STEEPED IN HISTORY, YET BUZZING WITH MODERN CREATIVITY, BERMONDSEY HAS BECOME A HUB FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SEEKING CHARACTERFUL HOMES WITHIN REACH OF THE CITY
If historic warehouse conversions, destination food markets, artisan workshops and galleries are your thing, then welcome to Bermondsey. South of the river with views of Tower Bridge, this slice of old London bursts with clever modern twists.
First impressions
The area is a haven for foodies, packed with breweries and restaurants, artisan delis and the famous Maltby Street Market and Borough Market. “This vibrant area attracts designers, artists, and tech professionals with its trendy warehouse conversions, boutique shops, and artisan street food,” says Mark Lee, head of Canary Wharf, Wapping and Aldgate sales at Knight Frank. “The area boasts the famous beer mile, inviting gastropubs, and contemporary art galleries like Bermondsey Gallery and VITRINE. With its unique properties and lively community, Bermondsey exemplifies the charm of London living.”
Buyers come from all quarters, says Neil Wilson, sales director of Chestertons Tower Bridge branch. “Bermondsey’s buyer demographic is as diverse as the area’s property types, which range from traditional family homes to stunning warehouse conversions. We’re seeing equally high demand from families and young professionals but also the creative industry, which reminds me of where Shoreditch was back in the late 2000s. There’s a hive of activity seven days a week, with a growing number of shared communal working spaces and social venues to match this.”
Its excellent transport links are a key selling point, adds Lauren Felber, board director at Dexters’ London Bridge office. “Perfectly located between Canary Wharf and the City, this bustling area is situated on the Jubilee line, making it a haven for city goers. This trendy and cultural pocket of London has plenty to offer.”
A day out
9AM
Morning brew
With bountiful morning options, start the day at one of Bermondsey’s esteemed coffee shops. For the dedicated discerning arabica aficionados, find places that have depth in their bean range. WatchHouse on Bermondsey Street , the quirky and acclaimed F***offee and the ‘ground, shaken and stirred’ Chapter 72 from husband-and-wife duo, Rod & Ellie.
11AM
Material world
Created by icon of British design, Dame Zandra Rhodes, head to the Fashion Textile Museum on Bermondsey Street for wondrous design. The educational space also has a range of textile classes to learn the ropes of design, from pattern cutting to fabric painting workshops. Be sure to also visit the neighbouring White Cube Gallery.
Since 2010, the destination regularly switches up traders to ensure something for everyone. Some to keep an eye out include, Gyoza Guys, The Latin Bros and Amen Ethiopia.
3PM
High glass
Displaying magnificent glass art from the UK’s finest studio glass artists, London Glassblowing is able to create bespoke commissions. Also holding a series of themed exhibitions, opening on 2 August is Glass Heaven: Peter Layton & Tim Rawlinson. Bridging two styles, founder Layton’s work is defined by a bold and painterly aesthetic, while Rawlinson’s style challenges conventional boundaries.
5PM
Beer mile
The Bermondsey Beer Mile challenge stretches between Southwark Brewing near Maltby Street and Fourpure towards south Bermondsey. The neighbourhood’s unofficial pilgrimage is best enjoyed on Saturdays, when you can relish a selection of eclectic pours, including vegan beers from Moor Beer.
Ask a local: Alessandro Palhares, co-founder of Trove167
“As one of the first independent shops on Bermondsey Street since 2007, TROVE167 sells eclectic one-off accessories, interiors and exclusive menswear by ex-Burberry designer, Michael McGrath. In nearly 17 years, I’ve seen the area transform and I’m proud to be part of it.
The area has an amazing sense of community and when strolling down the narrow pavements the industrial warehouse conversions are a constant reminder of its heritage. The White Cube and Fashion and Textile Museum share inspiring exhibitions, while the area has also become a gastronomic destination offering diverse options. I like Flour and Grape for fresh handmade pasta, Jose for tapas, and our neighbour F***offee for a quick caffeine fix.”
