The suburban neighbourhood of Southgate sits just to the east of the pleasant village of Osidge. With streets that are lined with not just lush trees but affordable post-war terraced houses, it’s easy to see why families are drawn to the area. Beyond the front gardens and trees, the neighbourhood is also home to multiple outdoor offerings. Locals love roaming through the expansive Grovelands Park, jogging along Pymmes Brook, and gardening at the Southgate Chase Allotments. For those colder winter months, you can find residents enjoying a good workout at the Southgate Leisure Centre. Beyond the neighbourhood’s quiet suburban vibe, there are also several great food options. Locals especially love the drinks at The White Hart, and the French food at Cafe Rouge. With all that the neighbourhood has to offer, it’s surely worth a visit!

The area began as a woodland property in the 12th century - run by the Abbot of St. Albans. Eventually, the land was sold off and a large house was built on its site, becoming the home of the notable Hadley Family. By the 19th century, the home had been passed through many owners - including Thomas Lipton, the famous tea entrepreneur. In the 20th century, the estate was repurposed into a hostel for nurses. Today, the building now serves as a home for elderly female residents.

The historic house in Grovelands park has served many purposes. During the Second World War, it served as a hospital for wounded soldiers. Later on, after the war, it was owned by the NHS and used as a convalescent home.

Unfortunately, this neighbourhood lacks a bustling high street that other parts of London boast. Still, residents find that there are enough shops nearby to meet their needs, and don’t mind the short trip to neighbouring areas.

Local Barnet and Southgate College just recently received £5.9 million from the Greater London Authority. This grant was issued in order to build the Colindale Skills Centre as well as fund the renovation of the Southgate Centre. Beyond this construction work, the college will also be putting the finishing touches on their Business Innovation Centre and low carbon automotive technologies training facility later this year.

Residents have also been pleased by the £5.9 million pound investment in local schools, which has allowed for the renovation of the Southgate Centre as well the construction of the Colindale Skills Centre. Slightly west of this postcode conversion work has also begun on the old Thomas Lipton Memorial Hospital at Osidge House which will be transformed into new homes. The first phase of the project, which is now completed, consisted of three 4 bedroom townhouses, six mews houses, and two penthouses. The second phase meanwhile involves the conversion of the Grade II listed former home of Thomas Lipton into eleven self-contained apartments. North of here, work is underway on the large New Avenue development in Cowper Gardens. Set to be completed in multiple phases until 2025 the scheme will include 451 new homes, 140 of which will be affordable.