Living in Kennington
Kennington is an area in high demand with renters because of its peaceful, green spaces, tasteful Georgian architecture and useful transport links. It is located close to Central London, so often attracts those who work in the City as well as students who go to the universities close to Waterloo such as Kings College London, University of the Arts London and London South Bank University. It is also popular with families who like the affordable homes and the highly rated local schools. There are a lot of pubs in the area as well as a wide range of different cuisines available such as Indian, Italian, Latin American and Pan-Asian.
For those of you interested in local trivia, there are a few fun facts about Kennington worth memorising for the quizzes held at its many pubs. Did you know that Charlie Chaplin grew up in the area and began his career 10-minutes down the road in Elephant and Castle? Kennington Park was also the destination for the world’s first motorised double-decker bus in 1899, which ran its first journey from Victoria to Kennington.
Transport
Tube:
Kennington Underground Zone 2: Northern Line
Kennington to Waterloo: 2-minute tube
Kennington to London Bridge: 4-minute tube
Kennington to Bank: 6-minute tube
Kennington to Euston: 12-minute tube
Kennington to Kings Cross: 15-minute tube
Train:
Kennington does not have its own train station but it is only one stop on the tube away from Waterloo where you can catch National Rail Services from.
Bus:
Bus Number 3: Whitehall
Bus Number 59: Kings Cross
Bus Number 133: Liverpool Street
Bus Number 159: Marble Arch
Bus Number 360: Kensington
Average Rental Prices
1 bed: £1,690 pcm
2 bed: £1,825 pcm
3 bed: £2,567 pcm
4 bed: £3,033 pcm
Council Tax
To be paid to Lambeth Council
https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/council-tax/council-tax-bands-and-rates
Schools
There is a good selection of outstanding Ofsted rated schools in Kennington. The best primary schools are, Henry Fewcett, Vauxhall Primary and Archbishop Sumner C of E. The best secondary include, Lilian Baylis, Notre Dame RC and Academy South Bank. There are two private schools that are close by to Kennington which are Westminster Abbey Choir School and Westminster Under School.
Life in Kennington
Kennington is one of London’s best kept secrets. With streets of beautiful, Georgian architecture and ample green spaces, it is a remarkable place to call your home. As Kennington is relatively small compared to surrounding neighbourhoods, there is a strong sense of community which is bolstered further by the abundance of local businesses on Kennington Road. Foodies will feel at home in this area as there are many different restaurants to choose from offering pretty much any cuisine that comes to mind. Below are some suggestions of the best places to eat, drink, and have fun in Kennington.
Food & Drink:
- Prince of Wales
Enjoy a pint and a cheese plate while watching a lively game of pétanque (French boules) on a Sunday afternoon in the Prince of Wales. Described by Time Out as 'a very agreeable little pub,' this iconic boozer has been a local institution since 1792. Its cosy, cushion-lined interior, eclectic artwork, and selection of Shepherd's Neame ales make this pub a firm favourite during the winter months, while its outdoor beer garden and games area is popular with those who like to make the most of the sparse British sunshine. Try their Pétanque and Pitchers offer, where you can enjoy a pitch of your favourite tipple and an afternoon of French boules for £25-£54.
- Kennington Tandoori
In our increasingly polarised political discourse, there remains one point of bi-partisan consensus: you can't go wrong with a curry. Indeed, both David Cameron and Gordon Brown have eaten a curry from the famous Kennington Tandoori. Located on Kennington Road, you can find authentic, spicy food alongside a stylish interior, an extensive drinks menu and friendly service. Try a Goan Fish Curry, Naga Chilli Chicken or Calcutta Street-Food Chilli Paneer for a true taste of Indian cuisine.
- The Kennington Coffee Shop
The Kennington Coffee shop is a quaint café offering customers homemade cakes, pastries, breakfast dishes, sandwiches and hot drinks. Beloved for their excellent customer service, the Coffee Shop comes highly recommended by both visitors and locals who often return many times. It is a great place to visit for a business lunch, a catch up with friends, a treat for the family or just to enjoy a quiet solo coffee. Due to its popularity, it can often get busy at peak times, but staff will be as accommodating as possible and we’re sure you’ll agree that the homemade carrot cake is worth the wait.
Culture & Leisure:
- Beefeater Gin Distillery Tour
One of the nation’s best-loved distilleries is now open for some behind-the-scenes access. You can take a self-guided tour around the Beefeater Gin Distillery where you will walk through cobbled, Victorian street markets; visit the secret local watering holes and then view the distillery where you can witness the manufacturing process first hand. At the end of the tour you will be given a complimentary gin and tonic and the opportunity to take part in some comparative tasting of Beefeater Gins. Tickets are £15 per person and children under the age of 8 are not allowed into the distillery.
- Kennington Park
Kennington Park is a large, green space with historic trees, a flower garden, open area for wildlife, and a popular café. The park is made up of two sections: the original, Grade II listed park and then the extension to the east which was developed during the 1960’s. It is a picturesque place to relax on the weekend with some friends and, with excellent sports facilities, it is also a fun place to keep fit. Visitors can benefit from the astroturf, tennis courts, fitness trail, a cycle path and basketball hoops which can easily be booked online at www.better.org.uk.
- The Camera Club
The Camera Club is a photography studio that has high spec facilities such as workspaces and darkrooms for members to use. It is open to everyone who enjoys photography no matter what level of experience you have. The Camera Club also offers exhibitions where artists can show their work, or you can spend an evening viewing the work of upcoming talent. Membership is affordable at £120 for the year, with a discounted rate of £60 a year for students. It is a creative hub where inspiration will flourish, and you can be around like-minded individuals who will share their expertise. The Club even offers workshops and classes for beginners and those who want to improve their skillset.
Is it for you?
Kennington prides itself on being a hidden gem in the big city. With a sense of calm, beautiful properties and large parks, it is an ideal place for those who don’t want to live in the heart of the city but want to stay close enough to all the action. If you’re a working professional or a student who needs to commute into Central London, then Kennington’s good transport links will make this the ideal place for you. If you enjoy dining out and experiencing new cuisines, then living in Kennington will tick all your boxes.
