Insider’s Guide to Wimbledon
June 2023 -
Wimbledon is a picturesque leafy suburb of south London, perhaps best known for its annual tennis tournament which starts in just a few weeks. With its quaint atmosphere and proximity to Central London, it offers the ideal balance of city and country life. We sat down with Abi Frankish MRICS, an experienced agent and resident of South West London, to share her experience of living in this increasingly popular location.
What makes the suburb of Wimbledon so desirable?
“Wimbledon’s popularity began as far back as the 17th Century, the catalyst for which was the opening of the train station in 1838 followed by the District Line in 1889. Today, these excellent transport links allow one to be straight into Waterloo and Prime Central London in less than 30 minutes.
Post lockdown, Wimbledon’s appeal has only strengthened its reputation as a tranquil haven with its rustic country style pubs and quaint high street where independent boutiques thrive. Matches Fashion started a trend when they opened their first shop in the area many years ago. The eclectic mix of establishments, combined with easy access to the City, West End (only 10 miles) and the nearby motorway network to the South Coast and the shires affords its residents the best of both worlds.
Architecturally, the area is very diverse and offers something for a wide range of house buyers. Close to Wimbledon Town and Wimbledon Village, you can see the Victorian influence in the terraces which line the streets as well as the larger detached and semi-detached properties which huddle around Wimbledon Village and the common. Further to the west, an influx of post-modern architecture reflects the more recent changes that can be seen around the area.
Another reason the area is so desirable is because it is one of the few places in South West London where there are still opportunities to acquire a plot of land to develop your own home. So, whether you’re a fan of period architecture or you want to turn your hand to building your own home, there’s something for everyone.
In recent months, we have seen an increase in young families moving into the area primarily due to the superb collection of state and private schools in the area, including King’s College, Wimbledon High School, Bishop Gilpin C of E, The Rowan’s and Dundonald Primary.”
What are some of your favourite local spots?
“Nothing rounds off my weekend like a wander around Wimbledon Common, making a stop at the Fox and Grapes along the way for a hearty pub lunch.”
What is your favourite street in the area?
“It has to be Ellerton Road, which is a private road tucked away in the Drax Estate. It sits just to the west of Wimbledon Village but has an idyllic rural setting, backing on to Royal Wimbledon Golf Course. The properties here tend to offer fantastic lateral living and entertaining space and enjoy lovely wide plots with off-street parking, something rarely seen in such close proximity to Prime Central London.”
What are some of your favourite things to do in Wimbledon?
“There’s something so quintessentially English about a trip to the world-renowned All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club to eat strawberries (166,000 servings each year) and watch the world’s best tennis players compete, or popping into Megan’s for their Halloumi fries with honey and their Shakshorizo. I am also in my element simply walking around the streets looking at the different architecture in search of the perfect home for my clients.”
Any additional fun facts you can share?
“For the last 15 years, Rufus (the Hawk) has been patrolling the skies above the tennis courts, ensuring the players aren’t bothered by pigeons and gulls. On the common you will find a windmill, now a museum, and an award-winning riding stable. The area is also home to monks living in the first Thai temple to be built in the UK, offering wonderful meditation classes. The beautiful Cannizaro Park, close to the common, is Grade II listed due to the rare and exquisite flowers to be found in the park. The New Wimbledon Theatre, established in 1910 has an active programme of events, including West End shows. Close by you will find the Polka Theatre, dedicated to educational activities for children aged 0-12 years.”
Abigail (Abi) Frankish is both an experienced agent as well as a licensed Chartered Surveyor. Abi has a strong track record and has formed a wide-reaching network which is vital in sourcing off-market opportunities for our clients. She appreciates the uniqueness of each client’s search by really listening to what is required and being highly process driven to deliver seamless results every time.
Abi lives in South West London with her partner, two young boys and her energetic spaniel. When not walking around Wimbledon, Abi loves exploring the surrounding area and dining out with friends in the many wonderful restaurants that can be found in South West London.
If you are thinking about a move to this area, then please do contact Abi – af@aykroydco.com.