SE1 and SE16 are popular choices for renters and buyers in London. With their proximity to the River Thames, cultural landmarks, and excellent transport links, the areas offer residents city living with a slightly quieter, residential feel.
Read on and we’ll explore some of the lesser-known gems in these areas, perfect for those looking for more than just the usual tourist hotspots. Whether you're passionate about art and history, a food lover looking for quieter hidden dining spots, or a family in search of parks and activities, SE1 and SE16 have plenty to offer.
Cultural Hideaways in SE1 and SE16
These areas are home to some real cultural gems that often escape the typical tourist trail. In Bankside, you'll find independent galleries showing local and contemporary artists’ work, these include the Bankside Gallery, which focuses on watercolour and printmaking. For those interested in London's darker history, the Clink Prison Museum near London Bridge offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval punishment.
Bermondsey also has a popular cultural scene, with the Fashion and Textile Museum being a standout attraction. Located just off Bermondsey Street, it has exhibitions dedicated to fashion, textiles, and design. If you're looking for grassroots art spaces, hidden gems like the Drawing Room specialises in contemporary drawing exhibitions.
London's Culinary Secrets
There are plenty of underrated dining spots here too. In Bermondsey, Maltby Street Market is a hidden gem, with its artisanal street food vendors and independent stalls serving everything from gourmet cheese to freshly baked pastries. It’s an excellent spot for a weekend food adventure.
Bermondsey Street itself has many excellent restaurants offering contemporary British and international cuisine. Whether you're after a relaxed meal or something more upscale, this area has something for everyone.
Over in Shad Thames, you'll find hidden riverside cafes and restaurants tucked away from the busier parts of London. Meanwhile, Waterloo is home to eclectic dining options, from small independent eateries to local food markets like Lower Marsh.
Family-Friendly Spots
For families, the green spaces and child-friendly amenities make the area ideal. Southwark Park in Rotherhithe is a great example, with its wide open spaces, playgrounds, and sports facilities. It's perfect for a day out with the kids, offering plenty of room to run around and explore.
Surrey Docks Farm, near Surrey Quays, is another family favourite. This working city farm gives children the chance to interact with animals and learn about farming in a fun, hands-on way. It's an educational spot that combines outdoor fun with a bit of nature right in the city.
Canada Water Library is also a popular attraction for families in the area. Offering regular children's activities, a dedicated kids’ section, and a modern design, it’s a great place to start a love of reading while spending quality time together.
Affordable Living in SE1 and SE16
For those looking for an affordable home in an area of London with a strong sense of community, Rotherhithe and Surrey Quays are excellent choices. They are particularly attractive to first-time buyers and renters looking for value without compromising on quality of life.
Rotherhithe is another ideal residential location that retains a village-like atmosphere with history, riverside views, and local shops and cafes. Despite being close to central London, it's a more affordable option that offers excellent transport links via the Jubilee Line and Overground.
Surrey Quays is also a popular choice, with a mix of modern developments and green spaces, such as Southwark Park and the nearby docks. Those looking to buy or rent in an area of London with a growing number of shops, leisure facilities, and schools should consider this area. It's a popular location with young professionals and families alike who are looking for a home that has a strong sense of community.
Future Investment Opportunities
SE1 and SE16 offer great potential for future investment, especially in up-and-coming areas like Canada Water and Docklands. Canada Water is undergoing a major transformation with the Canada Water Masterplan, bringing new homes, shops, and improved transport links via the Jubilee Line and Overground.
Docklands, close to Canary Wharf, is also seeing new developments, offering modern living with excellent access to the Thames. With ongoing regeneration projects in both areas, they present solid opportunities for buyers and investors seeking growth in London's evolving property market.
If you're interested in property in SE1 or SE16, please contact our team of local estate agents.