Clapham Area Guide | RM Surveyors
Welcome to the next in our series of local Area Guides - this time it’s Clapham’s turn.
Clapham is one of the most vibrant and diverse neighbourhoods in South London. Located in the London Borough of Lambeth, this delightful area is a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. If you're thinking about settling down in Clapham, you're in for a treat! Let me give you a taste of what this fantastic South West London neighbourhood has to offer. From its rich history to its buzzing social scene, Clapham is the perfect blend of urban charm and laid-back living.
One of Clapham's shining attractions is its beautiful green spaces, including of course, the expansive Clapham Common. This hub for sports and recreation throughout the year offers a breath of fresh air in the heart of the city. So, let's dive in and explore this thriving community that combines the best of modern living with a nod to its historical roots.
Clapham has a fascinating story to tell, dating back to its humble beginnings as a 9th century Saxon village. The area was originally part of the Manor of Battersea, and was first recorded as Clopeham in the Domesday Book of 1086.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, Clapham became a popular residential area for wealthy Londoners. The area was known for its large country houses, and many notable figures lived in Clapham during this time, including Samuel Pepys, Elizabeth Cook (the widow of Captain James Cook), and Sir Charles Barry (the architect of the Palace of Westminster).
In the 19th century, Clapham became a center of social reform. The Clapham Sect, a group of wealthy evangelical Anglicans (they worshipped at Holy Trinity Clapham) led by William Wilberforce, lived in the area and were active in campaigns for the abolition of slavery, child labor, and prison reform.
Over the centuries, it's transformed into a bustling London suburb, with the arrival of the railways in the 19th century playing a major role in its growth. Today, Clapham is a lively and dynamic neighbourhood, perfect for those seeking a well-connected, green, and lively place to call home.
About Clapham
Nestled in the heart of South London, Clapham is a thriving, multifaceted neighbourhood that seamlessly blends the charm of village life with the pulsating energy of city living. Comprising distinct 'villages' – Clapham North, Clapham Common, Clapham South, Clapham Old Town, and Clapham Park – each area boasts its own unique personality and allure.
Anchored by the verdant Clapham Common, the area unfolds into a delightful tapestry of bustling streets, picturesque residences, and vibrant social hubs. Clapham North bustles just north of the common, while Clapham Old Town entices with its lively nightlife, brimming with an eclectic array of bars, pubs, and clubs. Clapham Common, as its name implies, encircles the lush parkland, housing some of the area's most sought-after properties. Meanwhile, the serene, family-friendly ambiance of Clapham South beckons young professionals and families, with Abbeville Road at its core. And don't forget Clapham Junction, a thriving area that's truly a part of South Battersea, which we've explored in our Clapham Junction Area Guide blog post.
Clapham's vibrant streets are dotted with an enticing mix of green spaces, shops, cafes, and restaurants, catering to a diverse range of tastes and budgets. From chic independent boutiques to upscale chains, the neighborhood is a haven for foodies and shoppers alike. Embark on a gastronomic journey through Clapham, where traditional British fare rubs shoulders with global culinary delights in its myriad pubs, bars, and eateries.
Beyond its bustling social scene, Clapham is a warm and welcoming place to call home, offering a wide array of housing options to suit all lifestyles. The area's architectural landscape is a delightful blend of grand Victorian and Georgian homes, contemporary apartments, and charming flats. With its top-rated schools and plethora of family-friendly amenities, Clapham has become a popular choice for families seeking the perfect balance of urban excitement and community charm.
Housing and architecture
As a coveted South London neighbourhood, Clapham boasts an enchanting array of architectural styles, with Victorian and Georgian terraced and semi-detached houses dominating the landscape. These classic family homes are harmoniously blended with sleek, contemporary developments, offering a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Its prime location and access to good transport links and top-rated schools make Clapham an irresistible choice for aspiring young professionals and families alike.
It's worth noting that Clapham's desirability is reflected in its housing prices, which tend to be higher than in other parts of South London. This elevated cost of living, however, is balanced by the neighbourhood's irresistible charm, convenience, and appeal to a diverse demographic. Ultimately, Clapham continues to be a highly sought-after destination for those seeking the perfect blend of urban vibrancy, architectural elegance, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Transport links
Clapham has excellent transportation links, with 3 Northern line tube stations and it is also served by overground stations -with Clapham High Street and the nearby Clapham Junction (although it's actually in Battersea!) one of the busiest railway stations in the UK, connecting to destinations all over London and the rest of the country.
Clapham is conveniently located with excellent road links, making it easily accessible by car or bus. The South Circular (A205) and the A24 both run along the Common, providing easy access to other parts of London and beyond. In addition, there are plenty of bus routes serving the area, making it easy to get around without a car. In fact, Clapham is so well-connected that it has even coined the legal phrase "the man on the Clapham omnibus”
Drinking and dining
In the evenings, Clapham comes alive with a lively nightlife scene. From buzzing bars and clubs to cosy pubs and live music venues, there's always something going on. The neighbourhood is particularly popular with young professionals and students, thanks to its convenient location and excellent transport links to central London.
