A guide to living in South East London

South East London stretches from SE1 down to SE20, encompassing the London boroughs of Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich, Lewisham and Southwark. Such a huge slice of the capital naturally has lots of different guises and offerings; from out-of-this-world dining scenes to riverside living and everything in between. Read on to discover developments that are rated the best places to live in South East London. In addition, read reviews from residents who own or rent in South East London. Areas like Lambeth and Elephant & Castle have seen much in the way of regeneration. Ultra-modern residential developments are now peppered along the Thames here, packed with apartments and penthouses that come with a bird’s-eye view of the city. Both districts are now firmly seated in the ‘up-and-coming’ category, with new bars and restaurants opening up practically weekly. For celebrated old-time icons, meanwhile, Lambeth plays host to famous attractions like the National Theatre, the Tate Modern, and the Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre; so this is a real cultural big-hitter.

Excellent

58.7%

Very Good

29.9%

Average

8.8%

Disappointing

1.3%

Very poor

1.2%

Best places to live in South East London

How is ranking calculated?

Viewing 1-5 out of 187

Rental Only

Award Winner 2025

Union Wharf, SE8

By Essential Living

Award winner 2025

4.69

(281 reviews)

Union Wharf is a development from London property developer Essential Living. It features 249 rental-only apartments on the banks of Deptford Creek near Greenwich’s town centre. It houses a collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments. In addition, Union Wharf is close to the Cutty Sark DLR station for fast and frequent connections to Canary Wharf.

1st

Ranked 1st out of 96 in South East London

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Rental Only

Neptune Wharf, SE8

By Neptune Wharf London

4.68

(26 reviews)

Neptune Wharf London presents a collection of 139 one, two and three bedroom apartments to rent in Deptford, SE8, brought to you by leading developer Galliard Homes, and BTR operator, Sable. Spanning five residential buildings, the apartments feature contemporary designs, many with scenic views of Deptford Park and the Canary Wharf skyline. Residents also benefit from luxury on-site amenities and will soon enjoy a number of exciting retail spaces within the development’s boulevard.

2nd

Ranked 2nd out of 96 in South East London

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Rental Only

Award Winner 2025

Bale & Anchor, SE13

By Legal & General, urbanbubble

Award winner 2025

4.35

(96 reviews)

Bale & Anchor is a BTR development situated in Lewisham, with studio, 1, 2 or 3 bedroom apartments available to rent. Bale & Anchor is ideally placed to put you right in the thick of central London within minutes. Additionally, the National Rail and the DLR are on your doorstep for commuting. Residents can enjoy lounge areas, roof terraces and private dining spaces. By Spring 2024, even more amenities will be available, including access to Ampersand on the 34th and 35th floor in Bale House with panoramic views over London and beyond. Residents also benefit from choosing between a quality furniture package or an unfurnished apartment.

3rd

Ranked 3rd out of 96 in South East London

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Kidbrooke Square, SE3

By Notting Hill Genesis

Award winner 2025

4.14

(38 reviews)

Kidbrooke Square, nestled in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, offers 1, 2 and 3 bedroom shared ownership apartments designed to exceptionally high standards. Centred around a vibrant village square with retail spaces and a residents' gym, the development provides easy access to green spaces, local amenities, and the historic charm of Blackheath Village and Greenwich. With its prime location and modern design, Kidbrooke Square delivers a perfect blend of convenience and luxury.

4th

Ranked 4th out of 96 in South East London

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Manor Place Depot, SE17

By Notting Hill Genesis

Award winner 2025

3.55

(52 reviews)

Manor Place Depot offers a contemporary collection of nearly 270 homes near the heart of Elephant and Castle, developed by Notting Hill Genesis. The development provides a range of housing options, including Shared Ownership and social rent apartments, with exceptional transport connectivity via Kennington tube station and Elephant and Castle's Northern line, Bakerloo line, and National Rail services. Located in the vibrant SE17 postcode, Manor Place Depot delivers a dynamic living experience in one of London's most transformative neighbourhoods.

