Living in Waterloo

About Waterloo

Waterloo is a dynamic urban hub with a rich history and a thriving cultural scene. Once marshland, the area transformed with the arrival of Waterloo Station and the Festival of Britain, becoming a centre for arts and entertainment. Today, residents enjoy easy access to theatres, galleries, markets and riverside walks, all within minutes of central London. With a mix of property styles and a strong sense of community, Waterloo is ideal for those seeking city living with character.

Fact file

• A French politician once requested that Waterloo Station be renamed due to its historical connotations.
• The station’s iconic clock is a famous meeting spot, featured in Waterloo Sunset and Only Fools and Horses.
• The South Bank has been an entertainment hub since the Middle Ages.

Architecture and property

Waterloo’s property market is dominated by flats, ranging from Edwardian conversions to modern high-rises with river views. Conservation areas like Mitre Road offer period charm, while warehouse conversions and ex-local authority blocks add variety. Victorian terraces can be found tucked between The Cut and the riverside.

Going out

Waterloo offers a wide range of dining options, from chains on Waterloo Road to local favourites like The Archduke and La Barca. Bars such as Circe’s Rooftop and Tonight Josephine provide rooftop and basement vibes, while The Anchor and Hope and King’s Arms offer classic pub experiences. Theatres like The Old Vic and National Theatre, plus the BFI and Hayward Gallery, make Waterloo a cultural hotspot.

Local amenities

The Southbank Centre Food Market runs Friday to Sunday behind the Royal Festival Hall, serving global street food, sweet treats, and craft drinks. Nearby, top attractions include the London Eye, Imperial War Museum, and SEA LIFE London Aquarium, where visitors can see sharks, rays, jellyfish, and even penguins. To the east, the iconic Oxo Tower is a creative hub with design studios, galleries, shops, and riverside restaurants offering stunning Thames views.

Green spaces

Despite its urban setting, Waterloo has several green retreats, including Jubilee Gardens, Archbishop’s Park and Waterloo Millennium Green. The Thames Path offers scenic views and is popular with walkers and runners. These spaces provide a welcome contrast to the area’s busy streets.