If you're looking for a fun and unique bar experience in Clapham, you won't want to miss The Little Orange Door. This eclectic bar and restaurant is designed to look and feel like a fictional home, with funky decor and a playful atmosphere that is sure to impress. The bar is especially popular for its weekly house parties, which take place in the open plan living room and kitchen area, as well as its dinner parties in the beautiful botanical conservatory.
But The Little Orange Door is just one of many great bars in Clapham. The Sun is a local favourite, with a cosy atmosphere and an extensive selection of beers and spirits. The pub also serves up classic pub grub, including fish and chips and Sunday roasts. The Windmill on the Common is a great piece of Clapham history with the first recorded mention of the Windmill as a Coaching Inn dating back to the early 18th century - these days it’s a great place to stop on those long dog walks on the Common. The Abbeville Pub is another great option on the more village-like Abbeville Road, with their classic pub dishes and a warm and welcoming atmosphere, while The Perky Nel is a more lively bar with a young, energetic party vibe set just off the Common at Clapham South.
Clapham is a foodie's paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Clapham has something to suit every taste and budget.
Whether you're in the mood for a casual pint or a fancy meal, Clapham has plenty of options to choose from. From traditional English pubs to Michelin-starred restaurants, there's something for everyone in this vibrant neighbourhood.
Clapham has a wide variety of great restaurants to choose from, ranging from casual eateries to upscale fine dining. Here are a few popular options:
The Minnow is a popular restaurant and bar located in Clapham. With a bright and airy interior and a relaxed atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner with friends. The menu at The Minnow is focused on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, with a variety of dishes to suit all tastes. Starters include the likes of smoked salmon rillettes and burrata with grilled peaches, while mains range from comforting classics like fish and chips to more innovative dishes like wild mushroom ragout with pearl barley.
Eco Pizza: This popular pizzeria on Clapham High Street is renowned for its sourdough pizzas, which are cooked in a wood-fired oven. The restaurant also offers a variety of salads and sides, as well as a selection of craft beers and natural wines. My favourite pizza is the smoked aubergine and burrata with baked garlic and basil pesto!
Trinity is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in Clapham. The restaurant is known for its elegant and refined cuisine, which draws on the best of British and European culinary traditions.
The menu at Trinity changes regularly to reflect the seasons and the availability of local ingredients. Dishes are beautifully presented and full of flavour, with a focus on simple, high-quality ingredients. Examples of dishes you might find on the menu include roasted Cornish brill with fennel, courgette flower, and bouillabaisse, and grilled Yorkshire lamb with globe artichokes, broad beans, and salsa verde.
Shopping
If you're a fan of independent shops, Clapham has plenty to offer. While Clapham High Street is home to some major retailers, it's the independent shops that really give the area its unique character. The best local shopping street locally is Northcote road (which is technically Battersea - see the Clapham Junction blog here) but Clapham boasts a plethora of exceptional local shopping options too - particularly when it comes to top-end food and wine. The area is home to several noteworthy establishments such as Moen’s Butchers, The Old Post Office Bakery, and Bottle Apostle. These independent retailers offer some of the finest culinary delights that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Moen’s Butchers has earned a well-deserved reputation for its highest quality meat, exceptional customer service and expert knowledge. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Moen's will be happy to assist you in selecting the perfect cut of meat for your needs.
The Old Post Office Bakery - London’s oldest organic Bakery has been serving up delicious bread, pastries, and cakes since 1982. Everything is made on-site using traditional methods, and the results are truly delicious - this artisan bakery is a real gem.
Bottle Apostle is an independent wine shop located on Abbeville Road. The shop offers a carefully curated selection of wines from all over the world, with a focus on natural, organic, and biodynamic wines. Bottle Apostle's staff are passionate about wine and have extensive knowledge of their products.
Below are some of the other fantastic independent shops in Clapham that offer a unique and personal shopping experience.
North Street Potters is a charming pottery studio that sells beautifully crafted ceramics, made by local artisans. They also offer pottery classes and workshops for those who want to try their hand at creating their own masterpiece.
Clapham Books is an independent bookstore that offers a wide range of fiction and non-fiction titles, as well as a great selection of children's books. They often host author events and book clubs, making it a great spot for book lovers to connect and engage with the local community.
Parks and green spaces
Clapham is well-known for its vast green spaces, particularly the beautiful Clapham Common. This 220-acre expanse of greenery is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as jogging, picnicking, and playing sports. There are also a variety of events that take place on the Common throughout the year, including music festivals, fun runs, and fireworks displays. In addition to Clapham Common, there are a number of other green spaces in the area, including Wandsworth Common, Brockwell Park, and Tooting Bec Common.
Arts and culture
Clapham is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with a range of galleries, theatres, and cultural events to enjoy.
Here are just a few highlights:
Omnibus Theatre: This intimate theatre showcases a diverse range of productions, from new writing to classic plays, as well as hosting regular comedy nights and live music events.
