Introduction
Dulwich (SE21/SE22) feels like a breath of fresh air in the heart of South London.
With its leafy streets, village charm, and cultural heritage, Dulwich offers a unique
blend of suburban peace and urban accessibility. It’s long been a magnet for families
seeking space, greenery, and top-tier schools — but there’s much more to the area
than just good catchments. With a deep historical pedigree and an unmistakably
refined feel, Dulwich strikes the perfect balance between prestige and warmth.
Housing & Transport
Housing in Dulwich is characterised by elegant period properties — think grand
Georgian townhouses, Victorian villas, and handsome Edwardian semis. Roads like
College Road, Court Lane, and Woodwarde Road are highly sought-after, offering
large family homes, tree-lined settings, and proximity to both green space and local
amenities.
While Dulwich is outside the tube network, it benefits from three well-connected
National Rail stations: North Dulwich, West Dulwich, and East Dulwich. These
offer quick access to London Bridge, Victoria, and Blackfriars, making commuting
relatively stress-free. Regular bus routes also connect Dulwich to nearby hubs like
Peckham, Herne Hill, and Brixton.
For drivers, the South Circular runs nearby, though Dulwich’s quieter back roads and
low-traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs) mean streets remain peaceful and walkable.
Lifestyle & Culture
At the heart of the area lies Dulwich Village, a conservation area with a distinct
small-town feel — complete with white picket fences, duck ponds, and local
butchers. The Dulwich Picture Gallery, England’s oldest public art gallery, is a
cultural highlight, hosting both classic and contemporary exhibitions in a beautiful Sir
John Soane-designed building.
Dulwich Park offers boating lakes, tennis courts, and cycle hire — perfect for
families and fitness enthusiasts alike. Nearby, Belair Park and Peckham Rye Park
extend the green space options. There’s a strong community feel too, with regular
farmers markets, local fêtes, and community-driven initiatives like the Dulwich
Festival and Artists’ Open House weekends.
It’s a place where arts, heritage, and quiet affluence meet — ideal for those looking
to enjoy London life at a gentler pace.
Food & Drink
Dulwich might be genteel, but it’s far from sleepy when it comes to food and drink. In
Dulwich Village, Romeo Jones offers delicious brunches and artisanal produce,
while Rocca di Papa is a popular choice for relaxed Italian dining. The Crown &
Greyhound (locally known as “The Dog”) is a classic pub with a family-friendly
atmosphere and a big beer garden.
Over in East Dulwich, the vibe is more bohemian. Lordship Lane is packed with
trendy restaurants, organic grocers, wine bars, and independent cafés. Spots like
Franklins, Yama Momo, and The Palmerston are consistently popular with locals,
and the food scene here rivals many trendier pockets of London.
Schools & Family Life
Education is one of Dulwich’s major draws. Dulwich College, founded in 1619,
remains one of the UK’s most prestigious independent schools — with alumni
including explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton and more recently, actor Chiwetel Ejiofor.
The area also boasts top-performing independent schools like Alleyn’s School and
JAGS (James Allen’s Girls’ School), as well as respected state schools like The
Charter School East Dulwich.
This academic pedigree, combined with access to safe green spaces and excellent
sports facilities, makes Dulwich a firm favourite with families. It’s also well-served by
nurseries, prep schools, and after-school clubs, reinforcing its reputation as one of
the most family-friendly spots in South London.
Local Tips & Highlights
Gallery Road is one of the prettiest stretches in South London — ideal for
weekend walks between Dulwich Picture Gallery and the park.
- The Dulwich Wood House pub backs onto Sydenham Hill Wood, making it
perfect for Sunday lunch and a nature walk. - Catch a show or comedy night at The East Dulwich Tavern, which doubles
as a cultural venue as well as a bar. - The Charter School has become a highly sought-after state option, adding to
the area’s educational appeal without the private school price tag. - Local LTN schemes make Dulwich especially attractive for cyclists, families
with young children, and those who appreciate quieter roads and cleaner air.