5th

Ranked 5th out of 96 in South East London

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Page 1 of 38

Featured developments in South East London

Latest Reviews in South East London

3889 total reviews

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Viewing 1-5 out of 3864

Alex S (Owner)

Verified Resident

Royal Arsenal Riverside, SE18

Apr 2026

Reviewer was offered an incentive for an honest review, regardless of rating

This is rated 5.00 out of 5.00.

Great riverside living with excellent transport links

Alex S (Owner)

Verified Resident

Royal Arsenal Riverside, SE18

Apr 2026

The development itself is modern, well-designed, and maintained to a high standard. The buildings and communal areas are kept clean and presentable, and there’s a clear sense that property management is proactive and responsive. The apartments are finished well, with good layouts and a solid level of sound insulation compared to many new builds. Facilities add to the overall experience and make it feel like a premium place to live. Any minor issues I’ve encountered have been dealt with efficiently, which gives confidence in the management team. Overall, it feels like a well-run development that offers a comfortable and high-quality living environment.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

The local area is one of the biggest strengths of Royal Arsenal Riverside. There’s a great mix of shops, cafés, and restaurants within walking distance, and the riverside setting makes it a really pleasant place to spend time, especially in the evenings or on weekends. Transport links are excellent, with the Elizabeth Line making it very quick and convenient to get into central London. The area generally feels safe and well looked after, with regular bin collections and clean streets. It can get a little busier during peak commuting times, and parking is somewhat limited, but overall it’s a very convenient and enjoyable place to live.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

One thing worth knowing is that while the area is generally peaceful, it can get busier during peak commuting times, especially around the station. Parking can also be a bit limited depending on the building. That said, the excellent transport links more than make up for it, and overall it’s been a great place to live.

What is the best feature of your home:

The best feature is definitely the natural light and overall layout of the apartment. The space feels modern, open, and well thought through, which makes it really comfortable to live in day-to-day. Combined with the riverside setting, it creates a really calm and enjoyable atmosphere.

・・

Reviewer was offered an incentive for an honest review, regardless of rating

HomeViews

Ethan L (Tenant)

Verified Resident

Union Wharf, SE8

Apr 2026

This is rated 5.00 out of 5.00.

Union Wharf - Incredible!

Ethan L (Tenant)

Verified Resident

Union Wharf, SE8

Apr 2026

I couldn't speak more highly of Essential Living and the Union Wharf Development. This site is truly spectacular with so much to rave about - from the work from home spaces, communal areas such as 2 rooftop kitchens, lounge areas and rooftop outdoor spaces with many fully equipped barbecue areas all offering 360 degree views across London, there is plenty of space to enjoy outside of your own apartment. Downstairs, in the reception area you have the team of the most wonderful, friendly and helpful crew who ensure that living here is both fun and enjoyable and they go out of their way to help where possible - a big shout out to Siobhon and Mukthar who are always willing to help! The reception area is also manned 24/7, through the night by security who make sure our safety is their priority. You also have the gym which is another major plus for the building, which is stacked with impressive new Technogym equipment, which comes free to use for residents here and onsite PTs are available to provide guidance and a hand where needed, too. Now another main reason I have been here for coming up to 2 years is the amazing events and sense of community the building has. Regular free events are organised by the incredible Lucy, and provide opportunity to meet with fellow residents and build a community. Examples of some of my favourite past events include Reed Diffuser workshop, Xmas market, Halloween Party, wreath making workshop, fully catered summer barbecues, rooftop drinks nights, annual Easter Egg hunt ... the list goes on and on. It's special to have these types of events included as part of being a resident here and a big part of the reason I have not and probably will not consider leaving for the foreseeable future.

