Hamptons Area Guide - Balham

planning, interior design, structure, party wall processes and the entire building process, including building control, among many other aspects. We are not limited in our knowledge as what we don’t know we can bring in our close contacts and consultants. Having an Architect involved in your project does not need to be expensive. I would advise any client that the investment in an Architect will ultimately save you time and money on your project.

What’s your favourite aspect about working in the Earlsfield / Wimbledon area?

I know South west London very well, having lived in the area for many years. I love the atmosphere and everyones sense of community. We gain a huge amount of work through word of mouth and referrals, which says a lot about the community spirit in the area. We are incredibly lucky to be able to work on properties in this area and put our stamp here for years to come.

Renovate

Interview with Reseters Architects

design guidance to get their project through planning if needed. Our experienced architects and interior designers provide invaluable tips about the latest design trends that blend beautifully with your character home.

Browning Architects offer many years of experience in Wandsworth and have great relationships with local councils

and

and

Managers. Valuing integrity over design trends to innovatively blend originality with contemporary design throughout unique heritage home design. We give

of

for heritage homes, ensuring the character that provides the foundation for your unique home is retained and enhanced. We are empathetic in understanding the silent language of heritage designing and enabling contemporary designs to blend seamlessly throughout the home. We believe in storytelling through modernising heritage buildings, prioritising quality, craftsmanship, and integrity at each stage of the renovation process.

Do you offer pre-exchange assessments to residential clients? We are often asked by our clients a very simple question: Should I Move or Improve? Our answer always tends to be, “Well, it depends!”. And then we encourage them to read our very own e-book which talks about budgeting advice, planning their renovation project, and how to choose the architect that resonates with their needs and options. Our value add includes pre-purchase assessments to facilitate our client’s decision-making process before buying their dream home. We also provide

Whether they require us to complete the renovation as their main contractor or have already commenced their renovation journey and require singular services we can advise on their needs and options. Our team consists of planners, architects, interior designers, and project managers, all of whom contribute to our client’s home renovation journey. In brief, we are committed to offering our clients an individual, tailored working relationship from start to finish.

We work on projects of all sizes so call us today for a free consultation or site visit

“Need is the mother of all invention” We focus on the intricate details in every room in the house to create elegance throughout, radiating stark beauty and allowing the durability of old buildings. Houses stand the test of time with many generations occupying the premises as their home, making each building’s story unique. If you are looking to renovate your home, get inspired and contact us today.

What are the most popular requests from residential clients?

Earlsfield Business Centre, 9 Lydden Road, Tel: 0203 700 4683 / 07766 40

AND SO THE ADVENTURE BEGINS. You are free-spirited. You don’t play by the rules. Your life is an adventure… why should your wedding be any different?

Welcome

A very warm welcome to Balham and the surrounding areas from all of us at Hamptons.

You will be moving into one of the most highly regarded areas in London. Desirable homes, tree lined avenues, diverse shops and restaurants and an eclectic, vibrant population.

Hamptons has been matching people with property, locally, nationally and internationally, since 1869.

We were pioneers, setting standards that few of our rivals could match and this hasn’t changed since.

Today, over 150 years since we first set up home in Pall Mall, with 15 decades of finding property and looking after people under our belt, our clients now consider us to be their, ‘home experts’.

Yours sincerely,

Sophie Sharman - Head of Sales

Joe Lewis - Head of Lettings

Balham

Hamptons offers you a warm welcome to Balham

Congratulations, if you are house hunting in Balham, you have already won. A home in this great area with all it offers, automatically makes you the envy of many. Now in order to make your transition as smooth and hassle free as possible Hamptons have put together this great guide which will help you choose the best schools, learn a little about planning

and building control, read tips on where to shop, eat and lot’s more, all packed into one little guide with clickable links.

Perhaps most importantly we have researched some of the leading local professionals and experts who can help you add value and personalise your soon to be new home.

A little bit of history

“A big WELCOME and enjoy”

Balham appears in the Domesday Book as ‘Belgeham’ and has been settled since Saxon times. Balham High Road follows the 90km-long Roman road known as ‘Stane Street’ to Chichester and is now the modernday A24. The area was badly damaged during the Second World War in air raids, with the underground station used as a bomb shelter. When a bomb fell on the High Road, the bomb shelter collapsed causing many fatalities.

Balham was mostly developed after the arrival of the railway in 1856. A wide range of property is available in Balham, from small period conversion flats, perfect for a first-time buyer, to large double-fronted, Victorian family homes in the sought-after and affluent Heaver Estate. There are terraced period houses situated in the popular Nightingale Triangle and stylish and contemporary apartments in one of the new-build developments dotted around the Balham area. Balham is also home to Du Cane Court, Europe’s largest block of flats and apartments built for private residents.

Why move to Balham?

The busy high street’s mix of shops, cafes and restaurants, from national chains to independents, means there’s something for everyone. Balham is a real melting pot and a fantastic place to live. Popular attractions and events include the annual food festival as well as the newly regenerated Hildreth Street, a pretty pedestrianised street

with a regular market, the perfect place to buy your fruit, vegetables and flowers, and a large variety of independent restaurants.

There are many superb restaurants in Balham, ranging from upscale gastropubs like The Cyclist and The Avalon, to Nepalese and Lebanese establishments offering

world cuisine, including national favourites like Pho and Franco Manca. Independent coffee shops line the streets along Bedford Hill, such as Milk, and Balham High Road, like family-favourite Bertie & Boo. Clapham and Brixton offer excellent nightlife, but in Balham there’s also live music at Hagen & Hyde and The Exhibit cinema.

Ideal living

Outdoor space is not hard to come by in Balham, which is close to a number of common areas. Battersea Park is on the doorstep and has an impressive children’s play area. Clapham and Wandsworth have large commons, while Tooting Bec Common offers a wide range of sporting activities such as tennis courts, cricket pitches, and a lido, which is the UKs largest freshwater swimming pool.

South-west London isn’t known as ‘Nappy Valley’ for nothing, and Balham is no exception with its wide choice of nurseries and playschools. Primary school options include Ofsted ‘Outstanding’-rated Henry Cavendish, Telferscot and Holy Ghost RC. For secondary school, Chestnut Grove and La Retraite are popular. There’s also the highly regarded Hornsby House and Finton House independent schools.

