Local area guide

Living in Catford

Thinking about moving to Catford? 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 Catford

Why Catford is a good place to live

Living in Catford comes with the comfort of a small town yet with the perks of a bustling city. Renowned for its property affordability, it also boasts stunning architecture, from Victorian to Edwardian. Nature lovers will enjoy the green views of London from local parks such as Mountsfield Park. A network of dependable transport links ensure residents are able to swiftly commute into central London. Restaurants with diverse cuisines and exciting social events at thriving local pubs also add to the spirited atmosphere of Catford, promising a lively lifestyle.

What's Catford famous for?

Catford is famous for the iconic Catford Cat, an impressive fibreglass cat statue that towers over the entrance to the local shopping centre. The statue symbolises Catford’s enthusiasm for development and local camaraderie. Furthermore, the area is renowned for being the home town of globally acclaimed personalities such as Desmond Tutu, Ben Elton, and the late Sir Henry Cooper. Another feather in Catford's cap is its claim to fame of hosting the first British curry house.

Things to do in Catford

There certainly is no shortage of things to do while living in Catford. The area brims with culinary delights; diners can feast on Middle Eastern dishes in Mekan or Japanese food at Sapporo Ichiban. Sociable venues like Catford Bridge Tavern and Ninth Life offer great spots for after-work drink. Entertainment is never far off, with performances at the Broadway Theatre presenting an array of genres and the Catford Free Film Festival delivering top-notch indie cinema. The People’s Day Festival, one of South East London's largest festival, offers a variety of arts and crafts, music and community events. And for outdoor enthusiasts, the play areas and tennis courts of Mountsfield Park provide an excellent setting for physical activities.

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 Catford

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

Transport in Catford

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

Local connections

Catford
National Rail
0 miles / 0.0 km
Catford Bridge
National Rail
0.1 miles / 0.2 km
Bellingham
National Rail
0.8 miles / 1.3 km
Crofton Park
National Rail
0.9 miles / 1.4 km
Ladywell
National Rail
0.9 miles / 1.4 km
Honor Oak Park
National Rail
0.9 miles / 1.4 km

Schools in Catford

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

Education in Catford

St Dunstan's College
Ages: 3 - 18 years old
Holbeach Primary School
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2023)
Rushey Green Primary School
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2022)
Rathfern Primary School
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (2021)
Holy Cross Catholic Primary School
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (2023)
Education-My Life Matters
Ages: 11 - 16 years old
Ofsted Rating: Requires improvement (2022)

Local pubs in Catford

In partnership with
useyourlocal

  • Catford Bridge Tavern

    London SE6

    The Catford Bridge Tavern is part of the Portobello Brewery family. We look forward to welcoming old and new customers and we hope to make this your home away from home.

  • Black Cat

    London SE6

    This extremely friendly local is on the edge of Catford Market. A warm welcome awaits you every day of the week with entertainment offered on most Saturday nights.

  • Blythe Hill Tavern

    London SE23

    CAMRA award-winning, traditional Victorian corner pub where you will always find a warm welcome and a great selection of real ales on tap.