Waterloo Property Guide
Waterloo is situated in the London Borough of Lambeth and extends into the London Borough of Southwark; the area is also adjacent to the South Bank of the River Thames. Waterloo gained historical significance from the Battle of Waterloo in 1815 and is still notable for its dynamic atmosphere today.
This guide will detail how Waterloo's central location, transport links, and historic venues make it a dynamic and lively part of London.
Properties in Waterloo
Waterloo Property Market
According to Rightmove, the average price for a property in Waterloo was £807,952 last year. Obviously, house prices vary depending on the property type and proximity to public transport. The most desirable properties with the highest price tags are closer to the Thames, offering a diverse range of properties for property buyers and those looking to rent.
Waterloo is very popular with young professionals, civil servants and politicians who can enjoy easy access to Westminster. However, it is still one of London's most overlooked residential areas. It is architecturally very varied with two-storey Georgian houses, railway cottages, period conversion apartments, modern riverside developments and purpose-built mansion apartment blocks close to County Hall.
Waterloo is also a magnet for renters who want to live near Central London or work in government offices. Due to the various housing types in the area, there is something to suit most budgets.
The area is well serviced by public transport with Waterloo and Waterloo East mainline stations, and tube stops at Waterloo, Lambeth North, and Southwark. Charing Cross mainline station is situated just across the water and the tube stops of Westminster, Embankment and Charing Cross.
Property Types in Waterloo
Waterloo has a variety of property styles, from modern apartments to traditional townhouses and repurposed warehouse spaces, making this an attractive area that suits many property preferences. The eastern side of Waterloo, neighbouring Southwark, has fine examples of period terraces between the Cut and the Thames. For instance, Roupell Street, Aquinas Street and Whittlesey Street have railway cottages in the typical early Georgian style. These brick, two-storey homes typically have doorways on the street. Looking closer to the river, you'll see luxury Georgian mansions with three or four stories. Many of them have undergone extensive modernisation to convert into spacious flats.
To the southern part of Waterloo, between Blackfriars’s Road and Waterloo Road, are fine Edwardian terraces. For example, Ufford Street has terraces of smart flats in three-storey buildings and two-storey family homes with private gardens. Many of these streets also have low-rise properties from the mid-20th century that offer affordable housing for families. This area also has several multi-storey buildings with maisonettes. You will find many modern family houses with walled gardens and off-street parking here.
The most sought-after apartments in Waterloo are in modern multi-storey blocks between Waterloo Bridge and Blackfriars’s Bridge. Spacious, contemporary apartments along the riverside offer stunning views over Westminster and the buildings on the north side of the Thames. Many of the luxury apartments are in gated developments with concierge services, on-site gyms, and swimming pools.
Buying Property in Waterloo
While there are some true gems available to those who prefer older homes,newly built properties in Waterloo are also gaining in popularity.
The newest residential developments in Waterloo are near Waterloo Bridge. For example, Casson Square and Whitehouse Apartments on Belvedere Road have new luxury apartments. Also, the redevelopment of County Hall brings a range of luxury apartments, from studio flats to magnificent three-bedroom penthouses.
Renting Property in Waterloo
Flats to rent in Waterloo are highly sought-after, particularly those overlooking the river. Albert Embankment, for example, is a collection of apartment buildings to the west of Westminster, between Lambeth Bridge and Vauxhall Bridge, namely Parliament View, Salamanca Square, a re-development of the British Steel Headquarters, Salamanca Tower, and Peninsula Heights. In addition to stunning views across the river, these apartments are fitted to an extremely high standard with modern, contemporary bathrooms and kitchens.
Elsewhere, Westminster Bridge Road is home to several executive apartments. The SACO Waterloo Apartments offer bright, light, and spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. The Whitehouse is a luxury South Bank development that benefits from an on-site gym, swimming pool, and 24-hour porter facilities. The apartments here are furnished to a high specification with brand new wooden flooring and air conditioning.
Buildings of Significance in Waterloo
Lambeth Palace is a historic gem that runs along the south bank of the Thames, a short distance from the station. It is the official residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury, and its legacy dates to the 13th century. Featuring a blend of Gothic, Tudor, and Georgian architectural styles, marked by its significant Great Hall built in the 17th century, the building has witnessed various renovations and expansions over the centuries.
The well-maintained gardens, combining historic elements with contemporary touches, contribute to the picturesque appeal of Lambeth Palace and Waterloo as a residential location close to the heart of the Capital.
Waterloo Schools
Waterloo residents benefit from a range of nearby primary and secondary schools, including:
- Johanna Primary School, rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted in 2019
- Friars Primary Foundation School, also rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted
- St George's Cathedral Catholic Primary School, which has also been rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted in 2018
- Charles Dickens Primary School was rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2019
- Charlotte Sharman Primary School, rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted in 2022
- Oasis Academy South Bank, rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2019
- Notre Dame Roman Catholic Girls' School,also rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2012
Waterloo Regeneration Information
Past Regeneration Projects
Waterloo Bridge, a significant structure spanning the river Thames in London, holds a rich historical background dating back to 1817 and was named in commemoration of the Battle of Waterloo.
The current Waterloo Bridge, designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott and engineered by Rendel Palmer & Tritton, was completed in 1945. The new bridge retained the name of its predecessor and featured a reinforced concrete structure with granite facings. Notably, its construction was carried out by a predominantly female workforce, earning it the nickname"The Ladies' Bridge."
