Best Grammar Schools in London in 2026
If you are searching for grammar schools in London, you might already know that options are quite limited compared to other parts of England. While there are around 19 grammar schools in and around London, the number of schools within Greater London itself is relatively small, which makes them highly competitive.
In this guide, we will explore the best grammar schools in London, what makes them stand out, and what you should know if you are considering this route for your child.
List of best grammar schools in London
When exploring grammar schools in London, it helps to look at them area by area. This gives a clearer understanding of where each school is located and what it offers, especially if you are considering travel and suitability for your child.
Barnet
The Henrietta Barnett School (Hampstead Garden Suburb)
Founded in 1911, this is one of the most well known girls’ grammar schools in London. It is located in Hampstead Garden Suburb and is recognised for its strong academic focus alongside a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, including music, arts and leadership programmes.
Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet (Barnet)
Established in 1573, this boys’ grammar school is one of the most competitive in the UK. Set on a large campus in Barnet, it is known for its academic excellence and consistently high performance, with a strong emphasis on mathematics, sciences and enrichment activities.
St Michael’s Catholic Grammar School (North Finchley)
Founded in 1908, this girls’ grammar school is located in North Finchley. It combines academic achievement with a strong community focus, encouraging students to take part in volunteering, leadership activities and wider social initiatives.
Bexley
Beths Grammar School (Bexley)
A boys’ grammar school with a mixed sixth form, Beths has built a strong reputation for both academic performance and extracurricular activities. The school offers a wide range of sports, clubs and enrichment opportunities to support student development.
Bexley Grammar School (Welling)
Established in 1955, this co-educational grammar school is located in Welling. It offers a broad and balanced curriculum and is known for its modern facilities, including science labs, sports areas and creative spaces.
Chislehurst and Sidcup Grammar School (Sidcup)
Founded in 1931, this mixed grammar school focuses on building resilience and independent thinking. It provides a supportive environment where students are encouraged to take on challenges and develop confidence.
Townley Grammar School (Bexleyheath)
A girls’ grammar school with academy status, Townley is known for its creative curriculum and strong focus on preparing students for future careers. It offers a wide range of enrichment opportunities and encourages innovation and independent thinking.
Bromley
Newstead Wood School (Orpington)
Established in 1957, this girls’ grammar school is located in Orpington. It is highly regarded for its academic standards and offers a wide curriculum including science, arts and extracurricular activities.
St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School (Orpington)
A boys’ grammar school with a long history, St Olave’s is known for its strong academic results and competitive admissions process. The school offers a structured environment with a wide range of extracurricular opportunities.
Enfield
The Latymer School (Edmonton)
Founded in 1624, The Latymer School is a co-educational grammar school located in Edmonton. It is known for its academic excellence and strong pastoral care, offering a balanced approach to both academic and personal development.
Kingston upon Thames
Tiffin Girls’ School (Kingston upon Thames)
Established in 1880, this girls’ grammar school is one of the most popular in London. It offers a strong academic curriculum along with opportunities in leadership, arts and extracurricular activities.
Tiffin School (Kingston upon Thames)
Also founded in 1880, Tiffin School is a boys’ grammar school with a strong reputation for academic success. It is particularly known for its focus on music and performing arts alongside academic achievement.
Redbridge
Ilford County High School (Ilford)
One of the older grammar schools in London, this boys’ school is known for its strong academic performance and supportive environment. It offers a wide curriculum and encourages student participation in leadership and mentoring programmes.
Woodford County High School (Woodford Green)
Founded in 1919, this girls’ grammar school is recognised for its high academic standards and consistent performance. It offers a broad curriculum and a range of extracurricular activities.
Sutton
Nonsuch High School for Girls (Cheam)
Established in 1938, this girls’ grammar school is located near Nonsuch Park. It is known for its strong academic performance and wide range of extracurricular activities, including educational trips and cultural experiences.
Sutton Grammar School (Sutton)
Founded in 1899, this boys’ grammar school offers a supportive learning environment alongside strong academic results. It focuses on both academic achievement and personal development.
Wallington County Grammar School (Wallington)
Established in 1927, this boys’ grammar school emphasises both academic success and community involvement. Students are encouraged to take part in volunteering and leadership activities.
Wallington High School for Girls (Wallington)
Founded in 1888, this girls’ grammar school offers a strong academic curriculum along with a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. It focuses on empowering students and building confidence.
Wilson’s School (Wallington)
One of the oldest state schools in England, founded in 1615, Wilson’s School is a boys’ grammar school known for its academic excellence and strong school culture. It offers a wide range of activities and maintains high standards across all areas.
At Pass 11 Plus Grammar, our 11 Plus Mock Exams give students a clear advantage by replicating real exam conditions. With detailed feedback and performance insights, our students improve strategically, increasing their chances of securing places in highly competitive grammar schools.
Top 10 grammar schools in London
Below is a list of the top grammar schools in London, known for their strong academic performance and competitive admissions.
Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet
Wilson’s School
St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School
Tiffin Girls’ School
The Henrietta Barnett School
Tiffin School
The Latymer School
Sutton Grammar School
St Michael’s Catholic Grammar School
Wallington High School for Girls
Preparing for these highly competitive schools starts early, especially in Year 6 when academic performance plays a key role. At Pass 11 Plus Grammar, our Year 6 SATs Tuition helps students strengthen core skills and build the confidence needed to perform well in entrance exams and secure top grammar school places.
How to get into the best London grammar schools
Your child will need to take the 11 plus exam to be considered for a place, usually in September of Year 6. Places are then offered based on performance, with higher scores improving the chances of securing a spot. Each school sets its own exam format, so the subjects and question types your child faces may differ depending on where you apply.
Given the level of competition, it is important to understand what you are preparing for and how selective these schools can be. You can read our detailed guide on How hard is it to get into grammar school to better understand the challenges and how to improve your child’s chances.
Final thoughts
Finding good grammar schools in London can feel overwhelming due to the limited number of options and high level of competition. However, with the right information and preparation, families can approach the process with confidence.
At Pass 11 Plus Grammar, we support families throughout this journey with expert guidance, structured learning and realistic practice. If you would like help planning your child’s preparation or exploring your options, feel free to Contact Us.
FAQ’s
1. How many grammar schools are there in London?
There are around 19 grammar schools in London and Greater London, mainly located in outer boroughs such as Sutton, Bexley, Barnet, Bromley, Kingston upon Thames, Redbridge, and Enfield.
2. What is the hardest grammar school to get into in London?
Queen Elizabeth’s School in Barnet is one of the hardest grammar schools to get into, with thousands of applicants each year for a limited number of places.
3. Which area in London has the best grammar schools?
The areas with the best grammar schools in London are Bromley, Barnet, Sutton, and Kingston upon Thames
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Jag Singh
Founder, Pass 11 Plus Grammar
Mr Singh is the founder of Pass 11 Plus Grammar, with over 30 years of teaching experience. Having overcome academic setbacks himself, he is passionate about ensuring no child struggles alone. His approach focuses on personalised support, strong foundations, and building confidence. He has helped students achieve outstanding results in 11+ and GCSE examinations
