Deptford Area Guide

UK Area Guides

Deptford, South East London

Fabulous3.9

Living in

Deptford is an increasingly trendy place to live. Long popular with students attending nearby Goldsmiths, more people are being attracted to this well-connected but still affordable corner of South East London. While near Greenwich, its property prices and rents have not come anywhere close to its affluent neighbour's - so it's little surprise that many artists and creative types are being drawn to Deptford as they are priced out of places like Shoreditch. Deptford remains a little rough around the edges, but in a way that is appealing to most of the types of people who look to call it home.

Ratings

Fabulous3.9

Community

Deptford is a fairly hip area, home to a large population of students and an arty crowd. There's a range of local, independent shops and markets.

Safety

Deptford's longtime rough reputation is no longer deserved. The area is rated by the Met police as having average crime, as is the wider surrounding area. The 2014/2015 crime rate and violence against the person rate were both lower than the rates for London as a whole.

Parking

Parking is about average in this area. The rate of car ownership, however, is half that of London, with less than one car for every two households. Road links - including the A200 and the A2 - are good, but often create traffic congestion in the area. 

Nightlife

There's a range of pubs and restaurants in the area, as well as a handful of bars. There's more to choose from in neighbouring areas like Greenwich, and transport links are fairly good. 

Family Friendly

Though there are some period terraces available, the vast majority of housing in this area is in the flats, maisonettes, and apartments category - about 80% - which may not be what families are looking for. Deptford has very good access to green space, including Deptford Park and many small green spaces - and the expanse of Greenwich Park, as well as the Thames, Deptford Creek, and Ravensbourne River all offer places to exercise and play. There's a selection of good schools, especially primary schools, in the area.

Pet Friendly

The vast majority of housing in this area is in the flats, maisonettes, and apartments category - about 80% - which may be less suitable for pets. However, there's very good access to green space, including Deptford Park and many small green spaces - and the expanse of Greenwich Park, as well as the Thames, Deptford Creek, and Ravensbourne River all offer miles of walks.

Transport

The DLR was a game-changer for Zone 2 Deptford, connecting the area to Canary Wharf via Deptford Bridge station. There are also direct trains to London Bridge, from Deptford station and Deptford Bridge. New Cross station offers access to the Overground. The area is well-served by local buses, and road links - including the A200 and the A2 - are good.