Stockwell: Elegance, variety and convenience

Once upon a time, Stockwell was one of London's poorest neighborhoods, but its proximity to London and excellent transport links into the centre have encouraged the powers that be to put a little money into the area. The results have been inspirational and it is now one of the most in-demand districts, with people clamouring to live in one of the gorgeous houses on offer.

Residential haven

 

History-wise, the area was developed as an elegant middle-class suburb in the 19th-century, with quirky buildings that might include anything from rooftop terraces to bright and colourful exteriors. Notable residents both past and current include artists Arthur Rackham and Vincent Van Gogh, actress and humanitarian Joanna Lumley and comedian Adam Buxton.

One of the most attractive features of the residential areas is that it's much easier to find a property with access to a garden. Furthermore, you'll also find houses are generally much more spacious here than in Central London and more attractive, particularly in areas such as Burnley Road and Jeffrey's Road.

Location

The area itself is located in South London and south-east of Charing Cross, bordering Brixton, Clapham, Vauxhall and Kennington. Transportation links are, as one would expect, excellent, with a plethora of rail stations nearby, offering easy access to the rest of the country. Head to Waterloo or the aforementioned Charing Cross for south-bound services, while access to north-serving trains can be achieved via London St Pancras via Thameslink and London Bridge.

Tube access is equally as close to hand, with London's underground network at your fingertips. Stockwell is primarily served by the Northern and Victoria lines, both of which run through the district's eponymous Tube station. Clapham North and Brixton - both of which are within walking distance of Stockwell - either have one or the other.

As far as green areas go, Stockwell is fairly urban. However, both Slade Gardens and Larkhall Park are highly pleasant locations during a summer day, with people gathering for various events in both places. If you're a real garden enthusiast though, you're better off hopping on a bus or a Tube and riding to Battersea Park, considered by many to be the most interesting green space in Britain's capital.

Things to do

Stockwell is certainly not short of things to do and places to see. The area has an extraordinarily vibrant nightlife, with dozens of places where you can score a cheeky drink or a meal. We recommend the Meraz Restaurant, which is often referred to as London's best-kept secret since 1974. For a glorious yet intimate old pub with live music, try out the Cavendish Arms on Hartington Road, while modern bar fanatics will find what they desire in the Third Space, a trendy lounge bar with a funky dance floor and a spacious outdoor patio.

So what are you waiting for? Get yourself down to Stockwell and take a look around. You might score a bargain.

Published 28th March, 2013

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