This year, we’re celebrating something very special: 125 years of Dutch & Dutch in West Hampstead. It’s a milestone that makes us feel proud, grateful and a little bit nostalgic.
When the company first began in 1900, the world looked very different. A three-bedroom terraced house in London cost around £250 and West Hampstead was still finding its place as one of North West London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. A lot has changed since then - but one thing has stayed the same: our commitment to honesty, integrity and truly personal service.
Our family legacy
At the heart of our story are the Matthews family, who have shaped Dutch & Dutch for generations.
In the 1950s, Len Matthews led the business with values that still guide us today - honesty, fairness and respect for others. His approach laid the foundation for everything we stand for.
In the 1960s, his son Tony Matthews joined the firm. This year, Tony is celebrating an incredible 60 years with Dutch & Dutch. If you’ve lived or worked in West Hampstead or North West London, chances are you’ve come across Tony. He’s built a reputation not just as an expert in property, but as someone who genuinely cares about people.
As Tony himself puts it:
“It’s been a joy to spend my life working in property. Every day has brought something different. I’ve met so many wonderful people - clients who’ve become friends, families and businesses I’ve helped more than once, and generations who trust us to be part of their most important decisions.”
His words sum up what Dutch & Dutch is all about: being part of people’s lives in meaningful ways, far beyond just property transactions.
How we work today
A lot has changed in 125 years and we’ve evolved with the times. Today, we offer a full range of services, including:
- Residential sales and lettings
- Commercial property sales and lettings
- Bespoke property management across residential, commercial and mixed-use buildings
For us, estate agency is about listening, advising and guiding with care. It’s about building trust that lasts for generations.
As our Managing Director, David Matthews, says:
“Marking 125 years in business is about more than longevity - it’s about legacy, values and people. Len and Tony’s contributions are a big part of what makes Dutch & Dutch such a trusted name in West Hampstead and across North West London. As we look ahead, we’re carrying that ethos forward.”
Celebrating with our community
We know we wouldn’t be here today without the trust and support of our clients, neighbours and local community.
125 years isn’t just a company milestone - it’s a shared story with all of you. We’ve helped families find their first homes, supported businesses as they’ve grown and managed properties that shape the character of North West London. Being part of those journeys is what makes our work so rewarding.
Looking ahead
While we’re proud of our history, we’re even more excited about the future. West Hampstead and North West London continue to thrive and we’re here to help residents and businesses navigate every opportunity the property market brings.
As we step into our next chapter, we’ll continue doing what we’ve always done best: offering trusted advice, local expertise and service that goes beyond the transaction.
Here’s to the next 125 years
To everyone who has been part of our journey so far - thank you. We’re honoured to have played a role in your stories and we look forward to many more years of helping you with your homes and businesses in West Hampstead and beyond.
If you’re thinking of moving, letting or investing in property in West Hampstead or North West London, we’d love to be part of your journey.
Get in touch with us today on 020 7794 0075.
