I assumed Wimbledon and the surrounding areas would be smart and maybe a bit cold. Posh, polished, polite.
What I found instead was somewhere that feels lived-in, calm, safe and quietly brilliant…with an unwavering passion for tennis.
Over time, I’ve come to love this patch of London not just for what it looks like, but for how it feels.
It’s the kind of area where you can walk home late at night and rarely worry.
There’s always somewhere delightful to sit, eat or explore, and where the best bits are often the ones you stumble on by accident.
Wimbledon and the surrounding areas, like Merton and Morden, are packed with absolute gems of businesses and things to do.
Take Merton Abbey Mills, for example. Not everyone knows about it, which is part of the charm. It’s tucked along the River Wandle, with old buildings, market stalls, independent shops and craft studios.
Merton Abbey Mills (Image: Amy Clarke)
On Saturdays there’s a market with food, gifts, art – and it all backs onto a lovely riverside walk.
That walk takes you straight to Morden Hall Park, which we visit often.
There are open fields, bridges over water, marshland and even the odd heron. It’s also got a garden centre and café, which makes it an easy afternoon out.
It’s the kind of place that gives you a proper breather from city life without leaving London.
Wimbledon also gets food right. One of my favourite restaurants is Diba, a Persian place in town that does the most incredible starters.
The warm bread, the dips, the grilled meats. It’s the kind of food that makes you slow down.
The Persian tea at the end is always worth it, and the service is brilliant. I always recommend it for birthdays or dates. It just feels special.
Then there’s Tampopo, a Japanese fusion restaurant that’s probably my favourite anywhere. I’ve never had a bad meal there.
The flavours are sharp, fresh and consistent, and the cocktails are outstanding.
The interior is warm and welcoming, and there’s always a good atmosphere. It’s a place I go back to again and again.
We’re also regulars at Megan’s in the village. It’s light, airy and perfect in summer when the doors are open.
It’s ideal for a relaxed family lunch, and again, the starters are outstanding.
When it comes to pubs, The Alexandra is the well-known option, but we’re especially fond of The Sultan near south Wimbledon.
It’s a Hop Back Brewery pub with a strong community feel – full of regulars and properly looked after.
Further along, The Trafalgar Tavern has a vast range of craft beers and ales. There’s real history behind the bar, and a long-running fight to save it from demolition.
The locals care deeply about this place, and it shows.
Up in the village, The Rushmere and The Rose and Crown are both reliable favourites.
They’re a bit more polished, yes, but very welcoming. Great for a slow pint on a Sunday afternoon.
The village as a whole has that slightly timeless feel – old buildings, tree-lined roads, and a quiet confidence.
In a city where customer service often feels rushed, it’s a small thing that makes a big difference.
There’s also real heart here. Groups like Dons Local Action Group do amazing work, supporting those in need and keeping that sense of community alive.
You’ll see them out collecting supplies or helping with deliveries. We always try to contribute when we can.
Green space is everywhere. South Park Gardens is a peaceful, well-kept park we visit often.
The café there, Bliss in the Park, does great food and drinks, and on Friday evenings they serve curry and a pint – or sometimes sangria. It’s a perfect way to finish the week.
I also love the Wimbledon Windmill, which sits quietly on the common and houses a small, free museum.
It’s one of those local quirks that surprises people. There’s a gift shop with thoughtful souvenirs and a gentle bit of history that gives the area more depth.
YES, the Wombles are everywhere. I didn’t realise they were connected to Wimbledon until I moved here, but now I spot them all the time.
The Wombles are unescapable.
