Bruno Marques and Mark Ruffell, Lettings and Sales Managers at Foxtons Blackheath, let us in on the insider tips on their area.
WHAT'S THE NEWS ON THE PROPERTY SCENE IN YOUR AREA?Bruno: The property market in and around Blackheath is continually picking up pace, thanks to the huge developments currently in action. The imminent opening of the Crossrail in 2017, coupled with the recent regeneration of Royal Arsenal and the DLR stations have been instrumental in attracting buyers and investors to the area. Woolwich in particular is gaining more and more interest, especially as there are plans to change the zone from 4 to 3. Lewisham is another hotspot, having undergone an incredible transformation over the past few years.
Mark: As well as these, the impressive development, Kidbrooke Village, is nearing completion and is providing Blackheath, Kidbrooke and the surrounding neighbourhoods with a great opportunity for growth and regeneration. I'm also excited by the re-development of the Catford dog track which has been out of action for a while and will really boost the area.
ARE THERE ANY NEW BAR OR RESTAURANT OPENINGS?Bruno: Blackheath now has an even more impressive dining scene, with the French brasserie-style restaurant Cote and Argentinian-inspired CAU both opening in the past year and creating quite a buzz. The Italian restaurant Locale is also undergoing a refurbishment and is scheduled to reopen this week, which I'm looking forward to trying out.
WHERE'S BEST FOR ENJOYING THE WEEKEND?Mark: I love to start the day wandering around Manor House Gardens, before settling into a long lunch and lazy afternoon at The Station Hotel by Hither Green train station enjoying their amazing Sunday roasts.
Bruno: For breakfast, I often go to The Green Cafe in Greenwich which is friendly and popular with the locals. For something a little more upmarket it's got to be Chapters in Blackheath. There are also some incredible gastro-pubs in the area. My favourites are The Vanbrugh and the recently refurbished The Pilot.
WHERE WOULD YOU RECEOMMEND FOR A TREAT?Mark: I'd suggest paying a visit to the independent clothing store, Raffles, which isn't cheap but does stock some amazing and one-of-a-kind items.
WHAT ARE THE BEST FEATURES OF BLACKHEATH AND THE SURROUNDINGS?Mark: Definitely the surrounding green spaces, with Greenwich Park as an absolute highlight! Blackheath is also a fantastic base for families looking to benefit from the numerous outstanding private and state primary schools.
Bruno: I agree, Greenwich Park is excellent, especially with the Royal Observatory and Maritime Museum, however the lesser known green spaces, including The Heath and Manor House Gardens are also great escapes from the hustle and bustle of the city and are less touristy.
FINALLY HAVE YOU GOT ANY FUN FACTS ABOUT THE AREA?Bruno: Jude Law and Richard Branson were both born in Blackheath and ex-Blue singer, Lee Ryan, is sometimes seen out and about as his mum owns a beauty shop in the area.
Mark: History buffs and sports enthusiasts might like to know that James I founded the first golf club in England in Blackheath in 1608, whilst the Blackheath Rugby Club, founded in 1858 and the Blackheath Hockey Club, founded in 1858, are also both the oldest documented clubs of their kind in the world!
Contact Foxtons Blackheath or ask Mark and Bruno to value your home.