Supermarkets include a Sainsbury’s and a Waitrose. There are a variety of shops and

services along the Balham High Road, including banks, opticians, pharmacists, restaurants and cafes, takeaways and hair salons. Balham Leisure Centre has a gym, swimming pool and sports hall.

Balham has superb transport links into the City, the West End and out to the Home Counties, while the motorway network provides easy access to London Heathrow and Gatwick airports.

www.hamptons.co.uk

Famous Residents

Balham and the surrounding area has been a home to rockstars, celebrities, athletes, academics and artists.

Here are a few notable names...

Hannah New

Derek Fowlds

Gail Elliott

Mel Gaynor

Jimmy Hill

Alan Knight

Jamie Lawrence

Eric Maxon

Margaret Rutherford

Captain Sensible

John Sullivan

Adele

Stewart Lee

English Actress and Model

English Actor

Fashion Designer and Former Model

Musician

English footballer Manager and Broadcaster

Footballer

Footballer

Shakespearean and early Film Actor

Actress

Singer and Musician

Writer

Singer and Songwriter

Comedian and Writer

Jack Dee, Comedian, Actor

Ainsley Harriet, TV Chef

Interview with ‘Browning Architects’

Tell us a little about the background of your architectural practice.

I set up Browning Architects in 2011 after working for many years in the prime residential market in London. I have worked for many high profile clients at some of Londons most prestigious addresses for some of the best names in the industry. I gained a huge amount of experience in detailing and management in particular and realised I loved the management of projects on site, and also getting to know clients well and what they truly wanted out of their properties. To this day many of those previous clients and contacts remain friends of mine. The opportunity came up to start my own business in Wandsworth and I decided to take it, and the rest is very much history. 12 or so years later and the business has survived many turbulent periods and is still going strong.

What is your customer process from receiving that first enquiry?

Every new enquiry is exciting. An opportunity to meet someone new with potential for the next exciting project. Most of our clients are looking to improve their properties, not only through extending or updating but also by wanting quality. Our process begins with getting to know our client. I always like to come and meet them in their homes so I can see how they live and what sort of style they live with. The next stage is to understand more about their true style, its quite rare that our clients live in their true style, we are often asked to help them find it. We then work through a feasibility stage with them and get to grips with what spaces they need and the style of the architecture. We talk costs and advise on how best to allocate the budget they have. To be clear, all our clients budgets vary immensely and we work at all scales from small to large.

Is there a type of commission that gets your office particularly excited?

There is no single commission that gets us excited. All new projects are an opportunity to create something exciting for our clients. The ones that tend to get us most excited are those where the client doesn’t truly know what they want, and they are looking to us to inspire them and show them what is possible. That is really exciting.

What words of encouragement would you give to a potential client who is considering appointing an architect for the first time and hesitating to reach out?

We are here to help. We are experts in many aspects of the construction industry. As Architects we understand design, planning, interior design, structure, party wall processes and the entire building process, including building control, among many other aspects. We are not limited in our knowledge as what we don’t know we can bring in our close contacts and consultants. Having an Architect involved in your project does not need to be expensive. I would advise any client that the investment in an Architect will ultimately save you time and money on your project.

What’s your favourite aspect about working in the Earlsfield / Wimbledon area?

I know South west London very well, having lived in the area for many years. I love the atmosphere and everyones sense of community. We gain a huge amount of work through word of mouth and referrals, which says a lot about the community spirit in the area. We are incredibly lucky to be able to work on properties in this area and put our stamp here for years to come.

Pubs & Live Music

Hagen & Hyde

Located on Balham High Street, our beautiful drinking hole and late-night mainstay for South London, welcomes you to into the fold as soon as you step over the threshold. Our gorgeous, towering bar is there to cater to all your hearts desires whether it’s the standard lets-grab-adrink-after-work pint, or the ‘do you have coffee tequila? We’ll take five shots’ round in the early hours. Whether its brushing up on politics knowledge for our pub quiz or dusting off your dancing shoes for Friday (and Saturday, no judgement here) night, we’ve got you covered.

157 Balham High Rd, London SW12 9AU. 020 8772 0016

www.hagenandhyde.com/

The Exhibit

Located in the heart of Balham, The Exhibit has been a local institution for the last 23 years. A huge bar, restaurant, garden, private hire, and event venue spread over three floors. Over 6500 sq. Ft, 5 bars, 4 private rooms, 3 balconies, 1 cinema, 1 massive sun trap garden, 1 karaoke room and a whole lot of fun and love. Come get tipsy with our bottomless brunches, indulge on our beautiful big burgers, and celebrate the end of every day with our 241 happy hours. The Exhibit is the neighbourhood place to party with DJs every weekend till 2am and an ever-changing programme of funky events. 12 Balham Station Road, London, SW12 9SG. 020 8772 6556

www.theexhibit.co.uk/

The Bedford

First built in 1931, The Bedford has recently undergone a multi-million-pound refurbishment to create an unrivalled pub, club, restaurant, live music, and entertainment venue plus 15 stunning boutique bedrooms. Five beautiful bars offer the finest artisan spirits, craft beers, cocktails, wine, and Champagnes. The restaurant focuses on using the best ingredients from the British Isles. The Ballroom and Cocktail Bar provide the ultimate places to party whilst the iconic stage in the Club Room, once home to the likes of Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith, and Eddie Izzard, present the latest live entertainment from the UK’s best comedy, music, cabaret, and DJ acts.

77 Bedford Hill, London SW12 9HD. 020 3976 8007

www.thebedford.com/

The Regent

The Regent Pub in Balham is a beautiful corner site, with a large outdoor terrace and beer garden. Prime sports viewing behind the arch with large screens and projectors. A fun and busy pub, with a weekly diary of events, live music and a Sunday night pub quiz. Full cocktail list, beer on draught and wine list. Food menus feature bottomless brunch, indulgent burgers, healthy salads, delicious desserts, and the best Sunday roast in Balham.

