Ever since I moved to London in 2018, each year I have found myself looking for a new flat to live in due to the perils of renting. While navigating the property market, I have seen and experienced some shifts over the past seven years. Originally from Devon, I have moved from East London to West and am now heading further South to find flats in London.
Having spent a summer above the buzzing Brick Lane, in the parks of Stratford, I’m now nestled just above Elephant and Castle in Southwark.
House viewing via video
My current rented property was my biggest gamble yet. Not wanting to miss out on the deal on offer, I was asked to put down a deposit based on a video. Alarm bells rang, and a few years ago, this would have been a definite no-go; however, the property market has changed significantly.
Compared to the more relaxed and slower process of choosing my first flat in 2018, this decision filled me with worry, as firstly, the flat might not even exist. I had to rationalise that, since it was from a reputable estate agent and I was familiar with the area, I would inquire further.
That evening, my friend and I set out on a mission to conduct a quick recce of the outside of the property, trying to align the address with the location of the front door and the rooms as shown in the video. I took the calculated risk, but it made me realise how competitive this area now was.
Having previously viewed two flats the day before, both were taken off the market immediately by young couples and students, and I knew I would have to act fast. However, I was also aware of the rising scams and fake properties available online, and ensured that my sources were reliable.
But was the gamble worth it?
Finding a home in London is always challenging. Each area brings its own charm and unique qualities, and you want to ensure a good balance, as it is an investment. But I have fallen in love with the convenience, walkability, and culture available on the doorstep in Southwark.
I have lived in eight flats in London, and you can’t get much more central, but this can also be some people’s worst nightmare. Although not always the cleanest and with high traffic, being able to walk most of Central London in 40 minutes is a great benefit, and saving on TfL journey costs is a bonus.
Each year, I went through a similar process, and having lived across three boroughs in Newham, Tower Hamlets, and Southwark, I must say that I think I have found my new home for the next few years.
Having just started a new career, being in the hustle and bustle of London feels like the perfect time to live more centrally. With the Tate Modern and National Theatre just around the corner, and quick links out of the city via Waterloo or Elephant and Castle, I feel more connected to London than I ever have before.
With multiple Tube lines from the Jubilee line at Southwark, to Northern line at Borough and Bakerloo or National Rail at Elephant and Castle, you are always under 10 minutes away from a stop. You can even take the Uber Boat if you fancy!
I think I have found my new home
One of my main reasons for wanting to stay is the proximity to the Thames. With stunning river views and my now perfectly timed 5k evening walk, the Thames Path overlooks the iconic bridges of London, with St Paul’s glowing across the water. I must admit, you may be dodging quite a few running clubs (or even joining one) as you cross the bridges, but there is always a sense of energy and vibrancy.
The area is filled with families, with many local schools and a tight-knit community. This is balanced with the rush of the city and a busy pub and restaurant culture. It is well lit and a safe area, known for its tourist spots and transport links.
The balance of traditional housing and new builds makes it a highly residential area, with a high concentration of families, students and young professionals. It is the unique central community and energy that makes Southwark such a vibrant place to live, with lots of parks and green spaces.
The future for Southwark
Southwark now feels like a young professional’s perfect home, with a balance of innovation and creativity, as well as the modernisation and proximity of the city. I am interested in how the area will continue to evolve, with plans to update Elephant and Castle station, and new building developments planned for Southwark.
The area is about to undergo another developmental change, and with prices continually rising, I hope it will remain a viable option.
Eventually, I have a feeling further south may be my next adventure, swapping convenience for some more space, but for now, the excitement of a new adventure around each corner keeps me grounded in my newly found home.
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