Recognition from MyLondon:
An area of South West London has become so popular with young families it's been nicknamed 'Nappy Valley'. The trendy area around Clapham, Wandsworth and Battersea, is regarded by estate agents and property experts in London as the
best area for young families to move to.
As Londoners look to move to the next stage in their life, many are moving out of Central into the surrounding areas, with South West London becoming a magnet for those looking to bring up children. The kids' clothing stores, cafes, and toy stores dotted along Northcote Road, where Clapham and Wandsworth meet, is the perfect example of why the area is nicknamed 'nappy valley'.
Sitting on the popular Northcote Road is QT Toys, an independent toy store that has been run by the same family since 1983. Owner Joseph Yap revealed that his father had set up the shop "back when Clapham wasn't quite as gentrified". He said: "I first noticed things were changing when we saw an All Bar One, then a Starbucks, it started changing then."
The toy shop has been in the area for 39 years
On why he thinks it's such a hub for young families now, Joseph said: "I think it was from when people started moving out of Central London. Then all the houses round here were sold to quite affluent families.
"Although Joseph doesn't live in or around the Clapham/Wandsworth area himself, he believes it's a top spot for new parents. He added: "I think it's a good place for young families because of all the amenities around, two commons, toy shops and a lot of really good schools."
Pottery Cafe on Northcote Road, Clapham
Further down Northcote Road, heading closer towards Wandsworth is Pottery Café. This spot is a popular destination for young families to take their little ones and handcraft bowls, plates and other potter worthy kitchen items. The walls are decorated with creations made in-store.
Employee Tabitha, 28, has lived in South West London her whole life. She joked: "I've worked here for five years on and off and it was definitely 'nappy valley' when I started."
Tabitha believes that she noticed a big difference in the change of demographic around 2008, she added: "I think this area offers a lot of things that young families would look for, there are communities and shops and cafes."
The Pottery Cafe is a popular day out for young families in the area
Young families are also moving into South West London, or as they prepare to have children. Matthew Anthony and his fiancée Laura live in Wandsworth. Matthew said: "I loves South West London and its all round vibe." He added: "There are plenty of green spaces that are nearby, you can take yourself away from the rush of the city here."
Although Matthew confessed he and his partner might not be ready for a baby just yet, he said they are settling in an area that has what they need when they reach that stage. He said: "I think it's a great place to raise a family. A lot of people move out of London to raise kids but there are great schools around here and loads of fun activities for families too."
Although South West London does appear to be a real hot-spot for young families the transport links in the area are slightly scarce. The Northern Line runs through Clapham and Balham and has now extended to Battersea too, but areas either side have to settle for trains or buses.
Story from: https://www.mylondon.news/news/south-lo ... s-25761473
