Living in Southwark
This inner city borough is one of the most desirable places to live in London, with its great schools, businesses, prime riverside location and access to all London has to offer.
Why consider moving to Southwark
With its central location along the South Bank, Southwark offers a vibrant mix of culture and community; where modern London meets historic London.
Considered to be one of the oldest parts of London, Southwark is home to a number of the city’s most iconic landmarks including London Bridge, Tower Bridge, the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe, and Borough Market.
Southwark is an exciting place to be, right in the heart of one the most advanced cities in the world. The area’s growth, diversity and opportunity reflects the best of modern city living.
Some of the world's biggest and best employers are in Southwark and that has led to investment in the area. The borough’s diversity also means there’s a thriving independent scene here, with a great number of locally-run restaurants, bars and shops holding their own against bigger, more established brands.
Investment and regeneration have transformed the area in recent decades, driving a community that’s ethnically diverse and on the younger end of the scale, with young professionals and families making up the largest demographic here.
Discover the history of Southwark
Southwark residents are rightly proud that it’s one of London’s most historic boroughs, with a settlement believed to have been here for over 1,000 years. This ‘ancient town’ is where the Romans first built a bridge over the Thames in AD43 and its importance as a place of trade and business just south of London ‘City’ has lasted ever since.
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
By the 12th century Southwark was a hub for travellers heading in and out of the city and this was reflected in the number of inns operating at the time. Remarkably, The George Inn (just off of Borough high street) is still in business today as is the world famous Globe Theatre, which was built here in 1599 and is still a top London attraction.
What's the lifestyle like?
Today, Southwark blends the best of modern London living with a sense of the past. It’s a diverse and multicultural hub for businesses, residents, leisure and tourism - making it one the best place to live in London. From the viewing platform in the Shard to watching a play in the historic Globe Theatre, there is so much to see and do. The Young Vic is a popular theatre with regular, high-quality performances, and the Southbank Centre is one of London's culture hotspots. There’s also the world famous Tate Modern gallery and the historic sites of Tower and London bridge - and that’s just scratching the surface.
There’s an exciting foodie scene in Southwark and great options for nightlife too. When it comes to retail, Southwark has a good selection of local shops to choose from. Although many people living here prefer to make the most of being so well connected and head across the river into central London, you can find anything you need within easy reach.
Food & drink
Southwark is a haven for foodies. Nearly five million people a year visit London's oldest food market, Borough Market, which is home to over 100 stalls selling foods from all around the globe. There’s the lesser-known Maltby Street Market too, crammed into an old alleyway and draped in vibrant coloured banners and flags that entice visitors through its food stalls.
The vibrant dining scene in Southwark is one the most varied in London. Whatever your budget or food preference you’ll find something to suit you here. And there are plenty of high street chains too, particularly along the tourist-heavy riverside where you’ll find the likes of The Real Greek, Zizi and Pret. High-end dining options are also plentiful with restaurants such as The Ivy and Le Pont de la Tour adding a touch of elegance.
Green spaces to explore in Southwark
Green spaces are at more of a premium than on the outskirts of London, but that's not to say there aren’t plenty of opportunities for getting outdoors and into nature in Southwark.
Southwark, despite its urban location, has its fair share of green spaces, with 130 parks and green spaces ranging from large parks to small greens and gardens, meaning there’s plenty of space for residents and visitors to the area to get out into nature. Dulwich Park in particular is popular with locals, with 76 acres of green space that include a boating lake, cafe and sporting facilities.
The riverside location is also impressive, with the four-mile ‘Queens Walk’ taking walkers on a pleasant tree-lined stroll along the riverbank. It’s part of the longer 15 mile Jubilee walkway with a route that will take you past Southwark landmarks (like the Tate Modern and London Bridge) and beyond to St Paul’s Cathedral, The London Eye and The Houses of Parliament.
What's public transport like in the local area?
With the City, Canary Wharf and top schools and universities right on your doorstep, the convenience of living in Southwark is a clear draw for people who move to the area.
The underground and overground train links mean residents can make it to Canary Wharf in 8 minutes and London Bridge in under 10 minutes. London Waterloo is right there for connections south, and King’s Cross and Paddington are a short 9 and 13 minute tube ride away respectively.
Moving to Southwark
With a side selection of Southwark homes on offer, good amenities on the doorstep and access to green space, this is a popular place for people to call home. A large percentage of residents in Southwark fall under the age of 44. It’s a popular place for young professionals keen to enjoy an enjoyable work/life balance in a central location with good employment opportunities and the potential for a great social life. Southwark is also popular with young families who want to make the most of the great schooling available, green spaces and business opportunities.
