A City Guide to Rotherhithe

The area

Rotherhithe is yet another lovely area in South East London, hugged by the River Thames it is almost a peninsula. It is bordered on the North and East by the Thames, on the South by Surrey Quays, and on the West by Bermondsey. It is ideal for nature lovers with all its marinas, green spaces, closeness to the river and wildlife reserves. It’s truly a perfect area for families and City commuters. Rotherhithe went through a complete regeneration in the 80s resulting in many new developments since then. Victorian houses are the main architectural style of the area but many new flats are being built, almost like everywhere in South East London. Rotherhithe is quiet and not too crowded however you are definitely not lacking restaurants and pubs around there! You can find our top picks below.

Transport

The transport links are pretty good overall. The Rotherhithe Overground is ideal as it’s a quick commute to central London and is normally less crowded than the tubes, yet still has trains coming every few minutes. Another plus for the Overground is that it is air-conditioned, which is great when the weather has been so hot like this summer! Canada Water tube station is also nearby and is on the Jubilee line for an easy access to Westminster.

The City: 3 miles / 15-40 minutes by car / 20 minutes by transit / 20 minutes by bike
Canary Wharf: 3.1 miles / 15-25 minutes by car / 15 minutes by transit / 30 minutes by foot / 15 minutes by bike
Southwark: 2.2 miles / 10-20 minutes by car / 15 minutes by transit / 15 minutes by bike
Westminster: 4.5 miles / 25-55 minutes by car / 25 minutes by transit / 30-35 minutes by bike
Shoreditch: 4.5 miles / 25-50 minutes by car / 30 minutes by transit / 25-30 minutes by bike

Renting in Rotherhithe

Rotherhithe is generally less expensive to rent than its neighbours Greenwich, Canary Wharf and the Docklands. For a one bedroom you would be looking at £1,400 pm and for a two beds around £1,800 pm.

Where to go

Surrey Quay Shopping Centre

Surrey Quay is a great local shopping centre, it’s a little bit dated and is probably not worth going there specifically for it if you’re not from the area, but if you live there it’s great! There is a huge Tesco (with homeware, clothes, etc), a very big Decathlon, Boots, Starbucks, River Island, New Look etc. The parking is also free so it’s perfect for families or if you have a car and you’re doing your weekly grocery shopping. It’s pretty functional but is it Westfield? No.

Surrey Docks Farm

Across the Thames there’s a lovely little farm that spreads over 2 acres. It’s one London’s first farms and is established there since 1970. There you can find cows, donkeys, goats, chickens, sheeps and many more! There’s also a sassy miniature pony called Kiera and she’s one to not miss out! The farm grows seasonal fruits and veggies and all the products are for sale in the farm’s shop. They offer ceramic lessons, beekeeping classes and metalworking taster sessions! Many activities there for a Sunday Funday!

Casse croute

Casse croute has a warm, small French village bistro kinda vibe. It’s absolutely lovely and so welcoming! The menu incorporated all the French classics executed in a delicious way and sensibly priced. It truly feels like a little family restaurant and there’s only space for about 20 covers. If you’re a foodie, you will love this place…and you’ll come back for more!

The Mayflower

If you ask us, The Mayflower is probably the best attraction in Rotherhithe. It’s the most special and atmospheric pub on the Thames side. It is pretty hidden but has a beautiful view on the river. The inside is pretty impressive too and dates back to 1620! It’s a real English pub with character and they have an eccentric nautical theme which is so authentic. A must see for sure!

We’ve given you the scoop and the lowdown – think the area could be for you? Check out our selection of rooms for rent in Rotherhithe to find your next home in the neighbourhood.