A Guide to Living in Lewisham

Cutting-edge bars and eateries

It might come as a surprise, but Lewisham embodies the sort of hipster cool more readily associated with places like Shoreditch and Hackney. The vibrant high streets are full of independent cafés, brunch pop-ups, and pocket-sized restaurants serving the A to Z of cuisines. After dark, there are lively pubs with on-stage happenings every weekend, plus a good clutch of nightclubs. One of the area’s most popular night-time haunts is Model Market, a street food fiesta that kicks off around 5pm on Fridays and Saturdays and goes on until late. Lip-smacking, around-the-world flavours here include succulent Argentinian meats, fiery Jamaican jerk chicken and thin and crispy Neapolitan pizzas.

Lewisham’s shopping scene

Lewisham’s daytime markets are just as good, and include Lewisham Farmers’ Market, Brockley Market, and Lewisham Open Market. Fresh flowers? Charcuterie? Pillow-soft donuts? All here. And if you’re more into high street brands, there’s a shopping mall in the middle of town packed with household names like M&S, Next and H&M.

Lewisham residents

Lewisham’s residents are spirited and diverse. Artsy types are flocking to the Deptford district. Families favour the roomy period homes in the Ladywell area, where’s there’s also a good supply of picnic and playing space thanks to Ladywell and Hilly Fields. Young professionals, meanwhile, love Lewisham Gateway – a regenerated neighbourhood of contemporary apartments, right by Lewisham DLR Station (direct links to London Bridge, Canary Wharf and Bank). All great places to rent in Lewisham. There’s also a number of students in the area, living in converted Victorian and Edwardian flats. Thanks to Goldsmiths, University of London in New Cross, there’s real demand here for accommodation for pupils – something worth remembering for those looking to invest.

Verdicts from HomeViews reviewers…
“Area is a Mecca for families and young couples given it’s good value and zone 3 location. Good cafes and small local shops around, though a little more limited in number compared to other areas. Zone 3 location with regular services to London Central stations.”

“If you’re a foodie, don’t miss Model Market, a night-time street food extravaganza. It’s also really easy to reach the renowned Greenwich Park from Lewisham. Wander the flower and herb gardens, stop for tea and cake at the Pavilion Café, and soak up the scenery from one of London’s best viewpoints.”

“Artsy, fun-loving Deptford (is) a south-east pocket of London packed with restaurants, bars and galleries. It’s close to historical Greenwich and foodie-haven Bermondsey, and has great transport links for getting further afield.”

You can find out more about living in the area by reading reviews from residents. Click on the developments below to find out more about residents’ experiences and also, to discover the best places to live and rent in Lewisham. Moreover, If there’s a property that you can’t see on HomeViews,  you can add a new listing and leave your review here.