The name means “nose-shaped hill”. This was rural countryside until the Metropolitan Railway was built through the area in 1882. This led to the creation of residential housing in the late 19th century. When the North Circular Road was built after the First World War, Neasden was then completely converted into a London residential suburb.

Neasden lies between Gladstone Park and the North Circular Road. The streets contain mainly 20th-century terraces and semi-detached houses. The most prestigious and largest houses are in the north part of the area across Neasden Lane. Neasden contains the largest Hindu temple outside India.