Battersea is one of London’s most vibrant riverside neighbourhoods – a place where leafy parks meet industrial heritage, and a new generation of shops, bars, and cultural spaces have transformed it into one of the capital’s most sought-after postcodes.

With its iconic power station, village-like charm, and direct links into central London, Battersea blends old-school character with glossy modern living. Whether you’re cycling the Thames Path, exploring Battersea Park, or grabbing bao buns under neon lights, it’s a neighbourhood that offers both calm and buzz in equal measure.

Where is Battersea?

Battersea sits in southwest London, on the south bank of the Thames. It’s part of the London Borough of Wandsworth and is bordered by Clapham, Balham, Vauxhall, and Chelsea – all within easy reach.

It’s just 3.5 miles from Charing Cross, putting it comfortably in Zone 2 and offering fast routes across the city. Around 80,000 people call Battersea home, from students and young professionals to families and long-time locals. It also has a slice of cultural fame – with famous past residents including Adele, Bob Geldof, G.K. Chesterton and even J.K. Rowling.

Transport links

Battersea is impressively well-connected. With a new Tube station, major rail hub, riverside boat services, and cycle-friendly routes, getting around is easy – whether you’re commuting, socialising, or heading out of town.

Tube

Battersea Power Station (Northern Line)
Opened in 2021 as part of the Northern Line Extension, this new Zone 1 station connects directly to Waterloo, Leicester Square, Euston and Camden Town.

Rail

Clapham Junction
One of the UK’s busiest stations, Clapham Junction offers direct services to Victoria, Waterloo, Gatwick Airport, and Brighton – making it a dream for weekend escapes or airport transfers.

Buses

Battersea is a major bus hub, with round-the-clock services into central London and across southwest London.

Popular routes: 44, 137, 156, 211, 436.

Cycling

Battersea links to Cycleway 8, a key cycling route that runs from Wandsworth to Lambeth Bridge via the riverside. You’ll get scenic views, safe lanes, and a lovely route past Battersea Park.

Boat

Thames Clippers stop at Battersea Power Station Pier, offering a relaxed and scenic way into central London. Services run east to Canary Wharf and Greenwich, and west toward Putney – with weekday and weekend sailings.

Universities and schools nearby

Battersea is a great base for arts and design students, with several leading institutions a short ride away – many via Clapham Junction.

Under 30 mins by train or bus:

Royal College of Art
Chelsea College of Arts
Heatherley School of Fine Art

What to do in Battersea

Explore Battersea Power Station

Once a coal-fired giant, Battersea Power Station is now a supercharged destination for food, shopping, and entertainment. Inside, you’ll find luxury retailers, indie brands, restaurants, bars, and a glass lift that takes you to the top of one of the iconic chimneys.

Don’t miss:

Control Room B – a stylish all-day bar set in the station’s original turbine hall, with cocktails, snacks and a high-design vibe.
Retail therapy – browse luxury brands like Ralph Lauren, Gant, Aesop, Reiss, Mulberry and Diptyque.
Lift 109 – a panoramic viewing experience from the top of the northwest chimney, with sweeping views over London.

Sunbathe by the Thames

And when the sun’s out? Head straight to Battersea’s riverside sunbathing spot – a landscaped open-air terrace next to the Power Station. With loungers, benches and front-row views of the Thames, it’s one of the area's best-kept secrets for chilling in the sunshine. Bring your own iced coffee, stretch out with a book, or just take in the city skyline.

Wander Battersea Park

One of London’s most beloved green spaces, Battersea Park stretches along the river and has something for everyone: lakes, cafes, a children’s zoo, tennis courts, a riverside promenade, and the stunning Peace Pagoda.

Perfect for picnics, morning jogs, Sunday strolls or just switching off with a book under a tree.

Catch a show

Battersea Arts Centre
A local landmark housed in a grand Grade II-listed town hall. Expect boundary-pushing theatre, music, talks and community events – with Pay What You Can pricing that makes it accessible for everyone.

Arches Lane Theatre
A smaller venue tucked near the Power Station, with a rotating lineup of plays and performances in an intimate 100-seat space. Grab a drink at the bar before or after the show.

Hang out in Battersea Square

This tucked-away gem near Battersea High Street feels like a village square. Cafes, restaurants and pubs spill onto the pavement, with alfresco seating and a laid-back, community vibe. A perfect weekend brunch or evening aperitivo spot.

Where to eat and drink

Bao

A Taiwanese canteen with slick 1940s styling and counter seating. Known for its pillowy bao buns, umami-rich noodle bowls, and small eats like xiao chi. Quick, flavour-packed and always busy.

Le Bab

Middle Eastern meets modern London. Think high-quality kebabs, colourful mezze, and zingy salads in a stylish setting. Great for group dinners, birthdays or laid-back date nights.

Battersea Rickshaw

Award-winning Indian food that blends tradition with innovation. From rich curries to sizzling tandoori grills and fragrant biryanis – it’s a neighbourhood favourite for good reason.

Gail’s Bakery

Located just across from Battersea Rickshaw, this Gail’s is one of the area’s prettiest. Grab your morning coffee, fresh pastries, or a wholesome brunch from their seasonal menu – and if it’s sunny, take it to the square.

Bounce Battersea

Part bar, part ping pong playground – Bounce is a go-to for group outings and parties. With bottomless brunches, DJs, cocktails and (of course) table tennis, it’s Battersea’s answer to fun-first nightlife.

A little about us

With its riverside charm, standout transport links, and growing cultural scene, Battersea is fast becoming one of London’s most exciting places to live. Whether you’re a student, creative, or professional, the neighbourhood offers both convenience and character.

Looking for a private apartment in Battersea? Our all-inclusive properties put you right in the action – with perks like weekly cleaning, on-site gyms, and smart interiors, plus a friendly team to support you along the way.

Got questions? Just reach out – we’re here to help you feel at home.

A guide to Battersea: Where to live, eat and explore