SE1 Property Guide
SE1 is split between the boroughs of Lambeth and Southwark, encompassing locations like Bermondsey, Borough, London Bridge, Elephant and Castle, Waterloo, and Lambeth.
With the River Thames at its northern boundary, it also features eight bridges: Tower Bridge, London Bridge, Southwark Bridge, Blackfriars Bridge, Waterloo Bridge, Westminster Bridge, Lambeth Bridge, and Vauxhall Bridge.
Nestled within this vast urban landscape, SE1 offers a unique blend of historic sites, modern amenities, and diverse cultural hubs.
Properties in SE1 Properties
SE1 Property Market
Properties in SE1 have commanded an average price of £764,648 in the past year. Situated in the heart of London, SE1 enjoys a prime location with close proximity to the River Thames, making it a highly sought-after destination for both work and leisure activities. Its central positioning allows easy access to various amenities and entertainment options.
When it comes to property types, flats constitute the majority of sales within the area over the past year and tend to be the predominant type of property in the area. This prevalence contributes to more affordable housing options compared to houses or other property types, making it an appealing choice for a range of residents.
SE1 has undergone a significant transformation through the development of new build properties. This surge in construction is fuelled by regeneration projects and the strategic advantages of the area's location. These modern, new builds offer residents high-quality living spaces that align with contemporary design trends and cater to the demands of urban lifestyles.
Overall, the SE1 property market is driven by a mix of affordability and modernity, bolstered by its central location and diverse housing options.
Property Types In SE1
In terms of property in SE1, there is plenty on offer, matching a wide variety of styles and tastes. The riverfront is home to several luxury executive apartments, many of which are warehouse conversions such as Burrells Wharf, which is located towards Tower Bridge Road, the popular Clink Wharf on Clink Street and new developments such as those along Long Lane, near to Borough tube station.
To the east is Bermondsey, where you can find some of the more affordable SE1 flats to rent or houses to buy. In Elephant and Castle, the prices are even more reasonable, perhaps the most affordable area within Zone 1 of the London Underground. Homes on Old Kent Road mainly consist of one or two-bed flats above commercial properties; however, some terraced and semi-detached properties are also available.
Elsewhere, the highly desirable Trinity Church Square is located in Borough, a beautifully preserved square of Georgian townhouses. Most of these large, terraced houses have been converted into flats, although some remain in their original terraced form.
Westminster Bridge Road is where you can find six-figure executive apartment buildings, with the Albert Embankment being slightly more affordable, yet still extremely popular. For those on a much tighter budget, many ex-local authority properties in SE1 are located at Greet House on Frazier Street.
There is a diverse range of buildings and architectural styles in the SE1 area that represent the tremendous changes the area has undergone since the 1980s. For example, former industrial warehouses were knocked down to accommodate multistorey high-rise apartment blocks. However, many streets still have excellent examples of Victorian or Georgian terraces.
The SE1 postcode area has some of London’s tallest and newest buildings. You will find luxury apartments in modern buildings along the banks of the Thames. Depending on the location - Lambeth, Waterloo, London Bridge, or Bermondsey - you get stunning views of the City of London, the Houses of Parliament, and Tower Bridge. The best riverside apartments are generally located in Southwark and Bermondsey. Here, you will find modern residential developments in contemporary new build blocks or converted warehouses.
Part of the attraction of living in SE1 is the availability of Victorian and Georgian terraced houses. For example, in Lambeth, between Kennington Road and Newington Butts, you will find terraces with two and three-storey Georgian townhouses. Many of these streets offer affordable housing in converted period flats. Fine examples of Victorian homes in SE1 are in Bermondsey between Old Kent Road and Southwark Park. Here, two-storey Victorian cottages dominate the housing stock.
Due to its industrial past, many of the SE1 areas, like Southwark and Bermondsey, have spacious warehouse conversions offering loft-style living. Some of the best examples of riverside converted warehouses are on Bermondsey Street and Shad Thames. However, you can still find affordable conversions away from the river in ex-industrial buildings in Elephant and Castle and Bermondsey.
