Like many parts of East London, Lower Clapton has long been thought of as being deprived and poorly connected. However, Lea Bridge station has recently reopened, after three decades of being shut, and regeneration of surrounding areas like Clapton and Stratford has begun to have knock-on effects in this area. With good schools, green space and waterways, and period homes all available at prices that are a bargain by London standards, there's every reason to consider making Lower Clapton your home.
This neighbourhood is home to a diverse community of longstanding residents, but the area is likely to change as regeneration in nearby areas reaches it. There are a lot of families in this area, and some say it has a village feel.
The 2014/2015 crime rate and violence against the person rate were somewhat higher in this area than for London as a whole. However, the Met police rate this ward as having average crime, as do the surrounding areas, with the nearest high crime hotspot encompassing Westfield Stratford.
The rate of car ownership in this area is slightly lower than that of London overall, with a little over 1 car for every 2 households. Road links are fairly good, and include the A12 to the North Circular - however, significant congestion means that road journeys can take longer than expected. This can affect parking as well.
There's a selection of pubs in the area, as well as some restaurants and bars, but it is neighbouring areas like Clapton and Stratford that have the best selections. Fortunately, these areas are nearby and easily accessed.
This is definitely an area that's home to a lot of families, with over a quarter of the population being a child aged 0-15. Lower Clapton has numerous smaller parks and several waterways running through it, and is near Victoria Park and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. A high percentage of the accommodation in this area is terraced houses, and it is possible to find a family home here at relatively affordable prices. There is a range of good schools in this area, too.
There is a range of housing in this area, including both petite flats and larger houses. A high percentage of this area is open space. Lower Clapton has numerous smaller parks and several waterways running through it, and is near Victoria Park and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, which would make good places to walk a dog. Nearby, the Lee Valley riding centre offers horse riding lessons.
Lea Bridge station, in Zone 3, was shut for over three decades - but recently reopened, and is served by Greater Anglia trains. Nearby Clapton is on the Overground, as are Homerton and Hackney Wick. Stratford offers connections to other rail services as well as the DLR and the Central and Jubilee Lines. The area is also well served by local buses, and road links include the A12 to the North Circular.