Living in Bexleyheath, London
What this article covers
- What makes Bexleyheath a good or bad place to live in relation to other cities and towns in the UK
- Pros and cons of living in Bexleyheath for working professionals, students, and families
- Best and worst areas to live in Bexleyheath
Located in southeast London, Bexleyheath strikes an impressive balance between urban and traditional lifestyles. For working professionals, the daily commute into Central London is fairly easy due to the Bexleyheath Line, enabling them to enjoy suburban serenity without sacrificing career prospects. However, it may prove somewhat inconvenient due to travel times, reaching about an hour to Central London.
Housing Costs in Bexleyheath
Property costs in Bexleyheath generally tend to be more affordable than in central London. The average house price is approximately £375,000, while renting can vary significantly, with the average one-bedroom flat at around £900 per month. While these figures can be attractive for first-time buyers and families, it is still a sizeable financial commitment for many.
Transportation in Bexleyheath
Despite being farther out, Bexleyheath possesses excellent transport links. The area is primarily served by Southeastern trains, feeding into mainline stations for connections across the city. However, being reliant on a single line can sometimes lead to disruptions.
Safety in Bexleyheath
In terms of safety, Bexleyheath scores well, being one of the safer boroughs in London. However, like any urban area, small pockets of antisocial behavior and petty crime do exist. The area’s strong community spirit and vigilance have proven effective deterrents.
Families and Bexleyheath
For families, Bexleyheath offers several good schools and a community-focused environment, decking the scales in favor of living here. But caution may still be needed when choosing the ideal neighborhood since some areas lack easy access to parks and recreational facilities.
Most popular areas
Danson Park (DA6)
Danson Park is one of the most sought-after places due to its grand historical park. It offers a rich selection of recreational activities such as boating, tennis, and outdoor performances. The area is lush with green spaces, and it’s great for families and nature enthusiasts.
Bexleyheath Town Centre (DA6, DA7)
This area is popular for its vibrant community and accessibility to essential amenities. It houses the borough’s main shopping centre, providing excellent retail and dining options. It’s also convenient for transport links including buses and trains, making it ideal for commuters.
Upton (DA6)
Upton is highly desirable due to its quiet residential nature while still being in close proximity to Bexleyheath’s conveniences. The area is known for its well-kept terraced houses and lovely community atmosphere.
Least popular areas
Thamesmead East (SE28)
Thamesmead East is often viewed as less popular due to its reputation for high crime rates and the perceived isolation from central London. Its housing comprises largely of post-war estates which might not appeal to everyone.
Erith (DA8)
Although Erith is improving with initiatives for regeneration, it currently remains less popular due to lesser amenities and the image of industrial estates. For some residents, it also feels a bit detached from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Belvedere (DA17)
Belvedere is often regarded as less desirable due to the lack of good transport links compared to other areas in Bexleyheath. Despite its low property prices, the area is seen as having underdeveloped infrastructure and poorer choice of schools.
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