The Sunday Times has announced winners for the best places to live for 2023, and two South London boroughs have made the list.
As both Woolwich, SE18 and Beckenham, BR3 were named on the regional list for London.
The overall winner for the region was Crouch End, N8 as it was noted for its green spaces, independent shops, vibrant market town feel and its offering of cafes, bars and restaurants.
The Sunday Times described Crouch End as a borough which draws "in plenty of celebrities, there are parks galore, two cinemas, sports clubs and a swimming pool.
"Best of all, there’s a friendliness here that’s often absent in the capital – people say hello to each other on the street."
Woolwich and Beckenham named on The Sunday Times Best Place to Live list
The locations that made the shortlist for regional winners were not ranked seeing them all have a worthy place on the acclaimed list.
Beckenham was granted a space for its outstanding schools, choice of stations, buzzing high street and for being a "green-space odyssey."
BR3 also got a special nod for being the South London suburbia where David Bowie wrote Life on Mars and even got his iconic Ziggy haircut.
But the Sunday Times did share that it's the area's parks "rather than rock ‘n’ roll history that make Beckenham special."
As they wrote: "Beckenham Place Park has ancient woodland, playgrounds, a wild swimming lake, a Sunday farmers’ market and two tempting cafes, while Kelsey Park is a glorious setting for tranquil lakeside walks."
Fellow London special mention, Woolwich was praised for the recent opening of the Elizabeth Line transforming the riverside area.
As the Sunday Times shared that it has become "one of the most exciting neighbourhoods in the capital."
SE18 gained recognition for its impressive views of the Thames, connections to central London and its cultural offering", as they wrote it makes the "fertile ground for young professionals seeking a foothold on the London property ladder."
See the full list of The Sunday Times Best Place To Live winners via the website here.
The Sunday Times announces winner of Best Place to Live 2023
The overall winner for the acclaimed list was Wadhurst in East Sussex, as judges praised the area for its schools, transport connections, well-stocked high street and scenery.
The list has been running for the past 11 years, with the newest addition including 72 locations across the UK.
Speaking of the list, Helen Davies, the editor of Best Places to Live 2023, said: “When times are tough, where we live matters more than ever. Attractive surroundings, good neighbours and a comfortable home are the best defences when the stresses of modern life seem overwhelming.
“This guide is a celebration of towns, cities and villages that are each a fantastic place to live in 2023 from Orkney to Felixstowe, the Chew Valley to Manchester city centre. Whether you’re downsizing, trading up or getting onto the property ladder, there will be somewhere to suit you.”
