If you’re looking to move to Southwark, you might be considering Elephant and Castle, and for good reason. This vibrant area is undergoing major regeneration and looks set to become one of the capital’s hottest areas in the future.

Here are some surprising facts about the area and some reasons why you should consider investing in property there.

Surprising facts about Elephant and Castle

  • Its name was taken from a coaching inn. Elephant and Castle undoubtedly has one of the most memorable place-names in London. The name originated from a coaching inn, which had the same title. Shakespeare even mentions the inn in his play, Twelfth Night. However, some historians have other ideas, and believe that the name was a corruption of ‘La Infanta de Castilla’, which was possibly a reference to Henry VIII’s first wife, Catherine of Aragon. The Spanish princess apparently stayed in a property on the South Bank, about a mile from the area, so this theory may well be right.
  • The new development has impressive eco-credentials. Elephant and Castle is currently undergoing huge levels of regeneration. The heart of the project is Elephant Park; a massive green area with new housing and communal spaces. The development looks set to be one of the most environmentally sustainable in the world and aims to be climate positive by the time it’s completed in 2025. Additionally, Elephant Park will have an ‘Energy Hub’, which will deliver net zero-carbon heating and hot water to the new homes.
  • It’s got a phenomenal cultural scene. Elephant and Castle’s cultural scene arguably rivals places like Peckham these days. Southwark Playhouse is in the area, as is the Cinema Museum (which is an example of a quirky museum at its best), and the Artworks London, which is constructed out of several brightly painted shipping containers.
  • It’s a dream for fitness fans. Elephant and Castle caters well for those who are into fitness. Surprisingly for a busy urban location, it has a few generously-sized green areas for runners to enjoy. This not only includes Elephant Park (the largest green space to be created in London for 70 years), but also Burgess Park, which hosts the Burgess Park Run every Saturday. The Ministry of Fitness is also an experience that mustn’t be missed. Instead of clubbing, attendees can work out to high-energy dance music.
  • Great proximity to the Thames. Arguably one of the best aspects of living in Southwark is that you’re never too far from the Thames, and all the restaurants, bars and attractions that line its banks. Elephant and Castle is just a stone’s throw from some of the best theatres, landmarks and sights in the city; including Shakespeare’s Globe, the London Eye, Tate Britain, SEA LIFE Aquarium London and much more.

Property prices are still affordable by London standards in Elephant and Castle, but the regeneration works are already starting to push them upwards. In short – invest quickly in this exciting, personality-filled area, as the prices will continue to rise.