Moving to Lewisham
Lewisham, in south-east London, has seen regeneration and renewed interest in the recent years, making the area more attractive and popular than ever before.
Part of the London Borough of Lewisham, the area is just a few miles south of the city and full of varied and exciting neighbourhoods.
Thanks to a surge of new amenities in the area, close proximity to the city and good house prices the area attracts young professionals and families looking for space and convenience. The area benefits from a wealth of new shopping centres, an abundance of green space as well as good transport links.
Lewisham: a brief history
Famed for its beautiful settings and plethora of green space and parks, Lewisham has always been known for its open green space. However originally Lewisham was a part of the county of Kent, becoming part of the London boroughs in 1965. Thanks to the history of the area it’s home to some historical towns and buildings: St Mary’s Church is Lewisham’s oldest building at over 1000 years old.
Lewisham suffered great damage and loss during the Second World War, due to heavy bombing. But thanks to a great effort, there was heavy restoration and rebuilding work completed throughout the 1950’s. And in 1955 the area became home to the largest supermarket in Europe when J Sainsburys opened a new supermarket in the area.
The highlights and culture
Thanks to the number of green spaces and parks in Lewisham, the area is known for its outdoor lifestyle and activities. The 17 green flag parks (the highest number in London) often host organised runs and family-oriented events. Many of the parks have well maintained children’s areas, and there are allotments available for the green-fingered residents.
Lewisham is known as the home of the UK’s largest free firework display, which is hosted to celebrate fireworks night every year at Blackheath. And the area has been the home to a number of very famous faces. From musicians such as Kate Bush and Jimi Hendrix, to film stars Jude Law and Jason Statham, the area is home to a number of impressive residents both past and present.
If you’re considering a move to Lewisham, but aren’t familiar with the area, let our experts help. Our Area Orientation Service gives you a personalised insight from local experts, so you can make an informed decision before you move.
Things to do in Lewisham
The area has lots to offer new movers, life-long Lewisham residents, and visitors. Here are our favourite things to do in the area:
• Browns of Brockley – this speciality coffee shop is our favourite place to grab a drink as well as some delicious fresh sourdough or a just-baked pastry.
• Horniman Museum and Gardens – spend a whole day here exploring it all or make it a regular haunt. Either way you won’t get bored of exploring the butterfly house, aquarium, galleries, classes and entertainment all housed within this impressive venue.
• Manor House Gardens – take some time out from the London hustle and bustle with a visit here. From the walled flower garden, to the ice house and lake, the gardens are the perfect place for a post-work walk.
• Lewisham Market – this institution has been part of the fabric of the area since 1906. This is the best place to get your weekly supplies, with fish, meat, fruit and vegetables all up for grabs. It also has stalls selling clothing and pieces for your home.
Where to live in Lewisham
Thanks to its mix of old and new properties, Lewisham offers a wide range of real estate. And thanks to the recently new popularity of the area, house prices are very competitive.
The Lewisham Gateway area is very popular with young professionals and city workers, including a large number of finance professionals, thanks to the close proximity to the train station. The new properties here offer luxury modern living, with concierge services, gyms and other high-end facilities.
For those looking for a period property, or large family home, the conservation area is highly sought after. The large Victorian and Edwardian homes here are available as both converted apartments and entire homes with large windows and high ceilings.
Rental prices are highly competitive, with a one bed room apartment costing £1200 per month on average, and four bed family homes available from £2000 per month.
If you would like expert help finding your perfect home in Lewisham or the surrounding areas, let us help. Our Home Finding Experts are here to help make moving home even easier for you.
Family life and education in Lewisham
Lewisham is a very popular area with families, thanks in part to the mass of green space and large family homes available. The area also offers families a number of Good or Outstanding Ofsted rated schools, both state and independent. Thanks to a large number of schools with strong ratings, and a number of further and higher education facilities, most homes in the area are within walking distance of a great school.
If you are moving to Lewisham with a family and don’t know where or how to start your school search, let us help. Our experts take the time to learn the needs of your family and match you with the best schools for you in the area, as well as help you through the application process.
Travel information
Lewisham benefits from some great transport links. Sitting in Zone 2, the area has direct transport service to both Canary Wharf and Bank in under 25 minutes thanks to the DLR service. You can be at London Bridge in 10 minutes, Charing Cross in 20 minutes, and Victoria station in 25 minutes.
There are a number of stations in the area, as well as a strong bus network around the capital. For travel outside of London, the A21 road runs through Lewisham. There are also Overground and National Rail lines which connect you to the rest of England.
How can we help with your move to Lewisham?
With over 120 years’ experience moving people all over the world, and a dedicated UK Office in London, we have the knowledge and expertise to make your move easy.
Whether you know when and where you’re moving or are looking for more information about a move to London, get in touch. Our dedicated move specialists are here to take care of every part of your move.