Studio Voltaire: This contemporary art space hosts exhibitions by emerging and established artists, as well as offering a programme of talks, performances, and workshops.
Clapham Picturehouse: This independent cinema on Venn St is a popular spot for film lovers, with a varied programme of new releases, classics, and special events such as Q&A sessions with directors and actors.
Clapham Book Festival: This annual festival celebrates literature in all its forms, with talks, workshops, and events featuring a range of authors and publishers.
Landor Space: This versatile performance venue above the Landor pub in Clapham North hosts everything from plays and musicals to cabaret and comedy shows, as well as offering rehearsal space and training workshops for actors.
Clapham Common Bandstand: This iconic bandstand has been hosting concerts and performances since the 1800s, and still attracts crowds today for its summer programme of music, theatre, and dance.
Clapham Grand: This historic venue in Clapham Junction deserves a mention as it has been entertaining Londoners since the Victorian era, and now hosts a wide range of events including live music, club nights, and comedy shows.
Overall, Clapham is a great destination for anyone looking to explore London's rich arts and culture scene, with plenty of opportunities to discover new talent and experience unique performances.
Sports and leisure
Clapham Common is home to a variety of sports facilities, including tennis courts and cricket nets. Sports enthusiasts will also find plenty of opportunities to get involved in mini leagues, including touch rugby, football, Australian rules football, and rounders. Ultimate frisbee, in particular, is a popular sport in the area, with several teams and leagues based here. Clapham Ultimate, one of the most successful ultimate frisbee clubs in the world, is based in the area and has won numerous national and international championships. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to relax, a place to exercise and play sports, or a venue for outdoor events and festivals, Clapham's green spaces have something for everyone.
Schools
Clapham is home to a variety of schools, including primary schools, secondary schools, and sixth form colleges.
Clapham Manor Primary School: This is a popular primary school located on Belmont Road. It has a "Good" rating from Ofsted and is known for its supportive and inclusive ethos.
Macaulay Church of England Primary School: Another well-regarded primary school, Macaulay has a "Good" rating from Ofsted and a strong focus on creative learning and outdoor education (and where my website designer, Matt went to primary school!).
Lambeth Academy: This is a secondary school located on Elms Road, serving students aged 11-18. It has a "Good" rating from Ofsted and offers a wide range of academic and vocational courses.
Saint Francis Xavier Sixth Form College: This is a Catholic sixth form college located on Malwood Road, offering a range of A-level and vocational courses. It has a strong academic record and is known for its supportive community.
Eaton House The Manor: This is a private preparatory school for boys aged 4-13, located on Clapham Common North Side. It has a reputation for high academic standards and a nurturing environment.
The Elms Academy: A mixed, secondary school located on Elms Road on the site of the Lambeth Academy (and before that Henry Thornton) serving students aged 11-18. It has a "Good" rating from Ofsted and offers a wide range of academic and vocational courses.
Overall, Clapham offers a range of educational options to suit different needs and preferences, from state schools to private schools and sixth form colleges.
Local council
Clapham is located mostly within the London Borough of Lambeth, but with some areas (most notably Clapham Common) extending into the neighbouring London Borough of Wandsworth.
Estate agencies
When it comes to buying or selling a property in Clapham, it's important to choose an estate agent that you can trust. There are a number of great estate agents in the area, but here are a few of our favorites:
Jacksons on Abbeville Road: Jacksons is a family-run estate agent that has been serving the Clapham community for over 25 years. They have a wealth of experience and knowledge of the local area, and they are committed to providing their clients with the best possible service.
Samuels Estates in Balham: Samuels Estates is another highly respected independent estate agent in the Clapham area. Founder Nick Samuel is good friend of mine and I can vouch for the high level of service he and his team provide.
Also noteworthy is the independent agency James Pendleton, founded in 2003 by Lee James and Lucy Pendleton. Their dedicated team of experts offers personalized service and valuable insights into the London property market for both buyers and sellers.
If you’re looking for a larger chain I’d recommend Dexters - a leading estate agent in the Clapham area. They have a team of experienced and qualified professionals who are dedicated to helping their clients achieve their property goals.
And not forgetting!
Royal Trinity Hospice is a real Clapham institution - they provide palliative and end-of-life care for people with progressive, life-limiting illnesses, as well as support for their families and carers. The Hospice is a pillar of the Clapham community that I'm very happy to support in their charity fundraising. You can donate to Trinity Hospice here
Surveys and valuations
If you’ve already got your eye on a property in Clapham and are ready to take the next step, I offer a wide range of independent and cost-effective residential surveys and valuations.
As a residential chartered surveyor and RICS registered property valuer with more 20 years’ real estate experience across London and the south-east, I know that buying property is one of the most important decisions most people ever make.
That’s why I’m passionate about taking the stress out of the survey and valuation process and helping people realise their dreams, whether that’s a treasured new home or the next investment property.
Contact me today at roo@rmsurveyors.co.uk or by phone on 07957 606886 to have an informal, confidential and no-obligation conversation about your requirements.