Chislehurst is a pretty village that has been absorbed into South East London, but managed to retain its rural feel thanks to the protected land that surrounds it. It is one of the most affluent neighbourhoods in this part of London, thanks to the combination of the village atmosphere that appeals to families as well as local amenities and proximity and transport links to Central London. Chislehurst offers the best of both rural and city living, and its wide range of property ensures that anyone could find a suitable house here.
Chislehurst is a true London village, whose identity has been preserved by the protected commons that surround it. It is a popular family area, and there are two high streets with high-end neighbourhood shops.
In March 2017, there were 6 crimes per 1,000 residents in Chislehurst - compared to 8 per 1,000 in London overall. The top reported crimes in that period were miscellaneous theft, residential burglary, and non-residential burglary. Both the 2014/2015 crime rate and violence against the person rate were significantly lower than the rates for London as a whole.
Parking is not generally an issue in this area. The rate of car ownership here is very high for London, at almost 3 cars for every 2 households. Road links - including the A20 to the M25 - are good.
There's a good selection of local pubs and restaurants in this area, many with a lot of historical charm. There's a nightbus from Oxford Circus for those who might be looking for more lively evenings.
There is a wide range of property available in Chislehurst, but an especially good selection of larger houses that would be suitable for families - including period homes and modern ones, and terraced houses and detached houses. Chislehurst offers good access to green and open space, including Chislehurst and St Paul's Cray Commons, Petts Wood and Hawkwood, and the London Loop walking trail through St Paul's Cray Common and Scadbury Park nature reserve - and there are also recreation grounds and golf clubs in the area. State schools in this area are generally good, with several 'outstanding' and 'good' options, as well as some nearby grammar and private schools. Close to 20% of residents are children aged 0-15.
Chislehurst property varies, but there are many homes in the area that would be good places to keep a pet - including period and modern terraces and detached houses. There is good access to green and open space in this area, including Chislehurst and St Paul's Cray Commons, Petts Wood and Hawkwood, and the London Loop walking trail through St Paul's Cray Common and Scadbury Park nature reserve.
Chislehurst is not on the Tube, but has its own rail station in Zone 5 that offers trains to Cannon Street, London Bridge, Waterloo, and Charing Cross in between 20 and 30 minutes, and trains to Blackfriars in about 40 minutes. Nearby Elmstead Woods is in Zone 4. The area is well-served by local buses, including a night bus to Oxford Circus, and road links - including the A20 to the M25 - are good.