Putney Area Guide
Nestled into the River Thames just south-west of Fulham, picturesque Putney in the borough of Wandsworth has a tendency to feel more like a country village than a busy London suburb. Popular with affluent Londoners during the nineteenth century, Putney has developed into a one of the hottest spots for young professionals in the capital, who come here to enjoy the leafy streets, riverside pubs, and expansive green spaces. Properties tend to be a mix of Victorian terraces and sophisticated modern apartment blocks, while residents also benefit from one of the lowest council tax rates in London - leaving you that bit more to spend in one of Putney’s gourmet independent restaurants.
Eating & Drinking
Restaurants
Alongside popular chains such as Carluccio’s, Gail’s Bakery and Bill’s, Putney has become somewhat of a dining destination with an underrated selection of excellent independent and family-run restaurants.
Ground Coffee Society
Get your artisan coffee fix and more at this trendy cafe, where the weekend brunch is as good as the daily brew.
Address: 79 Lower Richmond Rd, London SW15 1ET
Roxie
With only the best pure-bred, grass-fed Aberdeen Angus beef on offer, Roxies has a well-earned reputation for incredible steaks in a relaxed setting.
Address: 136 Upper Richmond Road, Putney, SW15 2SP
Ma Goa
A beloved local spot since 1993, you’d be hard pressed to find a better place in Putney for top-quality Indian cuisine.
Address: 244 Upper Richmond Rd, Putney, London SW15 6TG
Al Forno Putney
Craving pasta? Authentic Italian and Sicilian dishes are on the menu at this friendly, traditional Italian restaurant.
Address: 349 Upper Richmond Rd, London SW15 5QJ
Gazette Putney
With a changing weekly menu, embrace your inner Parisian at this chic French brasserie with a retro feel.
Address: 147 Upper Richmond Rd, Putney, London SW15 2TX
Bars
Mostly home to cosy pubs and stylish bars rather than late-night clubs, Putney’s nightlife reflects its calm, village feel, with residents tending to travel to Clapham or Soho for big nights out. However, there is always Fez Club if you’re looking for a boogie closer to home.
The Dukes Head
A riverside terrace and good gastropub grub make this pub one of Putney’s best.
Address: 8 Lower Richmond Rd, London SW15 1JN
Tequila Mockingbird
Aside from the excellent name, this quirky bar is known for its creative cocktails and cool ambience.
Address: 12 Putney High St, London SW15 1SL
The Half Moon
A renowned music venue as well as a charming pub, you’ll find live concerts and events here nearly every night of the week.
Address: 93 Lower Richmond Rd, London SW15 1EU
The Ship
With cosy open fires in the winter and a large, sun-filled terrace in the summer, it’s no surprise this historic pub is popular all year round.
Address: 41 Jews Row, Wandsworth, London SW18 1TB
Fez Club
Dance the night away to chart hits at this Morrocan-themed club close to the station.
Address: 200b Upper Richmond Rd, London SW15 2SH
Transport
With two tube stations and a train station, Putney is an easy starting point for commutes all over London, with Putney Bridge and East Putney, both on the District line, offering journey times of just over 20 minutes to Piccadilly Circus via Earls Court. Putney Station connects with Clapham Junction in 6 minutes and Waterloo in 15 minutes, while for those seeking a more scenic route, there’s always the River Bus from Putney Pier directly to Canary Wharf - though be prepared for it to take around an hour!
Shopping
Rarely praised for it’s shopping prowess, Putney has a surprisingly good selection of lovely independent boutiques, as well as all the high street stores you could need. Waitrose, H&M and more can all be found in the modern Putney Exchange Shopping Centre, while avid readers will love the charming Hurlingham Books. Local foodies (and wine lovers) are well-served by delicatessens Artisan & Vine and Glug Wine & Cheese, while Talad Thai Supermarket is the top choice for exotic ingredients.
Green Spaces
With an impressive 1,700 acres of greenery in the Wandsworth borough, you’re never far from a natural haven in Putney. Putney Heath and Putney Common are among the most popular green spaces for locals looking to promenade, picnic, and play tennis, while the Grade II listed Bishops Park is also just across the river.
Education
Aside from greenery and amenities, many families are drawn to Putney as a result of its impressive school selection, with a range of good options in both the state and private sector. The local primary schools have been voted among the best in the UK, with the likes of Sheringdale, Gatton, Hillbrook and others rated outstanding by Ofsted. For older children, leading secondary schools include Putney High (girls, independent), Ibstock Place School (mixed, independent) and Lady Margaret School (girls, academy).