Rotherhithe Property Guide
Rotherhithe lies within the Borough of Southwark in South-East London. As an integral part of the Docklands, it occupies a prime spot along the southern bank of the Thames, situated directly across the river from Wapping and the Isle of Dogs.
This guide will provide insights into Rotherhithe's history, the various property types available, local amenities and attractions, transportation links, and the advantages of living in the area.
Properties in Rotherhithe Properties
Rotherhithe Property Market
Regeneration in the 1980s transformed this once industrial and maritime area into a vibrant, modern neighbourhood where property prices now average £570,645, offering a more affordable option for those looking to live in the capital.
Location also plays a pivotal role in Rotherhithe's popularity as a residential hotspot. Its strategic positioning within London, close to the Thames and well-connected to central London, adds to its appeal among buyers.
Riverside living is another major benefit for those who live in Rotherhithe, as it sits along the Thames, offering residents breathtaking views. The scenic beauty of the area, complemented by waterfront walks and picturesque landscapes, contributes significantly to its popularity among potential homebuyers.
Another advantage of living in Rotherhithe is the strong sense of community here. The area has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with various community events and initiatives that bring residents together. This community feel adds an immeasurable value to the properties in Rotherhithe, making it an attractive residential choice.
Green spaces also add to the area's appeal, particularly for families seeking a peaceful and charming residential alternative to the bustling streets of Central London. Public parks in the area contribute to the overall quality of life, making Rotherhithe a sought-after location for those prioritising a balanced living environment that allows them easy access to the city while being able to escape to a more peaceful home.
Property Types in Rotherhithe
There’s a great mix of property in Rotherhithe, from high-rise apartments to spacious suburban housing estates.
Property here is incredibly varied, with luxury waterside apartments and affordable one and two-bedroom flats and houses available. High-end properties benefit from the proximity to Canada Water, with its beautiful green spaces and walkways, many of which can be found in purpose-built or new-built apartment blocks with plenty of features, including CCTV and secure entrances. Many of the best properties in Rotherhithe are situated along the banks of the Thames or overlooking Surrey Docks. More affordable properties in the area also benefit from the excellent transport links and can be found in converted houses and ex-council flats.
Rotherhithe is also home to several period townhouses, converted warehouses and modern developments. Modern properties include terraced housing with gardens and luxurious apartments in converted industrial buildings, and there aren’t as many high-rise multi-storey buildings as compared to other regenerated sites like Canary Wharf or nearby Bermondsey. Victorian and Georgian townhouses in Rotherhithe reflect the area's history. These period homes have distinctive architectural features, typical of the elegance of the Victorian and Georgian eras. With their classic designs and often spacious interiors, these townhouses offer a glimpse into Rotherhithe's rich past while providing residents with unique and quaint living spaces.
Rotherhithe's most sought-after homes and flats are along the waterways and the river Thames. Here, you will find wharf buildings converted into spacious apartments offering loft-style living. For example, many warehouse conversions are located on Surrey Quays Road and Rotherhithe Street. Many of the apartments have private balconies offering stunning views over the docks and river. Some conversions include glass-fronted buildings, giving the neighbourhood a modern look.
Rotherhithe also has many newly built contemporary apartment blocks offering spacious apartments. Some of the best examples of modern architecture are found on Quebec Way. These buildings also have the advantage of being beside Stave Hill Ecological Park and the wildlife reserve.
Living in Rotherhithe isn’t all about living in modern apartments. The area also has family houses with private gardens and off-street parking in residential estates. The streets off Redriff Road have many semi-detached and detached two-storey family homes in quiet cul-de-sacs. Additionally, there are residential areas with family homes in the north part of Rotherhithe between Surrey Water and Mayflower Park. These small streets offer the type of living commonly associated with living in outlying suburban areas, not in central London.
Buying Property in Rotherhithe
Rotherhithe has undergone a substantial transformation in recent years, evolving from an industrial port into a green and inviting residential area. The redevelopment, especially around the historic docks, has made it a prime choice for buyers and property investors. These docks, once industrial hubs are now highly sought after for conversion into residential spaces and public areas.
The area's appeal to property investors is evident in the ongoing regeneration efforts. Numerous new-build properties, including modern four and five-storey apartment blocks along the docks and Thames, contribute to the changing landscape here. This makes Rotherhithe an attractive prospect for those interested in property investment.
urthermore, the availability of new builds offers a range of options for residents. From renting to buying, individuals can choose from many housing opportunities. Some of these new developments also focus on affordability, offering excellent deals on shared ownership, making Rotherhithe an appealing choice, particularly for first-time buyers seeking cost-effective options in a well-connected neighbourhood.
Renting Property in Rotherhithe
Rotherhithe's popularity among renters stems from its accessibility, affordability, and proximity to key business districts like Canary Wharf and the City of London. The availability of reasonably priced rental housing caters to a wide range of budgets, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable living arrangements.
One of the key factors contributing to Rotherhithe's appeal to renters is its strategic location. With the nearby Tube stations, Canada Water and Rotherhithe, within walking distance, renters can save time and money on their daily commute. For instance, the short Tube ride of just 3 minutes to Canary Wharf or a 15-minute bicycle journey makes it a convenient choice for those working in these prominent business areas. This accessibility makes Rotherhithe a practical and cost-effective living option for renters.
Property for Sale in Rotherhithe
Property to Rent in Rotherhithe
Buildings of Significance in Rotherhithe
Rotherhithe boasts several buildings with historical significance.
A prominent landmark in Rotherhithe is St. Mary's Church, a historic parish church tracing its roots to the 12th century. It has a direct historical connection to the Mayflower through its association with Captain Christopher Jones, who was the master and part-owner of the Mayflower. Jones was buried at St. Mary's Church in 1622, his final resting place.
