Wandsworth has long been one of London’s most desirable boroughs, offering a rare combination of excellent transport, green spaces, riverside living, strong schools, and diverse neighbourhoods. Located in southwest London, the borough attracts everyone from young professionals and families to long-term Londoners looking for quality of life without sacrificing connectivity.
This in-depth guide explores the best areas to live in Wandsworth, breaking down what makes each neighbourhood unique. From riverside Putney and family-friendly Balham to the urban energy of Clapham Junction and the calm of Southfields, this article will help you decide where in Wandsworth best suits your lifestyle, budget, and long-term plans.
Why Wandsworth Is One Of London’s Most Popular Boroughs
Wandsworth consistently ranks highly for livability, and it is easy to see why.
Outstanding Transport Links
Few boroughs are as well connected as Wandsworth. The area benefits from:
- One of the busiest rail hubs in Europe at Clapham Junction
- District line Underground stations in Southfields and Putney Bridge
- Overground and National Rail services
- Excellent bus routes and road access
This makes commuting to central London, the City, Canary Wharf, and beyond relatively straightforward.
Green Space And Riverside Living
Wandsworth offers some of London’s best outdoor spaces, including:
- Battersea Park
- Wandsworth Common
- Tooting Bec Common
- Miles of Thames riverside walks
For many residents, access to green space is a major factor in choosing Wandsworth.
Strong Schools And Family Appeal
The borough is known for:
- Well-regarded state and independent schools
- Family-friendly neighbourhoods
- A strong community feel in many areas
This has made Wandsworth especially popular with families planning long-term stays.
Battersea
Best for: Professionals, families, riverside living
Battersea has transformed dramatically over the past two decades and is now one of southwest London’s most desirable neighbourhoods.
Lifestyle And Character
Battersea offers a mix of:
- Period Victorian and Edwardian homes
- Modern riverside apartments
- Quiet residential streets near lively hubs
The area blends a residential feel with urban convenience.
Battersea Park
One of Battersea’s biggest draws is Battersea Park, offering:
- Beautiful green space
- Sports facilities
- Riverside views
- Cafés and family-friendly activities
Living near the park significantly boosts quality of life.
Transport
Battersea benefits from:
- Overground and National Rail services
- Northern line extension at Battersea Power Station
- Easy access to Chelsea, Westminster, and the City
Things To Consider
- Higher property prices than many other parts of Wandsworth
- Popularity means strong competition in the housing market
Battersea is ideal for those seeking riverside living with a premium feel.
Clapham Junction
Best for: Commuters, renters, young professionals
Clapham Junction is the transport heartbeat of Wandsworth and one of London’s most important rail hubs.
Transport Advantages
From Clapham Junction, trains run frequently to:
- Victoria
- Waterloo
- London Bridge
- Gatwick Airport
For commuters, this level of connectivity is hard to beat.
Housing And Atmosphere
The area offers:
- Victorian terraced houses
- Flats above shops
- Converted period properties
The neighbourhood has a lively, urban energy, with plenty of shops, cafés, and bars.
Things To Consider
- Busy environment
- Less green space immediately nearby compared to Battersea or Putney
Clapham Junction suits people who prioritise transport and convenience over tranquillity.
Putney
Best for: Riverside living, professionals, families
Putney combines village-like charm with excellent transport links and is one of Wandsworth’s most attractive areas.
Riverside Appeal
Putney’s Thames frontage offers:
- Scenic riverside walks
- Rowing clubs and sports facilities
- Cafés and pubs with river views
This makes Putney especially popular with active residents.
Transport
Putney benefits from:
- District line services at Putney Bridge
- National Rail services from Putney Station
- Easy access to central London and the West End
Housing
Housing options range from:
- Elegant period homes
- Modern apartment developments
- Family-sized houses on quiet streets
Things To Consider
- Higher property prices
- Competitive rental market
Putney is ideal for those seeking a balance of nature, community, and connectivity.
Balham
Best for: Families, professionals, community feel
Balham has evolved into one of southwest London’s most sought-after neighbourhoods.
Community And Lifestyle
Balham is known for:
- A strong local community
- Independent cafés and restaurants
- A lively but relaxed atmosphere
The area feels village-like while remaining firmly connected to the city.
