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Living in Waterloo

A vibrant riverside neighbourhood in central London, Waterloo offers world-class culture, excellent transport links and a lively mix of restaurants and bars.

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.

Education

Waterloo offers a varied mix of educational options, including primary and secondary schools with faith-based and specialist focuses. St George’s Cathedral Catholic Primary School and Charles Dickens Primary School are well-regarded for their inclusive environments and strong community ties. 

Oasis Academy Johanna provides a modern approach to learning with a focus on creativity and personal growth. For secondary education, London Nautical School offers a distinctive curriculum with a maritime theme, appealing to students with a passion for the sea and sciences.

Transport

Waterloo is one of London’s most important transport hubs, offering exceptional connectivity across the city and beyond. Waterloo Station provides access to National Rail services, four Underground lines and a major bus interchange, making it ideal for commuters and travellers alike. Southwark station, just a short walk away, adds further convenience with Jubilee Line access. 

The area is also well-served by cycle routes, including quiet backstreets and dedicated lanes leading to the South Bank and beyond. With its central location and comprehensive transport options, Waterloo is perfectly positioned for fast and flexible travel.