Waterloo Bridge stands today as an iconic structure, connecting the vibrant South Bank to the historic Strand area. It has been featured in various cultural works, including literature and films, adding to its significance in the cultural landscape of London.
Regeneration Projects In Waterloo
Grimshaw is developing a new master plan for Waterloo Station and the Southbank area in London. The project aims to improve traffic flow, enhance pedestrian and cycling routes, and align with Lambeth Council's and Network Rail's commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2030. The redevelopment will focus on renewing connections to key areas like Southbank, The Cut, Waterloo Road, Lower Marsh, and Leake Street. The plan includes new walking and cycling routes and is in collaboration with WSP, Gbolade Design Studio, Exterior Architecture, Hatch, Iceni, Turner & Townsend. The initiative reflects the broader goal of creating a more equitable, mobile, and sustainable future for the Waterloo area.
Waterloo was also identified as an Opportunity Area in the Mayor's London Plan in 2004. This plan aimed to create 1,500 new homes and 6,000 jobs by 2041. As of 2019, over 700 new homes were completed, totalling over 1,900 since 2004.
The London Plan focuses on social integration, sustainability, and community engagement. Monitoring progress includes tracking housing, job creation, and infrastructure development. To ensure the plan succeeds and hits its goals, an Annual Monitoring Report was set up. This assesses key performance indicators to evaluate the plan's effectiveness, which is currently ongoing.
Waterloo Community
Waterloo residents are passionate about giving back to their community, and there are many opportunities to get involved in local organisations and events. From volunteering at a food bank to participating in a community garden, there is something for everyone to do in Waterloo.
Local Events in Waterloo: With a wide range of activities and gatherings, Eventbrite is the go-to resource for locals seeking to know what's happening in their community. From arts and culture to entertainment and workshops, this platform ensures that you're always aware of the events in your neighbourhood.
St. John's Waterloo: Improving community spirit by providing a variety of engaging activities. Through events like concerts, workshops, and discussions, it brings together residents for learning and celebration. By promoting connection and shared experiences, St. John's Waterloo contributes to the cohesion of the local community.
Coin Street Community: This organisation connects the community through diverse, inclusive initiatives. From arts and culture to health and well-being, they offer programs that engage, teach, and promote collaboration. By providing a space for residents to engage with one another, the Coin Street Community contributes significantly to the strength and unity of the local area.
Community Events: This list is constantly updated to ensure you don't miss out on anything going on in the Waterloo area. These events promote interaction, collaboration, and shared experiences, which all go towards creating the connected community of Waterloo.
Transport Information
Waterloo is very well connected, especially as it is home to Waterloo Station, one of the city's busiest.
Underground:
There are several Underground stations in the Waterloo area:
- Waterloo
- Southwark
- Lambeth North
- Elephant and Castle
- Embankment
Overground:
Waterloo has two stations:
- Waterloo Station
- London Waterloo East
Bus:
Various bus routes operate in the Waterloo area, including both day and night buses.
Three routes operate from Waterloo Station: 4, 172, 341
Five routes operate from Southwark Station: 45, 63, 100, N63, N89
Contact our team to learn more about property in Waterloo.
Things To Do in Waterloo
Close to the lively South Bank, there’s plenty to do in and around Waterloo.
Theatre fans will be in their element in Waterloo as there are several renowned venues nearby:
The Southwark Playhouse is a short walk from Waterloo station and hosts a wide range of productions. With two performance spaces for contemporary theatre, they champion emerging artists and productions celebrating established talents. Founded in 1993, Southwark Playhouse has carved a niche as a pioneering force in the London theatre scene.
The Globe Theatre is 1.5 miles from the station and is a reconstruction of the original open-air playhouse. This faithful recreation serves as both a working theatre and a museum, providing visitors with an authentic experience of Shakespearean plays in a historic setting.
There is also The Old Vic Theatre, established in 1818, which has a rich theatrical history and has hosted various performances, including classic plays, musicals, and contemporary works. Notable actors, including Laurence Olivier, have graced its stage. The Old Vic is renowned for its commitment to quality productions. Last but certainly not least is the nearby National Theatre. The National Theatre is one of the leading performing arts venues in the UK. It was founded in 1963 and consists of three auditoriums: the Olivier, the Lyttelton, and the Dorfman. You'll find diverse productions here, from classic plays to innovative new works. It is dedicated to promoting accessible and high-quality theatre, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of London and beyond.
Other cultural highlights include the Bankside Gallery, which is home to a fine range of prints and watercolour paintings; the world-famous Tate Modern, based in the former Bankside Power Station; the London Eye; the Royal Festival Hall, Vinopolis; and BFI IMAX.
For those who enjoy history, Waterloo hosts the Golden Hinde, the original ship of Sir Francis Drake, now a living museum with regular guided tours, and HMS Belfast, a historic warship permanently moored on the River Thames in London. It is a cruiser that served in the Royal Navy during World War II and the Korean War and now welcomes visitors.
Those looking for delicious food are spoilt for choice with the nearby Borough Market, a real jewel in the area’s culinary crown. The Market has thrived in the area for 20 centuries and is a haven for food lovers and those who enjoy a good haggle.
Elsewhere, there’s the Oxo Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie, Fish!, specialising in fresh, sustainable and reasonably priced fish dishes and the luxurious Le Pont de la Tour.
