The annual survey, now in its 13th year, gathered responses from over 35,000 people across the country about their satisfaction with their local area.
The survey explored various factors that contribute to residents’ happiness, including a sense of pride in the community, feelings of belonging, access to green spaces, public transport, and cultural activities.
Bexley has a population of approximately 247,835 as of mid-2022 and key locations within the borough include Bexleyheath, the commercial heart with its iconic clock tower, Erith, a historic riverside area undergoing regeneration, and Old Bexley, often referred to as Bexley Village, known for its quaint charm and independent shops.
Other notable areas include Sidcup, Crayford, and Welling, each offering unique residential and commercial appeal.
For those who call Bexley home, the survey failed to capture what makes it a great place to live and work.
One of Bexley’s defining strengths is its sense of community. Paula Weston, CEO of Blackfen Community Library, emphasised the importance of creating spaces where people feel they belong.
She told the News Shopper: “At Blackfen Community Library, we’re passionate about creating a sense of belonging and investing in the lives of our community members.
She highlighted the library’s role in combating loneliness, particularly for older residents, while offering a welcoming space for families.
Paula added: “It’s a privilege to witness individuals, such as those who have been bereaved, finding meaningful connections and rediscovering joy through new friendships.
“Our space isn’t just a library—it’s a lifeline for many, fostering renewed energy and a brighter outlook on life.”
Local business owners also praised the borough’s close-knit nature. Genine Patrick, owner of Pilates Body Studio in Bexley Village, has lived in the area all her life and has run her business for over 20 years.
She said: “It’s a fabulous place to live and work. I’m proud of the local community who support each other.
“Most of our clients are Bexley Borough residents, and without their support, we wouldn’t have survived Covid.”
Peter Foley, owner of Village Wines, described Bexley as “a great place to live and work.”
He said: “We’ve been here for 40 years, and as well as having the best local customers, we feel a real sense of belonging and camaraderie with our fellow local businesses.
“There’s a true feeling of community that pulls together.”
Peter also highlighted the area’s affordability and convenience – particularly for those living in the village.
“With trains into London in 30 minutes and house prices that don’t reflect that benefit as much as in other places similarly located, I’d argue Bexley Village residents are some of the happiest around.”
Bexley’s pubs are another standout feature of the borough, truly deserving of praise.
The King’s Arms in Bexleyheath has received national recognition, being shortlisted as a finalist in the Best Town Pub category at the Great British Pub Awards 2024.
The pub previously won the Best Pub for Entertainment award in 2023.
The George Staples in Blackfen, a pub dating back to 1931, remains a community favourite with its spacious garden, private TV booths, and welcoming atmosphere.
Meanwhile, The King’s Head, a 15th-century inn in Bexley Village, has become a hub for both locals and visitors.
Colin Toner, the pub’s manager, told the News Shopper: “I moved to the village in late 2018 when our company bought The King’s Head, since taking over the bar, we have been privileged to meet some of the most amazing, kind and genuine people you could ever come across.
“All proud Bexleians. My children have grown up here and go to school locally, like myself, they have made Bexley Village their home and have developed close friendships in the village. Unlike other parts of London, they feel safe in the village.
“The landscape of the high street has changed so much in the time I have been here, but, thankfully, for positive reasons.
“The high street now consists of a fantastic selection of artisan coffee shops, deli’s, cafes and bistros serving amazing food, a quintessential tea room, boutique clothing shops, florists and even a cool new independent gym!
“The night time economy is equally as impressive with a number of high end restaurants ranging from Indian, Chinese, Italian, Greek, Spanish, Thai and a bloody great Pizzeria.
“To complement those restaurants, the choice of venues for a drink extends from traditional English bars, sports bars, cocktail bars and now a wonderful new micro pub specialising in craft beer.”
Bexley’s parks and green spaces are another highlight that residents cherish.
Danson Park, Foots Cray Meadows, and Lesnes Abbey Woods offer peaceful settings for walking, picnicking, and family outings.
Lesnes Abbey Woods, with its 12th-century ruins and fossil pit, has been given a Green Flag Award, recognising its high environmental standards and excellent visitor facilities.
Families are also drawn to the borough for its schools. Townley Grammar and Bexley Grammar are particularly sought after, while primary schools consistently perform well.
Many local businesses are continuing to thrive and grow day-by-day like The Anchor, a fish and chip shop that recently won a place in the Fry’s 50 Best Fish & Chip Takeaways.
The Anchor is the creation of owner Ozan Bakic, who started the business up with his wife while working as an electrician with no prior food experience, and was able to grow the business into a successful and multi-award-winning enterprise which is also famous on social media.
For Bexley’s residents and businesses, the borough is not only a place to live but a place to thrive. From its strong community ties to its growing local economy, Bexley offers much to celebrate.
