Living in Kennington

About Kennington

Kennington is one of inner London’s best-kept secrets, nestled between the River Thames and the A3. Known for its elegant Georgian squares and vibrant community, it offers a peaceful yet central lifestyle. With a mix of families, professionals and creatives, Kennington balances heritage with regeneration. Its proximity to Westminster and the South Bank makes it a cultural hotspot with a strong neighbourhood feel.

Fact file

• The Oval was the first ground to host a Test cricket match in Britain in 1880.
• Charlie Chaplin grew up in Kennington; a blue plaque marks his former home.
• A Henry Moore sculpture is permanently displayed on the Brandon Estate.
• Kennington is reputed to be within earshot of Parliament’s Division Bell.

Architecture and property

Kennington’s architecture is dominated by Georgian terraces and squares, with some homes converted into luxury flats and others restored to full houses. Neo-Georgian developments from the early 20th century complement the original style. 

The area also includes council and ex-council homes near Elephant and Castle. Warehouse conversions and riverside developments like The Corniche add modern flair to this historic neighbourhood.

Going out

Kennington offers a diverse food scene, from Persian and Eritrean cuisine to vegetarian cafés and upmarket dining at Brunswick House. Pubs like the Prince of Wales and Pilgrim Pub are local favourites.

Cultural venues include the White Bear Theatre, Brixton House and the Cinema Museum. Art lovers enjoy Pullens Yards and Damien Hirst’s Newport Street Gallery. The Imperial War Museum and Garden Museum are nearby and the South Bank is just a short walk away.

Local amenities

Kennington and Vauxhall offer a great mix of amenities for residents. Grocery shopping is convenient with a Tesco supermarket on Kennington Lane and a Waitrose nearby in Vauxhall. 

Food lovers enjoy the weekly farmers’ market held every Saturday in the peaceful courtyard of St Mark’s Church, while East Street Market on Walworth Road is a bustling spot for fresh fruit and vegetables. For flowers and plants at wholesale prices, New Covent Garden Flower Market is just a short distance away. 

Families can visit Vauxhall City Farm, home to a variety of animals and offering workshops and horse riding sessions at discounted rates for local children. Community life is enriched by Durning Library on Kennington Lane, a beautiful Victorian building that hosts events for all ages and provides a welcoming space for reading and study.

Green spaces

Kennington Park is a Green Flag award-winning space with playgrounds, tennis courts and a flower garden. Hidden squares and greens add charm throughout the area. The park’s history includes political demonstrations and public executions, now replaced by peaceful walks and community events. Riverside walks and nearby attractions like Tate Britain and Nine Elms developments offer scenic and cultural escapes.