If you do move to Hyde Farm estate you could also try applying to Alderbrook Primary School. Henry Cavendish and Telferscot are generally very over-subscribed and I cannot recommend Alderbrook enough. My little boy has been at the school since reception and is now in Year 1. He is learning very well, loves the school and has made some super friends, as have I. The Head Teacher has fantastic vision and the school's OFSTED inspection is imminent. The school is driving to achieve 'Outstanding'. Watch this space! You will need to go through Wandsworth Council for Alderbrook Admissions. http://www.wandsworth.gov.uk/info/.../s ... ool_places

Good luck with the move.

We have lived in the Hyde Farm for 6 years and love it. It is super quiet (traffic, trains, etc) but a short walk to Balham. We use the Common lots, and there are two good schools (Henry cavendish and Telferscott, 3 if you include St Bede's, the Catholic school) and a lovely nursery (Asquith).

Our neighbours are fab, and the new people who bought downstairs a few months ago have commented that it is much friendlier than where they previously lived.

We lived on Laitwood Road and LOVED it. Lots of families and really nice people.

Hi

We live on Hyde Farm - on one of the roads off Emmanuel Road and we love it.

It's right on top of the common and in the catchment area for two really good primary schools (Henry Cavendish and Telferscot.)

You're also very close to both Balham tube and over ground (less than 10 mins into Victoria) and the shopping on the high road is very good too.

Unlike other areas of London that I've lived, the parking is not a total nightmare.

There's a lovely community feel in our road - we had a big jubilee street party and we have a Christmas get together too. The area is also very ethnically and culturally diverse, which I love.

Of course there are downsides: currently a hight rate of burglaries and car theft. Very high percentage of renters and (in my experience) those properties aren't always well kept/looked after. A lot of 'dangerous dogs' in the area too - especially on Tooting Bec.

However having lived in: Battersea, Clapham south, Wandsworth town - this is by far my favourite area.

Hi,

We are looking for a house in Balham. We like Ormeley Road/Hyde Farm and would love to hear from anybody about what it's like to live in that area.

Thanks,
Anna