A Guide to Living in South West London

The Nine Elms regeneration project

The award for ‘most dramatic transformation’ goes to Nine Elms, a long slither of Thames riverfront between Lambeth Bridge and Chelsea Bridge. Here, glossy new-build apartment blocks are ten-a-penny, but it’s not just the residential scene that’s getting a facelift.  New offices, infrastructure, transport and entertainment hubs – among many other initiatives – are part of this £15 billion renovation scheme.

Brixton

Just south of the sparkling skyscrapers of SW8, urban cool can be found in edgy Brixton and Clapham. The lively pubs, bars and music venues (don’t miss Hootananny) in these parts promise a night out to remember; and there’s plenty in the way of kitsch brunch spots to help with that sore head the next day. Area newcomers should head to Brixton Village and Brixton Market, where the community spirit is infectious, and the round-ups include taste-tingling street food and local performers. Next door Stockwell is quieter but not without its charms. Dubbed ‘Little Portugal’, it’s home to a large Portuguese population, and its cafés and eateries serve up all kinds of national delicacies.

Affluent South West London

Northern postcodes like SW1, SW3 and SW7 appeal to those who like to live la dolce vita. Ticking off upmarket neighbourhoods such as Westminster, Belgravia, Chelsea and South Kensington, it’s where house prices are in the millions and the residential scenery is quintessential London. Think timeless Victorian townhouses, black wrought-iron gates and immaculate garden squares.

Nappy Valley

Further south, you’ll find greener boroughs like Wandsworth and Wimbledon; both of which regularly top polls of London’s best places to live. Wandsworth is well-known as ‘Nappy Valley’, such is the draw for families here. Wandsworth Common and King George’s park are prime picnic and playing territory, and the local schools have a decent reputation. That said, the area’s younger population is also rising steadily; a result of the brand-new luxury waterfront apartments, an easy commute to Victoria and Waterloo, and a fabulous wining and dining scene. This savvy lot also knows it’s a lot cheaper to live in Wandsworth than it is to live in Fulham; just across the river.

Putney

East of Wandsworth lies pretty Putney, a delightful mix of riverside restaurants and cafés, swathes of green and period properties. The area’s many sporting clubs (tennis, golf, rowing – it’s all present and correct) will suit outdoorsy types, while nearby Roehampton University pulls in the students. As such, the waterfront bars come alive after dark.

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 South West London. Moreover, If there’s a property that you can’t see on HomeViews, you can add a new listing and leave your review here.