Battersea Area Guide

About the Area

Battersea is hands-down one of London’s hottest places to live right now. Once the scruffy little sibling of Chelsea and Fulham, Battersea has scrubbed up in recent years — in fact, it’s practically wearing a tuxedo.

It’s all kicking off in Battersea, where epic plans are afoot. For donkey’s years, Battersea Power Station was everyone’s favourite upside-down pig — immortalised on a Pink Floyd album cover, no less — but it looked like the derelict ruin would only ever house pigeons, not people. All that is about to change with a jaw-dropping £9bn revamp. Soon, the old coal plant will return to its former art deco glory, this time with luxury shops, kitsch galleries and Apple’s new London HQ. Oh, and two new tube stations on the Northern Line extension. That chattering noise you can hear? That’s the sound of Battersea becoming London’s most talked-about neighbourhood.

Of course, the classic Battersea isn’t going anywhere. Legendary Northcote Road is known as Nappy Valley — a magnet for well-heeled families with four-wheel drive pushchairs. Come rain or shine you’ll find high-end boutiques, buzzing brunch spots and the occasional dog in a handbag. Mooch around the Antiques Market, a treasure trove of art, furniture and bric-a-brac, then put your feet up at The Draft House over a craft beer and a burger. What’s not to like?

For your Sunday chill, Battersea Park is leafier than life itself. Let battle commence with the freelancers wielding laptops in the Pear Tree Cafe — whoever bags a window seat has an amazing view of the lake.

Past, present and future — there’s always a buzz about Battersea.