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Love London: Clapham and Battersea in a day

Clapham Junction in a day

Clapham, Battersea and the surrounding area buzzes with activity and choices – here’s how to spend a day exploring.

9am

Arrive at Clapham Junction (South West Trains, Southern, London Overground). It's one of the busiest stations in Europe and you’ll be met by the mayhem of morning commuters. From the station, cross Lavender Hill and make your way to Brew (Northcote Road) for breakfast as it’s meant to be: from simple poached eggs on sourdough toast to scrumptious blueberry pancakes. Better still, it’s open all day and has outdoor seating – if it’s a bit chilly, take advantage of the sheepskin seats and blankets.

10am

Time to walk off breakfast and you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to open spaces. Battersea Park, Wandsworth and Clapham Common are all within easy walking distance, but with so much to fit in you are best heading towards Clapham Common. Here you’ll find 220 acres of leafy loveliness, full of (but not heaving with) joggers, dog walkers, families and friends. As you walk towards The Pavement, in Clapham Old Town, you’ll pass the bandstand and Café La Baita, a convenient pitstop with tables inside and out.

Each year, Clapham Common plays host to popular festivals and events, including Calling Festival and SW4, with exciting artists and acts from around the world rocking their stages.

12pm

Time for lunch? Try The Sun or The Bobbin (Clapham Old Town) or if you fancy somewhere new and a bit different, there's The Dairy (open for lunch Wednesday – Sunday only). The tasting menu is fantastic and they even have their own bees on the roof – honey doesn’t get more local.

2pm

After a good lunch, take a walk, or hop on a 137 bus, to Battersea Park. This vast space is filled with all manner of wonderful things – the herb garden is a hidden gem and the pagoda is simply sensational. Stroll along the river promenade, or delve further into the park where there’s an awesome adventure playground for young children, a Go Ape course for bigger children, tennis courts and Astro turfs. And, don’t forget the zoo. Founded in 1951, it’s a wonderful place for all ages. The café, La Gondola al Parco, is perfect for a quick cup of tea then, if you’re feeling energetic, you can hire recumbent bikes for a lap or two round the park.

7pm

For supper, you'll find a warm welcome and occasionally live music at The Lavender. This authentic Italian restaurant has a great reputation and menu: choose from anti pasti and pizzas to perfectly cooked seafood.

8pm

What better way to end your day than with a trip to the theatre. The Battersea Arts Centre on Lavender Hill hosts contemporary and classic productions.Then before you head home, how about a night cap? There's a lively bar at The Arts Centre; there's also plenty of choice nearby.

Further information

Contact Savills Clapham for more details or view available properties for sale in Clapham

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