21 Chestnut Grove, London SW12 8JB. 020 8772 0546

www.theregentbalham.co.uk/

“Wet your whistle”

Should you wish to wet your whistle in Balham you could hardly have a wider choice. ‘Old school’ inns and taverns, cocktail bars, live music venues, gastropubs, they all abide aplenty in Balham. Here are a few suggestions but the best way to find your ‘local’ is surely to take the air and simply explore.

The Avalon

Named after the mythical island at the heart of the legend of King Arthur, The Avalon is a majestic public house and garden located in Clapham South. Embracing our iconic English heritage, we are passionate about showcasing our country’s finest produce in the most beautiful of surroundings. Our elegant dining room is perfect for leisurely lunches or sumptuous suppers, our busy bar comes alive in the evening, guaranteeing a great night out, whilst the Blue Room upstairs is magnificent for private parties. On a sunny day, there really isn’t anywhere better to be than one of our three fabulous gardens, voted London’s best by Time Out magazine. 16 Balham Hill, London SW12 9EB. 020 8675 8613

www.theavalonlondon.com/

The Grove Balham

A hidden gem tucked away from the hustle & bustle of Balham High Street, this community focused, dog friendly pub is one of Balham’s best pubs. Our modern twist on the classic pub includes a raised dining area adjacent to the traditional bar along with light & airy spaces with sumptuous leather sofas. Join us for a cracking Sunday roast, vegan and vegetarian dishes, light bites, or coffee to fuel those afternoon school runs with the kids.

39 Oldridge Road, Balham, London, SW12 8PN. 02086736531

www.grovebalham.com/

The Wine Tasting Shop

We are both a wine shop and bar specialising in top-quality wines by small producers, providing exceptional value for money. We offer a broad international range with 400 bottles available in-store, at least 20 of which are available by the glass, including organic and biodynamic wines, and our own label varieties. Pick any bottle off the shelves to sip onsite for a flat corkage fee, or simply buy a bottle (or two) to enjoy at home. We hold fun and informative themed wine tasting events weekly and cater for private wine tastings, either onsite or at a venue of your choice. To complement our wine selection, we serve topquality artisan cheese and charcuterie platters. 18 Hildreth St, London SW12 9RQ. 020 8616 8658

www.thewinetastingshop.co.uk/

Local Hotspots

Enjoy an artisan coffee, while exploring great fashion boutiques right in the picturesque heart of Balham!

Brickwood Coffee & Bread

Since 2013, Brickwood Cafe has been bringing the relaxed atmosphere of Australia to London, serving delicious coffee and brunch. Also serving some delicious baked treats and we are always sampling new recipes, so come join us, pull up a chair, and enjoy a genuine Aussie brunch experience at Brickwood - one of London’s most authentic Aussie brunch spots.

11 Hildreth St, London SW12 9RQ. 020 8772 6818

www.brickwoodcafes.co.uk/

Nata’s Coffee Bar

Visit our amazing new independent coffee bar on Balham High Street! Serving crafted organic coffee with an amazing variety of breakfast and brunch options. We are a cafe where you can come and relax whilst discovering a hearty meal along with your favourite coffee. We also serve the finest deserts, juices, and cocktails and more! Look out for our expanding menu items on the horizon as well. We’re easy to get to from Clapham, Wandsworth, and Tooting. So, pop over, we would love to meet you.

19 Balham High Rd, London SW12 9AL. 020 3887 4081

www.natas.london/

Joice Cafe Balham

Our Motto is Joy is a choice. To have joy must be your choice and we try to do best as we can to make you have joy. Breakfast and selected bio-organic coffee is our best. We do have homemade goodies like cakes and pastries as well as Italian made cannoli’s all the way from Scilly. We are here as a new branch of Joice concept at Balham. Hope you will love and enjoy the cafe.

239 Balham High Rd, Tooting Bec, London SW17 7BE. 020 8672 6479

www.joicecafe.co.uk/

The Apple Blue

A quirky bespoke Artisan Coffee Shop serving delicious hot and cold beverages. The Apple Blue Patisserie is a London local cafe in Balham selling handmade patisseries, exceptional coffee’s and have a delicious brunch menu where all dishes are made using freshly sourced ingredients.

212 Balham High Rd, London SW12 9BS. www.theappleblue.com/

Milk London

Daytime cafe with artisan speciality coffees and innovative cuisine at breakfast and lunch. The menu at Milk Balham is a combination of regular and guest cast members. Classics include the Young Betty, a souped-up eggs royale made with dry cured and oak-smoked bacon from nearby Clapham butchers M. Moen; alongside baked eggs with feta and sage; Full English burgers packed with hash browns, eggs, and showered in soft curls of parmesan; and the Sweet Maria – a reclining stack of sweetcorn fritters, halloumi, avocado and chopped tomato, but on any given weekend, you’ll also find a seasonally changing topping to their buckwheat pancakes. Previous riffs have included coco de nata, yuzu parfait, green tea, and sesame praline; strawberries and wild meadowsweet; and blood orange, stem ginger posset and burnt marzipan. They’re also jaw-droppingly beautiful.

20 Bedford Hill, London SW12 9RG. www.milklondonshop.uk/

Oliver Bonas

An independent, British lifestyle store, your local Oliver Bonas in Balham has the latest own-design fashion, accessories, jewellery, homeware, furniture, and gifts.

101-103 Balham High Rd, London SW12 9AP. 020 8673 0728

www.oliverbonas.com/balham

Lark Balham

We are a family run independent based in Southwest London and our aim is to provide beautiful products for your lifestyle and home. To us Lark is not only our hobby but also part of our family life. We love buying new and exciting products and creating a positive impact in our communities. As an independent we try to support local companies, people, and products, which can be seen in all our shops.

24 Bedford Hill, London SW12 9RG. 020 8675 2345

www.larklondon.com/

Natural for Baby

Natural for Baby is a specialist independent shop on Balham High Road in Southwest London, In the shop you will find ethically made products made with sustainable materials for babies and toddlers.

