Clapham Area Guide

Clapham is a lively and attractive suburb located in South West London which draws in young professionals and families alike. Families love the open spaces and greenery that the local parks have to offer and the village feel of Abbeville Village and Clapham Old Town. Clapham opened up and became a commuter suburb when the underground train line arrived in the late 1920s. since then the area has spread out and is now divided into three distinct areas which all have their own characteristics; Clapham North, Clapham Common and Clapham South.

Clapham Common
The stunning, open green spaces of Clapham Common are located in the centre of the area and provides an oasis of peace. Making this the perfect spot for locals to relax and enjoy those warm summer evenings. The Common also benefits from multiple playing fields, a playground, various outdoor gyms and a paddling pool. Clapham Common is home to the largest bandstand in London, after being restored it now hosts a variety of events during the summer months.

Eating and drinking
Clapham’s nightlife has flourished and there are a vast number of amenities. The Venn Street Market is a local community food market, open every Saturday and welcomes small independent producers and famers. Located opposite Clapham Common tube station (Zone 2), this is the fantastic place to purchase locally sourced and seasonal produce. Locals also enjoy a range of local shops, restaurants and bars. With a multitude of independent cafes, it will be a worthwhile adventure to find your favourite spot for a coffee and home made pastry.

Clapham High Street is a popular location for London nightlife, with an array of bars and pubs to choose from. The High Street is home to the infamous Infernos nightclub, one of the busiest spots during the weekend with a varied clientele. If you’re looking for a quieter place to relax, the Windmill on the Common is the perfect choice to sit back and relax, it also houses of a crackling fire and cosy sofas, making it the perfect destination for both summer and winter months.

Architecture
The character and attractive period homes, make this a popular and sought-after region of South London. After the outbreak of the plague and the Great Fire of London, Clapham saw an increase in residents settling in the area from the densely populated central London. History surrounding the suburb has been reflected on the architecture, from grand Georgian terraces found in the old Town to Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses which were built to house the increasing population at this time. Although Clapham South is technically classed as Balham, the surrounding area is home to larger houses/flats, whereas Clapham Common showcases period conversions and purpose-built mansion blocks.

Transportation Links
Tube: Clapham has three main underground links, Clapham North, Clapham Common and Clapham South. Located in Zone 2 on the Northern line, providing locals with easy access into the City and West End. 
Bus: There are a number of local bus routes which run through Clapham and these include: 
35 to Shoreditch
39 to Putney Bridge
87 to Aldwych 
155 to Elephant and Castle
There are also a number of night bus routes such as the N31 to Camden and the N35 to Tottenham Court Road.

A word from Patrick: Clapham has a special place in my heart. My granddad used to run the London Taxi School in Clapham Manor Street (just off of Clapham High street) and I visited him on a number of occasions especially in the school holidays. My uncle was also born in what is now called the Latitude Building in Clapham South. Originally the South London Hospital for Woman and Children.  

Clapham Area Guide

Clapham is a lively and attractive suburb located in South West London which draws in young professionals and families alike. Families love the open spaces and greenery that the local parks have to offer and the village feel of Abbeville Village and Clapham Old Town. Clapham opened up and became a commuter suburb when the underground train line arrived in the late 1920s. since then the area has spread out and is now divided into three distinct areas which all have their own characteristics; Clapham North, Clapham Common and Clapham South.

Clapham Common
The stunning, open green spaces of Clapham Common are located in the centre of the area and provides an oasis of peace. Making this the perfect spot for locals to relax and enjoy those warm summer evenings. The Common also benefits from multiple playing fields, a playground, various outdoor gyms and a paddling pool. Clapham Common is home to the largest bandstand in London, after being restored it now hosts a variety of events during the summer months.

Eating and drinking
Clapham’s nightlife has flourished and there are a vast number of amenities. The Venn Street Market is a local community food market, open every Saturday and welcomes small independent producers and famers. Located opposite Clapham Common tube station (Zone 2), this is the fantastic place to purchase locally sourced and seasonal produce. Locals also enjoy a range of local shops, restaurants and bars. With a multitude of independent cafes, it will be a worthwhile adventure to find your favourite spot for a coffee and home made pastry.

Clapham High Street is a popular location for London nightlife, with an array of bars and pubs to choose from. The High Street is home to the infamous Infernos nightclub, one of the busiest spots during the weekend with a varied clientele. If you’re looking for a quieter place to relax, the Windmill on the Common is the perfect choice to sit back and relax, it also houses of a crackling fire and cosy sofas, making it the perfect destination for both summer and winter months.

Architecture
The character and attractive period homes, make this a popular and sought-after region of South London. After the outbreak of the plague and the Great Fire of London, Clapham saw an increase in residents settling in the area from the densely populated central London. History surrounding the suburb has been reflected on the architecture, from grand Georgian terraces found in the old Town to Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses which were built to house the increasing population at this time. Although Clapham South is technically classed as Balham, the surrounding area is home to larger houses/flats, whereas Clapham Common showcases period conversions and purpose-built mansion blocks.

Transportation Links
Tube: Clapham has three main underground links, Clapham North, Clapham Common and Clapham South. Located in Zone 2 on the Northern line, providing locals with easy access into the City and West End. 
Bus: There are a number of local bus routes which run through Clapham and these include: 
35 to Shoreditch
39 to Putney Bridge
87 to Aldwych 
155 to Elephant and Castle
There are also a number of night bus routes such as the N31 to Camden and the N35 to Tottenham Court Road.

A word from Patrick: Clapham has a special place in my heart. My granddad used to run the London Taxi School in Clapham Manor Street (just off of Clapham High street) and I visited him on a number of occasions especially in the school holidays. My uncle was also born in what is now called the Latitude Building in Clapham South. Originally the South London Hospital for Woman and Children.