New-Build Properties in SE1
The thriving neighbourhoods have shaken off their industrial past. New-build developments continue to inject life into the area, making more housing available. Most of the newest developments are in Borough, Southwark, and Bermondsey. New multi-storey apartments include one to three-bedroom apartments. Many of these developments have affordable housing with deals on shared-ownership flats.
Buying Property in SE1
SE1's property market performance is marked by higher prices than London's average of £523k. This suggests SE1 is a favourable area compared to other London neighbourhoods. The availability of diverse property types, ranging from houses to flats, helps to make it an appealing choice for buyers and investors with a range of budgets.
Impactful regeneration projects and the emergence of new builds have transformed the landscape of SE1. These contemporary developments offer attractive, high-quality housing options, which hold potential appeal for prospective investors. The rental market within SE1 shows promising signs, with escalating rental prices and growing demand pointing toward increased rental income and investment returns.
SE1's advantageous location within central London and proximity to the River Thames offers convenient access to many essential amenities, cultural attractions, and employment prospects. These features position SE1 as a sought-after locale for both residents and investors. Furthermore, SE1 exhibits potential for capital growth over time, driven by ongoing development, housing demand, and the inherent desirability of the area.
Renting Property in SE1
Affordable rental options make SE1's flats and houses appealing to renters. The rental landscape caters to various budgets, from ex-council flats to family homes and upscale riverside flats.
One of SE1's renting perks is its extensive transport links, with most neighbourhoods falling within Zone 1. Commuting to Central London or Canary Wharf remains both cost-effective and efficient.
Ongoing regeneration in Southwark, Borough, Bermondsey, Elephant and Castle, London Bridge, and Waterloo has paved the way for abundant investment prospects. This favourable environment offers ample buy-to-let opportunities, aligning with the vibrant rental market's demands.
Property for sale in SE1
Property to Rent in SE1
Buildings of Significance in SE1
Lambeth Palace has a long and significant history in SE1, serving as the London residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury since the 13th century. Over the years, it has fulfilled various roles, including worship, learning, diplomacy, and refuge. The palace houses historical artefacts like the Lambeth Bible and the Lambeth Palace Library, a treasure trove of religious manuscripts.
Beyond its physical presence, Lambeth Palace's impact on SE1 is noteworthy. The Lambeth Conference, uniting Anglican bishops from 1867 to 1978, found its home here. It has also seen diverse roles, from hosting Sir Thomas More's imprisonment in 1534 to becoming a hospital during the English Civil War.
In the modern era, Lambeth Palace remains pivotal for the Church of England, serving purposes like worship and conferences. Notable moments include the establishment of Lambeth Palace Library in 1610 and the last Lambeth Conference in 1978.
Lambeth Palace is a significant monument of SE1's history, encapsulating religious and cultural heritage. It's open to the public, inviting exploration of its rich past and enduring presence.
SE1 Properties Schools
Johanna Primary School – Their website says: “Johanna Primary School provides a nurturing and supportive learning environment for its students, helping them to achieve their full potential.”
Tower Bridge Primary School – “Tower Bridge Primary School has a strongly inclusive ethos, valuing every pupil” and was rated Good by Ofsted in 2018.
Notre Dame Roman Catholic Girls' School – “Notre Dame Roman Catholic Girls' School is committed to providing a high-quality education for its students, helping them to develop academically, socially, and spiritually.”
Walworth Academy – “Walworth Academy is dedicated to providing its students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed in life, both academically and personally.”
SE1 Properties Regeneration Information
Past Regeneration Projects
Shakespeare's Globe was rebuilt in the 1990s on the site of the original Globe Theatre, which was destroyed in a fire in 1613. The new Globe Theatre is a popular tourist destination and hosts a variety of performances throughout the year. The regeneration of the Bankside area, which is home to the Globe Theatre, has been a significant success, with new restaurants, bars, and shops opening up in the area.
