Introduction
Herne Hill (SE24) is one of South London’s hidden gems — a warm, welcoming
neighbourhood with a strong community spirit and an abundance of green space.
Nestled between Brixton, Dulwich, and Tulse Hill, it manages to feel both connected
and distinctly village-like. The atmosphere here is relaxed and family-friendly, with an
artistic undercurrent and a strong sense of local pride. Herne Hill blends the best of
urban living with the charm of a tight-knit neighbourhood.
Housing & Transport
Housing in Herne Hill is attractive and varied, offering something for most life stages.
Stradella Road, with its rows of well-maintained Victorian houses, is a prime
example of the area’s period charm. These homes often come with generous
gardens, high ceilings, and original features. Meanwhile, Milkwood Road mixes in
more affordable flats and ex-local authority stock, making it a popular choice for
young professionals, creatives, and first-time buyers.
There are also 1930s semis and purpose-built maisonettes scattered throughout the
area, as well as modern infill developments and apartment blocks around the station
and near Brockwell Park.
Herne Hill Station is a key asset — a charming, old-fashioned station offering direct
National Rail services to London Victoria, Blackfriars, Farringdon, and St
Pancras International. You’re also just a short walk or bus ride from Brixton’s
Victoria Line, which means the West End and the City are within easy reach.
Lifestyle & Culture
Life in Herne Hill moves at a gentler pace, with a strong focus on community and
green living. Brockwell Park is the star attraction — 125 acres of open fields, rolling
hills, and mature trees, with something for everyone. Highlights include the historic
Brockwell Lido, a Grade II-listed outdoor swimming pool with a retro vibe and on-
site café, as well as the Walled Garden, BMX track, playgrounds, and even a
miniature railway.
On Sundays, the area comes alive with the Herne Hill Market, a local institution
featuring artisan food, vintage clothes, fresh produce, and live music. It’s a great
place to catch up with neighbours, meet new faces, and discover new local makers.
The area also benefits from a thriving local arts and culture scene, supported by
venues like Off The Cuff, a railway-arch bar and live music space, and the Herne
Hill Velodrome, one of the UK’s oldest cycling tracks, still in regular use.
Food & Drink
Herne Hill’s food and drink scene is buzzing with independent spirit. The Milkwood
café is a favourite for weekend brunch, while Llewelyn’s, overlooking Station
Square, offers stylish modern European dining with a neighbourhood feel.
Pubs like The Half Moon — a beautifully restored 1890s landmark with a large
garden and regular music nights — add character and life to evenings out. There are
also plenty of laid-back spots for coffee, cake, and catch-ups, such as Boulangerie
Jade and The Parlour Café.
For food shopping, Norwood Road offers a mix of independent shops and practical
essentials, and nearby Brixton Market expands your options with global street food
and produce.
Schools & Family Life
Families are well served in Herne Hill, drawn by the great outdoor spaces and good
local schools. Judith Kerr Primary School, named after the beloved author of The
Tiger Who Came to Tea, is a bilingual free school with a strong reputation. St.
Jude’s Church of England Primary is also highly regarded for its inclusive ethos
and academic performance.
The area also offers easy access to a range of nurseries, after-school activities, and
family-friendly classes. It’s not uncommon to see children scooting to school or
families picnicking in Brockwell Park on sunny afternoons.
Herne Hill’s community-centric feel is reinforced by active residents’ groups, eco-
initiatives, and local events like The Herne Hill Music Festival and Brockwell
Bounce, a family-friendly summer festival in the park.
Local Tips & Highlights
– Grab a coffee and a fresh loaf from Wild + Lees, a boutique bottle shop that
doubles as a community hangout.
– The Herne Hill Lido Café is perfect for sunny days, whether you’re swimming
or not.
– Take a hidden stroll along Turney Road, one of Dulwich’s greenest lanes just
minutes away, or explore the lesser-known Ruskin Park, with its bandstand
and skyline views.
– The Herne Hill Station Square often hosts pop-up events, kids’ theatre, and
food stalls — check the chalkboard for updates.
– Keen cyclists should explore the Velodrome, where you can even try out
track cycling, or sign kids up for holiday coaching.