78 Balham High Rd, London SW12 9AG. 020 8673 2672

www.naturalforbaby.london/

Interview with Reseters Architects

Brief Background:

Founded in 2014, Reseters was created by architectural designers and heritage home enthusiasts Saleem A. Jalil & Graham Modlen. Collaboratively Saleem and Graham have an extensive appreciation for heritage property designs, offering wisdom and expertise to clients nationwide. Reseters have developed an innovative and professional team of Planners, Architects, Interior Designers, and Project Managers. Valuing integrity over design trends to innovatively blend originality with contemporary design throughout unique heritage home design. We give new leases of life for heritage homes, ensuring the character that provides the foundation for your unique home is retained and enhanced. We are empathetic in understanding the silent language of heritage designing and enabling contemporary designs to blend seamlessly throughout the home.

We believe in storytelling through modernising heritage buildings, prioritising quality, craftsmanship, and integrity at each stage of the renovation process.

Do you offer pre-exchange assessments to residential clients?

We are often asked by our clients a very simple question: Should I Move or Improve? Our answer always tends to be, “Well, it depends!”. And then we encourage them to read our very own e-book which talks about budgeting advice, planning their renovation project, and how to choose the architect that resonates with their needs and options.

Our value add includes pre-purchase assessments to facilitate our client’s decision-making process before buying their dream home. We also provide

design guidance to get their project through planning if needed. Our experienced architects and interior designers provide invaluable tips about the latest design trends that blend beautifully with your character home.

Whether they require us to complete the renovation as their main contractor or have already commenced their renovation journey and require singular services we can advise on their needs and options. Our team consists of planners, architects, interior designers, and project managers, all of whom contribute to our client’s home renovation journey. In brief, we are committed to offering our clients an individual, tailored working relationship from start to finish.

“Need is the mother of all invention”

We focus on the intricate details in every room in the house to create elegance throughout, radiating stark beauty and allowing the durability of old buildings. Houses stand the test of time with many generations occupying the premises as their home, making each building’s story unique. If you are looking to renovate your home, get inspired and contact us today.

What are the most popular requests from residential clients?

Our residential clients are always remodelling and expanding their homes especially since people are now working from home more than ever before. More entertaining space, more kitchen space, additional bedrooms, guest rooms, new ensuite bathrooms and mostly garden and landscape design and renovations are all popular requests. Above all, natural light and how to integrate it within their homes are one of the must-haves in any project brief.

To add further value to our clients, we have developed our very bespoke complementary guides to enable our clients to do their research before engaging with us. Our most popular complementary guide is the Cost Calculator Guide; send us an email at Hello@Reseters.co.uk and we will email it back into your inbox!

Some words of encouragement to the family who are hesitating to make that first call to an architect.

Saleem & Graham always talk about the six “Peas” (you can’t eat them though): “Proper Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance”. Always plan and research well before you embark on your retrofitting project as this will surely save you both time and money!

RESETERS ARCHITECTS | CHARACTER HOUSE DESIGN + RENOVATION ARCHITECTS

Reseters Architects | Character House Design + Renovation Architects

What our Clients Say about our process:

“Using Reseters Design Process, we really feel that it Transformed our House!

We now got something that nobody else has... and that makes us really HAPPY!”

Belal Ahmed Owner of a

semi-detached house,

Kingston, UK

Scan me to explore the available options

SCHEDULE YOUR LOW COMMITMENT CONSULTATION WITH US NOW

Ask for your free design guides & more

Balham Arts

Why not enjoy a night at one of the great theatres spotted around Balham!

Theatre503,

Theatre503, formerly the Latchmere Theatre, is a theatre located at 503 Battersea Park Road in Battersea in the London Borough of Wandsworth, above the Latchmere pub. The venue is known for promoting the work of new writers. A launchpad for early career playwrights and the incredible freelance artists who bring their words to life. Please see our website for more details of upcoming events.

503 Battersea Park Rd, London SW11 3BW. 020 7978 7040

www.theatre503.com/

Cineworld Cinema London Wandsworth

Multiplex cinema chain showing the latest international blockbusters in 2D and 3D formats. We offer 14 screens set in clean ambient and comfortable surroundings will a Starbucks and tasty treats available we cater for everybody and host a large variety of movies to choose from. Please check out our website for current releases. Wandsworth High St, London SW18 4TF. 0330 333 4444

www.cineworld.co.uk/cinemas/londonwandsworth

Mimi V Artworks

An independent gallery selling prints and limited editions and offer a bespoke framing service too. We are happy to give you any advice as our team have a wealth of knowledge.

81 Balham High Rd, London SW12 9AP. 07506 069300

www.mimivartworks.co.uk/

Battersea Arts Centre

A hub for everyone’s creativity, based in an iconic building with a radical history. We support people to take creative risks to inspire change in their communities. Housed in an iconic Victorian town hall our rich heritage and beautiful architecture and creative flair make it London’s most ideal location. We hold many contemporary performances from companies from around the globe and locally too, with opportunity to hire our rooms to our local community.

Lavender Hill, London SW11 5TN. 020 7223 2223

www.bac.org.uk

Tara Theatre

Tara Theatre creates innovative, politically charged theatre harnessing the power of co-creation. Our work explores the complexities of our world through a South Asian lens, championing South Asian voices and artists, identifying new narratives, new ideas and new forms. Tara Theatre is a contemporary and democratic space, a home for our community of artists and audiences. Tara Theatre has a rich and pioneering history. Over four decades, the company has nurtured and supported South Asian performers, writers, directors, musicians and choreographers.

356 Garratt Ln, London SW18 4ES. 020 8333 4457

www.taratheatre.com/

Omnibus Theatre

Omnibus Theatre is a multi-awardwinning independent theatre in Clapham, South London. Our upcoming season of live theatre is jam packed with new writing, classics reimagined and longawaited revivals at affordable ticket prices. Stop by our Café Bar in the day to meet up and chill out or at night to enjoy the showtime buzz. Serving a menu of hot drinks, craft beers, wine and seasonal cocktails in addition to a food menu including freshly baked pastries, delicious cakes and savoury light bites. Head to our website to see what’s coming up next and how you can get involved with your local independent theatre.

