Best places to live in London 2018 revealed: Bermondsey beats Peckham to top prestigious list

Bermondsey has overtaken Peckham to top a prestigious list of the best places to live in London.

The south-east London district was revealed as the capital’s most desirable location by the Sunday Times Best Places to Live Guide 2018.

Clapton, Herne Hill and Richmond were also among a total of ten London locations named by the guide as the best places to live in the UK this year.

“Bermondsey’s ranking as the best place to live in London reflects the rise of an area that epitomises the modern urban good life,” writes the guide.

“Its residents are typically young, affluent and often reside in photogenic lofts in converted warehouses, while railway arches are fast being converted into galleries, bars and restaurants.”

The area, home to Millwall FC, Southwark Park and the White Cube gallery, comes with a high price high tag. The average starter home costs £700,000 while family homes can be above £6,000,000.

Bermondsey’s convenient location close to the City and the Thames, as well as its vibrant food and culture scene, were lauded by the guide.

Last year hipster neighbour Peckham took top spot, thanks to its “swift transformation” from a “no-go patch of south London” to a “middle-class hotspot”.

The guide uses a wide range of factors including jobs, schools, culture and community spirit when compiling its winners, as well as the insight of a judging panel.

Furzedown in Wandsworth made the list, described as an “urban village that’s cheaper than Balham, but less gritty than Streatham, with leafy side streets and a vibrant community spirit.”

Notting Hill was hailed as “resurgent” for “luring families and foodies back west”, while Clapton was described as among the capital’s hippest neighbourhoods.

Fulham, King’s Cross, Tufnell Park and Wanstead complete the capital’s most desirable locations for this year.

Helen Davies, The Sunday Times Home editor, said: “Choosing the right location to put down roots is one of the most important decisions you'll make.

“There is much to celebrate, and Britain is scattered with thriving towns and villages, cool cities and suburbs, though people may be surprised how many traditional favourites haven’t made the cut in 2018.”