Rightmove recently ranked Bromley as the happiest south east London borough by asking thousands of people across Great Britain about their feelings toward where they live, covering factors such as community pride, safety, and overall satisfaction.
Of the 32 London boroughs and the City of London included in the survey, Bromley ranked 6th, making it the highest-ranked borough in south east London and the fourth highest across all of south London.
Bromley residents may be happy for several reasons, from its abundance of green space to its strong transport links and community feel.
So here are five reasons why Bromley deserves the happiest south east London borough title.
Green spaces
Bromley is London’s greenest borough, with more parkland than anywhere else in the city.
Crystal Palace Park stands out with its dinosaur trail, boating lake and maze, all of which are a hit with families and runners alike.
High Elms Country Park offers woodland walks and nature trails, while Norman Park hosts weekend football and fitness groups.
You’ve also got Kelsey Park in Beckenham, complete with waterfalls and ducks, and Jubilee Country Park for quiet, dog-friendly strolls.
It’s the kind of borough where green space isn’t a bonus – it’s built in.
Family feel
Bromley has long been a favourite for families looking to settle down, and was even named as one of the most family-friendly boroughs earlier this year by Making Moves London.
Top-rated schools include Newstead Wood School for Girls and St Olave’s Grammar, both of which are some of the highest-performing in the country.
There’s also Langley Park School for Boys and Bullers Wood for Girls, plus a strong mix of primaries like Bickley and Pickhurst.
The area is known for its lower crime rates, safe streets and family-focused communities like Chislehurst, West Wickham and Shortlands.
Soft play centres, libraries, tennis clubs and junior football leagues make it easy to keep the kids busy all year round.
Town and suburb in one
Bromley balances a busy town centre with calm, suburban surroundings.
The Glades shopping centre brings big brands like Zara, M&S, and Apple, while the nearby Bromley High Street offers Greggs-to-Gails options.
The Churchill Theatre hosts everything from comedy to panto, and there’s a Picturehouse for indie films just a few minutes’ walk away.
If you’re after cafés, try Shortlands’ cosy spots or Orpington’s Nuggetz & Co.
For pub lunches or Sunday brunch, The Bricklayers Arms in Beckenham and The Bickley in Chislehurst are local go-to.
Transport links
Despite the leafy feel, Bromley is brilliantly connected to the rest of London.
Bromley South gets you to Victoria in 16 minutes, with frequent fast trains.
Bromley North links to Grove Park for connections to London Bridge and Cannon Street.
Orpington station is a major hub too, which is ideal for commuters heading into the City.
Road access is solid, with the A21 running through and the M25 nearby for weekend trips.
Though, like with many central zones, you’re more likely to not get a seat on your morning commute.
There’s so much to do here
Bromley provides so many activities for residents to enjoy throughout the year.
From weekly parkruns at Norman Park to summer cinema nights in Beckenham Place Park, the borough offers a steady calendar of local activity.
Beckenham Fireworks Night draws thousands each November, while Christmas lights switch-ons in Bromley High Street and Chislehurst Village mark the festive season.
The Churchill Theatre brings national tours to the town centre, and families flock to The Glades during school holidays for themed events and pop-ups.
Residents also make the most of local landmarks like Chislehurst Caves and High Elms for weekend outings.
It’s this mix of community tradition and year-round things to do that keeps people rooted — and keeps Bromley among London’s happiest places to live.