Green Space
Balham is close to:
- Tooting Bec Common
- Wandsworth Common
These spaces are especially valued by families and dog owners.
Transport
Balham Station offers:
- Northern line Underground services
- National Rail connections
Commute times to central London are typically quick and reliable.
Things To Consider
- Rising property prices
- Popular schools increase demand
Balham suits families and professionals seeking long-term livability.
Tooting
Best for: Value seekers, renters, cultural diversity
Tooting offers some of the best value housing in Wandsworth while maintaining strong transport and amenities.
Vibrant High Streets
Tooting is famous for:
- Tooting Broadway Market
- Diverse food scene
- Independent shops and eateries
The area has a lively, multicultural character.
Transport
Tooting benefits from:
- Northern line stations at Tooting Broadway and Tooting Bec
- Excellent bus links
Housing
Housing options include:
- Victorian terraced homes
- Flats and conversions
- More affordable options than Balham or Putney
Things To Consider
- Busy high streets
- Less polished feel than premium areas
Tooting is ideal for those who want energy, culture, and relative affordability.
Wandsworth Town
Best for: Professionals, modern living, convenience
Wandsworth Town has developed into a popular residential area with a strong commercial core.
Shopping And Amenities
The area features:
- Southside Shopping Centre
- Gyms, cinemas, and restaurants
- Riverside developments
Transport
Wandsworth Town Station offers fast services to Waterloo, making it attractive for commuters.
Housing
Housing includes:
- New-build apartment blocks
- Modern riverside developments
- Some older residential streets
Things To Consider
- Busy commercial areas
- Fewer period homes than other neighbourhoods
Wandsworth Town suits those who prefer modern living and convenience.
Southfields
Best for: Families, quieter living, schools
Southfields offers a calmer, more suburban feel compared to other parts of Wandsworth.
Residential Appeal
Southfields features:
- Tree-lined streets
- Family-sized homes
- A relaxed atmosphere
It is especially popular with families seeking stability.
Transport
Southfields Station sits on the District line, offering reliable access to central London.
Proximity To Green Space
The area is close to:
- Wimbledon Park
- Wimbledon Common
Things To Consider
- Fewer nightlife options
- Less central than Putney or Battersea
Southfields is ideal for families prioritising peace and green space.
Roehampton
Best for: Space, value, outdoor access
Roehampton offers a different pace of life within Wandsworth.
Green Surroundings
Roehampton is close to:
- Richmond Park
- Wimbledon Common
This makes it attractive to nature lovers.
Housing
The area includes:
- Larger homes
- Post-war developments
- University-related accommodation
Transport
Transport links are improving but less extensive than central Wandsworth areas.
Roehampton suits those seeking space and greenery.
Safety And Quality Of Life In Wandsworth
Wandsworth is generally considered one of London’s safer boroughs. Like all parts of London, safety varies by street, but areas such as:
- Balham
- Putney
- Southfields
- Battersea
are often viewed as particularly family-friendly.
Schools And Education
Education is a major draw for Wandsworth residents.
The borough offers:
- High-performing state schools
- Independent and faith schools
- Access to universities and colleges nearby
This contributes significantly to long-term demand.
Transport And Commuting Overview
Wandsworth excels in transport:
- Rail, Underground, and bus networks
- Easy access to central London
- Connections to major airports
This versatility appeals to a wide range of professionals.
Who Wandsworth Is Best For
Wandsworth suits:
- Families seeking schools and green space
- Professionals needing strong transport links
- Renters wanting choice and flexibility
- Buyers planning long-term home ownership
It may be less suitable for those seeking ultra-low-cost housing or a purely nightlife-driven lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
The best areas to live in Wandsworth depend on your priorities:
- Battersea for riverside living and prestige
- Clapham Junction for unbeatable transport
- Putney for balance and green space
- Balham for community and family life
- Tooting for value and culture
- Wandsworth Town for modern convenience
- Southfields for calm, family-friendly streets
- Roehampton for space and nature
Wandsworth remains one of London’s most well-rounded boroughs, offering something for almost every lifestyle.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only. Information about areas, property, safety, transport, and amenities may change over time and can vary by location.
Nothing in this post should be taken as professional, legal, financial, or property advice. Readers should carry out their own research before making any decisions.
London 33 accepts no liability for reliance on the information provided.