Wandsworth is the leafy neighbourhood of south-west London featured in TV comedy Outnumbered. Situated on the river and blessed with dozens of parks and green spaces, it’s also a treasure trove of quirky museums. Choose from 575 Wandsworth Road, home of Kenyan poet and civil servant Khadambi Asalache, Wandsworth Prison Museum, or for those who have ever found themselves shouting “I must know more” at their toast, why not visit the Antique Breadboard Museum?
It’s the safest borough in London for recorded crime and also home to one of Europe’s largest prisons. Are those two facts connected? Why not visit to find out?
Wandsworth hosts an annual arts festival involving over 64 venues spanning poetry, theatre, music, comedy, and dance. There’s also a heritage festival, where you can explore the workings of Battersea Power Station or take in a competitive bowls match. Edgy.
Its list of former residents includes Thomas Cromwell, Grace Jones and Mary Wollstonecraft (although sadly not together as they could have had some great parties). And Pete Doherty, Ronnie Kray and Oscar Wilde have all served time at Her Majesty’s pleasure in Wandsworth Prison.
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Tara is an award-winning multicultural theatre space. They create their own work and also curate a varied programme of music, theatre, comedy and family shows.
The Stockwell Playhouse (previously Lost Theatre) puts on both professional and amateur productions. They host several playwriting festivals, so why not get involved?
Battersea Arts Centre is just around the corner and has a vibrant and full programme of shows, with opportunities to take part.
Film-lovers head to Cineworld for all the latest releases – it has 14 screens and London’s first 4DX super-screen. Or, if you prefer your films with a hint of wet jeopardy, the Luna Cinema visits Wandsworth Park in the summer.
For something a bit different, the National Opera Studio trains the opera stars of tomorrow. They do short courses if you would like to broaden your repertoire – or if that’s a bit of stretch, why not catch a free recital?
Michelin-starred Chez Bruce is where Gordon Ramsay earned his stripes. It held the title of Londoner’s favourite restaurant for four years. Pretty pricey, though.
For a more affordable meal, head to family-run Lebanese restaurant Ô Gourmet Libanais. We hear their veggie moussaka is a dream. Or try some delicious Indian street food at Chit Chaat Chai.
For brunch, lunch, and organic coffee try Cafe Fleur (banging vegan pancakes), a proud recipient of a Time Out best local cafe award.
Wandsworth council has protected pubs from redevelopment so there are more here than in many other parts of London. The Ship has been opening its doors to drinkers since 1786 – it’s a riverside pub with a splendid beer garden and award-winning Sunday roasts. The Cat’s Back is an intimate and friendly community pub with a roaring fire in winter, while The Alma is a splendid and beautifully restored Victorian boozer with guest rooms, a seasonal British menu, real ales, craft beers, and cocktails.
Overground: There are 3 overground stations. Wandsworth Town has trains to Waterloo or Weybridge, Richmond, Kingston, and Wimbledon. Earlsfield is for trains to Waterloo and Guildford, Hampton Court, and Dorking. Wandsworth Common has trains to London Bridge, Clapham Junction, Victoria, or West Croydon and Epsom Downs.
Underground: Southfields Underground station (Zone 3) is served by the District Line.
Buses: Buses go to all corners of London from Wandsworth
There is a multitude of open spaces and parks in Wandsworth, so get your trainers on and jog it out.
Nuffield Health Fitness & Wellbeing Gym has classes, gym, pool, and spa. A one-day pass is £11.50 or monthly membership from £63.00. Pure Gym has 24-hour access and weights, classes, and personal trainers. Memberships here start from £15.99 per month.
If you’re feeling flush and in the mood for something different try Barrecore. They have an introductory offer of £150 a month for unlimited classes, rising to £260 per month. Yogi Yoga has drop-in classes for £16 or unlimited monthly use for £119.
A room in a shared house is around £100 per week. Studio flats start at around £240 per week with two-bedroom flats from around £325 per week.
The Ship! Tara Arts! The Breadboard Museum!
It's a bit on the pricey side.
Considering other areas? Check out our Actor’s London guides below:
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