From open green spaces and tranquil nature reserves to peaceful walking routes along the Thames, it’s a paradise for anyone who loves the outdoors.
Wildlife thrives here too – kingfishers, partridges, hares, cuckoos and even the occasional seal have all been spotted, according to VisitGreenwich.org.
Nature highlights in the area include Manorway Green, located in north Thamesmead near the River Thames; the Edible Garden off Maran Way, created as part of the South Thamesmead Garden Estate improvement works; and the South Thamesmead Garden Estate, which is transforming underused open spaces into flourishing parkland.
Birchmere Park, one of Thamesmead’s largest open spaces, hosts cricket games, car boot sales, team sports, and even seasonal swimming.
Steeped in history, the area was one of London’s first pioneering New Towns of the 1960s and once formed part of the Royal Arsenal, which supplied Britain through two world wars.
Today, it’s a place buzzing with creativity, with a busy calendar of arts, theatre and community events bringing residents together all year round.
From the street art trail, featuring stunning murals from local and international artists to The Cage Ball Court on Wolvercote Road, where sport, dance, graffiti and filming come together, and the iconic 1960s Lakeside Centre on Southmere Lake, there’s always something to see or do for culture lovers.
And with a £1 billion regeneration project led by Peabody, London’s oldest housing association, Thamesmead’s next chapter looks even brighter.
Improved transport links, including the nearby Elizabeth line at Abbey Wood, mean central London hotspots like Bond Street are now just 25 minutes away.
For those looking to unwind after exploring, there’s no shortage of cosy pubs and lively bars nearby – including local favourites like The Cutty Sark and The Birchwood – perfect for a riverside drink or a relaxed evening out.
Speaking about The Cutty Sark on TripAdvisor, a reviewer said: “I’ve always liked this pub.
“My ex-boyfriend and I used to go regularly when we lived in London a decade ago, and I was very pleased on a recent visit to see that they’ve maintained the same high standards.
“We ate in the downstairs pub area, which has a cosy feel and lots of nooks and crannies.
“The fish and chips were excellent, tasty, and a big portion size.
“The wine list was great.”
According to Rightmove, house prices in Thamesmead have an overall average of £366,979 over the last year.
Most properties sold in Thamesmead during the last year were flats, selling for an average price of £361,317.
Terraced properties sold for an average of £359,881, with detached properties fetching £479,562.
