Is Deptford a Good Place to Live?

In the past, Deptford might not have been too high on many peoples’ lists as an area of London to consider moving to. Not that Deptford was considered bad in any way, but following the Second World War it didn’t have the same level of investment as other areas of the capital. This is a shame, considering how Deptford played a major role in Britain’s maritime history. Famed explorer Sir Francis Drake was even knighted by Queen Elizabeth I in Deptford in the 16th century. You can find out more about Deptford’s rich history in our guide to exploring Deptford’s past.

Today, Deptford is in the middle of a transformation. Millions are being invested into the area to ensure it becomes just as desirable as nearby neighbourhoods. This includes fantastic places to live, new and exciting places to eat, drink and shop, and leisure spaces. It also has a variety of transport links so you can get around the city however you please.

In this article, we’ll explore what living in Deptford is like and help you make the decision about whether or not it’s right for you.

What living in the Deptford area is like

Deptford is quickly establishing itself as a hugely desirable place to live. Not only is it ideally situated in South East London with links across the city, but it also offers a wonderfully diverse and eclectic mix of people and cultures, and has a bustling creative scene for established and up-and-coming artists and performers.

There’s another huge draw that makes Deptford so attractive – it’s 25% cheaper to live here than it is nearby Greenwich. So, you can have all of the advantages of living in South East London but with a far smaller hit to your wallet.

Rather than us just telling you that Deptford should be an area you consider moving to, let’s run through the reasons why it’s such a great place to live.

Transportation links

If you work elsewhere in London, or even somewhere outside of the capital, Deptford makes for a handy place to call home thanks to the array of transportation options.

You can get around by rail thanks to the DLR, with Deptford Bridge station situated right in the heart of the area. There’s also Deptford station, offering National Rail trains to London Bridge and beyond. Just a short walk is New Cross Overground station, meaning you have plenty of choice.

By bus, there are loads of routes that pass through Deptford, including the 47, 188, 199, 225 and 453.

If you prefer to get around by car, the A2 and A200 provide simple access in and around the area. Though, much like the roads across the city, it can get rather busy – especially during peak times. But, driving around Deptford is thankfully not quite as busy as other areas, particularly as you get closer to central London.

For something a little different, you could hop on an Uber Boat at Greenwich Pier. At least for now, the River Thames continues to be less congested than London’s roads, so it’s often a useful alternative to other forms of transport.

Things to do

Whether you enjoy catching a show, spending time relaxing outdoors or learning about local history, there are plenty of things to do to keep you busy in and around Deptford.

The historic Albany Theatre has been entertaining Londoners since the late 19th century and welcomes up-and-coming talent, as well as big names in entertainment. Take your pick from the many musicals, plays, kids' shows, comedy nights, roller discos, community events and more. Whatever you like to catch on stage, the Albany is practically guaranteed to have a show for you.

If you prefer to spend your time indulging in a little art, whether it’s your own creations or something another artist has produced, APT Gallery is a fantastic space that encourages creativity. It’s also free to enter the regular events and galleries they host, so head down and feed your imagination.

For something a little greener, Deptford is home to several public parks, including Deptford Park, Pepys Park and Aragon Gardens. In nearby Greenwich, Greenwich Park is a huge space and is home to an observatory and planetarium that allows you to see the stars.

Also in Greenwich, learn all about South East London and its maritime history at the British Maritime Museum and Cutty Sark. Plus, the rest of the city is within easy reach if you hop on the train or catch the bus.

For more information, read our post featuring some of the best things to do in Deptford.

Places to eat and drink

There’s never been a better time to be a foodie in Deptford, with a wide variety of offerings including fine dining, authentic international flavours and grab-and-go deliciousness.

For affordable grub under the iconic railway arches, head down to Deptford Market Yard which has an electric atmosphere and plenty of outside seating. Enjoy tongue-tickling Caribbean flavours at Jerk Yard, mouthwatering burgers at Gobsmacked, smack-you-round the face with flavour tacos at Taco Tacos and plenty more. For a tipple in a unique setting, Little Nan’s has an enormous selection of cocktails you can enjoy while surrounded by Pat Butcher memorabilia. What’s not to love?

Outside Deptford Market Yard, sit down and sample a true taste of Italy at Marcella, with its small but refined menu. Or there’s Eat Vietnam, a family-run restaurant offering some of the best Vietnamese food you’ve ever tasted.

This is just the start. Read our guide to the best Deptford restaurants to get an idea of just how fantastic the food and drink offerings are in the area.

Shopping

Looking for a bit of retail therapy? Deptford is home to a range of shopping options, from large chain stores to quirky independent retailers and boutiques.

Deptford Market has all the charm and offerings you might hope for, with a range of sellers specialising in fresh produce, clothes, accessories, household goods and more. Deptford Market Yard also welcomes a range of stalls and is home to a carless car boot sale every other Sunday.

Along Deptford High Street you’ll find big brand names in clothing, entertainment and more, as well as independent retailers and specialist supermarkets. There’s also a choice of big-name supermarkets including Iceland, Asda, Tesco and Co-Op.

If you head a little northeast, you can visit Surrey Quays, a shopping centre with stores including Boots, New Look, Specsavers and other big brands.

Schools

There are many schools in and around Deptford, many of which have received outstanding inspection ratings, so you don’t have to worry about securing a great education if you have kids.

For the little ones, you might choose Grinling Gibbons Primary School or Lucas Vale Primary School.

Once they get older, Deptford Green School and Tidemill Academy are both fantastic choices.

Renting in Deptford with UNCLE

Are you considering living in Deptford? This up-and-coming area is currently having millions invested into it, so if you see Deptford in your future, now’s the time to make your big move.

Here at UNCLE, we offer fully serviced flats that put you right in the heart of the area. Join the waitlist now to receive information on this new development.