London Grove Township blends rural charm with suburban access
London Grove Township is located within a rural part of Chester County, around 20 miles from Wilmington, Delaware, and 45 miles from Philadelphia. The town is historically rooted in farmland, and while it has become more suburban over the past few decades, its growth remains slow by design. "The community, and I'd say, the board — they are into preservation," says Realtor Chuck Hammond of Realty One Group Advisors, who's sold homes here for decades. "So they are not just approving everything that comes down the pike, because they also want to preserve the land." People are drawn here for a quiet lifestyle and solid schools. London Grove Township has a mix of eateries and shops while also being a relatively short drive from Oxford and Kennett Square's historic downtown areas, accessible via U.S. Route 1.
Wooded lots and subdivisions meet different lifestyles
Colonial Revivals, New Traditionals and ranch-styles have a foothold in London Grove Township. Homes may be surrounded by wooded acres or in subdivisions, closer to neighbors. The northern part of town tends to maintain a rural character, while the southern end features more planned developments. "[In the north] they ride horses, they fox hunt, they do not want any development, and it's a beautiful area," Hammond says. "Also, the dairy farms have been passed down through generations." He adds that homes within the township's southern side tend to sell faster because they offer a community feel that people seek. Most properties within the township range from around $350,000 to $725,000, depending on location, size, lot size and acreage. The town's CAP Index Crime Score of 2 out of 10 is lower than the national average of 4.
A solid education through Avon Grove School District
Avon Grove School District scores an overall A-minus from Niche. Penn London Elementary School covers kindergarten through first grade and earns a B. Second through fifth graders filter into Avon Grove Intermediate School, rated B plus. Both Avon Grove Middle School and the high school hold A minuses. Students seeking an alternative pathway may apply to Avon Grove Charter School, which serves all grade levels and integrates a rigorous STEAM program. Technical College High School Pennock's Bridge Campus is an option for grades 10 through 12, allowing students to advance in various fields, including veterinary science.
Outdoor activities include golf, horseback riding and fishing
While not the only park nearby, Goddard Park is the township's main community green space. Its trails weave through wooded areas and past a pond graced by blue heron sightings. The park also hosts a barn-themed playground, swings and sheltered picnic areas. Additionally, it has fenced-in areas for larger and smaller pups to run off leash and a thriving community garden. Inniscrone Golf Club is open to the public and has been a feature of the township since 1999. The Stables at Fox Crossing offers facilities and services for horse riders, including riding lessons. Hammond says locals hunt on private lands. White Clay Creek flows through the township and is a popular fishing area.
Where to grab groceries and a bite, and more options nearby
Commercial options are south of U.S. Route 1. London Grove Village provides a central spot to shop for groceries at ACME Markets and tools at Lowe's Home Improvement. The mall has a mix of eateries, including Burger King, Philly Pretzel Factory and Bravo Pizza of Avondale. A local vineyard on the southernmost side of town boasts a tasting room with a countryside view. New London Township surrounds a smaller borough called West Grove, which has additional commercial options, including a delicatessen. Kennett Square and Oxford's walkable downtown areas are within 10 miles of the townshi
Major roads connect the township to Wilmington and Philly
U.S. Route 1 and Pennsylvania Route 41 are major arterial roads in Londong Grove Township. Wilmington, Delaware, can be reached in approximately 40 minutes by car. Downtown Philadelphia is accessible within about an hour and a half's drive. "There is limited public transportation, but you definitely want a car," Hammond says. ChescoBus operates a fixed route from Oxford to Kennet Square, with West Grove being one of its stops. An active railroad operates in London Grove Township that's used for freight transport.
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth