Living in Putney

Putney has a distinctly community-oriented atmosphere, with many residents involved in local groups, societies, and volunteering. There is a strong sense of neighbourhood, helped by family-run shops, regular markets on Church Square, and annual events such as the start of the University Boat Race, which brings much activity to the riverside.

Green spaces are integral to life in Putney, with Putney Common, Wandsworth Park, and the nearby expanses of Richmond Park and Wimbledon Common providing opportunities for walking, cycling, and sports. River life is active, with rowing clubs and water sports adding a unique dimension to weekend living. Social clubs, churches, and the local library contribute to the overall sense of community, while cultural highlights like the Putney Arts Theatre add depth to the area’s lifestyle.

Crime rates in Putney are generally lower compared to other parts of London, making the area popular with families and professionals who value personal safety. Putney benefits from an active local police presence, supported by the Wandsworth borough team, who regularly engage with the community.

The riverside and Putney High Street areas can experience minor incidents, especially at night, but most of the neighbourhood is considered safe, particularly the residential streets away from main thoroughfares. Recent years have seen efforts to enhance street lighting, introduce community patrols, and bolster local Neighbourhood Watch groups—initiatives that have helped maintain Putney's reputation as a welcoming and secure part of South West London.

Parking in Putney is a mix of controlled on-street spaces, residential permit schemes, and private garage options. The High Street and central parts of Putney can become congested at peak times, and parking restrictions are in place in many areas to maintain space for residents. Several car parks are located near shopping and rail amenities.

Permit parking is widely used in the residential streets adjoining the town centre, while local public car parks provide options for visitors. Road access is good, with the A3 nearby for fast routes to Surrey and the South Coast. The main roads, including the Putney Bridge and Upper Richmond Road, give straightforward access towards Fulham or back towards central London.

Nearby towns and road connections:

• Wimbledon – approx. 15 minutes via A219 (4 miles)
• Richmond – approx. 20 minutes via A205 (6 miles)
• Central London – approx. 25–30 minutes via A3 (8 miles)
• Kingston upon Thames – approx. 25 minutes via A3 (8 miles)

Putney is well known for its varied dining scene, offering everything from riverside gastro pubs to independent cafés, global cuisine, and lively weekend brunch spots. The Putney Embankment is lined with iconic pubs like The Duke's Head, a longstanding favourite among locals and rowing enthusiasts.

The high street features a mix of chain and independent restaurants, serving Italian, Thai, Japanese, and Mediterranean dishes. For informal meals or a morning coffee, stylish cafés and bakeries dot the area. Takeaway options and food delivery are abundant, satisfying a broad range of tastes and occasions.

In terms of nightlife, Putney has a more relaxed scene than inner London, with friendly pubs and wine bars, the Half Moon for live music events, and the occasional late-night cocktail lounge. The area's social life is inclusive and welcoming, but retains a more laid-back, community feel than the neighbouring districts of Clapham or Fulham.

Putney stands out as one of South West London’s more family-friendly neighbourhoods, thanks to its mix of high-performing schools, abundant parks, and ample childcare options. The streets are largely residential, with low traffic on side roads and a focus on community safety through Neighbourhood Watch and active local policing.

Many playgrounds and green areas—such as Leaders Gardens and Wandsworth Park—offer outdoor space for children to enjoy. Holiday clubs, nurseries, and after-school care are widely available, supporting busy family life. Families will also find plenty of weekend activities, including riverside walks, sports clubs, theatres, and easy access to museums in the wider borough, making Putney well suited to those raising children in London.

Pet-friendly living is a hallmark of Putney, with excellent access to dog-walking routes, parks, and the nearby commons. Wandsworth Park and Putney Common are favourites among local dog owners, while the Thames towpath provides a scenic space for daily exercise.

Several veterinary clinics, pet supply stores, and grooming services are established locally, making pet care straightforward. Cafés and some pubs, especially by the river, welcome well-behaved dogs, and the general attitude to pets in Putney is positive, reflected in the number of residents who keep cats, dogs, and small animals. Renting with pets is increasingly common, with many landlords and letting agents willing to accommodate four-legged family members, particularly in the area’s townhouses and larger properties.

Putney enjoys enviable transport links, making it a convenient location for both commuters and residents who travel across London and beyond. Putney railway station (South Western Railway) provides direct services to London Waterloo, with journey times of around 15 minutes during peak hours. East Putney Underground (District Line) connects the area to key destinations such as Earl’s Court, Victoria, and the City.

Several London bus routes traverse Putney High Street and cross Putney Bridge, providing regular services to Richmond, Hammersmith, Clapham, and Central London. Cyclists benefit from dedicated routes along the river and into the city, while the Thames Clipper river bus service offers a scenic alternative for those working in central London locations.

For drivers, the nearby A3 road provides swift access to Surrey and routes out of London. Heathrow Airport is approximately 35 minutes’ drive, making it a practical base for international travel.

Commute times to nearby hubs:

• Central London (Waterloo): approx. 15 minutes by train from Putney station
• Richmond: approx. 24 minutes by bus or 10 minutes by train
• Clapham Junction: approx. 6 minutes by train
• Heathrow Airport: approx. 35 minutes by car

Schools in Putney are highly sought after, with a strong reputation for quality education across all age groups. Families are well-catered for, with a variety of state-funded and independent schools, plus access to reputable colleges and nearby universities.

Primary Schools
• Hotham Primary School – A bilingual English/French school, rated 'Good' by Ofsted (2019), known for its diverse and inclusive teaching approaches.
• Our Lady of Victories Catholic Primary School – A well-regarded school with a 'Good' Ofsted rating (2018) and strong community ties.
• Brandlehow Primary School – A popular choice among families, also rated 'Good' by Ofsted (2018), and prized for its creativity-led curriculum.
• St Mary's CE Primary School – Offers a supportive environment and a 'Good' Ofsted rating (2019), situated close to the river.

Secondary Schools
• Ashcroft Technology Academy – Specialising in technology, this academy holds an 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating (2021) and attracts pupils from a wide catchment area.
• Elliott School (Ark Putney Academy) – A co-educational academy with improving results, rated 'Good' (2018), and offering a broad curriculum.
• Putney High School (GDST) – An independent girls’ school consistently ranking among the top in the UK for exam performance.

Colleges and Sixth Forms
• South Thames College (Wandsworth Campus) – Offers a wide range of vocational courses and A-levels, with modern facilities.
• Putney High School Sixth Form – Provides a challenging academic programme and excellent university progression rates.

Universities
The University of Roehampton is a short bus ride away, with a strong reputation for teacher training, the arts, and sciences. Imperial College London's sports ground is also nearby, highlighting the area’s connection to higher education.