David Attenborough's ascent to fame started soon after the release of jaw-dropping nature documentaries. Today, he is a household name across the country.
Having narrated a score of award-winning documentaries like Blue Planet and Life On Earth, the 97-year-old explorer's compelling voice resonates with generations old and new. The presenter lives in London.
Despite being propelled into the limelight, the celebrity veteran enjoys a humble life in one of London's most idyllic suburbs.
Attenborough made Richmond his home in 1951, after falling in love with the neighbourhood’s open spaces.
David Attenborough has spoken fondly of Richmond in past interviews
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His Edwardian abode has been the subject of several news reports over the years. A memorable report shed light on the broadcaster’s home in 2011 after a skull was discovered in his garden.
It later transpired that the recovered body part belonged to a woman named Julia Martha Thomas, who was murdered by her housekeeper in 1879.
Today, Attenborough's garden is filled with bird feeders that attract local wildlife, reflecting his passion for conservation.
He reportedly purchased the pub next door to his dwelling in 2001 for £1million after worrying about the prospect that a block of flats would come to take its place.
The seasoned traveller famously described Richmond as his “favourite place on earth”, stressing that it was his “favourite place by a mile”.
Other big-name celebrities who have lived in the area include Mick Jagger and Tom Hardy.
Visit Richmond said: “The borough is rich in history and has been a favourite retreat of Royalty, painters, writers and musicians.
“Attractions such as The Royal Botanic Gardens also known as Kew Gardens, Ham House and Garden, Hampton Court Palace and Marble Hill House are just some of the many attractions the borough has to offer.”
The neighbourhood’s low crime rate, excellent schools and green spaces offer an all-around quality of life to residents.
In fact, property portal Rightmove has frequently crowned the neighbourhood the happiest place to live in London.
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Richmond is an oasis for London's wildlife
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One of the catches for home buyers considering Richmond is the house prices, which are staggeringly higher than other boroughs in the city.
Other celebrities like Emma Thompson live in other quiet parts of London.
Her family home is located on the same street she grew up on and across the road from her 91-year-old mother’s abode, actress Phyllida Law.
Like Richmond, West Hampstead is renowned for its unparalleled serenity.
