Quickly becoming one of the most desirable pockets of southeast London, Forest Hill is a leafy but quirky suburban neighbourhood. A side from the affordable housing options and beautiful Devonshire Road Nature Reserve, local residents also love the neighbourhood’s lush Horniman Gardens and its wonderful views of London. Within the gardens, locals love bringing their visitors to the eclectic Horniman Museum to see the variety of taxidermy and musical instruments on display. When not laughing at these bizarre exhibits, residents also find plenty to do in other parts of the neighbourhood. Whether it’s peeking into artists’ studios on Havelock Walk, or attending a talk at the entirely volunteer run public library, there are plenty of ways to get involved in the community. Forest Hill station is also a convenient transport hub operating on the Overground network. With all that it has to offer, it’s surprising that more Londoners aren’t more tuned into the neighbourhood.

The most iconic part of this neighbourhood is centred around One Tree Hill. This hilly view point is said to have been a favourite picnic site of Elizabeth I. Later on, towards the end of the 18th century, the East India Tea Company used the site in order to signal the arrival of its ships coming through the Thames. Eventually, following the arrival of the railway in the 19th century, housing development in the area picked up. Today, there is a variety of residential options through the neighbourhood–including council estates and Victorian terraced house.

This part of Forest Hill is home to local favourite, The Sylvan Post pub. This pub was once a functioning Royal Mail post office. Visitors love the pub’s 1960’s décor and vintage charm.

Unfortunately, the South Circular road cuts through this part of Forest Hill. Since it’s a busy multi-lane highway, it can feel a bit unsafe over there at times. Still, locals are able to find enough solace in the bustling high street and many quiet side roads and green space.

Lewisham council is continuing to invest in Forest Hills high streets as well as other commercial districts throughout the borough. Some of their initiatives so far have included providing grants for independent businesses and assisting in the launching of pop up shops. More major developments have been planned in South of Forest Hill station where the Waldram Crescent development promises 22 new homes housed in a six storey residential block designed by Rolfe Judd. Further South Dacres Wood Court is another residential upcoming development providing 1-3 bedroom homes all with access to a private balcony.