Richmond-upon-Thames , in the south west of the capital, tops the list of the 10 most recession-proof boroughs in London, followed closely by its neighbour, Kingston-upon-Thames, according to Knight Frank.

Its research took into account factors such as the affordability of housing, wage and unemployment levels, population growth and the qualifications of the locals. The average price for a property in Richmond-upon-Thames is £511,575 and Kingston-upon-Thames is £361,496. Classed as third on the recession-proof list was Bromley (£343,375), followed by Kensington and Chelsea (£774,361), Wandsworth (£482,337), Southwark (£367,306), Ealing (£364,832), Lambeth (£382,614), Greenwich (£282,045), and lastly Bexley £232,242. Eight of the 10 – with the exception of Kensington and Chelsea and Ealing – are south of the river.
Liam Bailey, head of research for Knight Frank, said: “This reflects the weight of demand, as well as population growth and earnings.”