Overview
Once an industrial riverside district, Battersea has transformed into one of London’s most vibrant and desirable neighbourhoods. Situated on the south bank of the River Thames, opposite Chelsea and within easy reach of central London, Battersea offers an exciting mix of Victorian architecture, luxury riverside developments, and a thriving cultural scene.
With the regeneration of Battersea Power Station and the creation of the Nine Elms district, the area has become a symbol of modern London living — combining heritage, design, and convenience. Families, professionals, and creatives are drawn to Battersea for its open green spaces, riverside lifestyle, and excellent transport connections.
The Area
Battersea stretches from the iconic Power Station development in the east through to leafy Battersea Park and the residential streets of Northcote Road and Clapham Junction in the west.
- Battersea Park & Power Station: The riverside area offers luxury apartments, top-tier dining, and cultural attractions within the Battersea Power Station complex. The 200-acre Battersea Park provides lakes, sports facilities, and gardens, making it one of London’s most beautiful urban parks.
- Northcote Road & Clapham Junction: Known for its boutique shops, delis, and lively weekend atmosphere, this pocket of Battersea has a strong community feel, ideal for young families and professionals.
- Between the Commons: The area between Clapham Common and Wandsworth Common is lined with handsome Victorian houses and good schools, often described as “Nappy Valley” due to its popularity with families.
This blend of historic charm and contemporary regeneration makes Battersea a truly dynamic place to live.
Things to Do in Battersea
- Battersea Park: A stunning riverside park with a boating lake, zoo, tennis courts, and walking trails — perfect for outdoor living.
- Battersea Power Station: Now a destination in its own right, featuring shops, restaurants, rooftop bars, cinemas, and cultural spaces all within a beautifully restored landmark.
- Northcote Road: Lined with independent boutiques, cafés, and a famous food market — a weekend favourite among locals.
- Dining & Nightlife: From chic riverside dining at No. 29 Power Station West to cosy pubs like The Prince Albert and The Northcote, Battersea’s food scene is both relaxed and refined.
- Arts & Culture: The Turbine Theatre and Battersea Arts Centre host innovative performances and community events throughout the year.
- Sports & Recreation: Rowing, yoga studios, gyms, and fitness clubs are abundant, with the Thames Path providing a picturesque running and cycling route.
Schools
Battersea has an excellent selection of state, faith, and independent schools, contributing to its strong family appeal.
State & Academy Schools:
- Belleville Primary School
- Honeywell Junior School
- Sacred Heart Primary School
- Battersea Park School
Independent Schools:
- Thomas’s Battersea — a prestigious co-educational prep school (attended by members of the Royal Family)
- Newton Preparatory School
- Emanuel School (co-educational secondary)
- Northcote Lodge (boys’ prep)
There are also many nurseries and early years settings, making Battersea a particularly family-friendly area.
Travel & Transport
Battersea enjoys excellent connectivity to central London and beyond:
Underground:
- Battersea Power Station (Northern Line Extension) — offering fast access to the City and West End.
Rail:
- Clapham Junction — one of London’s busiest and best-connected stations, with direct trains to Victoria, Waterloo, and Gatwick Airport.
- Battersea Park Station and Queenstown Road also provide convenient mainline services.
Bus & Cycle:
- Numerous bus routes link Battersea with Chelsea, the West End, and Clapham.
- Dedicated cycle lanes and the Thames Path encourage active commuting.
Riverboat:
- The Battersea Power Station Pier offers Thames Clippers river bus services — a scenic and efficient way to reach central London.