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Living in Forest Hill

A creative and family-friendly neighbourhood in southeast London, Forest Hill offers Victorian charm, green spaces and fast connections to the City.

About Forest Hill

Forest Hill is a vibrant and leafy part of southeast London, popular with families and commuters. Known for its strong community spirit, the area blends Victorian architecture with cultural hotspots like the Horniman Museum and a growing number of independent galleries. 

Locals enjoy panoramic views from One Tree Hill, weekend cricket in Mayow Park and coffee catch-ups on the High Street. With excellent schools and fast Overground links to Canary Wharf and London Bridge, Forest Hill offers a relaxed lifestyle with city convenience.

Fact file

  • The Horniman Museum’s eco-friendly CUE building has a grass roof and recycled insulation.
  • Actor Timothy Spall is a long-time resident.
  • Honor Oak is named after Queen Elizabeth I’s 1602 picnic.

Architecture and property

Forest Hill is dominated by Victorian homes built after the arrival of the railway in 1839. The area also features modern flats, brownfield developments, and live/work units. Eliot Bank and Devonshire Road offer a mix of housing styles. The neighbourhood appeals to those seeking character properties with easy access to central London.

Going out

Forest Hill’s food scene includes Babur (award-winning Indian), BoNa (sourdough pizza) and Canvas & Cream that combines dining with art and wellness. Pubs like Blythe Hill Tavern and The Signal offer real ales, comedy nights and live music. The St George’s Players bring local theatre to life.

Local amenities 

Forest Hill Pools, now a modern Fusion leisure centre, offers two swimming pools, a café and classes from high-energy spin to relaxing yoga. Families love Forest Hill Library, hosting creative events like film clubs and origami workshops. Foodies head to The Butchery, a local favourite for sustainably sourced meat. 

For everyday shopping, there’s a Sainsbury’s next to the station with 98 parking spaces and a Tesco Express on London Road. Culture seekers can visit the Horniman Museum, famous for its taxidermy collection, global artefacts and aquarium, making it one of South London’s most unique attractions.

Green spaces

Horniman Gardens offer 16 acres of formal and wild landscapes, perfect for family outings. Mayow Park hosts cricket matches and tennis, while Dacres Wood and Devonshire Road nature reserves provide peaceful escapes. One Tree Hill offers stunning views across London. Forest Hill is ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Education

Forest Hill offers a well-rounded mix of primary and secondary schools, with options for both boys and girls. Local favourites include Eliot Bank Primary School and Fairlawn Primary School, both known for their inclusive ethos and strong academic results. Forest Hill School provides a boys’ secondary pathway, while Sydenham School offers a respected girls’ alternative, giving families flexibility in choosing the right fit.

Transport

Forest Hill station provides direct links to Canary Wharf via Canada Water, as well as fast trains to London Bridge and Victoria. Nearby Honor Oak Park expands access to the Overground network, connecting to Shoreditch and Highbury & Islington. 

The area is also served by reliable bus routes, making travel across South London easy. With strong rail and Overground links, Forest Hill is ideal for commuters seeking convenience without sacrificing green space.