1 Clapham Common North Side, London SW4 0LH. 020 7498 4699

www.omnibus-clapham.org/

Gallery Midnight

Gallery Midnight for in house artist

Johny Midnight. Modern Fine art Gallery and limited-edition prints. Children’s art classes and private tuition. Gallery Midnight is run by local London artist Johny Midnight. The gallery is in Balham, South London where you will usually find Johny paintbrush in hand, at the easel, working on his next painting. All the limited edition prints in the online shop are of Johny’s original paintings. Prices

for original artwork are listed where available to purchase. If you wish to own an original piece, then we encourage you to visit the gallery.

12 Ritherdon Rd, London SW17 8QD. 020 8772 4747

www.gallerymidnight.com/

Battersea Arts Centre

A hub for everyone’s creativity, based in an iconic building with a radical history. We support people to take creative risks to inspire change in their communities. Housed in a iconic Victorian town hall our rich heritage and beautiful architecture and creative flair make it London’s most ideal location. We hold many contemporary performances from companies from around the globe and locally too, with opportunity to hire our rooms to our local community.

Lavender Hill, London SW11 5TN. 020 7223 2223

www. bac.org.uk/

Polka Theatre

Polka Theatre creates world class theatre and creative hub for everyone! We are one of the few venues in the UK that is dedicated to producing and presenting work for young audiences, and our unique venue has been entertaining kids with engaging theatre since 1979! After a recent redevelopment we are excited to welcome everyone to our wonderful and accessible spaces. Pop in to play for free at Polka! We have an outdoor playground, an indoor play area with rocking horses, and a dressing up chest: just come in any time we are open. Treat yourself to something tasty from our cafe and sit in the train while you enjoy it. We also have lots of workshops for children, where they can learn all the behind-thescenes tricks of the trade and become a designer, musician, dancer, or actor for the day.

240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB. 020 8543 4888

www.polkatheatre.com/

Welcome to Eclectic Interiors

Eclectic Interiors is in the heart of Clapham in Abbeville Road SW4. We have been here for nearly 25 years and designed and installed high quality kitchens and built-in furniture for homes across London.

The kitchen is increasingly becoming the heart of the modern home - a fulcrum for meeting, cooking and dining with family and friends. With more and more people enjoying cooking and experiencing different foods, an open plan kitchen dining room has become a must for a lot of clients. The design of such spaces is extremely important to create areas for different activities but without losing the feel of space.

The kitchens, bedrooms, studies and bathrooms we design will transform the look and feel of your home. We also appreciate the importance of working within a given budget to achieve the best for our clients without compromising on look, feel, materials or quality.

As professional kitchen designers, we spend the time to understand the way you live, your goals and likes and at the same time will guide you through the process with the best advice to create a beautiful space which is practical, enjoyable and admired by all.

Eclectic provides a full kitchen and furniture design and planning service taking our clients through the whole journey from initial discussion to completion. Many of our kitchens go into new side extensions so we are equally happy working with builders to ensure the kitchen is installed when your new home is ready.

We most enjoy working with people who love their homes and the feeling of family that comes with being happy and comfortable. In the space we design it is very much a collaboration and getting the details right is so important to the final look and feel of a kitchen.

Once we have the right design and feel we can choose finishes, appliances and worktops and all the other details that make the kitchen. And there is so much to choose from. Over the last 20 years Eclectic Interiors have carefully selected suppliers and companies that we know we can work with and that complement each other. We have never been tied to one supplier, style or philosophy and today continue to offer a kitchen ranges to suit many different styles and budgets.

When you come to visit us you will find both Shaker and Modern ranges and within each of the styles there are design and specification options to achieve a preferred look; anything from classic to traditional or neo classic to super modern.

Kitchens are our passion and each project has our individual attention to the smallest detail.

Your kitchen becomes our kitchen and we take pride in delivering your vision seamlessly and for you to then enjoy it for years to come.

Eclectic Interiors brings together all the elements that make the perfect kitchen. It is never too early to start planning and Eclectic will be happy to help you along the journey.

Family days out

Balham is a great destination for a family trip offering entertainment for kids of all ages. We’ve picked some of the most popular family-friendly things to do and sorted them into a handy list.

Streatham Ice Rink

In a building now steeped with history, Streatham has been happy home to a community ice rink for over 80 years!The new Streatham Ice Rink boasts fully refurbished facilities and is better than ever before with a full size 60 x 30m ice pad and almost 1000 spectator seats! They have a jampacked skating for all ages and abilities, with specific disciplines catered for in independent sessions and live professional matches often played here too. As well as the obvious Public Sessions which are great for families and young beginners, they also offer trendy (and loud!) Ice Discos, Ice Hockey, Ice Dance and Figure Skating, in all of which one may gain tuition here too with friendly and enthusiastic professionals. Except the disco, you’re on your own, you’ve either got it or you’ve not!

390 Streatham High Road, Streatham, Greater London. SW16 6HX. 020 8677 5758

www.lambeth.gov.uk/leisure-centres/ streatham-ice-leisure-centre

Battersea Park Children’s Zoo

Battersea Park Children’s Zoo is an exciting animal experience that combines a zoo, animal encounter. Nestled on London’s south bank is the perfect place for little explorers – Battersea Park Children’s Zoo! With conservation and education at its heart, this much-loved family park is home to over 100 amazing animals from around the world. From monkeys and lemurs to tropical birds and native farm breeds – there really is something to inspire everyone! Join the zookeepers every day at their friendly feeding time talks and watch out for year-round interactive events, including popular wildlife activity days, arts, crafts, and adventure trails. You’ll find an impressive adventure playground, ideal for children of all ages and abilities to learn and play.

Battersea Park - Via, Chelsea Brg SW11 4NJ, 020 7924 5826

www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk/

Wandsworth Common

South-west London is well provided with open common land dating back to mediaeval origins. The Commons today are protected by legislation over and above other public parks. They provide wide sweeps of natural landscape and amenity sports facilities. Wandsworth Common includes the former Battersea West Heath replete with boundary markers. There are woods, lakes, and heath, as well as playgrounds, café, bowls and tennis, and a trim trail.

