Currently undergoing regeneration plans, Charlton is becoming an exciting side of south-east London. The Royal Borough of Greenwich district is often overlooked by the trendy nearby Canary Wharf and Greenwich Village. Living in Charlton offers a more suburban experience though, with some prime hotspots along the Thames – and more to come.
The sprawling Charlton Park and numerous smaller parklands means you’ll never be far from green spaces to escape to either. There’s also an abundance of sports and recreational centres, making Charlton a good choice for those who like to keep active. What’s more, the district’s main train station keeps you easily connected to the City. Get to London Bridge in just 20 minutes and Euston in 40 minutes.
If you’re thinking about living in the area, here are some of the best places to go.
Charlton Athletic Football Ground
You can’t talk about living in Charlton without including the area’s well-known Charlton Athletic football ground. Once the largest football pitch in London, the now 27,000 seat stadium still attracts a busy crowd of football fans throughout the year.
Nicknamed ‘The Valley’, the ground dates back to 1919 when a group of volunteers dug out a sandy pit in the area and built makeshift stands for recreational football. Charlton Athletic Football Club turned professional in the aftermath of World War I in 1920 and are best known for their legendary 1947 FA Cup win.
Address: The Valley, Floyd Road, Charlton, London SE7 8BL
Phone: 020 8333 4000
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @cafcofficial
Charlton Lido & Lifestyle Club
After an extensive refurbishment in 2013, Charlton Lido & Lifestyle Club has become a hub of wellness. Those looking for a fitness kick can make the most of the on-site facilities. The outdoor, Olympic-sized 50m pool is among London’s best lidos. Plus, it’s heated, so you can brave a swim even when it’s not summer. In the sunnier months, relax on the poolside terrace with a drink after your swim.
Not only is there the pool, there’s also a gym and studio offering classes around the clock, led by personal trainers and instructors. The centre also has floodlit tennis courts, so you can practise your skills in the lead-up to Wimbledon.
Address: Hornfair Park, Shooters Hill Road, London SE18 4LX
Phone: 020 8856 7389
Follow: @charltonlidolifestyle
Cattleya
Savour the flavours of the Far East at Cattleya. The Thai restaurant features an eclectic menu of authentic dishes, with a nudge towards Spanish tapas too. The relaxed atmosphere and choice of dishes for all dietary requirements make it a good place to visit with a group of friends.
You can expect Westernised favourites such as prawn crackers, Phad Thai, tempura vegetables and spring rolls. Or be tempted by more experimental dishes, such as Po-Tak (a mixed seafood hot and sour soup), Kaeng Pa (a jungle curry made with coconut milk), or Weeping Tiger (a marinated and grilled sirloin steak, Thai style).
Address: 52 Charlton Church Lane, Charlton, London SE7 7AB
Phone: 0207 642 1014
Charlton House & Park
Charlton House & Garden is a grand example of multiple historic periods. Originally built between 1607 and 1612, the manor showcases the evolution of the English country house. Considered one of England’s finest surviving Jacobean manors, it was first home to Sir Adam Newton, the tutor of Henry, Prince of Wales (eldest son of King James I). Since this time, many acclaimed people have passed through its doors.
You can visit the house for free and look round the impressive rooms, as well as the walled gardens and grounds. For the complete experience, book a special afternoon tea in the house’s Charlton Tea Room, enjoying views across the gardens and Charlton Park.
Address: Charlton Road, Charlton, London SE7 8RE
Phone: 020 8856 3951
Email: [email protected]
The Reach Climbing Wall
Indoor climbing walls have become particularly popular in recent years. The Reach Climbing Wall is among the longest-standing and largest. Its south-east London location on an industrial estate overlooking the Thames Barrier has been open for more than 20 years.
Offering a great source of exercise and fun, the complex has many different climbs to suit beginners, thrill seekers and altitude chasers. The complex boasts 50 lead climbs, with 650-square-metres of bouldering surface and an incredible 4-metre-high boulder, so you can pick a climb to match your abilities. Book climbing classes to get started or visit solo once you’re ready to challenge yourself.
Address: Unit 6, Mellish Estate, Harrington Way, London SE18 5NR
Phone: 020 8855 9598
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @reachclimbingwall
Anchor & Hope Pub
The riverside pub Anchor & Hope is a cosy retreat for a pint and hearty pub food. Overlooking the Thames, with views towards the Thames Barrier, the gastropub truly comes to life in the summer months thanks to its expansive garden.
Nothing says pub lunch quite like fish and chips. Dine on some of the best in the area as all seafood is provided fresh by the neighbouring fishmongery, Winkles. You can also find other classic British favourites on the menu, including Sunday roasts, pie and mash, and burgers.
Address: 2 Riverside, Greenwich Peninsula, London SE7 7SU
Phone: 020 8858 0382
Bunker 51
Looking for an alternative social experience whilst living in Charlton? Tucked away along the Thames riverside, Bunker 51 might look unsuspecting from the outside, but don’t be fooled. The gaming centre offers paintballing, laser tag and airsoft activities with a twist – the venue is a themed Cold War nuclear bunker with zombie-led experiences.
Try your luck against your friends, compete as part of a unique stag or hen do, or mix things up during a team building event with colleagues.
Address: 3 Herringham Road, Greenwich Peninsula, London SE7 8NJ
Phone: 0330 333 8085
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @bunker51
New Viceroy
Located in the heart of Charlton Village, New Viceroy brings the East to the West. Dine on authentic Indian and Nepalese cuisine. Dishes are crafted to offer a fusion of flavours, whether you’re a spice lover or not.
Choose a meat or vegetable biryani – New Viceroy’s speciality dish – or try a classic tikka masala curry. There are plenty of vegetarian-friendly dishes on the menu too.
Address: 10 The Village Charlton, London SE7 8UD
Phone: 020 8319 3439
Email: [email protected]
Living in Charlton
Charlton is more residential and suburban than its neighbouring districts, but still offers its charms. Living in Charlton, you’ll enjoy a mix of green spaces, sports centres and riverside views.
For more information about living in South London, read our guide on the best places in the area.
