Area Guide - Clapham

2022-10-26

A leafy London suburb, Clapham is located in zone 2 of London and neighbours the also desirable area of Battersea and vibrant Brixton town.

With roads dating back to Roman times and a notable appearance in the Doomsday Book, the area also boasts famous faces as its residents, from Margot Robbie and Gordan Ramsey to Dame Vivienne Westwood. Clapham is steeped in history, heritage and high-quality homes.

Clapham Common, Clapham South and Clapham North are considered to make up the general area of Clapham and offer a range of lifestyles for its residents.

Lifestyle:

First mentioned in 1086, Clapham Common is 210 acres of green space, sports fields and the famous bandstand. It is arguably one of the area's top destinations, especially if you are heading there on a sunny Saturday, expect picnics, dog walkers and a general relaxed feeling in the air.

From a Picturehouse to an indoor racing experience like no other, if parks aren’t as much your thing, or it’s raining, then do not fret Clapham has more to offer. Alternatively head to Studio Voltaire, one of the UK's leading not-for-profit art organisations, where visitors can experience risk-taking and experimental art in all its glory.

With such a rich history and lots of things to do in Clapham, the suburban yet central lifestyle that it offers means you have everything you need on your doorstep but never too far away from Central London if you need to pay it a visit.

Here are our recommended green spaces and activities to visit in the area:

Clapham Common
One of London's largest, oldest and public open spaces, it is 210 acres of green space to either relax and rest or participate in a range of sporting activities from tennis to basketball.
Venn Street Market
Running every Saturday, this fresh food market brings a community feel to SW4 with a range of stands from baked goods to fishmongers.
Studio Voltaire
Founded in 1994, the studio puts a great emphasis on risk-taking and experimentation for its collaborative projects and artists.
Clapham Picturehouse
Offers a different kind of cinema experience that brings friendly staff and fabulous films to the heart of the neighbourhood.
Moonshine Raceways
A unique activity that brings together motorsports but on a miniature scale, drive with full controls, a leader board and live commentary.

Food for thought:

To say Clapham has a wide range of hot spots to eat would probably be an understatement. Whether you are looking for a Sunday Roast in a chilled pub or a fancy soiree to woo a date, Clapham pretty much covers it all.

Most notable for its floral arch at its entrance, head to Minnow for a brunch and coffee whilst enjoying views of the Common. Or if a slice of Italy is what you’re looking for, be sure to head to Pizzeria On The Green where rustic pizzas and delicious pasta is dished up on large plates in a relaxed fashion.

Our top spots to wine and dine in Clapham:

Minnow
Serving a range of seasonal European dishes in the heart of Clapham Old Town with a terrace that overlooks the Common.
No 32 The Old Town
Whether you’re looking for a quick pint or sit down meal, this cosy neighbourhood bar & restaurant also boars a fantastic roof terrace.
Pizzeria On The Green
A family-run eatery that overlooks the Common and serves up all the Italian classics from the perfect Margherita to a hearty lasagne.
WC
Once a Victoria Water Closet, this beautifully restored has now been transformed into a stunning wine bar that provides a quick and easy getaway from the busy streets of London.
Sixty Four Cocktail Bar
A self-declared neighbourhood institution, this swanky cocktail bar offers stylish interiors, resident DJs and of course a range of delicious cocktails to enjoy.

Getting around:

Aside from the range of bicycle and bus routes, Clapham also benefits from a wide number of underground stations with access to the Northern line and Overground. Stockwell is on the Victoria line which further broadens the horizon for potential destinations and just across the Common at Clapham Junction, you will also find South Western Railway and Southern railway, giving you connections to South West London, Brighton, Gatwick and beyond!

Education and Business:

Clapham sure isn’t in short supply of schools, whether you’re looking for a nursery or secondary school there are numerous options in the area and that is before you go further afield to neighbouring areas.

Next door Battersea also has a range of state and private schools, including the famous Thomas’ where Prince George and Princess Charlotte are currently attending.