Trinity Rd, London SW18 3RT. 020 8871 7530

www.wandsworth.gov.uk/parks

Streatham Common

A large open space on the southern edge of Streatham in the London Borough of Lambeth. The shallow sloping lower half of the common is mostly mowed grass, and the upper half is mostly woodland with some small areas of gorse scrub and acid grassland. Streatham Common is our wonderful piece of open green space in our built-up City. The space is used for many things, celebrating, relaxing, sports, nature, walking, or just sitting and thinking. Given we all use our space in different ways – please be aware of basic rules that are in place [Lambeth Council byelaws], so that all users can enjoy.

Streatham Common, Streatham Common S, London SW16 3BX. 020 7926 9000 www.streathamcommon.org/

Tooting Bec Common

South-west London is well-provided with open common land dating back to mediaeval origins. The Commons today are protected by legislation over and above other public parks. They provide wide sweeps of natural landscape and amenity sports facilities. Tooting Common is a Site of Metropolitan Importance due to its stretches of acid grassland, and it is notable for the many large oak trees and historic avenues. Look for the London County Council boundary markers.

45 Tooting Bec Gardens, London SW16 1RF. 020 3959 0015

www.wandsworth.gov.uk/leisure-andculture/parks-and-open-spaces/parks/ tooting-common

The Fairy House by Fairytale Friends Theatre centred around children where the can escape the Human World through our Fairy Door leading to our stage and performances by purchasing an experience ticket, we also host many fun activities for the children to also enjoy. Discover events available by visiting us or by exploring our webpage.

50 Webb’s Rd, London SW11 6SF. 020 3600 3848

www.fairytalefriends.co.uk/

Clapham Common

It has around 2,000 trees and two small areas of woodland. The trees perform several important functions such as absorbing carbon dioxide and traffic exhaust particulates, and dampening traffic noise. They also play a role in buffering extremes of temperature and provide important habitats for bids, bats, and insects.

Clapham Common, Windmill Dr SW4 9DE. 020 7926 9000

www.claphamcommon.net/

The Font Wandsworth

A climbing gym with nearly 200 routes that are regularly reset and a team of the UK’s best climbing coaches, The Font has plenty to go after, whether you’re new to the sport or an aspiring Olympian. We offer Under 18’s coaching, adult climbing tuition as well as Intro to Bouldering classes. The Font’s got everything you need to maximise performance on or off the climbing wall, including a functional fitness gym and studio running a range of classes to improve strength, flexibility & mobility. Join a group session or book in with one of London’s finest Personal Trainers, ready and waiting to help you achieve your fitness goals. Whether postclimb or just dropping in on your rest day, our cafe & bar provides the space for our community to connect over great coffee, craft beer and gourmet burgers. Check out our latest news and events and be sure to follow our social media channels. 30 Lydden Rd, London SW18 4LR. 02081614440

www.the-font.co.uk/

Local Schools

Where our children spend most of their week and how they are being educated is a decision which should take some serious consideration. We have put together this list of suggestions to make your life a little bit easier. Many local schools and nurseries offer free tours so please go and visit your choice options before making that final important decision.

Henry Cavendish Primary School

At Henry Cavendish we grow together to find our voices, to challenge each other to be our best and to help make a better world. In our caring, creative, happy school everyone flourishes. Many of our children attend the rich and varied extra-curricular activities available, including Breakfast Club, Kids City after school club and a range of creative and sporting after school clubs. At Henry Cavendish we work together with other local educational establishments within our Cluster group of local schools. This augments opportunities and provides fresh ideas and the opportunity to share with and support one another.

Hydethorpe Rd, London SW12 0JA. 020 8673 3376

www.henrycavendish.co.uk/

Telferscot Primary School

We pride ourselves on being a village school in an urban environment and hope that when you visit us and our website you see and feel what makes the difference at our school. Our staff and children are happy and engaged and we put family life, learning and the creative journey at the heart of everything we do. We are always busy and involved in learning and exploring – from around our school, on the common next door or out and about in London. Come and join us and be a part of our lifelong learning journey and become a member of the Telfer-family.

Telferscot Rd, London SW12 0HW. 020 8673 7362

www.telferscot.co.uk/

Chestnut Grove Academy

When students join Chestnut Grove Academy, they are welcomed into a high achieving, forward thinking, caring community. A tradition of academic rigour combined with creativity characterises our ethos and we feel passionately that this is a winning combination. We are justifiably proud of our students’ achievement. They are ambitious, talented, and resilient and this has secured examination results which continue to go from strength to strength. We achieve this through exceptionally high expectations. Teachers develop positive relationships with their students’ which nurtures achievement. 45 Chestnut Grove, London SW12 8JZ. 020 8673 8737

www.chestnutgrove.org.uk/

Holy Ghost Catholic Primary School

We extend a very warm welcome to Holy Ghost Catholic Primary School, where everyone is invited to deepen their understanding of how to follow Christ, and to give witness to his teachings. We challenge ourselves to be mindful of the dignity of every person, irrespective of their background; their strengths, or their needs, and we teach the children the importance of compassion and forgiveness. We seek to forge strong links with our parents, confident that the children benefit most when honest and trusting relationships exist between us.

Nightingale Square, London SW12 8QJ. 020 8673 3080

www.holyghost.wandsworth.sch.uk/

Finton House School

Founded in 1987 as a charitable trust, Finton House is a non-selective and inclusive school where children are prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world. Our commitment to pastoral care is as strong as our commitment to providing an outstanding education, and our academic achievements at 11+ speak for themselves: at Finton House, every child can shine bright.

169-171 Trinity Rd, London SW17 7HL. 020 8682 0921

www.fintonhouse.org.uk/

La Retraite, Roman Catholic Girls School

Firmly rooted in our local community and with 140 years of experience in Catholic education, La Retraite is underpinned by its long history of academic excellence and strong values. As an Ofsted Outstanding school, high expectations permeate all that we do, and our track record of successful outcomes including impressive results, notable destinations and enabling our students onto incredible pathways posteducation is a testament to this. Our students are encouraged to be aspirational and bold, empowered by their teachers to excel and flourish in all that they do. Atkins Road, Clapham Park, SW12 0AB. 020 8673 5644

www.laretraite.co.uk/

Hornsby House School

We are a non-selective school at Reception entry which prides itself on providing children with a rich and varied curriculum. We have a reputation for being a very warm, nurturing, and inclusive school, yet with a very real academic rigour. At Hornsby House, your education isn’t just about record-breaking exam results. It’s about enjoying the journey that gets you there.

