Guide
➤ Why More People Are Moving to London, Ontario
➤ Top Events and Festivals in London, Ontario
➤ Downtown London, Ontario vs North London: Which Is Better?