South West London stretches south of the river and towards the county of Surrey. It serves as an interesting mix of influences from the cosmopolitan capital and the charming countryside beyond it, making it one of the most desirable places to live in the whole country.
Each town here holds its own unique charm, but there are definitely some unmistakable elements that they all share with a spirit of connectivity and community high on the list. Let’s take a look through some of the finest.
Richmond-upon-Thames
Richmond is a delightful town in South West London that connects the capital to the roots of the Tudor Royal family in Yorkshire through its name. Despite being an established part of Greater London for over 50 years, this place is proud of its independent history and is often still referred to locally as Richmond Town. It is home to the beautiful Kew Gardens that houses the largest collection of living plants anywhere in the world, which all seems fitting for a place with such natural charm and elegance. Richmond Park is another essential attraction here, stretching out over 2,500 acres of ancient woodland, grasslands and ponds with over 600 wild deer roaming free in its boundaries. With stunning riverside apartment properties and areas like Richmond Green offering modern living in rows of impeccable Georgian and Victorian townhouses, Richmond takes some beating.
Tooting
The town of Tooting is accelerating way beyond up-and-coming-area status into a vital part of the London scene. In particular, it has garnered lots of attention for its emergence as a haven for foodies and independent artisan vendors. They are capitalising on the history and location of the famous Tooting and Broadway Markets with incredible global street foods providing everything from biryani to burgers and sushi to ceviche. This quirky culinary scene has even recently placed it on Lonely Planet’s Coolest Neighbourhoods in The World list. With excellent outdoor attractions such as Tooting Bec Common and the incredible outdoor swimming facilities of the Lido, it is easy to see why Tooting is making such a splash.
Surbiton
The riverside tranquillity of Surbiton makes it almost impossible to believe that you are just minutes away from the centre of London; 18 minutes to Waterloo station to be precise. Vibrant Victorian villas and grand Georgian architecture line the streets here with the slightly more modern sophistication provided by apartments overlooking the Thames. There is lots to admire from a bustling social scene and night-time economy through restaurants such as the Michelin-recommended The French Table or the craft beer bars and chic cafes along Maple Road. With Hampton Court Palace on its doorstep, this is a town fit for kings.
Barnes
Barnes is a traditional English town that has been a favourite for international families and affluent individuals for decades now. It displays some inspiring elements of culture and a tight-knit community that foster a warm, intimate and village feel, all within the boundaries of London. The Barnes Children’s Literary festival, which welcomes such luminaries as Michael Rosen and Dame Jaqueline Wilson, is a great example of the family-friendly atmosphere that you can expect. With some of the finest independent educational opportunities in all of London, such as the innovative learning of The Harrodian School, and the world-renowned St Paul’s School for boys, Barnes is top of the class for those looking for a great place to raise children.
Battersea
The dynamic and sophisticated town of Battersea is testament to the joined-up thinking and sympathetic restoration that makes a 21st Century town in London really stand out. The Grade II-listed Battersea Power Station complex that looms above the area has been transformed into a multi-purpose location of luxury shopping, fine dining and a limited number of incredible apartments. Some of these even boast rooftop terraces, cinema rooms and a sunset bar.The 200-acre oasis of Battersea Park provides endless opportunities for activities and relaxation with its boating lake, zoo and riverside walks that connect easily to the rest of South London when you want to venture a bit further. Battersea makes a powerful argument for its inclusion on any London list.
Twickenham
You would have to try very hard to think of a London town with more sporting pedigree than Twickenham, the global home of rugby. However, there is far more to it. The exclusive leafy streets and wonderful architecture of areas such as St. Margaret’s and Strawberry Hill are everything that you would expect of a place with traditional English heritage and style. The Gothic revival splendour of Strawberry Hill House is a masterpiece of design that matches the literary works of its creator, Horace Walpole, and its influence can still be seen all over the world. With a vibrant gourmet scene provided by places such as the Bingham Riverhouse and The White Swan, Twickenham scores very highly in every department.
Teddington
Teddington is another town in South East London that has managed to evolve from its origins and development into an excellent hub for modern living. Once again, the housing stock of Edwardian, Georgian and Victorian villas have been enthusiastically maintained and reinvigorated across areas here such as Broomwater and Langdon Park, with many owning private gardens that back directly on to the River Thames. The town also boasts the second largest Royal Park in London, Bushy Park. This is an impressive 1,100-acre estate that was once a royal hunting ground for Henry VII and now provides a sophisticated natural retreat for its residents to wander among the wildlife and water gardens. As the birthplace of the playwright and screenwriter Noel Coward, Teddington demands more than a Brief Encounter and can provide the ideal place for a family home.
Within the modern landscape of London, it is rare to find so many towns that completely maintain their own identity. South West London has an embarrassment of riches in this regard and makes a compelling case for those looking for city-living in the most charming way possible, making the most of the history, heritage and environment that it naturally provides.
