Moving to Woolwich: Area Guide

For a long time, Woolwich has been branded as ‘up and coming’, but it isn’t until recently that this label has truly been fulfilled.

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Today, Woolwich is an area that’s perfect for those looking for affordable London living, with rows of houses and blocks of apartments providing lots of choice.

With new developments finally making their mark on the area, Woolwich is a great place to call home.

Thinking of moving to Woolwich? Then read on for everything you need to know about this diverse location.

Where is Woolwich?

This southeast area of London can be found in the borough of Greenwich.

Woolwich’s neighbours include Plumstead, and across the river, North Woolwich.

It takes around 45 minutes to reach Charing Cross and other central London locations from Woolwich.

The postcode for the area is SE18.

A brief history of Woolwich

Woolwich has an extensive military and sporting history.

A community has existed on the riverside at Woolwich since the Iron Age.

There are remains of a Roman fort found hidden underground in what is now Riverside Park. The remains of many Roman cremations and burials were also found at the Royal Arsenal site.

Most famously, Arsenal football team, now based in Islington, took its name from the Woolwich Arsenal. This was a factory that manufactured armaments for British forces for over 250 years.

woolwich arsenal in london

An in-depth look at Woolwich

Who lives there?

Woolwich tends to attract families, thanks to its great schools and open spaces.

With Woolwich housing prices sitting at a more reasonable end of the spectrum, young professionals also enjoy this area for a quieter side of London life.

Types of property in Woolwich

The housing in this area is pretty affordable for London’s standards, with the majority of the properties coming in the form of flats and studios.

It’s because of this that Woolwich makes a great location for first-time buyers to get their foot onto the property ladder.

The average rent in Woolwich is £1,555 pcm.

Transport links

Woolwich has a great network of transport links by road, rail and even by water, connecting to London and beyond.

The Woolwich Arsenal and Woolwich Docklands stations have direct links to the centre of London and across Greater London. The stops include Charing Cross, London Bridge, Greenwich, Dartford, Stratford and Bank.

TFL also has an easy and accessible bus service running from Woolwich, connecting people to the wider local area.

Woolwich even has a ferry service, crossing over the Thames to reach North Woolwich. This service is free and runs every 5-10 minutes.

Woolwich Restaurants 

There are some great options when it comes to eating in Woolwich.

Kailash Momo

For a unique culinary experience, make your way to Kailash Momo. This Tibetan and Nepalese restaurant specialises in authentic and flavoursome food. From dumplings filled with vegetables to noodles, rice and Thali sharing platters, you’re sure to get a taste of Nepal.

Blue Nile

Another unique place to try in Woolwich is Blue Nile. Specialising in food from Eritrea, East Africa, Blue Nile’s signature dish is the Doro Stebhi, a spicy chicken stew. Finish off with a baklava and a refreshing cup of tea.

Con Gusto

For a fusion of Italian classics, head over to Con Gusto. Winner of the 2018 TimeOut Love award, this suave restaurant is sure to impress. The handmade strozzapreti pasta with sausage and truffle oil is a must have, and the panna cotta with berry coulis is the perfect after-dinner treat.

The Girl of Sandwich

If you fancy a trip across the Thames or are in need of a spot of lunch, then The Girl of Sandwich is a great option. Expect full English fry ups and sarnies with a variety of fillings.

woolwich ferry in london at dusk

Shopping in Woolwich

You can find all the classic high street stores in Woolwich, including New Look, Superdrug, Primark, Peacocks, Clarks and Poundland.

Plus, thanks to great transport links, you can also get to London’s major shopping districts in no time.

Socialising in Woolwich

Woolwich has all sorts to see and do, from wide open green spaces to fitness and leisure activities.

  • Go for a walk at the Woolwich Arsenal Park
  • Meet your friends for a picnic at Woolwich Common
  • Go for a swim with the family or squeeze in a workout at Waterfront Leisure Centre

Moving to Woolwich 

If you’re intrigued by Woolwich’s sporting history or love the idea of jumping on a ferry to cross the Thames, this recently regenerated area would be a great place to call home.

With great transport links to the rest of the capital, and its fair share of eateries, Woolwich is a fantastic location to consider when moving to London.


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