Living in London isn’t always synonymous with peace and quiet. But, even in the heart of the Big Smoke, pockets of village life can be found. A recent list, highlighting the UK’s top 20 ‘secret’ villages, surprised many by including Nunhead, a south London neighborhood, nestled among the vibrant areas of Peckham, Brockley, and New Cross. While not nestled in the countryside, Nunhead boasts a charming village-like atmosphere, earning praise for its ‘friendly pubs and friendlier neighbours.’
## Exploring the Charm of Nunhead
Nunhead is surrounded by an abundance of green spaces, a hallmark of south London. For peaceful strolls, there’s Nunhead Cemetery, bordering the expansive Peckham Rye Park and Common. Built in 1840, it’s one of the Magnificent Seven, a group of Victorian cemeteries encircling the city’s outskirts. The nearby Nunhead Reservoir offers stunning views, while Telegraph Hill boasts panoramic city vistas and tennis courts for summer fun.
Beyond the green spaces, Nunhead boasts a thriving community of local businesses. You’ll find an array of shops to cater to your needs: Nunhead Gardener for plants galore, Ayres the Bakers for freshly baked bread, HA Smith for your butchering needs, FC Soper for fresh fish, and Beaumonts for fruits and vegetables. And for your caffeine fix, Goodcup Coffee is a local favourite, serving up delicious bagels and offering evening cocktails at Goodnights on select weeknights.
For a pub crawl, Nunhead offers a variety of options, including the aptly named Old Nun’s Head, Skehans, and The Ivy House. El Vermut, a chic Spanish vermouth bar, is perfect for a romantic date.
If you’re feeling adventurous, Peckham, with its beloved Prince of Peckham pub, Frank’s Cafe, and the iconic Peckhamplex cinema, is just a short distance away. Enjoy delicious Persian cuisine at Persepolis on Peckham High Street, offering a delightful ‘full feast’ set menu for £30 per person. And, don’t forget to pick up their sweet coffee or Turkish delight to enjoy at home.
## Transport and Property in Nunhead
Despite its village feel, Nunhead is well-connected to central London. The Thameslink to Blackfriars is just four stops and takes only 17 minutes. The area, located in Zone 2, is also well-served by the local bus network, with the P12 connecting Honor Oak to Brockley Rise.
As with most of London, buying a property in Nunhead comes with a hefty price tag. According to Rightmove, the average property price over the last year was £665,845. Flats averaged £476,975, while semi-detached homes were the most expensive at £1,019,730. For renting, Foxtons lists the average price for a one-bedroom home at £415 per week, with two-bedroom and three-bedroom homes coming in at £600 and £635 per week respectively.
## Discover the Charm of Nunhead
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of central London, Nunhead is worth exploring. With its village-like atmosphere, green spaces, local businesses, and excellent transport links, it offers a unique blend of charm and convenience. So, next time you’re in London, take a trip to Nunhead and discover its hidden gems for yourself.
