Area Guide - Buying Properties in Clapham

Clapham is an attractive and fashionable area located just south of Battersea in South-West London. It comprises several distinct districts: Clapham Common, Clapham North, Clapham South, Clapham Junction, and Clapham Old Town. Each of these districts has its distinct character. For instance, Clapham Common, surrounded by grand villas, is 220 acres of green open space. While Clapham Junction serves as a busy shopping hub. The area features trendy cafes and bars, attracting young professionals who congregate on weekend nights and families enjoying a Sunday brunch.

The Roman road to Chichester ran through what is now Clapham. In 965 the land was granted by the king to the Clapham family who retained ownership until the Norman conquest - the 1086 Domesday Book records it as 'Clopeham'. Remaining predominantly rural, the area witnessed the construction of large country houses in the 17th century. Samuel Pepys resided there for the final two years of his life until 1703. The Victorian railway era brought smaller houses for the working class, solidifying Clapham's reputation as the epitome of 'ordinariness' with the phrase 'the man on the Clapham omnibus.' Evolving into a commuter suburb in central London, it attracted more affluent families.