Regeneration Projects In SE1
The SE1 area has undergone a large amount of regeneration since the 1980s, and more is planned. According to Southwark Council, 40% of Southwark is under regeneration, and developments in the area are valued at £4 billion.
Elephant Park in Elephant & Castle is a £2.5 billion regeneration initiative by Lendlease and Southwark Council. It envisions 2,500 new homes, 32,000 square metres of retail and commercial space, and a two-acre park. The project prioritises sustainability and aims to generate over 5,000 construction jobs and 1,500 permanent positions. Replacing the former Heygate Estate, the development combines high-rise and low-rise buildings, accompanied by public spaces like a park with a children's play area, cafe, and dog park. Anticipated to conclude its first phase in 2023 and the second in 2026, Elephant Park is a major regeneration project that will transform the Elephant & Castle area. It will create new homes, jobs, and public spaces, and it will help to make the area a more vibrant and sustainable place to live, work, and visit.
SE1 Properties Community
Several community groups and projects in SE1 bring residents together and promote community engagement.
Community Groups: This organisation organises a range of different projects and initiatives, some of which are highlighted below:
- The Bankside Residents' Forum plays an active role in fostering community engagement and communication among local residents. Through discussions, events, and initiatives, they work to enhance the well-being and liveability of the Bankside area, creating a strong sense of unity and collaboration.
- Blackfriars Settlement actively supports the local community through various programs and services. By offering educational, recreational, and social opportunities, they contribute to the well-being and development of individuals and families in the area, fostering a sense of belonging and growth.
- The Waterloo Community Development Group focuses on enhancing the local community's well-being through various projects and initiatives. By addressing local needs, advocating for positive change, and fostering collaboration, they contribute to the growth and vitality of the Waterloo area, promoting a sense of shared progress and unity.
The Africa Centre: The Africa Centre is a strong and active participant in the local community. They engage through events, exhibitions, and educational programmes, providing opportunities for cultural enrichment, fostering connections, and celebrating the contributions of African culture within the local context.
Southwark News: The Southwark News is an excellent example of a community-led newspaper and prides itself on being the only independent, paid-for newspaper in London. Their events page provides a round-up of local events in SE1 and SE16, including theatre performances, festivals, exhibitions, and more.
Transport Information
SE1 is a large area and it is well connected with the rest of London. It has a large number of Underground and Overground stations, as well as numerous bus routes operating.
Underground:
There are six Underground stations in SE1:
- Borough
- Southwark
- London Bridge
- Elephant & Castle
- Lambeth North
- Waterloo
Overground:
SE1 has four stations:
- London Bridge
- Waterloo
- London Waterloo East
- Elephant & Castle
Bus:
From Borough Station, the following bus routes operate: 35, 40, 133, 343, C10, N133, N343
Three bus routes operate from Waterloo Station: 4, 172, 341
Five bus routes operate from Southwark Station: 45, 63, 100, N63, N89
Things To Do in SE1 Properties
SE1 covers an extensive area of London, and it is home to some of the biggest and best attractions in the city.
- Tate Modern offers a diverse collection of contemporary art, showcasing innovative creations from around the world.
- Situated along the Southbank, the Globe Theatre provides an immersive experience of the world of Shakespearean theatre.
- The Old Vic and The National Theatre are renowned venues known for their exceptional performances and contributions to London's theatrical scene.
- For a modern adventure, head west to the London Eye and marvel at the panoramic city views from this iconic attraction.
One of our team, in particular, loves the London Eye and has this to say: We absolutely love visiting the London Eye! It's one of our favourite spots to take in the breathtaking city views from the top – an experience that truly captures the essence of London." - The Royal Festival Hall is a cultural hub hosting various live events, concerts, and exhibitions that cater to all artistic tastes.
- HMS Belfast, docked between Tower Bridge and London Bridge, offers a glimpse into naval history and the maritime heritage of the city.
- Immerse yourself in historical narratives and global conflicts at the Imperial War Museum.
- Take in the views of London's skyline by visiting The Shard's observation deck, offering unparalleled vistas and a unique cityscape experience.
