Living in Bermondsey
Looking to move to Bermondsey? Learn all about what life here is like, from the local schools and transport options to things to do around town and, of course, find out about property prices in the area.
Your guide to moving and living in Bermondsey
Why Bermondsey is a great place to live
Bermondsey is a historic and dynamic neighbourhood located in South East London, along the southern bank of the River Thames. Situated within the London Borough of Southwark, Bermondsey has evolved from its industrial roots into a sought-after urban locality, blending characterful old warehouses with striking new developments. The area is known for its riverside walks, creative culture, and a strong sense of community stemming from its long-standing residential population.
Bermondsey has become a preferred location for a mixture of professionals, creative types, young families, and long-term Londoners. Traditional Victorian and Georgian terraced houses sit alongside contemporary apartments, particularly in redeveloped warehouse complexes. The area's reputation is bolstered by its famed food scene, thriving art galleries, and its proximity to both central London and the vibrant boroughs of Borough, London Bridge, and Rotherhithe.
Historically, Bermondsey played a major role in London's industrial era, especially in leatherwork and food production, remnants of which can be seen in street names and architecture. Today, it is an area equally recognised for its vibrant street markets, excellent amenities, and increasing desirability among those seeking a balance of urban convenience and neighbourhood character.
Community & Local Life
Bermondsey benefits from a strong sense of place and local identity, with active resident groups and regular events that foster community spirit. The annual Bermondsey Carnival, held in Southwark Park, draws crowds with live music and family activities, while Bermondsey Street Festival showcases local talent and creativity through food, arts, and entertainment.
Southwark Park provides expansive green space for outdoor activities, jogging, and weekend markets. The riverside walkways present scenic spots for exercise or relaxation, and the area’s proximity to Tate Modern and White Cube Bermondsey adds to the local cultural offering. A number of community centres host workshops, classes, and support groups, helping residents stay connected and active.
Safety & Crime Rates in Bermondsey
Crime rates in Bermondsey are similar to those in comparable inner London districts, with the usual concerns associated with urban living. Street crime and anti-social behaviour can occasionally be an issue, though the area has seen ongoing regeneration and investment in recent years, contributing to a safer environment over time.
The London Borough of Southwark operates various community safety initiatives, including neighbourhood policing teams and local Neighbourhood Watch schemes. There is a noticeable police presence around stations and in busy public spaces. Some parts of the riverside and newly developed estates are regarded as comparatively safer, benefiting from increased footfall, regular patrols, and better street lighting.
Parking & Road Access
Parking in Bermondsey can be challenging due to its dense urban layout and Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs) throughout the area. Most residential streets require a permit, and visitor spaces are limited. Several local car parks exist, but these can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Commuters are encouraged to use public transport wherever possible to avoid congestion.
Car access is relatively straightforward given Bermondsey’s proximity to the A2 (Old Kent Road) and the A200 (Jamaica Road), connecting drivers to central and southeast London. Bermondsey is also within easy reach of main Thames crossings, including Tower Bridge and Rotherhithe Tunnel.
Nearby towns and cities:
- Greenwich – approx. 20 minutes via A200 (5 miles)
- Canary Wharf – approx. 15 minutes via Rotherhithe Tunnel (3 miles)
- Central London – approx. 15 minutes via A2 or A200 (3 miles)
- Bromley – approx. 35 minutes via A21 (10 miles)
Food, Pubs & Nightlife
Bermondsey is renowned for its culinary scene, particularly along Bermondsey Street. Independent coffee shops, artisan bakeries, and celebrated restaurants such as José Pizarro and Tanner & Co draw visitors from across the capital. The famous Maltby Street Market offers a blend of street food, specialty goods, and local produce in atmospheric railway arches.
The area’s pub culture thrives with longstanding establishments like The Woolpack and The Dean Swift, both known for craft beer and lively atmospheres. Several cocktail bars, including 214 Bermondsey and The Hide Bar, complement the more traditional venues. For nightlife, Bermondsey offers a relaxed alternative to the city centre, with some late-night bars but a focus on relaxed dining, gastropubs, and occasional live music events rather than nightclubs.
Is Bermondsey Family Friendly
School quality: Bermondsey offers good access to highly-rated primary and secondary schools, making it an attractive proposition for families. Ofsted reports highlight strong academic results and community values in many local institutions.
Parks and green space: Families in Bermondsey have access to spacious Southwark Park, local playgrounds, and riverside paths ideal for outdoor play, picnics, or dog walking.
Childcare: Numerous nurseries and childminders operate locally, with many catering to different age ranges and providing flexible options for working parents.
Safety: The area has seen investment in neighbourhood safety, and local schemes support safer streets for children and families, especially near schools and parks.
Family activities: Cultural venues, community workshops, and family-friendly cafes are present throughout the area, and attractions such as the Unicorn Theatre and Potters Fields Park offer regular children’s events.
Pet Friendly Living
Bermondsey is a pet-friendly area, with several green spaces such as Southwark Park, King’s Stairs Gardens, and riverside walks that are popular with local dog owners. The Thames Path can provide longer walks and a scenic environment for exercising pets. Local pet shops, including specialist dog bakeries and grooming salons, cater to a devoted pet-owning community.
Several cafés and pubs on Bermondsey Street are dog-welcoming, and there are multiple veterinary clinics conveniently located for residents. Rental properties occasionally have pet restrictions, but the general attitude throughout the neighbourhood is positive towards animals both in public spaces and local businesses.
Transport & Accessibility
Bermondsey is exceptionally well-connected, making it a popular choice for commuters and anyone who relies on public transport. Bermondsey Underground Station, on the Jubilee Line, provides quick and direct access to central London destinations like London Bridge, Canary Wharf, and Westminster. London Bridge railway station is nearby, offering National Rail services to wider London and the South East.
Several bus routes run through Bermondsey, connecting it efficiently with places such as Waterloo, Elephant & Castle, and Peckham. The area’s cycling infrastructure is robust, with dedicated cycle paths and proximity to the Thames Path.
Travel times to key destinations:
- London Bridge – 5 minutes via Jubilee Line
- Canary Wharf – 6 minutes via Jubilee Line
- Westminster – 15 minutes via Jubilee Line (change at Waterloo)
- City of London – 10 minutes via Jubilee Line & Northern Line interchange
- London Gatwick Airport – Approx. 45 minutes via train from London Bridge
- London City Airport – Approx. 30 minutes via Jubilee Line and DLR
Schools & Education in Bermondsey
Primary Schools in Bermondsey
Bermondsey offers a range of primary education options, such as St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School (Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding’ in 2012), The Cathedral School of St Saviour and St Mary Overie (Ofsted rated ‘Good’ in 2018), Snowsfields Primary School (Ofsted rated ‘Good’ in 2021), and Tower Bridge Primary School (Ofsted rated ‘Good’ in 2019). These schools are known for serving a diverse local community and supporting both academic and creative development.
Secondary Schools in Bermondsey
Secondary education is available at schools like Harris Academy Bermondsey (Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding’ in 2019), a girls' secondary academy with a strong reputation for academic success. London Nautical School and St Michael's Catholic College (Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding’ in 2019) are nearby options that regularly see pupils progress to further education.
Colleges and Sixth Forms
Bermondsey is close to several sixth forms and further education institutions. Southwark College offers a broad selection of vocational and academic courses and is easily accessible from Bermondsey. City of London Academy (Southwark) provides a popular sixth form provision.
Universities
While there are no universities directly within Bermondsey, it is just a short distance from leading London institutions. King’s College London's Guy’s Campus and London South Bank University are both situated within easy reach, offering a full spectrum of higher education opportunities to local residents.