help in choosing where to rent in London

[Ladyday]

My sister is seven months pregnant and has just returned to the UK after many years abroad. I wondered if anyone has views on good areas to rent - somewhere she could meet other new mums easily (as yet she knows no one), be near-ish to green space, have access to children's centre communities and activities, etc. She wants to be central and is looking in Clapham but her partner's job is in Old Street. If she looks further out she might get more space, better facilities (I've heard there are few free children's groups in Clapham?) and find it easier to settle long term rather than have to move again in a year or two. Schools are obviously an issue down the line, too. Realistically I don't think they will be able to buy in London, at least for a while, but they have a budget of £300/week and want a two bed flat. Thanks for any help offered!

I live in Clapham - it's very easy to get to Old Street, you just whizz up the Northern Line, it would take about 20-25 minutes depending on which part of Clapham she chooses (there are three tube stations) and what time of day he is travelling. Rents are very expensive and she might not get much for £300pw but the area has a lot of mother and baby/toddler groups - a ridiculous amount, some might conclude - and she would have no problem meeting other women at a similar stage in life. Clapham Common itself is very boring open space - she might like to consider Dulwich or Brixton which have smaller open spaces but are a bit groovier, in my opinion.

Virtually all London schools that are at all popular have exceptionally small catchment areas so it's probably best to reconsider that hurdle nearer the time.

Thanks very much for that - are there many free groups in Clapham, rather than groups you have to pay for?

In my experience, there are lots of free groups at children's centres and librarys across London. There are plenty more in church halls that will only cost her about £1. I really wouldn't get hung up on being near clapham. £300/week wouldn't get her much there.

Somewhere near the Horniman Museum in Forest Hill. It is a real hub for young families. You can head straight up to Shoreditch High Street on the East London line which is a short walk to Old St. Brockley or Honor Oak also on East London Line have loads of young families.