In our latest Lettings Market Report, it was revealed that the big rise in demand for London lettings was in the South and West regions. Here’s a look into why Londoners love some of our most popular areas in South West London.
Balham | Battersea | Earlsfield | Guildford | Kingston | Richmond & Twickenham
Popular areas to rent
As we've said in South London is on the rise, historically the area south of the river has included some big renter hotspots, "as the best of both worlds with lively local social scenes and great transport links." Here are three of our most popular South West areas for renters right now:
Balham
When you know London, you go to Balham
Why live in Balham: In one of our local stories, our Balham Lettings Managers said that many of those who wind up moving to Balham started in a more well-known, central area as their first London home. Then, as they get to know London better and want to get more lifestyle benefits for their money, this local community piques their interest. They come to Balham for bigger family homes, tons of entertainment from comedy to sports to music, three big commons (Clapham, Wandsworth and Tooting Bec) and good schools - all with easy access to the city, of course.
Transport: Balham has easy access to the Northern line and Overground, as well as Victoria in nearby Tooting Bec.
See our guide to Balham schools and the local market.
Get in touch with Foxtons Balham estate agency to learn more about the area, or see our Balham property to rent and Balham property to buy.
Read what makes Balham so unique in Local Stories: the bedrock of Balham.
Photo: Halfway House, Earlsfield, SW18 by Ewan Munro | CC BY-SA | Flickr
Earlsfield
For growing families and young professionals
Why live in Earlsfield: Although it's sometimes been overshadowed by such well-known neighbours as Clapham, Wimbledon and Battersea, Earlsfield's leafy residential roads lined with period property have been steadily gaining popularity (especially around Garratt Lane). Thanks to its location in the middle of all these traditionally popular rental areas and great transport links for professionals, a trendy young crowd of renters have come here to enjoy sporty, shopping, foodie and social lifestyles.
Transport: From Earlsfield Station, you can be at London Waterloo in 15 minutes. With a quick change at Clapham Junction, you can get to Victoria in about 20 minutes. There are also close nearby stations for the District line.
See our guide to Earlsfield schools and the local market.
Get in touch with Foxtons to learn more about the area, or see our Earlsfield property to rent and Earlsfield property to buy.
Read how Earlsfield made our list of family favourite areas in Best areas to live in London for families.
Kingston
For its market and its riverfront
Why live in Kingston: Kingston has had a market for centuries, and it's only gotten better with time. Wander through streets and streets of brand name stores mixed in with fine dining, pubs, entertainment and even a classic farmers market throughout the week. All this backs up onto a gorgeous riverfront where you can watch swans preening and brightly coloured boats chugging by. For property, you'll find great family home options, some remarkable New Builds along the river and tons of student housing as Kingston University is close by.
Transport: The fast train will get you to Waterloo in 30 minutes, or switch at Clapham Junction for Victoria. Heathrow is an easy drive, or take the X26 airport express.
See our guide to Kingston schools and the local market.
Get in touch with Foxtons Kingston estate agency to learn more about the area, or see our Kingston property to rent and Kingston property to buy.
Read about Kingston's fantastic riverside walks in Celebrating National Walking Month in London.
Popular areas to buy
Battersea
The self-proclaimed "Nappy Valley"
Why live in Battersea: Battersea is popular with young families (hence the nickname, Nappy Valley) as well as with young professionals for its easy access to central London. It boasts some exceptional riverside developments, with more cropping up all the time. Battersea Power Station has just re-opened, with tons of shops, gyms, restaurants, bars, cafes, a venue and plenty of top-quality new homes. Battersea Park is home to Go Ape, with outdoor activities for all ages, and a lovely art gallery for some quieter contemplation.
Transport: Battersea is now on the Northern line, which increases its transport links into the city. It has always been well connected, however, because one of the busiest stations throughout Europe, Clapham Junction Station, is actually located in Battersea.
See our guide to Battersea schools and the local market.
Get in touch with Foxtons Battersea estate agency to learn more about the area, or see our Battersea property to rent and Battersea property to buy.
Read about Battersea’s rising popularity in Friday Fun Fact: a powerful grand opening.
Guildford
The countryside for Londoners
Why live in Guildford: Here's another area that deserves its nickname; the Heart of Surrey. Guildford, with its cobbled High Street, remarkable architecture, plentiful community activities and peaceful country atmosphere, feels homely and welcoming. It's also considered a commuter town, as it's got great transportation, especially for hybrid workers making their way into London a few days a week.
Transport: driving down the A3 will get you to the coast, and the commuter train will get you to Waterloo station in around 40 minutes.
See our guide to Guildford schools and the local market.
Get in touch with Foxtons Guildford estate agency to learn more about the area, or see our Guildford property to rent and Guildford property to buy.
Read about the easy Guildford commute in Countryside commute: Surrey to Central London in 25 minutes.
Richmond and Twickenham
Beautiful residential areas and lovely town centres
Why live in Richmond and Twickenham: Richmond and Twickenham have a reputation for enabling residents to set down roots, many who come here stay long-term. Nature lovers will enjoy beautiful river walks and picnics both in Bushy Park and in Richmond Park, or if beautiful cafes and shopping are more your thing, head to the lovely High Streets. These two areas in the Borough of Richmond (joint-serviced by our Richmond & Twickenham office), walk that perfect balance between small town life and all the opportunities of London. There's a lot of lovely period property to view in the area.
Transport: Twickenham's station will bring you to Waterloo, or if you're in Richmond, the District line and Overground will be your keys to the Capital.
See our guide to Richmond schools and the local market.
Get in touch with Foxtons Richmond and Twickenham estate agency to learn more about the area, or see our property rent in Richmond and Twickenham and property for sale in Richmond and Twickenham.
Read about what makes Twickenham special in Local stories: Get yourself to Church Street.
