The Clooper Guide To Battersea
Battersea is a treat of a district: it’s large for London, happy and upbeat in its community, and a real treasure trove for art and animal lovers.
If you’ve seen Paul O’Grady’s show For The Love Of Dogs, you’ll know all about Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. However, some people may not look further than that to see everything Battersea has to offer. With artsy vibes, well-established schools, a waterfront location and the famous Battersea Zoo: this district could very well be your new home.
‘NAPPY VALLEY’
While it may not seem the most appealing nickname, Battersea earned this title because of its large population of families. Families flock from London to this area for numerous reasons. Not only this, they rarely find themselves leaving!
The community in Battersea is close-knit, providing families with a brilliant opportunity to socialize. It is surrounded by greenery, namely Wandsworth Court and Clapham Common. Between these two areas alone you can find numerous amenities and activities, for the whole family! Ponds, a running track, a bowling green, cafes, a nature centre and various indoor and outdoor sports courts are available. There is also, of course, Battersea Zoo.
Not only is there ample space to play, the education is outstanding also. There are a large number of schools and plenty to choose from! There are multiple primary and secondary schools, independent and state, as well as a Catholic School and even L’ecole Du Parc: a french educational programme for kids aged one to five.
FUN-FILLED ACTIVITIES
Battersea is practically alive with fun for all ages. As well as this, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, shopping venues and even a popular market.
Northcote Market started as a fruit & veggie market for its locals. Since then, it has blossomed so much! This market offers its customers flowers, antiques, clothes, cakes, jewellery and so much more. On weekends it really comes alive, meaning that its locals get to enjoy its quieter hours during the week. However, this does mean that there’ll be fewer stalls. We at Clooper don’t see this as too negative: fewer stalls and fewer people means more chances to communicate! As said, Battersea holds its community close to its heart. If you love to stop and chat and build relationships with other locals, Northcote Market could be a great place to start.
The riverbank in Battersea also offers up a variety of pubs, bars and restaurants with a view. There is also a local leisure centre with its own swimming pool and gym, Battersea Sports Centre offering badminton, netball and basketball, and even a quirky Print School. The Lavender Print School teaches its students to print and bind books, and the nearby Battersea Library offers regular activities for children and families. See what could be in store here.
EXCELLENT TRANSPORT
Battersea is close to Clapham Junction, a central London station that leads further into the city and outside London entirely, including Brighton. Services taken ten minutes to Waterloo and Victoria; as well as this, there are multiple overground links across West London, South London, East London, Highbury and Islington, and the Docklands. Battersea is popular with families, but also commuters. With these great connections, it’s easy to see why!
Looking for areas with more great, independent markets? Try our Tooting area guide here.