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Greenwich is an amazing area to live in - with close transport links including both Cutty Sark and Greenwich station only a 7 minute walk away, getting into central London is quick and easy. Cutty Sark is a lovely area, bustling with locals and tourists alike, and there is plenty of history to experience in the area - including the Old Royal Naval College, Queen's House, Maritime Museum, Painted Hall, Greenwich Market, Royal Observatory just to name a few. Some local favourite pubs including the newly opened 'The Ship', to the historic Trafalgar Tavern and Cutty Sark Pub are closeby and can't be missed. The area is safe and feels very family friendly, open to all and green with plenty of open spaces and parks!

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

If any issues have arose, for example our fridge broke down, a new one was ready and installed within 24 hours - incredibly fast and efficient and taken seriously.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

The amazing sense of community and activities that are always on here - organised by the fabulous crew!

・・

HomeViews

Riordan (Tenant)

Verified Resident

Idaline Court at Peckham Place, SE15

Apr 2026

This is rated 5.00 out of 5.00.

Great location and facilities

Riordan (Tenant)

Verified Resident

Idaline Court at Peckham Place, SE15

Apr 2026

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Peckham is a vibrant community with lots to do, lots of cafes, restaurants, pubs, clubs and other community focused spaces as well as great transport links and local parks. Great for a young professional to thrive in London with other transport hubs of Canada Water, London Bridge and Whitechapel just 5, 8 and 15 mins away from Queens Road Peckham station. Burgess park, telegraph hill and Peckham rye common close by and lovely in summer.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

They have been very fast to sort out issues such as a carpet real air being organised in a week.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

How great the wider local area is, with neighbourhood gems like Nunhead and Dulwich.

Manager response

Thank you so much for your review and we would continue to work harder to provide you with a great residential experience

Posted by

Joel Salubi, Community Manager

Apr 2026

・・

HomeViews

Sian K (Tenant)

Verified Resident

Bale & Anchor, SE13

Apr 2026

This is rated 2.00 out of 5.00.

Nice design and friendly people but not functional living - lots of issues. Fine for short term

Sian K (Tenant)

Verified Resident

Bale & Anchor, SE13

Apr 2026

Design looks nice and communal spaces are great but management is poor and convoluted when there are serious issues. The front desk / concierge staff are really nice and helpful but the management of issues is terrible- an example is hot water went out for days and no one is taking responsibility for it. Lifts break all the time and windows / balcony doors break all the time with poor system to track and correct issues (our window was not fixed for 6+ months) and have heard others have had problems with doors, vents, holes in walls etc. Fine for 6 month - 12 month stays but I’d be wary of longer term commitments especially if your patience levels aren’t good!! Pros include nice modern apartments, good sized bedrooms and nice bathrooms, appliances are nice, there is a nice WhatsApp group with residents and the place is generally very clean. Finally regarding bills wifi comes included but people in anchor house noted very slow times (I believe this is being resolved now) but the big thing is that energy supplier they use is callers Homebox and their billing is AWFUL - no transparency, charging some people 3x what they charge others and no regular updated billing so you have no idea if you are spending lots or little. They have also said it takes 3 months to close the account

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Ok area, in between Elverson Road and Lewisham and have big Tesco in front . Close to Blackheath too.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Poorly - confusion about fix timelines, whether people were coming to look at it or not

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Communal spaces are really great but you have to book the cinema and the system is not transparent.

・・

HomeViews

Claire L (Tenant)

Unverified

Union Wharf, SE8

Apr 2026

Reviewer was offered an incentive for an honest review, regardless of rating

This is rated 5.00 out of 5.00.

Happy New Tenant at Union Wharf :)

Claire L (Tenant)

Unverified

Union Wharf, SE8

Apr 2026

Please tell us about the good and bad aspects of living in your local area:

Close to a range of supermarkets and food spots, as well as lots of green space. Surrounded by cycle paths on nearby roads. Great bin service, decent gym, and handy to have a cafe downstairs and on site snacks downstairs.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Quick to help with switching wifi, gym induction and inventory issues.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Nearby car parking space available for cheaper price than on site .