Hearnville Rd, London SW12 8RS. 020 8673 7573

www.hornsbyhouse.org.uk/

345 Nursery School Balham

345 Balham (formerly Oaktree Nursery) is one of three independent pre-schools, all based in Southwest London. We are owner-led and use a blend of Traditional and Montessori methods to deliver a program that is varied, holistic and child centric. Working with each child individually, we instil the foundations of EYFS, whilst fostering confidence and excitement about learning. Children leave 345 ready to thrive academically and emotionally at school. 21 Ramsden Rd, London SW12 8QX. 020 8166 5932

www.345nurserybalham.com/

Fitness & Health

Leading a hectic life? Need somewhere to tone your body, recharge your muscles or simply stretch? We have put together the best locations for you to do just that. Whether you fancy going for a swim or need regular fitness classes, we know that our recommended providers will do their best to keep you in shape.

Fitness First

For a fantastic gym in Balham, visit Fitness First. Our Balham gym, located in south-west London, will cover all your health and fitness needs. Located only a two-minute walk from Tooting Bec Tube station and a ten-minute walk from Balham train station, Fitness First is a place to not only workout, but to relax and socialise too. Fitness First Balham offers an extensive range of facilities. Daily group exercise classes are available and include aerobics, boxing, spin, yoga, circuit training, Zumba, pilates, core and HIIT sessions. Other facilities on offer at our Balham gym include a cardio theatre, spin studio, sauna, and a freestyle floor.

279-291 Balham High Rd, Tooting Bec, London SW17 7BA. 020 3096 9318

www.fitnessfirst.co.uk/find-a-gym/londonbalham

Hot Yoga South

Welcome to our yoga haven at Hot Bikram Yoga South, where you can practice dynamic yoga in a real, hot yoga class in 50% humidity. The heat allows you to sweat and detoxify through the largest organ of your body: your skin. Get fit from the inside out! Do not be afraid of the heat; it is well known for boosting your immunity. Bikram Yoga Balham has never been so hot, offering 26 Hatha dynamic yoga postures as a beginner’s yoga, using the Bikram Method. All our teachers at Bikram Yoga Balham have been rigorously certified by Bikram himself. Classes are great for beginners’ yoga and advanced practitioners.

5 Hildreth Street Mews, London SW12 9RZ. 020 3457 8837

www.hotyogasouth.com/

REVIVE YOGA & PILATES

REVIVE is a Yoga and Pilates Studio in Southwest London providing a range of Yoga and Pilates classes, suitable for all bodies, abilities and styles. Located in the heart of Tooting Bec and Balham, our TWO friendly, fresh and thriving yoga studios promise community and calm. From Prenatal Pilates to Dynamic Vinyasa Flows and Restorative Practices to lessen your woes, all our classes are led by expert facilitators - hand-picked by founder, Yoga and Pilates Teacher and Specialist Physiotherapist, Chloe McDonald.

45 Balham High Rd, London SW12 9AN. 020 3638 1622

www.reviveyogalondon.com/

Anytime Fitness Balham

Let’s Make Healthy Happen at Anytime Fitness Balham. We are open in the heart of Balham 24/7 so you can hit your fitness goals whenever it suits you! Our club provides the very best kit, service, and classes in a fantastic and premium environment. To enquire about membership or book a club tour simply complete the enquiry form above and a member of the team will be in touch to discuss your needs. We look forward to seeing you soon.

176 Balham High Rd, London SW12 9BW. 020 3982 8844

www.anytimefitness.co.uk/gyms/

Balham Leisure Centre

Fantastic community leisure centre in Balham, offering a gym, swimming facilities, group workout studios and more. Flexible memberships available, but non-members are also very welcome. We’re passionate about helping you stay physically active and emotionally engaged in fitness, sport, and wellbeing. Our mission is to put our heart and soul into ‘creating active places and healthy people’ - it’s about creating a place for everyone.

Elmfield Rd, London SW17 8AN. 020 8772 9577

www.placesleisure.org/centres/balhamleisure-centre

Taking Care of Fitness

Have the desire to get fit and feel great? We provide a new, fun, and accessible way to do it, serving the Balham, Tooting & Clapham areas of London. Our small group personal training sessions are unique. Our clients tell us they boost motivation and offer a sociable dimension to exercise, without sacrificing the expert attention of your trainer. We’ll find out what’s important to you, and bring our fun and personal approach to help you achieve your goals. We have everything you needknowledge, experience, and equipment. Studio, Unit 4, The, 332 Balham High Rd, London SW17 7AA. 07514 188318

www.tcfitness.uk/

reCentre Health

Recentre Health is an Award-Winning wellbeing Clinic in Balham and Tooting, South London. Established more than 15 years ago, we offer services which include Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, Massage, Psychotherapy, Pilates, Pilates Reformer, Rehab and a wide range of complementary therapies including acupuncture, reflexology and nutrition therapy. All our therapists are registered and very experienced (some with over 40 years’ clinical experience.) We pride ourselves on outstanding customer service and believe everyone deserves to enjoy the best possible health - not only physically but mentally and emotionally too. We are committed to providing the best practitioners and services to help people in our community to feel their best.

260 Balham High Rd, London SW17 7AN. 020 8672 4455

www.recentre-health.co.uk/

Local Restaurants

Bucci

Bucci is an authentic Italian Eatery, with Glamour shots of Italian Movie Stars on the Walls, Marble-Topped Tables and a Glass Frontage that fully opens during the Summer. A Wonderful selection of Antipasti, Generous Pasta Dishes, Crispy Pizza’s & Fresh Seafood. Not to mention our Home-made Desserts & our fine collection of Italian Wines. 195 Balham High Rd, London SW12 9BE. 020 8673 5459

www.bucci-restaurant.com/

Heidi

Heidi is an exciting, independent self-dispense wine bar & restaurant in the heart of Balham. With x60 wines available, Champagne happy hour and an exciting menu offering Saturday Brunch. Oysters every Tuesday and superb Sunday roasts we believe that Heidi is the go-to place in Balham.

