10 Signs We’ve Been in South London Too Long

South London, we love you. We love your vibrant mix of cultures. We love your independent businesses, your nooks and crannies and even your giant hills. And who cares if the Tube only runs through part of you? Why would we want to leave anyway?

Here are ten signs that maybe you’ve been in South London a bit too long.  

We’ve become smug ‘art’ folk

We like the Tate, but it's a bit mainstream for us  – for a more eclectic mix of upcoming and seasoned artists, we much prefer the South London Gallery, 198 Contemporary Arts & Learning in Herne Hill, or the Dulwich Picture Gallery. Camberwell’s annual Arts Festival is a must-see for local talent.

We have a collection of kooky objects bought from independent shops

Nothing we like more than moseying around a quirky shop or two, and South London has plenty – take the Indigo Tree on Streatham High Road, which is stocked to the brim with weird and wonderful gifts.

We’ve spent way too much money at the market

When the street food is this good, it’s hard not to keep going back – The street markets in Brixton, Herne Hill and North Cross Road are our South London faves.

We’re always on the lookout for a good pop-up

We adore how South London’s retail scene is constantly changing. Pop Brixton showcases the most exciting independent businesses from Lambeth and Brixton. Check out late-night parties at Lewisham’s Model Market, the bustling flea market at Vinegar Yard or seemingly endless food options at Mercato Metropolitano.

Speaking of food, we’ve tried it all

From a world-beating roast at The Cherry Tree in Dulwich to a fragrant Thai delicacy at the Begging Bowl in Peckham, South London plays host to a feast of delicacies around the world.

…And we love something to wash it down with

There are too many watering holes to name, but here are a few. Try the Half Moon in Herne Hill for live music, the Hope & Anchor in Brixton for an uber-trendy garden or The Crown & Greyhound or the Herne Tavern in Dulwich do a fantastic roast.

We’re obsessed with butterflies

Originally spotted on Camberwell's Cool Arbour Lane (now Coldharbour Lane) in 1748, the Camberwell Beauty has since become a bit of a mascot for the area, with murals of the insect dotted around and several places named after it. What’s more, in East Dulwich you’ll find the Horniman Museum’s Butterfly House, home to hundreds of butterflies in an indoor tropic garden.

We’ve made friends with the dinosaurs in Crystal Palace park

We’re a big fan of visiting Crystal Palace with someone who’s never been and clocking their reaction (“Is that a stegosaurus?”). Aside from the park these beasties call home, South London has some of the best-hidden gardens and green spaces in London, as well as the biggest and best parks to relax and unwind in.

We’re addicted to popcorn now cinemas are opening up

For cheap and cheerful vibes (£5 a ticket) give Peckhamplex a whirl, or you can head to the Ritzy Picturehouse – the renowned mecca for film lovers. Or if you fancy watching an arty film in a railway arch, Whirled Cinema is worth a look.

We know when we’ve strayed too far from home thanks to the work of Lionel Stanhope

Yes we have our very own Bansky. Lionel Stanhope is a fan favourite on the streets of South East London and his noteworthy street art has transformed historic railway bridges across our stomping ground of the capital. From Herne Hill to Hither Green, you’re never too far from a Stanhope masterpiece.

We prefer the bus

Fair enough, the underground isn’t as present here as in North London – but transport is still fantastic in South – and anyway, who doesn’t prefer the scenic route?

We’ve set up an independent estate agency to get people to move here

Could there be a bigger sign we’ve been here too long? We don’t think so.

Urban Village lives and breathes South London – it’s why tenants, buyers and sellers trust us to help them with the next step of their property journey.

Looking to make your next move? Get in touch with our friendly, knowledgeable and experienced team today. Call us on 020 3519 9121 or email info@urbanvillagehomes.