Is Kennington a Nice Place to Live?

Kennington, located in the London Borough of Lambeth, is an area that’s often overlooked by those hunting for a new home in the capital. But is it a nice place to live? Well, it’s a bit of a mixed bag, to be honest. On one hand, it’s got a lot of character, history, and some lovely green spaces. On the other, it does have its drawbacks. Let’s dive in and see what this little corner of Greater London has to offer.

Is Kennington Safe?

Safety is always a top concern when considering a new place to live. Kennington has its fair share of ups and downs in this department. There are some areas where people feel perfectly safe, especially around the parks and more residential streets. However, there are spots where crime is more prevalent. The areas around supermarkets and educational buildings tend to see a bit more action, with shoplifting and other petty crimes being fairly common. Hospitals in the area also have their issues, but this isn’t unique to Kennington. Overall, while it’s not the safest area in London, it’s also not the worst. Just keep your wits about you, like you would anywhere in a big city.

Is Kennington a Nice Place to Live for Families?

If you’re thinking about moving to Kennington with your family, there are a few things you’ll want to consider.

Primary Schools

Kennington boasts some excellent primary schools. There are eight outstanding primary schools in the area, including Archbishop Sumner Church of England Primary School and Henry Fawcett Primary School. The competition for places can be fierce, especially as some of these schools are technically in neighbouring areas, which might make it a bit tricky to get your little ones in.

Secondary Schools

For secondary education, the options are equally impressive. Schools like Lilian Baylis Technology School and Oasis Academy South Bank have outstanding ratings. Again, competition is a factor, and you might find yourself having to look a bit further afield if you can’t secure a place locally.

Family Activities

Kennington is home to several parks and playgrounds, which are great for letting the kids blow off some steam. Kennington Park is a local favourite, offering plenty of space for a picnic or a game of footie. The area also has several family-friendly activities, like the Lollard Street Adventure Playground and Vauxhall Park Playground, ensuring your weekends are never dull.

Is Kennington Expensive?

When it comes to property prices, Kennington is somewhat of a mixed bag. The average house price is around £635,000, which isn’t cheap but is relatively reasonable for London. Flats are the most common type of property and go for about £530,000 on average. If you’re after something a bit bigger, terraced properties can set you back around £1,130,000, while semi-detached homes fetch about £960,000.

Renting is also on the pricy side, with one-bedroom flats averaging around £2,150 per month. If you’re looking for a two-bedroom apartment, expect to pay about £3,500. Prices can vary significantly depending on the specific area of Kennington you’re looking at, with some parts being more affordable than others. Nearby alternatives like Vauxhall or Elephant and Castle might offer slightly different price points, so it’s worth exploring.

What Transport Links Are There?

Kennington is pretty well-connected when it comes to public transport. The Northern Line runs through the Kennington Tube station, making it easy to get to central London and beyond. There are also plenty of bus routes that serve the area, ensuring you can get around without too much hassle. Road access is decent, though traffic can be a bit of a nightmare during peak hours. If you’re commuting to nearby areas like Westminster or the City, you’ll find the connections quite convenient.

What Amenities Are Available in Kennington?

Kennington is well-equipped with a variety of amenities. There are plenty of shops to cater to your daily needs, including supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Morrisons. For a more unique shopping experience, you can check out Longdan Elephant & Castle, a local grocery store.

The area also boasts a wide range of restaurants and pubs. Whether you’re in the mood for some fast food from McDonald’s, a tasty Korean meal from Daebak, or a more traditional dining experience at Casa Madeira, there’s something for everyone. If you fancy a drink, you can pop into The Black Dog, Vauxhall Food & Beer Garden, or The Steam Engine for a pint or two.

Healthcare facilities are also readily available, with several doctors, gyms, and fitness centres in the area. There’s even a library and a pharmacy, ensuring you have everything you need close at hand.

What is the Surrounding Outdoor Area Like?

Kennington is blessed with some lovely green spaces. Kennington Park is the crown jewel, offering plenty of room for outdoor activities. Elephant Park and Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens are also nearby, providing additional options for a relaxing day out. If you’re into walking or cycling, you’ll find plenty of routes to explore, making it easy to stay active and enjoy the fresh air.

So, What’s the Verdict?

So, is Kennington a nice place to live? Well, it depends on what you’re looking for. The area has a lot going for it, from excellent schools and beautiful parks to good transport links and a variety of amenities. However, the safety concerns and property prices might be a dealbreaker for some. Ultimately, Kennington offers a balanced mix of pros and cons, making it a viable option for many but not necessarily the perfect fit for everyone.

What Are the Alternatives?

If Kennington doesn’t quite tick all your boxes, there are several nearby alternatives worth considering. Vauxhall offers similar amenities and transport links but might come with different price points. Elephant and Castle is another option, known for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent connectivity. Each of these areas has its own unique charm and drawbacks, so it’s worth exploring them to find the best fit for your needs.