South East London has it all: space, greenery, culture, foodie hotspots. Why would you want to live anywhere else? Here’s 10 reasons why we love our patch of London Se5.
1. It’s friendlier down south
People actually talk to their neighbours here, they help each other out. Our friends are all around us. You cannot leave your street without stopping to say hello to at least 5 people on the way. It’s what makes us feel connected to our area; why we are happy to call it home.
2. The parks
Despite having a larger surface area in North London, only 29% of land there consists of open, green space, compared to South London which is 34% parkland. And we have some of the best green space around. Ruskin Park is one such gem, with its sports pitches, tennis courts, wildlife and nature gardens, not to mention some of the best views across the whole of London. Another star player, Brockwell park, and its lido and adventure playground bring families in their droves.
3. Community efforts
Without the help of our local communities so many great services fall away. The Ruskin Park Paddling pool is one of our great legacies. It has been kept open with the help of Urban Village Homes and the local people. We have fundraised, painted the pool, collected rubbish, cleaned and kept it running for everyone. It is a big job that requires many hours of labour and it is all voluntary. It’s down to the good will of the local people that we keep it running.
4. Local events
Regular fixtures include the Ruskin Park Summer fete with its live music and delicious local food and craft beers, one of many local fairs that go on throughout the year.
5. It's Foodie heaven
Brixton village is on our doorstep and has every cuisine from every part of the world, from Colombian empanadas to Guyanase goat rotis to Banghra burgers and stunningly good ramen.
6. The best watering holes
Find some of the finest gastropubs known to humanity in Withnail’s favourite drinking spot of Camberwell such as the upmarket Crooked Well and the warm and cosy Camberwell Arms which regularly tops the ‘Best Sunday lunch in London’ reviews.
7. The art scene
South London and particularly Camberwell has long had a thriving artistic scene. There are artists’ studios around every corner. Art exhibitions and open houses are popular regular fixtures, such as the Dulwich Open House, where artists throw open their doors to sell their beautiful wares, currently running at the moment.
8. Schools - especially primary
You can’t move for good or outstanding state primaries in the area: St. Saviour’s, Bessemer Grange, Lyndhurst, Dog Kennel Hill. Many families relocate here from more expensive spots in South West London for bigger houses and the schools.
9. The connections
Yes, we are south of the river and a little lacking in tube stations, but people forget how close we are to central London and how easy it is to commute into work. You can get into the heart of town to Victoria in ten minutes from Denmark Hill station and the City in less than 15. Loughborough Junction takes you into Blackfriars in nine minutes and into Farringdon in 13. Try getting across town that fast on the tube line with all the strikes that go on.
10. The housing stock
Stunning Victorian terraces a stone’s throw from the parks, semi-detached period properties with huge gardens, modern apartments, stylish ex-council flats - it’s all here for the choosing. And you get so much more value for your money here than overpriced (and let’s face it, a bit bland) South West London. As for central London, you’re throwing money away and all you will get is a shoe-box. South East London is where it’s at. Contact Urban Village today to make the best move you'll ever make.
Want to move here? Contact us today. We have cracking properties on our books from smart flats for young professionals to beautiful family homes.