Is New Malden a Nice Place to Live?

Welcome to the leafy suburban enclave of New Malden, nestled comfortably in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, Greater London. Known for its vibrant Korean community and charming residential streets, New Malden offers a unique blend of cultures and conveniences. However, as with any area, there are both advantages and drawbacks to consider. We’ll take a deep dive into various aspects of living in New Malden to help you decide if it’s the right place for you.

Is New Malden safe?

Safety is a significant factor for anyone considering a move. New Malden, overall, enjoys a relatively safe reputation. Compared to other areas in Greater London, crime rates here are noticeably lower. Most incidents tend to occur in specific spots like parking areas and shopping zones. You might occasionally hear about petty theft in local news, but it’s not a hotbed of criminal activity.

For example, St Johns Road has seen its fair share of shoplifting, while parking areas have been hotspots for non-violent infractions. While this might sound concerning, it’s relatively minor compared to other London boroughs. Local residents generally feel safe walking around, even in the evenings, thanks to well-lit streets and a strong community presence.

Is New Malden a nice place to live for families?

Families will find a lot to love about New Malden. The area prides itself on being family-friendly with a good mix of schools, parks, and activities designed to keep young ones entertained and educated.

Primary and Secondary Schools

New Malden boasts several reputable schools. Coombe Hill Junior School and Burlington Infant and Nursery School are both rated outstanding, making them highly sought after. However, the competition can be fierce, and you may find it challenging to secure a spot if you’re not in the immediate catchment area.

On the secondary front, options like Coombe Girls’ School and The Holy Cross School, both rated good, serve the community well. While there are no outstanding secondary schools directly in New Malden, the existing options are still robust enough to give parents peace of mind.

Parks and Playgrounds

When it comes to outdoor spaces, New Malden doesn’t disappoint. The area is peppered with parks and playgrounds, offering everything from adventure playgrounds to serene walking paths. Whether it’s a weekend family picnic or a quick after-school playdate, there’s plenty of green space to enjoy.

Family Activities

Family activities abound, ranging from local libraries offering story hours to community centers hosting various clubs and classes. The number of families residing here adds to the sense of community, making it a welcoming place for newcomers.

Is New Malden expensive?

Now, let’s talk about the wallet. New Malden isn’t the cheapest place to live in Greater London, but it’s not the priciest either. The average house price hovers around £740,000, with semi-detached properties fetching about £830,000. Terraced houses and flats come in at more affordable rates, averaging £635,000 and £370,000 respectively.

Renting also varies depending on the type of property. A three-bedroom semi-detached house will set you back around £2,850 per month, while one-bedroom flats average about £1,650. Compared to nearby areas like Wimbledon or Kingston, New Malden offers a slightly more affordable option without compromising on many amenities.

What transport links are there?

Transport links are one of New Malden’s strong suits. The New Malden railway station provides frequent services to London Waterloo, making it a commuter’s dream. Buses also serve the area well, with routes connecting to Kingston, Wimbledon, and beyond.

For those driving, the A3 is easily accessible, offering a direct route into central London or out towards Surrey. Cycling paths are continually improving, although they’re not as extensive as in more central parts of London.

What amenities are available in New Malden?

Amenities in New Malden are plentiful. The High Street is bustling with a mix of independent shops, supermarkets, and specialty stores. You’ll find everything from Waitrose and Lidl to the popular Korean grocery store, H Mart.

Dining options are diverse, reflecting the area’s multicultural vibe. Korean BBQ joints like K-Town BBQ and street food cafes such as Chick and Beers offer culinary delights, while familiar chains like McDonald’s are also on hand for convenience.

Pubs and bars, including The Watchman and The Royal Oak, provide cozy spots for a pint, and there are gyms, hair salons, and pharmacies aplenty. Healthcare facilities are also robust, with multiple doctors and a veterinary clinic ensuring residents’ needs are met.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

If you love the outdoors, New Malden has you covered. Parks like Blagdon Park and Green Lane Recreation Ground offer green spaces for leisurely strolls or vigorous runs. Nearby Kingston Road Recreation Ground is another option for fresh air and exercise.

For a more extended escape, head towards the countryside attractions of Surrey, which are just a short drive away. Whether it’s a weekend hike or a family picnic, the surrounding area provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature.

So, what’s the verdict?

In summary, New Malden is a delightful place to live, particularly if you’re looking for a family-friendly environment with good schools, ample parks, and a strong community feel. While it’s not the cheapest area, the balance of amenities, transport links, and safety makes it a worthwhile consideration. Of course, it’s not without its drawbacks, such as the intense competition for school placements and pockets of petty crime. However, these are relatively minor issues in the grand scheme of things.

What are the alternatives?

If New Malden doesn’t quite tick all your boxes, nearby alternatives like Wimbledon, with its bustling town center and excellent transport links, might be worth considering. Kingston offers a more urban feel with a vibrant shopping scene, while Surbiton provides a quieter, more laid-back vibe, often at a slightly lower cost.

Each of these areas has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s worth exploring them to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and budget.