Local area guide

Living in Balham

Thinking about moving to Balham? Discover why it's a great place to live, fun things to do here, what the local schools are like, transport connections and so much more.

Your guide to moving to Balham

Why Balham is a good place to live

Balham, nestled in south west London, is a delightful blend of Victorian and Edwardian charm. Positioned masterfully between the vibrant city life and serene suburbs, it caters to all desires. Acknowledged for incredible transport links, moving to Balham opens a gateway to convenient living with Oxford Circus just 20 minutes away on the Northern line, and Heathrow Airport under an hour by car. As for culinary adventures, a broad spectrum of restaurants awaits you in Balham, from classy weekend brunches to sumptuous Italian cuisine and after-work bites. Situated close to three of London's cherished commons—Clapham, Wandsworth, and Tooting Bec—it offers dwellers the chance to enjoy a lifestyle infused with plenty of outdoor activities within these expansive green spaces.

What's Balham famous for?

Balham is famous for several noteworthy aspects. Its claim to fame involves being home to Adele, the Grammy award-winning singer who attended Chestnut Grove School in the area. Another notable personality born in Balham includes actress Margaret Rutherford. Architecturally, Balham boasts of unique constructions such as Du Cane Court, the largest privately owned residential block in Europe. Known for its Art Deco design, it has often been utilised for filming. Another landmark that has garnered fame is Tooting Bec Common, housing the UK’s largest lido—an open-air public bath.

Things to do in Balham

Being in Balham presents ample opportunity to make the most of a leisurely lifestyle. You can go for a lovely Sunday roast at one of the buzzing local pubs or opt for brunch with friends at 'Milk'. After a meal, why not be part of London’s most loved live music and comedy acts at 'The Bedford,' Balham’s symbolic entertainment spot? 'The Exhibit,' an independent cinema in the area, offers a unique movie watching experience you wouldn’t want to miss. Balham Farmers Market, happening every Saturday, is definitely worth a visit for its range of seasonal produce and artisanal products. Finally, if you’re a fan of local art, check out Gallery Midnight run by local artist Johny Midnight that not only displays fascinating art but offers painting classes for residents. All these elements combined make Balham a genuinely enjoyable place to live.

We have used a bespoke generative AI model to help us research and create our area guides. All of our content is reviewed, and edited where needed, by our trusted team of Zoopla content editors.

Properties currently for sale in Balham

Whether you're looking to buy a family home or a beautiful apartment, we've got you covered.

Transport in Balham

Find the nearest train stations and other transport links in Balham.

Local connections

Balham
National Rail
0.1 miles / 0.2 km
Balham
0.1 miles / 0.2 km
Wandsworth Common
National Rail
0.5 miles / 0.8 km
Clapham South
0.6 miles / 1.0 km
Tooting Bec
0.7 miles / 1.1 km
Streatham Hill
National Rail
1.1 miles / 1.8 km

Schools in Balham

Discover local primary schools, secondary schools and sixth form colleges in Balham.

Education in Balham

Chestnut Grove Academy
Ages: 11 - 19 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2019)
Hornsby House School
Ages: 4 - 11 years old
Trinity St Mary's CofE Primary School
Ages: 2 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2022)
Ravenstone Primary School
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2023)
Alderbrook Primary School
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2018)
Holy Ghost Catholic Primary School
Ages: 5 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (2013)

Local pubs in Balham

In partnership with
useyourlocal
  • Lost & Found Bar

    London SW12

    We're a friendly, easy going little cocktail bar in Balham serving up a drink for every occasion.

  • Regent

    London SW12

    Independent, inviting and right up your street, The Regent is a pretty handsome and friendly local serving darn tasty pub food with a beer selection to take care of every palate, classically perfect cocktails and wines to wet your whistle.

  • Devonshire

    London SW12

    We are Balham’s and South West London’s social hotspot for every occasion.

  • Bedford

    London SW12

    An iconic bar, restaurant, club, hotel & live entertainment venue.

  • Grove

    London SW12

    Hidden gem just off Balham High Road. Perfectly situated in the middle of Balham and Clapham South tube stations.