But it’s not just the stunning views or picturesque parks that make this area special – it’s the people and the sense of community that really set it apart.
The News Shopper spoke with a few locals to find out exactly what they love most about living in this charming corner of the city.
Vivian Gotsell, a regular customer at The Hill Station Café, shared her heartfelt thoughts on the place that’s become a sanctuary for her.
She told the News Shopper: “I come here because I know they will listen.
“They’ll look after me.
“I can cry, and they can cope with that.
“I can be happy, and I can talk to people. It’s just so relaxing. It feels like hope.”
Vivian, who has lived in the area for many years, said she first came to the café after her son worked with the café’s pizza vendors before heading off to Australia.
Vivian Gotsell, a regular customer at The Hill Station Café (Image: Poppy Huggett)
“It’s full of nice people, and the atmosphere makes you feel like you can just be yourself,” she explained.
“You can come in for a laugh, have a great coffee, and even cry behind the windows if you need to – they’re just so kind.”
The café, with its friendly vibe, seems to be at the heart of this close-knit community.
Vivian also shared that, although she now lives near Forest Hill, she has deep roots in the area and is proud of how it has evolved over the years.
“Telegraph Hill has always been a wonderful place to live,” she told the News Shopper.
“Even though it wasn’t considered that way years ago, it’s always had a special quality. It’s where everyone knows everyone.”
When asked about her favourite spot in the area, Vivian said the tennis courts.
She explained: “I love the tennis court, and I love the Upper Park because you can see everywhere.
“When I was able to get up there, it was just amazing to look over the whole of London.”
Vivian, a self-proclaimed history buff, loves the rich history of the area, too.
“I used to teach in Peckham, and I’ve always loved learning about the area’s past”, she added.
For Jerzey, a dog walker who has lived in Telegraph Hill for 14 years, it’s the open spaces in the parks that make it special.
“I love walking my dog here,” he told the News Shopper.
“There’s so much space for him to run around, and it’s peaceful. The whole area is just calm and relaxed.”
Sarah, another local dog walker, has lived in the area practically all her life.
For her, the community feel is what makes Telegraph Hill truly stand out.
“It’s got so much better here,” she said.
“There’s a big community feel. People really look out for each other.”
Sarah also mentions the transformation of St. Catherine’s Library into a church, a change that has added to the sense of community in the area.
“It’s great,” she said. “It just feels like we’re all part of something bigger here. Everyone is connected.”
From the stunning views at Upper Telegraph Hill Park to the welcoming atmosphere of The Hill Station Café, it’s clear that the heart of this area lies in its strong sense of community.
For Vivian, Jerzey, Sarah, and many others, Telegraph Hill is more than just a location – it’s a place where they feel truly at home, surrounded by people who care.