1 Balham Station Rd, London SW12 9SG. 020 8772 9555

www.heidiwine.com/

Megan’s on the Hill Restaurant

Dog friendly, neighbourhood restaurant, voted most romantic restaurants in London, best brunch & best bottomless brunch in London. Stunning year-round, glass-roofed garden perfect for summer al fresco dining & romantic winter evenings in Balham. Open for brunch, lunch, dinner & cocktails. Brunch is all day everyday with bottomless brunch on weekends. Known for posh kebabs, mezze plates, the espresso martini & THE half-baked cookie dough. A great casual & fun spot for parties & groups with private dining & our famous sharing platters.

41-43 Bedford Hill, London SW12 9EY. 020 3468 0216

www.megans.co.uk/

Gurkha’s Balham

Anyone who enjoys spicy food or who is familiar with a traditional Indian menu will find Gurkha Diner’s carefully selected repertoire of subtly flavoured dishes to be the ultimate Asian dining experience. Furthermore, our chef Krishna will be pleased to prepare your dishes to your own personal preferences, be it spicier or milder, for no additional charge.

1, The Boulevard, Balham High Rd, London SW17 7BW. 020 8675 1188

www.gurkhasbalham.co.uk/

Taro

Taro is the place to celebrate life’s special moments by offering the very best authentic Japanese food created by Mr Taro himself. Presenting a Japanese cuisine where texture, purity of flavour and quality is paramount. To bring warmth and knowledge to our service in one of the world’s most extraordinary cities, London. We look forward to welcoming. 193 Balham High Rd, London SW12 9BE. 020 8675 5187

www.tarorestaurants.uk/

Haché Burgers

Independent, neighbourhood all-day dining, serving up London’s best burgers and more, in a chic, Parisian-inspired setting. We love Balham! Step into our buzzy Southwest London brasserie for one of the best brunches in London, small plates & cocktails or, of course, a burger. It’s what we do best!

37 Bedford Hill, London SW12 9EY. 020 8772 9772

www.hacheburgers.com/

Tagine Restaurant

Established in 2004, Tagine Restaurant has been serving some of the best northern African cuisine in South London. Located on Fernlea Road, our restaurant features a lovely Mediterranean interior and plenty of space for private functions and celebrations. Offering a delivery menu in addition to dine-in and takeaway options, it’s easier than ever to enjoy Tagine right in the privacy of your home, however, the dining-in experience at Tagine is one that should not be missed.

3 Fernlea Rd, London SW12 9RT. 020 8037 7961

www.zizoutagine.com/

1910 Balham

1910 is a Mexican bar and restaurant, combining Jose’s expertise in mezcal and tequila, and Mauricio’s incredible cooking skills, to bring authentic Mexican flavours to the heart of Balham. Having both been born and raised in Mexico, Jose and Mauricio know their stuff when it comes to Mexican food and drinks. Named after the year that saw the start of the Mexican revolution, which transformed Mexican culture and culminated in the Mexican constitution, 1910 is the combination of Jose’s expertise in mezcal and tequila, and Mauricio’s incredible cooking skills. Through 1910, Jose and Mauricio honour their ancestors and families with authentic recipes, delicious drinks and friendly service.

3 Ramsden Rd, London SW12 8QX. 020 8675 6286

www.1910cantina.com/

‘Virtually’ all you need

Some suggested local social media groups to help you connect, learn, buy, sell and have fun.

Balham Sw12 www.facebook.com/groups/441104002630504/?locale=en_GB

Balham Mums’ Network www.facebook.com/groups/Balhammumsnetwork/?locale=en_GB

Balham WI www.facebook.com/groups/BalhamWI/?locale=en_GB

Balham Mums www.facebook.com/groups/balhammums/

Balham Networking www.facebook.com/groups/518202598907171/

Balham pictures www.facebook.com/groups/Balhampictures/

All Events Balham www.allevents.in/london/balham

Streatham,Balham & Tooting Memories www.facebook.com/groups/streatham1high/events/

Balham Newsie www.twitter.com/balhamnewsie?lang=en

Help and support from your local Council

You should inform your Local Authority of where you are moving from and where you are moving to around a month before you move. You can do this here. https://system8.rbwm.gov.uk/ publicaccesslive/selfservice/services/ changeofaddress/coastart.htm

You’ll need to include the forwarding addresses for every adult in the property that pays council tax.

Search for information and services from your council. Information for residents about Wandsworth Borough Council including council tax, bins and recycling, schools, leisure, streets and parking, this and lot’s more at the below link. www.wandsworth.gov.uk/balham

Planning & Building Control

Unsure which services you need?

If you are thinking of making changes to your property, you may need to apply for planning permission and / or Building Regulations approval. If you’re not sure which applications to make, please use the guidance below to help you to decide what you need to do.

Please note that many developments will require both.

What is planning?

Planning is the process of deciding whether a proposed development should go ahead or not. It uses national and local policies to consider the development in its context and may look at the impact of the work on neighbours and the wider community, existing architecture, the land, the layout, and existing or proposed infrastructure (such as drains, transport and schools).

You will probably need planning permission if your proposed development will do any of the following:

• create a new building, or change the use or appearance of an existing building

• affect the sunlight, privacy or outlook for neighbouring properties

• affect the nearby area with noise disturbance, smell or fumes

• work on or around listed buildings or any conservation areas

• affect traffic volumes, road safety or access

• change the density of development in an area

• use significantly different materials or finishes from nearby properties

• have an effect on existing trees

What is building control?

Building control applies national statutory regulations to ensure the structural quality of any building work, in areas such as safety, public health, accessibility, and the materials used. Most substantial building projects (such as an extension, knocking down walls or converting a garage or loft) will need Building Regulations approval.

www.wandsworth.gov.uk/planning-andbuilding-control/