Chiswick was a fishing village and the waterfront used for delivery of goods and fish but the industry started to decline in the 19th century. The population began to grow rapidly around this time and many houses were built in the area. The High Road was built up with inns and large houses. Some of the 19th century pubs are still in the High Road along with shops and many cafes and restaurants.
Restaurants in the area offer a wide range of cuisine and include Italian, French, English, Greek, Chinese, Lebanese, Indian and specialist Fish restaurants.
Shops are situated along Chiswick High Road, Turnham Green Terrace and Devonshire Road and include Lizard, Fortuny, Noa Noa, De Joli, White Stuff, American Pie, LA Clothing, Takkoda, Gap, Benetton Children, Tots and Pixies.
In 1822 the Royal Horticultural Society leased 33 acres between Sutton Court Road and Dukes Avenue. This area was used for fruit trees and although this was moved in 1904 pear trees still grow in some of the local gardens.
Chiswick was badly bombed in WWII and in 1944 it was the site of the first V-2 Rocket to fall on London.
Chiswick is where Erin Pizzey, in 1971, opened a domestic violence refuge. It was nearly always full and a great place for those who feared for the safety of themselves and children.
It is also home to a Russian Orthodox Cathedral built in 1998.
The Sanderson factory was tucked away behind other building in Barley Mow Passage. It was built in 1902 as a wallpaper printing works. It is now known as Vorsey House, used as offices and is a Grade II listed building.
Strand on the Green, part of Chiswick, is well known for riverside pubs that lie directly on the towpath of the River Thames making them great places for a summer evening drink or in some cases a drink round an open fire on a winter evening.
Property for rent is widely available at average prices of £250pw for a studio apartment, £295pw for a l bed flat, £450pw for a 2 bed flat, £450pw for a 2 bed house and £905pw for a 3 bed house.
Sports facilities in Chiswick are good with facilities for rowing, football, rugby and cricket.
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