Living in Kennington

Kennington is recognised for its strong sense of community and welcoming atmosphere. Many residents, both new arrivals and long-time locals, are involved in neighbourhood activities, fostering a community-driven environment. Local groups host regular events, such as summer fairs in Kennington Park and weekly markets at St. Mark’s Church, offering opportunities to connect and support local enterprises.

The annual Kennington Village Fete and the well-regarded Oval Farmers Market draw visitors from across South London. Community centres and social clubs provide a hub for activities ranging from arts classes to social gatherings. Outdoor life is facilitated by parks and gardens: Kennington Park is a renowned green space, equipped with sports courts, a café, and ornamental gardens, making it a focal point for relaxation and exercise.

The blend of diversity, history and proactivity within the neighbourhood contributes to a convivial, supportive spirit. Many report a sense of safety and pride in living in Kennington, enlivened by accessible amenities and cultural attractions nearby.

Safety and crime rates in Kennington are generally representative of inner-London areas, with some variation between streets and zones. Many residents describe Kennington as a safe place to live, especially in the quieter, residential streets around Kennington Park and towards Oval.

The area benefits from visible police presence and active neighbourhood policing teams. Lambeth Council and the Metropolitan Police run regular community safety initiatives, including public engagement meetings and Neighbourhood Watch schemes. Regeneration around Elephant and Castle and the Oval has contributed to improvements in safety and the general environment, although some main thoroughfares can experience higher foot traffic and require usual urban awareness, especially at night.

Residents often praise the strong sense of neighbourliness and the commitment of local community groups to keeping the area well-maintained and secure. Current crime statistics are in line with other central London areas and are readily available through the Metropolitan Police’s online crime mapping resources.

Parking in Kennington can be challenging in some areas due to high demand and limited spaces, typical of many inner-London neighbourhoods. On-street parking is primarily managed through resident parking permits operated by Lambeth Council, with dedicated bays and restrictions to prioritise local households. Pay-and-display spaces are also available, though they fill quickly, especially near main roads and amenities.

The area is within the London Congestion Charge zone, so car use is lower than in outlying suburbs. Traffic levels can be heavy, notably during rush hours and on match days at The Oval Cricket Ground. Road access is excellent, with the A3 running north-south and quick access to the A202 and A23 making travel through South London and beyond straightforward.

Nearby town and city road links:

• Croydon – around 35 minutes via A23 (11 miles)
• Westminster – approximately 10 minutes via A3 (3 miles)
• Brixton – roughly 15 minutes via A23 (2.5 miles)
• Clapham – about 15 minutes via A3 (2 miles)

Secure bicycle storage and cycling infrastructure are also increasingly available for residents who prefer non-car travel within London.

Kennington boasts a diverse and notable food and drink scene, with a strong reputation for historic pubs and independent eateries. Traditional venues such as The Old Red Lion and The Prince of Wales showcase the area’s heritage, serving real ales and classic British dishes in period settings. In addition to established locals, modern gastropubs, trendy coffee shops and artisan bakeries, such as Sally White on Kennington Road, add to the area’s culinary draw.

Restaurants in Kennington cover a wide spectrum, from international cuisine – including Ethiopian, Italian, and Asian – to family-run British bistros. The food scene is supported by takeaway outlets and cafes that cater for working professionals and students alike, while Kennington Village, the historic core of the area, regularly draws food lovers for casual dining.

Evening entertainment typically centres around pubs and community bars, though there are cocktail bars, wine bars, and a handful of music venues in nearby Vauxhall and Elephant & Castle. While not known for a major clubbing scene, Kennington offers a lively, yet relaxed, social atmosphere especially around The Oval on cricket match days.

School Quality: Kennington is within the catchment of several primary and secondary schools that are rated 'Good' or 'Outstanding', making it an appealing area for families with school-aged children.

Parks and Green Space: Families benefit from access to Kennington Park and several smaller playgrounds and open spaces, ideal for recreation and outdoor play.

Childcare: There are independent nurseries and playgroups within walking distance, providing flexible options for working parents.

Safety: The community-oriented nature of Kennington, combined with active neighbourhood policing, gives many families peace of mind, though central London street awareness is recommended.

Family Activities: Nearby museums, libraries, community events, and sports facilities ensure children and families are well catered for. Family-friendly cafes, play areas, and approachable neighbours create an inclusive atmosphere for people with young children.

Kennington is generally considered pet-friendly, with a number of amenities and attitudes that support pet ownership. Kennington Park provides dedicated dog-walking spaces and plenty of greenery for exercise. Smaller gardens and open areas are also dotted around the neighbourhood, while the Thames Path, a little further afield, is popular for longer daily walks.

There are several veterinary practices within easy reach, as well as pet supply stores and pet-sitting services close by. Many local cafes and some pubs are dog-friendly, and the overall approach to pets in the community is positive, with responsible ownership encouraged in communal and public spaces. Housing in period terraces and flats may come with restrictions, so it is advisable to check tenancy agreements regarding pets.

Kennington offers outstanding connectivity, making it sought-after for those commuting into central London or across the capital. The area is served by the Northern Line at Kennington Underground station, placing both the City and West End within straightforward reach. Oval Underground Station nearby also provides fast access north towards Bank or south toward Morden. Numerous bus routes travel directly through Kennington, connecting to areas such as Brixton, Waterloo, Elephant & Castle, and the West End.

For road users, Kennington Road, Kennington Park Road (A3), and the nearby A23 and A202 provide direct links into the heart of London or towards southern suburbs.

Travel times by public transport:

• Westminster – approx. 15 minutes by Underground direct
• London Bridge – around 20 minutes via Underground and short walk
• Waterloo – 10–15 minutes by bus or Underground
• Clapham Junction – approx. 25 minutes by bus

International and domestic rail connections are easily accessible from Waterloo, Victoria, and London Bridge, all within 15–20 minutes journey. Heathrow, Gatwick, and City airports are accessible via public transport, offering travel times of just under an hour depending on time of day.

The educational landscape in Kennington includes a variety of primary and secondary schools, as well as easy access to further education institutions and universities.

Primary Schools:

- Henry Fawcett Primary School: A well-regarded school on Bowling Green Street, last rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted in 2019.

- St. Mark's Church of England Primary School: Situated on Kennington Park Road with a recent Ofsted rating of ‘Outstanding’ (2017), offering a strong academic environment within a faith school ethos.

- Vauxhall Primary School: Located nearby on Vauxhall Street, Ofsted standout with an ‘Outstanding’ rating (2015), known for its inclusive approach.

- Ashmole Primary School: In the nearby Oval area, rated ‘Good’ (2021), recognised for its supportive staff and community engagement.

Secondary Schools:

- Lilian Baylis Technology School: On Kennington Lane, a mixed comprehensive with a ‘Good’ Ofsted rating (2022), offering innovative facilities especially in STEM subjects.

- Lambeth Academy: Located a short distance away on Elms Road, this school provides a modern curriculum and was rated ‘Good’ (2020).

- Notre Dame Roman Catholic Girls' School: Found near Elephant and Castle, with an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted (2012), popular within the Catholic community.

- The Charter School North Dulwich: Slightly further south, a leading co-educational secondary with an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted (2022).

Colleges and Sixth Forms:

- Lambeth College: Local further education provider with a wide range of vocational courses, just a short bus ride away.

Universities:

- London South Bank University: Situated nearby in Elephant and Castle, with a large student population and a range of academic and vocational courses.

- King’s College London, Guy’s Campus: Located at London Bridge, this world-renowned university is within easy reach for Kennington residents, and particularly notable for healthcare, dentistry and sciences.