It’s an unwritten rule that Eastenders never live south of the river, and vice versa. However, moving from Stepney to Greenwich was the best move I ever made. I swapped the ever-buzzing social offerings of E1 for the laid-back, historic vibes of SE10. 

The home of the prime meridian line – famous the world over for Greenwich Mean Time – this south-east London enclave has a lot to offer as I quickly discovered.

TRANSFORMATIONAL CHANGE AT GREENWICH PENINSULA

Focus in the last few years has been on the transformational regeneration of north Greenwich with its connection to Canary Wharf and the arrival of Greenwich Peninsula. Alongside 17,000 new homes, the masterplan brings us the new Design District, The Tide linear park, 48 acres of public green space, two new schools and a plethora of food and beverage outlets surrounding the O2 Arena. If convenience, vibrancy, Tom Dixon-designed interiors and unlimited river views is your style, then this urban village will tick all boxes.

But there’s more to discover as you swap the Jubilee line for the DLR or overground train to either the Cutty Sark or Greenwich stations, and if you’re coming from the north bank of the Thames you can even use the famous Greenwich Foot Tunnel.

BACK IN TIME IN THE HISTORIC CENTRE

However you get there, arriving at the historic centre of Greenwich is like stepping back in time. From Greenwich station, you can catch a glimpse of life from a bygone era on Royal Hill, where a delightful parade of Georgian shopfronts includes a butcher, fishmonger, artisan fromagerie and the aptly named ‘Creaky Shed’ greengrocer. And if you’re in need of a sugar rush you’re not far from the Dark Sugars ice cream shop.

With Greenwich Park on the doorstep green space abounds and for those looking for cultural pursuits there is the Greenwich Theatre and the Greenwich Picture House. 

Take a stroll around the Greenwich Vintage Market, which sells everything from antiques to jewellery and furniture, pop into the Mitre pub or enjoy the commanding baroque architecture of St. Alfege church on your way to the jewel in the crown – Greenwich Market.

Attracting visitors from all over the world are the Cutty Sark, Maritime Museum, Royal Naval College, and the Royal Observatory – with views down the Thames you can see Canary Wharf.

Fast forward in time, and Heathside, a new development of studios, and one and two bedroom apartments, is also part of the Greenwich regeneration story. Around a half a mile walk from Greenwich station, and with prices starting from £370,000, it offers a perfect step onto the property ladder for those who, like me, are making this historic part of London their home.

Further information

Contact Dean Kennedy

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