Tooting, in southwest London, is a neighbourhood that has grown in popularity over the last decade, offering a fantastic mix of affordable rents, excellent transport links, a lively food scene, and a diverse community. Once considered a hidden gem, Tooting is now one of the trendiest areas in London, attracting young professionals, families, and long-time residents who appreciate its blend of urban vibrancy and suburban calm. Here are the top 10 reasons why Tooting is one of the best places to rent a flat in London.
# 1. Outstanding Transport Links
Tooting is exceptionally well-connected to central London and beyond, thanks to its two Northern Line Underground stations: Tooting Bec and Tooting Broadway. From here, you can reach London Bridge, Waterloo, and Kings Cross in under 30 minutes.
Additionally, Tooting Railway Station provides National Rail services to destinations like Wimbledon and London Blackfriars making it ideal for commuters. Several bus routes also serve the area, making it easy to get to nearby areas like Clapham, Balham, and Wimbledon.
# 2. Tooting Common
One of the greatest assets of Tooting is its access to green spaces, particularly Tooting Common. This large park has something for everyone: open fields perfect for picnics and sports, well-maintained tennis courts, a playground for kids, and a cozy café for a quick break. It's a favourite spot for runners and dog walkers alike, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The park is also home to Tooting Bec Lido, one of the largest outdoor swimming pools in Europe. Ideal for a refreshing summer swim or a brisk winter dip, this iconic spot is a local favourite that attracts visitors from all over the city.
# 3. Affordability
Compared to neighbouring areas like Balham or Clapham, Tooting offers more affordable rents while still providing a fantastic lifestyle. Flats and houses in the area tend to offer better value for money, especially when it comes to spacious Victorian and Edwardian homes that have been converted into flats.
This affordability makes Tooting particularly attractive for young professionals and families who want more space without sacrificing easy access to central London.
# 4. Vibrant Food Scene
Tooting’s food scene is among the most vibrant in London, especially for curry lovers. Tooting High Street is renowned for its array of authentic South Asian restaurants, with local favourites like Lahore Karahi, Mirch Masala, and Apollo Banana Leaf offering rich flavours and a welcoming atmosphere.
For even more culinary diversity, Tooting Market and Broadway Market are must-visits. Here, you’ll find street food stalls, artisan vendors, and independent eateries serving up everything from Venezuelan arepas to wood-fired pizzas. Trendy spots like Brickwood and Graveney & Meadow serve exceptional coffee and brunch, making Tooting a true haven for foodies.
# 5. Tooting Markets
Tooting Market and Broadway Market are vibrant cultural and culinary hubs that bring the community together. Open since 1930, Tooting Market offers a diverse range of stalls featuring fresh produce, groceries, vintage clothing, art, and homeware.
Broadway Market, with its trendy eateries and bars, has a more modern, youthful vibe, frequently hosting pop-up food vendors, live music, and community events. Both markets embody Tooting’s multicultural spirit, making them lively spots to shop, eat, and connect with others.
# 6. Lively Nightlife
Tooting boasts a buzzing nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, pubs, and restaurants to choose from. The Castle, a historic pub with a beautiful beer garden, is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The Antelope is another favourite, offering craft beers, a cozy atmosphere, and regular events such as quiz nights and live music.
For something a bit trendier, The Little Bar and Graveney & Meadow serve up delicious cocktails and craft beers in stylish settings. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed pint or a night out with friends, Tooting has a fantastic selection of venues to enjoy.
# 7. Diverse Community
Tooting’s rich multicultural diversity is one of its defining characteristics, and it’s reflected in everything from its food to its community events. The neighbourhood has long been home to a significant South Asian population, which has heavily influenced the local culture, especially through the cuisine.
This diversity extends beyond food, with a variety of cultural events and festivals taking place throughout the year, celebrating different cultures and traditions. The welcoming, inclusive atmosphere is one of the reasons so many people are drawn to Tooting.
# 8. Thriving Arts and Culture Scene
Tooting has a growing arts and culture scene, with an increasing number of creative spaces and cultural events popping up. Theatre503, located just a short distance away in Battersea, is one of London’s leading fringe theatre’s, showcasing new writing and emerging talent.
Locally, Tooting’s Tram & Social is a unique live music venue housed in a former tram shed, hosting everything from indie bands to comedy nights. For art lovers, Tooting Arts Club regularly hosts immersive theatre experiences and community arts events.
# 9. Variety of Housing Options
Tooting offers a wide range of housing options to suit different needs and budgets. The area is known for its charming period properties, including large Victorian and Edwardian houses, many of which have been converted into spacious flats. For those seeking something more modern, new-build developments have also appeared in recent years, providing contemporary living spaces with modern amenities.
Whether you’re looking for a flatshare, a modern apartment, or a family home, Tooting has something to offer at competitive prices.
# 10. Family-Friendly Amenities
Tooting is an increasingly popular choice for families, thanks to its excellent schools, abundant green spaces, and variety of family-friendly amenities. Well-regarded local primary schools like Fircroft Primary and Hillbrook Primary provide quality education, while Graveney School, a secondary school with academy status, consistently ranks among London’s top schools.
With numerous parks, playgrounds, and family-centred activities, Tooting offers a wonderful environment for both parents and children. The neighbourhood’s warm, community-oriented vibe makes it an inviting place for families looking to settle down and thrive.
Conclusion
Tooting’s blend of affordability, excellent transport links, vibrant food and cultural scenes, and community spirit makes it one of the best places to rent a flat in London. With its unique character, proximity to green spaces, and rich multicultural diversity, Tooting offers a dynamic and exciting lifestyle without the sky-high rents of more central neighbourhoods. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or anyone looking for a lively and welcoming community, Tooting is an ideal place to call home.
