Blackheath

With picture postcard good looks and old school charm, Blackheath is one of London’s prettiest and most welcoming neighbourhoods. The focal point is the historic windswept heath, which dates to the Middle Ages. 

The expanse of the heath provides a healthy escape with walks, cycle rides and kite flying. Nearby Royal Greenwich Park is home to the Royal Observatory and offers stunning views across the Thames to St Paul’s Cathedral and beyond.

The main shopping streets are Montpelier Vale and Tranquil Vale, with a mix of high-end chains and quaint independent boutiques and old bookshops. Every Sunday there is a popular farmer’s market, and the nearby Greenwich Market offers everything from antiques to clothes.

There is an array of traditional pubs, bars and restaurants. The O2 Arena is just ten minutes away in North Greenwich and the Blackheath to Canning Town cycle route takes in the Royal Observatory, the O2 Arena and Canary Wharf.

Trains to London Bridge in 12 minutes with connections to the City or Canary Wharf in less than half an hour. North Greenwich for tube or DLR.