Welcome to Urban Village Homes' area guide to living and enjoying life in Herne Hill, a slice of village life nestled conveniently in Zone 2.
After a cursory glance, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Herne Hill – a tiny neighbourhood tucked between Brixton, Dulwich and Camberwell – is nothing more than a quaint sat-nav shortcut. But for those in the know, this south London pocket is filled to the brim with hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.
In recent years, the location has enjoyed an influx of local culture from its London surrounds and now offers locals a comprehensive collection of boutique and independent stores, alongside the more traditional and charming village staples like a butcher, a baker, and a greengrocer.
Gone are the days when Herne hill lived in the shadows of its more populated neighbours. Today, it is a veritable haven for those seeking all the perks of London Borough living, without the towering buildings and modern city aesthetic.
With so much to offer, it’s hard not to instantly fall in love with this amazing location the moment you step out your door as an official Herne-Hiller.
Places and Spaces to Explore
Brockwell Park
There are more than 3,000 parks in London but this one stands out as superior. Aside from the picturesque ponds, austere oak trees and inviting grassy expanses, Brockwell Park – originally the private grounds of glass merchant John Blades – is packed with treasures and regularly hosts a variety of festivals in the summer months, including the Lambeth Country Show, a family-friendly (and free) event with attractions including sheep shearing and vegetable-growing competitions.
While wandering the grounds, make sure to check out the 19th-century Tritton clock, a neoclassical temple folly, the J. J. Sexby-designed walled garden filled with flowers, and Brockwell Hall, Blades’ Grade II-listed Georgian manor. And, when the sun is shining then the lido offers a splash of fun for the whole family to enjoy.
Good Times and Good Food
Off The Cuff
Situated in two railway arches just outside Herne Hill Station, Off The Cuff (OTC) is a live music bar in the heart of Herne Hill, offering an enticing selection of tipples, accompanied by an eclectic array of events featuring local London talent throughout the week.
The Florence
Opposite Brockwell Park you’ll find The Florence, a grand old dame of a pub that serves traditional pub grub with a modern twist. They offer thirsty locals a rotating range of draught and bottled beers, which can be enjoyed inside by the fire, or outside in their private decked garden.
Utter Waffle
Opened in 2021, Utter Waffle has quickly risen to fame and become a Herne Hill institution. From fried chicken and waffles to the healthier (but still very tasty) options likes their signature avocado smash, their waffles are so good that they’ve been featured on Masterchef and Sunday Brunch and have earned them awards like ‘The Best Dessert in the UK’.
Peachy Goat
The Herne Hill food scene has something for everyone – including an authentic Italian plant-based restaurant and bar. Opened in 2019 by two Sardinian brothers Luca and Ollie Sechi, Peachy Goat has been serving up classic home-made Italian dishes just like Mama used to make – only without the meat, dairy, or egg!
Local Events and Activities
Herne Hill Market
Once of the most iconic weekly events on any Herne-Hiller's calendar. The Herne Hill Market opens every Sunday between 10am and 4pm in the vibrant and bustling Station Square. The market prides itself on selling locally-sourced produce, with more than 50 individual stalls selling everything from food and plants to vintage clothes and vinyl records.
Brockwell Lido
There’s no better way to shake off the stresses of city life than by going for an invigorating outdoor swim. Brockwell Lido, situated in a corner of the park, first opened in July 1937 before it was closed by Lambeth Council in 1990. But, thanks to a local campaign, it reopened, in 1994. Today, the 50m pool is open all year round, and is one of South London’s most-loved social hubs.
South London Makerspace Located in Arch 1129 is the South London Makerspace, a social community workshop owned, run and maintained by its talented members. There are no paid staff, so everything is done on a volunteer basis. While the space caters for a wide range of activities, they have several specialist areas equipped and ready to teach you the basics of wood and metalworking, electronics, textiles, and screen printing
Right on the Doorstep
Whether it’s Waterloo in 20 minutes, St Pancras in 30 minutes or Victoria in 19 minutes, there’s no shortage of ways to get to central London quickly, by bus or by train. What’s more, the trusty N68 night bus can always be relied upon to get you safely home to your Herne Hill hideaway after midnight has struck.
In addition, Herne Hill is perfectly positioned for those wanting to stretch their legs instead, with Brixton only a leisurely 20-minute stroll away. Close by in Tulse Hill there are even more great pubs to be found, as well as a once-a-month street food market in nearby West Norwood.
Spotlight Property
https://urbanvillagehomes.com/property/38961/
In the heart of Herne Hill, and a stone’s throw away from Ruskin Park, lies this apartment. It features a spacious living room with a gorgeous bay window and a large garden at the rear.
Ready to Live the Herne Hill Lifestyle?
Herne Hill has undergone a complete cultural renaissance in recent years and is now ready to welcome you into its charming streets and green spaces with open arms, and a warm community vibe that would give any rural village a run for its money.
So, if you're interested in buying, selling, or letting a property in SE24, contact Urban Village today – we're here to help you make the most of what Herne Hill has to offer. Just give us a call on: 020 3519 9121.