The BBC series Amandaland, a spin-off of Motherland, has sparked debate among Londoners after it was revealed that the show's fictional setting of 'South Harlesden' is actually filmed in Islington and Muswell Hill. The show, starring Lucy Punch as the egotistical alpha mum Amanda, follows her post-divorce move from Chiswick to the vibrant but fictional 'SoHa' neighbourhood.
Local residents in Islington were quick to notice the discrepancy. One resident posted on Threads: 'The production designers have decided to make our street very run down, with discarded shopping trolley etc! Amanda has obviously fallen on hard times.' Another added: 'I just read that Amandaland is meant to be set in South Harlesden so am now deeply offended they are using our streets.'
Despite the fictional location, Harlesden's real estate market is attracting attention. James Jooste of Churchill Mathesons, an estate agent with three decades of experience in the area, described Harlesden as 'super friendly' with 'good transport connections' and 'really good value'. He noted that a three-bedroom Edwardian house needing work can be bought for around £630,000, while larger flats range from £350,000 to £500,000.
Jooste recommended prime roads such as Longstone Avenue and Harlesden Gardens, where houses can exceed £1 million. He added that the area is popular with young professionals and offers a mix of investment properties and family homes with high ceilings and period features. Local celebrity Louis Theroux previously lived on Harlesden Gardens before moving to Queen's Park.
The area's chief attraction is Roundwood Park, a community-spirited open space with play areas, a café, and a skate park. Actors Ben Bailey Smith, Tamsin Greig, and Samantha Spiro have been spotted walking their dogs there. For those considering a move, the Old Oak Common Conservation area offers small cottages near a transport hub, with prices around £620,000 to £650,000.
Transport links include Overground lines and the Bakerloo, though noise from Willesden Junction and HS2 works may be a concern. After 2029, residents could benefit from a super-fast connection to Birmingham via HS2. Schools in the area include the Outstanding St Joseph's Catholic Primary School and Twyford C of E Secondary in Acton, while Queen's Park Community School is popular among families in the media industry.
