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West London Guide

Fulham: History, Attractions and Ambiance

Riverside walks, Fulham Palace, football, family streets and relaxed west London living.

Fulham is a riverside neighbourhood in south-west London known for its bishops' palace, two football clubs and some of London's most attractive residential streets.

A bishop's home and two football grounds

For over a thousand years, Fulham Palace was associated with the Bishops of London. The house and its gardens, beside Bishop's Park on the Thames, are open to visitors, and the walled garden is one of the area's hidden pleasures.

Fulham is also football country. Craven Cottage, home of Fulham FC, sits on the river beside the park, and Stamford Bridge, home of Chelsea FC, is at the other end of Fulham. Between them are Victorian terraces, Parsons Green, the antique shops of the New King's Road and the private Hurlingham Club.

What to see

  • Fulham Palace and walled garden – history and gardens beside the Thames.
  • Bishop's Park – riverside walks and play areas.
  • Parsons Green and Eel Brook Common – village-like greens.
  • New King's Road – interiors and antique shops.

Eating and atmosphere

Fulham has many pubs and restaurants, particularly around Parsons Green and Fulham Road. The atmosphere is residential and relaxed, except on match days when crowds fill the streets near the grounds.

A suggested half day

Visit Fulham Palace, walk the riverside path in Bishop's Park past Craven Cottage, and finish with lunch around Parsons Green or Fulham Broadway.

Getting there

The District line serves Fulham Broadway, Parsons Green and Putney Bridge. The A4 and A3220 are the main roads north and east, with Putney Bridge crossing the river.

Getting there with Mason & Green

Heathrow is usually reached via the A4 and M4. Gatwick is reached via Wandsworth and the A3 or A24. On match days at Craven Cottage or Stamford Bridge, we plan earlier pickups and quieter routes.

See our Heathrow Airport transfers page.

Frequently asked questions

Is Fulham Palace free to visit?

Entry to the house and gardens has generally been free. Check opening times before you visit.

Which football clubs are in Fulham?

Fulham FC at Craven Cottage and Chelsea FC at Stamford Bridge.

Do football matches affect travel in Fulham?

Yes. Roads around both grounds are busy on match days, so plan extra time.

About the author: Sunil Thakore founded Mason & Green, a TfL-licensed London private hire operator, in 2011. The company is now owned and run by his sons, Neal and Dev Thakore. Sunil writes practical guidance based on the company’s day-to-day experience with airport, cruise-port, station, family and chauffeur journeys. View author profile

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