Bermondsey food and drink
Lahpet Larder
39-45 Bermondsey Street
Deriving from the Burmese word for ‘tea’, the newly opened Lahpet Larder is inspired by founders Dan Anton and Zaw Mahesh’s shared Burmese heritage. Using ingredients directly imported from Myanmar, the menu focuses on classic and regional culinary styles with sharing plates, including pork with pon yay gyi (fermented horsegram beans), and Rakhine salmon and papaya salad.
Bar Douro
Arch 35B, 85B Southwark
Bridge Road
Celebrating the flavours of Portugal through food and wine, Bar Douro was born of owner Max Graham’s love of the country where he spent his formative years. In the atmospheric railway arch, interiors include authentic Portuguese details, such as blue-and-white azulejo tiles. The menu is divided into land, sea and garden, with desserts including the beloved pastel de nata and national dish, almond tart with milk ice cream.
Hutong
Level 33, The Shard
In one of London’s most spectacular monuments, the award-winning Hutong focuses on northern Chinese cuisine. Whether you’re feasting for lunch or dinner, enjoy sweeping views across the capital. If short on time, the Flavours of Hutong menu includes its Azalea and Orchid options, such as roast Peking duck pancakes.
Eat Momo
Arch 229, 1 Bank End
Sister duo Trishna and Dipa Chamling have brought Nepali style dumplings to SE1. New to Borough Yards, Eat Momo is a tribute to their childhood in Nepal. While diners tuck in, a playlist of traditional Nepalese folk songs will be played, curated by their father Drip Chamling.
José Tapas bar
Bermondsey Street
José started by the eponymous founder, José Pizarro is described as ‘the godfather of Spanish cuisine in the UK’. Inspired by the bustling tapas bars found in La Boquería market in Barcelona and the villages of Andalucía, it’s one of two establishments in the area. Pizarro Restaurant on Bermondsey Street has tapas and main courses to share.
Schools
Amid the wonderfully cosmopolitan Bermondsey, where residents are spoilt for choice in terms of leisure pursuits, parents are equally as spoilt for schools, especially for primary education. Boutcher Church of England primary on Grange Road, has been rated as Outstanding. Also receiving top marks from Ofsted, The Cathedral School of St Saviour and St Mary Overie is proud of its village atmosphere, where children thrive in an environment where their happiness comes first. Great secondary options in the area are equally in abundance, including Harris Academy for girls who aim high, and Ark Walworth Academy which prioritises pastoral care and community spirit. A short journey away in leafy Dulwich, co-educational day Alleyn’s School, above and the world renowned Dulwich College for boys, with boarding and day options, are also excellent options for an all-through education – from nursery in Dulwich’s case and from primary school age for Alleyn’s.
Ask an Agent: George Barker, Cluttons
“Once the fictional home of Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist, the cobbled streets of Bermondsey make up a charming, well-connected riverside area located close to Canary Wharf, Tower Bridge, and London Bridge. Within walking distance of the City, it’s a popular location to live and invest.
Bermondsey is also home to many independent, trendy and boutique companies from the tech sector, which attracts designers, artists, and other creative professionals. The variety of homes, ranging from modern developments with roof terraces to period warehouse conversions, draws home movers to the neighbourhood.
The market has maintained strong buyer demand this year and there’s more supply of property for sale. This is leading to activity at all price points (£400k and up) as long as property is priced competitively.”
Bermondsey: On the Market
Providence Square
Set within a private gated development in Shad Thames – within walking distance of the City – this spacious two-bedroom waterside apartment boasts a dreamy wooden patio overlooking the Japanese water gardens. Providence Square residents also enjoy private parking and access to an on-site gym and sauna. £900,000. Agent: chestertons.co.uk
Corio House
With a 24-hour concierge service and private balcony, this one-bed apartment within a modern development is a stone’s throw from the buzz of Bermondsey Street. £500,000 Agent: cluttons.com
Canvas House
Part of a landmark warehouse conversion, this meticulously renovated two-bedroom penthouse is the epitome of loft living with double-height ceilings and roof terrace. £3m Agent: knightfrank.co.uk
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