The ‘charming’ London neighbourhood with a community vibe and cheaper rent

Just down the road from East Dulwich and not too far from Crystal Palace, you’ll find Forest Hill: a leafy suburb of Lewisham, known for its independent shops, artsy vibe, and strong community feel.

While it might not be as popular as trendy South London stalwarts, like Brixton or Clapham, if you know, you know.

In 2024, The Sunday Times named it in their Best Places to Live list, calling it ‘charming’, and praising the ‘creative corner’ of London for its ‘jaw-dropping city panoramas’.

While it might not have a Tube station, there’s plenty to be found in Forest Hill, including cheaper rent.

According to statistics from renting site SpareRoom, the average cost of a room is £913, meanwhile in neighbouring East Dulwich, the going rate is £969, while Herne Hill costs £984 and Brixton £986.

And, of course, bougie Clapham is even more expensive, at £1,093.

Property prices in Forest Hill

Forest Hill is more affordable than the rest of London, but you’ll still need to be prepared to dig deep into your pockets to buy here.

According to statistics from Rightmove, the average home in the area has gone for £625,204 over the last year. Flats have come in at £411,341, while terraced homes tend to be more expensive, at £793,861 on average.

However, the going rate for London as a whole has been £664,962, which works out to be almost £40,000 (£39,758) more expensive.

Things to do in Forest Hill

Perhaps the most famous Forest Hill landmark is the Horniman Museum, known for its collection of taxidermied animals, musical instruments, and other random curiosities, including a Walrus that dates back to the Victorian era.

Once you’ve explored everything the museum has to offer though, there’s a market in the grounds, where you’ll find food stalls, ceramics, vinyl, jewelry, and grocers selling off fresh local produce.

With stunning views of the entire city, this is the perfect spot to perch and eat your lunch, people-watching the visitors stroll from one stand to the next.

And on certain weekends throughout the year, the bandstand is also where the museum hosts events and celebrations.

The Kusuma Nature Play Area, in the museum gardens, also doesn’t require any booking and has a climbing web, den building frame, timber balance beams, and log steps.

For green space, Forest Hill is sorted.

Dulwich Park isn’t far away, which runs a Parkrun every Saturday morning, and has a little boating lake, where pedalos are available for hire.

There’s also Sydenham Hill Wood, Blythe Hill Fields, and Dacres Wood, which has been a designated nature reserve since 2005.

As leisure centres go, Forest Hill Pools makes for a delightful swim. There are a few different pools, separated into lanes. It’s not too hot, not too cold, and very clean, so you can get your 40 lengths done in peace.

There are independent businesses everywhere, too, including Better Things, known locally for its selection of homeware and for hosting workshops, like a Paint Your Own Charm offering.

Krust opened in June, and dishes out coffee and sweet treats like the pistachio and chocolate croissant, as well as a chocolatine (the Bordeaux/Toulouse word for a pain au chocolat, so you’re in good hands).

Transport links in Forest Hill

Now, plenty of snobs turn their noses up at South London for its distinct lack of Tube stations, but if you’re open to an alternative commute, one which is mainly comprised of buses and trains, then Forest Hill might be for you.

It’s conveniently located along the Windrush Line, which runs from Crystal Palace to Highbury and Islington. It’s just 26 minutes from Hoxton.

There’s also the Southern rail service, which goes directly to London Bridge in 14 minutes, and passes through Honour Oak, Brockley, and New Cross Gate along the way.

Plus, heaps of buses constantly pile through, including the 185 to Victoria, the 176 to Tottenham Court Road, and the 197 to Peckham.

Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@metro.co.uk

MORE: Revolut is now letting you pay with your face – but is it safe?

MORE: My honest review of the hotel room that costs more than I earn in a month

MORE: ‘Explosions’ heard across London after community garden in Hackney is ravaged by fire