Areas of London to live with small children

[cjg70629]

We're looking to purchase a property and have 2 houses we like. One is in Hither Green and one is by St Johns (next to Hilly fields, Brockley and Lewisham other nearest stations). Does anyone have any advice on living in either of these areas? Looking to have a family in the next year

Funnily enough, before I even read your post, I immediately thought of Greenwich, which is not far from either of those locations.

Out of those two locations, I would say Hither Green is more family friendly.

Both are lovely 😀

The part of Hither Green around Manor House is very family friendly, lots of activities for pre-schoolers and good primary schools. Nice cafes in the park and near station. Big Sainsbury's at Lee.
Another small row of shops up at Hither Green Lane on other side of station.

Hilly Fields has a great cafe and playground. I'm not familiar with the pre-schoolers offer but St Peter's on Wickham Road used to host various activities. If on the Brockley side easy access to Horniman Museum via Overground or bus to Forest Hill. Farmer's Market on Saturdays in the Lewisham College carpark. Primary schools would depend whether you are more definitely on Brockley or St John's side of Lewisham Way.

Of the 2 areas I would pick Hilly Fields, but I will admit that's because I like the slightly more inner London/Zone 2 vibe. Hither Green is bordering on suburbia 😆

Thanks thats really useful and aligns with our thinking in terms of the London feel. Do you know much about the primary schools towards St Johns, e.g. Ashmeads. The property were looking at is Hilly Fields side (in the conservation area) but nearest station would be St Johns. Thanks!

I'm afraid my knowledge of primary schools (other than the one my children are at) is 7 years old and not worth anything😆So better to ask on the Primary Schools board for people choosing this year.

All I can say is Lewisham borough has a falling birth rate like many London areas so what the schools are like in 5+ years could change.

Hilly Fields is an amazing area! Served by St. john’s, Lewisham and Brockley.
great cafe and playground in the park. Very nice people.
lively farmer’s market on Saturdays.
Ashmead is a great school