Greenwich is one of London’s most distinctive boroughs, combining royal history, riverside living, green spaces, and strong transport links. From elegant village-style streets to modern high-rise developments on the Thames, the borough offers a wide range of lifestyles to suit families, professionals, renters, and long-term buyers alike.
This comprehensive guide explores the best areas to live in Greenwich, breaking down what each neighbourhood offers in terms of housing, transport, safety, schools, community, and overall quality of life. Whether you are relocating, investing, or simply exploring your options, this article is designed to help you make an informed decision.
Why Greenwich Is One Of London’s Most Desirable Boroughs
Greenwich sits in South East London and is bordered by boroughs such as Lewisham, Bexley, and Tower Hamlets. It is globally recognised for its maritime heritage and iconic landmarks, yet it remains a practical and liveable borough for everyday London life.
Several factors explain Greenwich’s long-standing appeal.
Rich History And Cultural Identity
Greenwich is home to:
- The Prime Meridian Line
- Royal parks and historic architecture
- Museums, markets, and UNESCO-listed sites
This sense of history gives the borough a character that many modern London developments lack.
Green Spaces And Riverside Living
Greenwich offers some of the best access to green space in London, including large open parks, riverside paths, and tree-lined residential streets. This contributes significantly to quality of life, particularly for families and professionals seeking balance.
Excellent Transport Connections
Despite its historic feel, Greenwich is exceptionally well connected:
- DLR services
- National Rail
- Underground via nearby Jubilee line stations
- River bus services along the Thames
This makes commuting into Canary Wharf, the City, and central London straightforward.
Greenwich Town Centre
Best for: Professionals, renters, culture lovers, commuters
Greenwich Town Centre is one of the most recognisable and popular areas in the borough. It blends village charm with tourist energy and everyday convenience.
Character And Lifestyle
The area is known for:
- Greenwich Market and independent shops
- Cafés, pubs, and restaurants
- Historic streets and period buildings
- A lively but relaxed atmosphere
Living here means being surrounded by culture and history while still enjoying modern amenities.
Transport Links
Greenwich Town Centre is well served by:
- Greenwich DLR station
- Greenwich National Rail station
- Thames Clippers river services
Commute times to Canary Wharf are particularly short, making it popular with professionals.
Housing
Housing options include:
- Period conversions
- Georgian and Victorian terraces
- Modern apartment blocks near the river
Prices and rents are higher than some neighbouring areas, reflecting demand and location.
Things To Consider
- Busy during weekends due to tourism
- Limited parking
- Premium pricing compared to outer borough areas
Greenwich Town Centre is ideal for those who want character, connectivity, and culture in one place.
Blackheath
Best for: Families, professionals, village-style living
Blackheath is often considered one of the most desirable residential areas in South East London.
Village Atmosphere
Blackheath offers:
- A true village feel
- Independent shops and cafés
- Large open heathland
- Strong community spirit
It feels noticeably calmer and more spacious than many inner London neighbourhoods.
Schools And Family Appeal
The area is popular with families due to:
- Highly regarded schools
- Safe, leafy streets
- Easy access to green space
Blackheath Common is a major draw, providing space for walking, sports, and outdoor activities.
Transport
Blackheath station offers National Rail services into central London, with reliable commute times.
Housing
Housing stock includes:
- Large period homes
- Elegant terraces
- Converted flats
Property prices are among the highest in the borough, reflecting Blackheath’s reputation.
Things To Consider
- Limited Underground access
- Higher property costs
Blackheath is ideal for those seeking space, schools, and a premium residential environment.
North Greenwich
Best for: Young professionals, renters, commuters
North Greenwich has transformed dramatically over the past two decades and continues to evolve.
Modern Urban Living
The area features:
- High-rise apartment buildings
- Riverside developments
- Shopping and entertainment facilities
- A contemporary feel
It appeals to those who prefer modern living over historic charm.
Transport Connectivity
North Greenwich station sits on the Jubilee line, offering:
- Fast access to Canary Wharf
- Direct routes into central London
- Excellent night-time connectivity
This makes it one of the most convenient commuting locations in the borough.
