Walthamstow is “Awesomestow” apparently. Yes it is a bit cringe, but don’t let that put you off, it is becoming the creative hub of London. It even has a village bit (ok I know everywhere in London claims to have one, but this is the real deal)
I don’t know many fashion designers, but of the ones who give me a minute of their precious time, all live in Walthamstow. The mass exodus from Dalston has washed-up the hipsters of London onto the shores of E17. So as you would expect there is an abundance of cutting edge food, drinks and cultural offerings.
If that sounds like your thing, then it gets even better. It has a fantastic market (the longest in Europe apparently), the River Lea and 6,000 acres of Epping Forest.
You will want to buy in the village, but so does everyone else. So perhaps opt for the Victorian properties near-by, which are a bit cheaper. Leaving you enough cash to spend in the independent cafes and shops that line Orford Road
Famous for
E17 and their lead singer Brian Harvey who drove over himself with his own car and blamed the accident on giant baked potatoes (I’m not making this up)
Positives
Green spaces, creative hub, independent stores, decent schools and on the Victoria line. Can’t argue with that.
Negatives
How many fashion designers can you stomach laughing at your awful attire (I counted three when I was there)
Also a pro-cycling scheme known as “Mini Holland” has been tested in Walthamstow, to a less-than-positive reaction.
Transport Links
Victoria line to Oxford Circus in 20-25 minutes and rail to Liverpool Street. 10-minute drive from the M11.
Schools
Primary, Roger Ascham, Hillyfield, Greenleaf and Henry Maynard “outstanding”. Secondaries, Walthamstow Academy, Holy Family RC, Willowfield, and Kelmscott all “good”, Walthamstow School for Girls “outstanding”.
Drink/Eat
All You Read is Love an independent book café, Mother’s Ruin produces a range of exquisite fruit liqueurs for sale. The Nag’s Head for a drink, it has a good beer garden and eat at Eat 17.
Property All properties correct via www.zoopla.co.uk on 4th October 2014
To buy £350,000 two bedroom first floor flat with sole use of garden.
To buy in Walthamstow click here
To rent £1,300 pcm (£300pw) First floor two double bedroom with large reception room
To rent in Walthamstow click here