There’s a neighbourhood nestled in South East London that provides an ideal mix of village appeal and urban practicality. Renowned for its independent retailers, fashionable restaurants, and outstanding schools, it has attracted families and working professionals alike.
Muddy Stilettos describe East Dulwich as simply ‘cool’, earning it a spot on their catalogue of the finest places to live in London last year. In fact, it sat in second place, behind only North London’s Dartmouth Park.
East Dulwich boasts a railway station with services to London Bridge taking merely 15 minutes.
Lordship Lane, the vibrant high street, serves as the area’s focal point. It’s packed with cafés, delicatessens, and distinctive shops that provide the neighbourhood with its individual personality.
Should you stroll from the railway station towards the high street, you’ll initially come across the East Dulwich Tavern, a cherished local establishment. It recently experienced a renovation, though the new proprietors were determined to maintain its community atmosphere.
Lewis Meagor, 31, who assumed control of the pub last September, explains it occupies a treasured position in locals’ affections. He said: “It’s where everyone congregates, especially on Saturdays when Dulwich Hamlet F.C. are playing down the road.”
The ‘Hamlets’ represent the area’s football squad, and they’re the most supported non-league club in the UK. They attract enormous crowds to witness their fixtures, which demonstrates the close-knit community of East Dulwich.
He mentions the reaction to the renovation has been tremendously favourable. Lewis added: “People say we’ve kept the heart of the place, which was really important to us.”
Claudio Pascale, 45, a chef who relocated to the neighbourhood a year ago, appreciates the local facilities.
He said: “The high street’s got great produce – fish shops, butchers, and fresh veg, which is perfect for me.”
Nevertheless, Claudio mentioned that securing a home in the vicinity comes at a premium.
These days, according to Rightmove, the average property in East Dulwich will set you back around the £830,000 mark.
Independent retailers populate Lordship Lane, such as Mons Cheesemongers. Laurence Lindars, 31, an employee at the cheese shop, believes the area’s culinary landscape made it a perfect location to establish their first brick-and-mortar store in East Dulwich.
He added: “There was already a butcher, a fishmonger, and a veg shop, so we slotted right in. The mix of people from Dulwich Village, Peckham, and Camberwell creates a great customer base.”
Maria Georgiou, 62, runs Really Maria, amongst London’s final haberdasheries. She considers herself fortunate that her parents purchased the premises years ago.
She said: “My parents owned the first restaurant down Lordship Lane, and bought some more shops later. They eventually decided to keep only one shop in the family, and I’m so grateful for that.”
Maria believes the locality’s tight-knit atmosphere is what makes it distinctive. She added: “There’s a real sense of community – it’s almost like a village. We really helped each other during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Susie Smith, 52, has lived in East Dulwich her whole life. She agrees with Maria on the highlights of the area.
Susie said: “It’s like a little village in London, with lots of independent shops rather than big chains, only an M and S here and there. Everyone knows each other – it’s very friendly.”
Maurizio Calcagno, 62, owner of an Italian deli, says the area is quieter since COVID-19. He misses the busier pre-pandemic days.
He said: “Before, it was much busier – now, it’s up and down. But we take what we can, and the people are still very friendly.”
When Maurizio moved to London, he first opened a business in Tooting, but he says moving to East Dulwich was a positive change. He said: “This is a much nicer area; business was slow at first, but now we have regulars who come in daily for coffee, showing the strong sense of community.”
With its tree-lined parks, outstanding schools, and lively high street, East Dulwich continues to be a coveted South London destination. Despite escalating prices, its appeal and neighbourhood spirit keep flourishing.
Stay updated on the top South London stories. Sign up to our MySouthLondon newsletter HERE for the latest daily news and more.
