Why is Chiswick called Chiswick?
Originally, the name was “Ceswican”, meaning “cheese farm”. During the 1600 – 1900 period, the area of the old village was known as “Chiswick town” or locally as “the town”, then became “Old Chiswick” around 1980, to finally be called “Chiswick”.
The oldest shop on Chiswick High Street
There is an old book shop on Chiswick High Street named Foster’s Book Shop that dates back to the 18th century. In addition to first editions, the store also sells unique illustrated children’s stories and antiquarian books.
The Chiswick Food Market
Taking place every Sunday from 10am to 2pm in the farmyard of Grove Park Farm House, right next to the play area, the Food Market Chiswick hosts a variety of food stalls. This market is run by a social enterprise, with proceeds going to improve the park.
It brings together approximately 25 top producers from around the country to come and sell their street food style, meat, veg and organic treats enjoyed by all the family.
Famous residents grew up in Chiswick!
Hugh Grant grew up in Chiswick as a child. There were many famous residents here, including Colin Firth, Pete Townshend of the Who, William Hogarth and EM Forster. During his youth, Yeats lived in Bedford Park, the world’s first garden suburb designed by the renowned Victorian architect Norman Shaw.
Fuller’s Brewery, London’s largest and oldest brewery
Chiswick’s Fuller’s Brewery was a family-run business from 1845 to 2019. In that year, the brewing division of Fuller, Smith & Turner PLC was sold to the Japanese international beverage giant Asahi. Experience the Griffin Brewery in Chiswick on a brewery tour and tasting at Fullers Brewery. Enjoy a tour of the equipment and discover the heritage and history behind this London brewery.
A House as a piece of Art by Carrie Reichardt: The Mosaic House in Chiswick
Anarchic mosaic artist Carrie Reichardt owns the house. Following many rejections and censorships from galleries, she started producing mosaics for community centres across the UK. It’s hard to find a more remarkable piece of public art in the city as far as unique pieces of art are concerned. She started at the back when the house is now covered in bright mosaic from head to toe. Sections tell a story and have featured different artists, influences, and players in each phase. They have all contributed in some way to the journey over the last 20 years. This is a must-see!
Two Historical Buildings: Chiswick House and Hogarth’s House
Chiswick House and Gardens
The neo-Palladian Chiswick villa is regarded as one of the finest in England. The house was designed and built by Richard Boyle, 3rd Earl of Burlington, and completed in 1729. Over 26.33 hectares of land are devoted to the garden and house. The Chiswick House and Gardens is the perfect place to bring residents and locals together with their regular events, such as the Duck Pond Market, which offers ethically sourced and homemade goods. First, third, and fifth Saturdays of the month, 10am-4pm. The park also hosts a pub in the park, as well as festivals and workshops throughout the year. What’s on at Chiswick House and Gardens.
Neo-Palladian architecture appeared In the 1700s and 1800s, with the resurgence of interest in classical architecture. Italian Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio (1508-1580) is credited with influencing European architecture from the early 17th century onwards with his work and ideas.
Hogarth’s House
Hogarth’s House is a former country home and museum of 18th-century English artist, painter, engraver, and cartoonist Hogarth’s House. Now owned by the London Borough of Hounslow, the house is a free museum open to the public. Tuesday-Sunday noon-5pm is the usual opening time at Hogarth’s House and Garden Open.
Which areas have the most beautiful properties in Chiswick?
Grove Park
Hartington Road, Grove Park Road, and Grove Park Gardens are some of the nicest streets in the area. A mix of Edwardian and detached 20s and 30s houses can be found in Grove Park, some with 100ft gardens fronting the Thames.
Chiswick Mall
Chiswick Mall is surrounded by fine Georgian houses from a time when the area was an elegant riverside retreat. Originally a small Thames fishing village, Strand on the Green still has nice period cottages.