・・

Reviewer was offered an incentive for an honest review, regardless of rating

HomeViews

Page 1 of 773

These reviews are the subjective opinion of a HomeViews user and not of HomeViews

Useful articles

Borough of Bromley

Bromley is the largest of the 32 London boroughs, stretching from Crystal Palace and Mottingham in the north right down to Biggin Hill in the south. It’s also a borough that transitions dramatically from suburban to rural, with farmland making up around 30% of its total area. The principal town of Bromley offers residents a 20-minute commute into central London and attracts families and young professionals seeking affordable housing and top quality schools.

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Deptford

If you haven’t yet heard of Deptford, chances are you will very soon. Artists, students, first-time buyers and lifelong Londoners; they gather in this exciting district, which has become as cool and sought-after as places like Peckham and Hackney. Read on to discover developments that are the best places to live in Deptford. In addition, read reviews from residents who own or rent in Deptford.

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Elephant & Castle

One of South London’s biggest regeneration success stories, Elephant & Castle is in the process of being completely transformed and it’s earning a stellar reputation. This up-and-coming corner of the capital, blessed with world-class nightlife and a strong selection of independent businesses, is attracting hordes of buyers and renters as a result. Read on to discover some of the best places to live in Elephant & Castle. In addition, read reviews from residents who own or rent new homes in Elephant & Castle.

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Borough of Greenwich

It may be just a few miles from Central London; but emerald-hued Greenwich can feel a world away from the buzz of the capital. This south-east slice sits close to the River Thames looking out towards Canary Wharf, and is blanketed in green. A World Heritage Site, this place packs in architectural wonders and historic sites at every turn. Read on to discover the developments rated as some of the best places to live in Greenwich.

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Borough of Lambeth

Lambeth occupies a prime South London location close to some of the capital’s biggest attractions, but not so close it’s packed with tourists. It stretches from the Thames’ South Bank and ends just beyond the residential areas of Streatham and Norwood. Read on to discover developments that are the best places to live in Lambeth. In addition, read reviews from residents who own or rent in Lambeth. HomeViews reviewer verdict... "A south-of-the-river location with lots to offer."

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Borough of Lewisham

Lewisham lies just a few miles south-east of Central London. A borough given a little more than just a fresh coat of paint in recent years. In fact, this area has seen plenty in the way of renovation. Including, a transformation of the town centre and a brand-new riverside park. As such, it moved at lightning-speed into the ‘up-and-comer’ category a couple of years back. Then, in the blink of an eye, it became highly sought-after, courtesy of its affordable homes and fantastic transport links. Read on to discover developments that are rated the best places to live in Lewisham. In addition, read reviews from residents who own or rent in Lewisham.

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Rotherhithe

Once a collection of abandoned docks, Rotherhithe has blossomed into a thriving neighbourhood with more than just a riverside location to shout about. Although it is worth a special mention. Buy or rent in Rotherhithe and you’ll look across the water to London landmarks like The Shard, The Gherkin and Tower Bridge. Read on to discover developments that are rated the best places to live in Rotherhithe. In addition, read reviews from residents who own or rent in Rotherhithe.

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Borough of Southwark

Southwark is nestled on the South Bank of the Thames, and among its luxury riverside apartments and ultra-modern offices, are some of London’s biggest icons. This area is rich in culture, architecture and entertainment, charming millions of visitors (and residents) each year. For the best scenery, criss-cross one of the bridges that straddle the river, including London Bridge, Tower Bridge and Millennium Bridge. All are a joy to stroll or drive over, thanks to sweeping views of the water, and the buildings that chart hundreds of years of the capital’s history. Read on to discover developments that are rated the best places to live in Southwark. In addition, read reviews from residents who own or rent in Southwark.

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Woolwich

Woolwich was tipped as one of London’s ‘up and coming’ neighbourhoods for a number of years. But it’s only recently been catapulted into the spotlight – namely thanks to the colossal Royal Arsenal Riverside development, and hotly anticipated in-construction properties such as Callis Yard and Trinity Walk. Read on to discover developments that are the best places to live in Woolwich. In addition, read reviews from residents who own or rent in Woolwich.

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