Living in Balham

About Balham

Balham, nestled in the borough of Wandsworth, has transformed from a quiet hamlet into one of South London's most desirable neighbourhoods. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong community vibe, it’s a place where families, creatives and professionals coexist happily. The area is full of character, with bustling cafés, independent shops and a rich cultural history. Residents enjoy the benefits of low council tax, excellent amenities and a lifestyle that balances urban convenience with suburban calm.

Fact file

• Du Cane Court, a striking Art Deco apartment block, survived WWII unscathed and was rumoured to be used by the Luftwaffe as a navigational aid.
• In 1940, a bomb exploded in Balham station, causing a bus to fall into the crater and creating the iconic image of the Blitz.
• Balham is part of Wandsworth, which boasts one of the lowest council tax rates in London.

Architecture and property

Balham’s architectural landscape is a beautiful blend of late Victorian, Edwardian and Arts and Crafts styles. The Heaver Estate and Nightingale Square are conservation areas that remain highly sought-after, especially among families. Grand villas, terraced townhouses, and mansion blocks offer a wide variety of housing options. Du Cane Court stands out as a landmark Art Deco building, while modern developments like The Tramyard add contemporary flair. Whether you're looking for period charm or stylish conversions, Balham has something for every taste.

Going out

Balham is a hotspot for food, drink and entertainment. From brunch at Milk to pizza at Franco Manca, the area caters to every palate. The Exhibit combines dining with cinema and art, while The Balham Bowls Club and The Devonshire offer cosy pub vibes and spacious gardens. 

For nightlife and comedy, The Bedford pub is home to Banana Cabaret and the annual Balham Comedy Festival, drawing big names and lively crowds. Independent shops, wine-tasting evenings and local markets add to the area’s vibrant social life.

Local amenities

Balham offers a mix of chain stores and independent boutiques. For health and wellbeing, visit Planet Organic. Brighten up your home or find the perfect gift at The Flower Sanctuary or expand your palate at The Wine Tasking Shop with their curated tasting evenings and wine cards.

Fresh produce, homemade cakes and arts and crafts are available at the monthly Balham Country Market hosted by Balham Bowls Club, while the weekly farmers’ market at Henry Cavendish School is a local favourite. Hildreth Street Market offers fruit, veg, household goods, and some of London’s best street food stalls. Grocery shopping is easy with large Waitrose and Sainsbury in the town centre, both with ample parking.

For fitness, Balham Leisure Centre features a swimming pool, gym, squash courts, sauna, and steam room, or head to Tooting Bec Lido, the largest freshwater open-air pool in the UK. Balham Library offers activities, music downloads for members, and access to a wide range of online reference materials.

Green spaces

Balham is surrounded by some of South London’s best green spaces. Clapham Common offers sports pitches, fishingand summer music festivals. Wandsworth Common is a haven for nature lovers, designated as a site of importance for conservation. Tooting Bec Common provides horse riding, tennis courts, and nature trails, along with the famous Tooting Bec Lido.