Housing
Most housing consists of:
- New-build apartments
- Purpose-built residential blocks
- Rental-focused developments
Things To Consider
- Less traditional character
- Limited independent shops
- Can feel busy during major events
North Greenwich suits professionals who prioritise speed, convenience, and modern housing.
Greenwich Peninsula
Best for: New buyers, investors, long-term growth
Greenwich Peninsula is one of London’s largest regeneration zones.
Regeneration And Development
The area includes:
- Thousands of new homes
- Retail and leisure spaces
- Cycle paths and riverside walks
- Planned schools and healthcare facilities
It represents a long-term vision for modern urban living.
Transport
The Jubilee line at North Greenwich provides excellent connectivity, while bus routes and cycling infrastructure support local travel.
Housing And Investment Appeal
Housing consists almost entirely of new-build apartments. This attracts:
- First-time buyers
- Renters seeking modern homes
- Investors targeting regeneration areas
Things To Consider
- Still developing in parts
- Limited sense of established community
- Fewer independent businesses
Greenwich Peninsula is ideal for those focused on future potential and contemporary living.
Eltham
Best for: Families, buyers seeking space, suburban lifestyle
Eltham offers a very different experience from riverside Greenwich.
Suburban Feel
Eltham is characterised by:
- Quiet residential streets
- Semi-detached and detached houses
- Local high streets and shopping centres
It feels closer to a traditional suburban environment than inner London.
Schools And Community
Families are drawn to Eltham for:
- Good schools
- Larger homes with gardens
- Community-focused neighbourhoods
Transport
Eltham has National Rail services into central London, although commute times are longer than from Greenwich Town Centre.
Things To Consider
- Less nightlife and cultural activity
- Longer commutes
- Fewer new developments
Eltham suits those who want space, value, and a family-oriented lifestyle.
Charlton
Best for: First-time buyers, families, value seekers
Charlton sits between Greenwich Town Centre and Woolwich and offers good value compared to nearby areas.
Housing Value
Charlton offers:
- Period terraces
- New-build apartments
- More affordable pricing than Greenwich central areas
This makes it popular with first-time buyers.
Transport
Charlton station provides National Rail services, while bus routes connect to North Greenwich and Greenwich Town Centre.
Lifestyle
The area includes:
- Retail parks
- Green spaces
- Local amenities
Things To Consider
- Less character than Greenwich or Blackheath
- Retail-focused environment in parts
Charlton is ideal for buyers seeking value with reasonable transport links.
Safety And Quality Of Life In Greenwich
Greenwich is generally considered one of the safer boroughs in South East London. As with any borough:
- Safety varies by street
- Central areas are busier
- Residential zones tend to be quieter
Blackheath, Eltham, and parts of Charlton are often regarded as particularly family-friendly.
Schools And Education
Greenwich offers a wide range of educational options:
- Primary and secondary schools
- Sixth forms and colleges
- Access to private education nearby
Blackheath and Eltham are especially popular with families due to school availability.
Green Spaces And Outdoor Living
Greenwich is exceptional for green space:
- Large royal parks
- Heathland and commons
- Riverside paths
- Playgrounds and sports facilities
This makes it one of the best London boroughs for outdoor lifestyles.
Transport And Commuting Overview
Greenwich benefits from:
- Jubilee line access nearby
- DLR services
- National Rail stations
- River transport
This variety makes commuting flexible and efficient.
Who Greenwich Is Best For
Greenwich suits:
- Professionals commuting to Canary Wharf
- Families seeking space and schools
- Renters wanting character and green space
- Buyers seeking long-term stability
- Investors targeting regeneration zones
It may be less suitable for those seeking low-cost housing or intense nightlife across the entire borough.
Final Thoughts
The best areas to live in Greenwich depend on your priorities:
- Greenwich Town Centre for culture and transport
- Blackheath for families and village living
- North Greenwich for modern convenience
- Greenwich Peninsula for future growth
- Eltham for space and suburban living
- Charlton for value and accessibility
With its mix of history, greenery, and modern development, Greenwich remains one of London’s most well-rounded boroughs to live in.
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.