Local area guide

Living in Southwark

Thinking about moving to Southwark? Discover why it's a great place to live, fun things to do here, what the local schools are like, transport connections and so much more.

Your guide to moving to Southwark

Why Southwark is a good place to live

Nestled in the heart of London, Southwark offers a distinctive blend of city living mixed with a vibrant cultural scene. Residing in Southwark means you're never far from action, with fantastic transport links including four major stations and access to the Night Tube service. Among the area's delights are numerous parks providing green pockets of tranquillity amidst the urban buzz. You can also indulge in diverse culinary experiences, from high-end dining at the Shard's Oblix to bountiful food markets, like the celebrated Borough Market. The district is rich with educational opportunities, being home to many 'outstanding' Ofsted-rated primary schools. A move to Southwark offers the charm of city living with a slice of London's rich cultural scene.

What's Southwark famous for?

Southwark is famous for its host of iconic landmarks that tell tales of London's rich history and contemporary delights. This includes the Tate Modern, an international hub for modern and contemporary art, and the Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, a faithful reconstruction of the Elizabethan playhouse known for its association with William Shakespeare. Southwark is also home to The Shard, the tallest building in Western Europe that offers panoramic views of the city. Moreover, Borough Market, London's renowned wholesale and retail food market, is a gastronomic paradise, drawing food lovers from around the sphere.

Things to do in Southwark

Living in Southwark means there's no shortage of things to do. Cultural aficionados will delight in exploring the world-renowned Tate Modern, or stepping back in time at the Old Operating Theatre Museum. For the food-lovers, you can savour the culinary delights offered at Borough and Maltby Street Markets or indulge at any number of the fantastic eateries and pubs. For a change of pace, the leafy Burgess Park and Dulwich Park make for a relaxing retreat. Meanwhile, theatre lovers can catch a show at the timeless Shakespeare's Globe. From historic attractions to dining scenes and parks, Southwark offers a wealth of activities to amuse both residents and visitors alike.

We have used a bespoke generative AI model to help us research and create our area guides. All of our content is reviewed, and edited where needed, by our trusted team of Zoopla content editors.

Properties currently for sale in Southwark

Whether you're looking to buy a family home or a beautiful apartment, we've got you covered.

Transport in Southwark

Find the nearest train stations and other transport links in Southwark.

Local connections

Bankside Pier
Ferry Port
0.2 miles / 0.3 km
Borough
London Underground Station
0.3 miles / 0.5 km
Southwark
London Underground Station
0.4 miles / 0.6 km
London Cannon Street
National Rail
0.4 miles / 0.6 km
Mansion House
London Underground Station
0.4 miles / 0.6 km
Cannon Street
London Underground Station
0.5 miles / 0.8 km

Schools in Southwark

Discover local primary schools, secondary schools and sixth form colleges in Southwark.

Education in Southwark

The Cathedral School of St Saviour and St Mary Overie
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (2022)
Haberdashers' Borough Academy
Ages: 11 - 18 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2024)
Saint Joseph's Catholic Primary School, the Borough
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2023)
Charles Dickens Primary School
Ages: 2 - 11 years old
City of London School
Ages: 10 - 18 years old
Friars Primary Foundation School
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2024)

Local pubs in Southwark

In partnership with
useyourlocal
  • Flat Iron Square

    London SE1

    Nestled in the heart of London Bridge, Flat Iron Square offers a unique cultural and culinary experience for people of all stripes.

  • Rose & Crown

    London SE1

    Recently refurbished (May 2019), The Rose & Crown is one of the newest additions to the PubLove family. Boasting an award-winning burger kitchen, home to the infamous 'Juicy Bastard' and new contender, the 'Cheesus Christ',

  • Anchor Bankside

    London SE1

    Situated on one of the most historical reaches of the Thames, the Anchor lays claim to fascinating, and somewhat gruesome historical associations.