While it might be a hike up to the steep peaks of Forest Hill, the neighbourhood of Perry Vale’s views of London make it all worth it. Nestled between the hilly streets, you’ll find not just tree lined suburban roads but also well-maintained quaint brick terraced houses. The area, while mostly made up of families looking for that cherished peace and quiet that the south eastern suburbs offer, has recently begun attracting more young professionals looking for affordable alternatives to central London. Aside from the many schools and places of worship in the area, there are also a wide array of shops and eateries. On a typical weekend day, locals might find themselves catching up over coffee at Westbourne Café or grabbing dinner from Caribbean Takeaway. Londoners previously unaware of this neighbourhood and its charm are slowly starting to catch on to all that this locality south of the river has to offer.

The neighbourhood originally got its name in the late-18th century when a developer wanted to describe the area’s natural features. Yet it wasn’t until the Lewisham Enclosure Act of 1810 that housing development really began to spread through the area. Once the railways arrived, cutting through the neighbourhood in the late 19th century, the area grew even further. By the end of the 19th century, the Crystal Palace had been relocated nearby, which then triggered larger houses to be built in the area. Today, the area continues to have a wide array of modest brick terraced houses and larger family homes with gardens.

Because of the many hills in the neighbourhood, some residents refer to it as the San Francisco of South London. The area’s similarities don’t stop at its steep streets though. Just like in the Bay Area, you’re never far from a wonderful restaurant or quirky bar when wandering through the Forest Hill area.

At times, the area can seem a bit quiet compared to the streets nearby that surround the rail stations. However, this also means that the neighbourhood is able to maintain a high level of safety and a tight knit community.

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.