Another historically significant structure is the Mayflower Pub, believed to be one of the oldest pubs on the Thames. It has connections to the Pilgrims' journey and serves as a reminder of Rotherhithe's maritime history.
The Brunel Museum is housed in the Engine House, which was part of the infrastructure for the first tunnel under the Thames, designed by Sir Marc Isambard Brunel. This museum provides insights into the area's industrial past.
These buildings contribute to Rotherhithe's rich history, allowing residents and visitors to glimpse its maritime and industrial heritage.
Rotherhithe Properties Schools
There are several primary schools in and around Rotherhithe:
- Albion Primary School, rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2011
- Also rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2011
- St Mary & St Pauls CoE
- Bosco Centre College, rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted in 2023
- St Michaels Catholic College, rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2013
Rotherhithe Properties Regeneration Information
Past Regeneration Projects
In the 1980s, the riverfront of Rotherhithe underwent a redevelopment primarily focused on housing. This transformation included a blend of repurposed warehouses and new construction projects. The overarching objective was torejuvenate the broader Docklands region, converting former industrial spaces into vibrant residential and commercial zones. The motivation for redeveloping Rotherhithe stemmed from the decline of dockland industries, which rendered various areas within the Docklands underutilised and ripe for revitalisation.
The plans aimed to establish a flourishing hub for residences and businesses. The initiative encompassed the creation of new living spaces, offices, retail establishments, and recreational spaces while preserving the region's historical essence. Rotherhithe evolved into an attractive residential and commuter destination through a fusion of renovated warehouses and contemporary structures.
Regeneration Projects in Rotherhithe
The Canada Water regeneration project in Rotherhithe is reshaping a new, dynamic town centre, offering a mix of high-quality homes, community facilities, employment opportunities, and retail spaces. With 900 homes already delivered, including 236 affordable ones, the project transforms the area's historical London docklands into a distinctive waterside hub. The state-of-the-art library, with over 40,000 books, learning spaces, meeting rooms, and a theatre, reflects the commitment to education and cultural engagement. The newly created plaza, designed for street markets and events, offers residents a vibrant public space. Collaborating closely with the local community, the shared vision aims to deliver at least 4,500 new homes, 35,000sqm of retail spaces, and around 2000 new jobs, ensuring the regeneration project's positive impact on residents' lives. The Canada Water Area Action Plan outlines a comprehensive strategy to guide the transformation, covering aspects like shopping, transportation, open spaces, affordable housing, and community facilities up to 2026. Their approach prioritises the creation of a sustainable and thriving environment for Rotherhithe's residents for years to come.
Rotherhithe Properties Community
In Rotherhithe, community spirit thrives through active local groups and initiatives, bringing people together and creating a lively and connected neighbourhood.
SPA 1869:SPA 1869 contributes to the community through its initiatives, encouraging connections, organising events, and engaging residents in activities that enhance the local area's well-being.
Community Gardening Network: The Surrey Docks Farm's Rotherhithe Community Gardening Network brings people together through gardening, creating green spaces that promote community interaction, environmental awareness, and a sense of shared stewardship.
Bermondsey and Rotherhithe Community Group: Empowering the community, the group collaborates on projects, facilitates engagement, and promotes local initiatives, ensuring residents' voices are heard and fostering a strong sense of belonging.
Rotherhithe & Bermondsey Local History Society: The society actively preserves and shares the area's heritage, providing a platform for residents to engage with their history, fostering community pride, and nurturing a connection to the past.
Transport Information
Underground
There are three main tube stations in Rotherhithe.
To the south, Surrey Quays station is in Zone 2 on the East London Line.
Canada Water station is more centrally located, with both under- and overground terminals (the first is part of the Jubilee line, the other is an interchange between the two other Rotherhithe stations).
Rotherhithe station is also part of the East London Line, connecting travellers to Wapping and Highbury & Islington.
Bus
Rotherhithe is served by the TfL services, with buses 1, 47, 188, 199, 225, 381, 10 and P12 operating in the district. There are also three specific night buses - N1, N199 and N381.
Buses stop at:
- Salter Road
- Rotherhithe Street
- Canada Street
- Surrey Quays Road
- Rotherhithe New Road
- Trundleys Road
- Evelyn Street
Boat
Boat services operate in the area:
- Thames clipper from Greenland Dock Pier
- Canary Wharf Ferry from Nelson Dock Pier
Contact our team for more information about property in Waterloo.
Things To Do in Rotherhithe Properties
Southwark Park is the largest open parkland in Rotherhithe and an excellent place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. You’ll find a traditional bandstand, an old English Cottage garden, a cafe, a boating lake and an art gallery here. The park has been on the protected list of Fields in Trust since 2014 to ensure it remains for many years to come.
Other notable green spaces include the Stave Hill Ecological Park, which features a traditional nature reserve, Lavender Pond Nature Park (a haven for wildlife with plenty of trails along wooden boardwalks), and the tranquil Durand's Wharf.
There are also several pleasant dock areas to explore in Rotherhithe, such as the South Dock Marina, Greenland Dock and Surrey Water. These popular redeveloped areas are not only enjoyable for an afternoon stroll but also have many cafes, bars, and restaurants.
Rotherhithe has a wide variety of bars, pubs and restaurants. The Mayflower is an attractive traditional pub (situated on Rotherhithe Street), or alternatively, the two-floor Woolpack on Bermondsey Street serves great food and drink, and the family-friendly Salt Quay pub offers a highly rated Sunday Roast.
