Surrey Road, Nunhead, SE15

We bought this property in 2000. The first things that really grabbed us were the high ceilings, the quietness of the road, and the size of the rooms, which were a lot bigger than any of the similar Victorian terraces that we'd looked at across South East London. Also how bright the property is throughout.

Having a large kitchen with space for a big dining table was a real priority for us as keen cooks. We've probably spent more time around the kitchen table with friends and family than anywhere else in the house. The whole place has a great feel to it - numerous people commented on this over the years.

We lived in the house as a family for 16 years, eventually moving outside London to be closer to friends and family after a lot of deliberation. We loved being in Surrey Road so much for the peace it offers, and our exceptionally lovely neighbours, as well as the close proximity to beautiful green spaces (Peckham Rye Park is a short walk as is the iconic Nunhead Cemetery), excellent transport and amazing community, with great schools and an abundance of independent shops, and unique bars and restaurants.

The main living area is a great space to entertain, with a generous double sitting / dining room. We had lots of kids' parties and big family gatherings. The three double bedrooms are all an excellent size - again larger than most. The master spans the width of the house and could be adapted to accommodate an en-suite shower. There's also a huge loft that at one time we were thinking about converting into another 2 bedrooms with an en-suite wetroom / bathroom.

The garden isn't huge but it suited us well as we wanted something low maintenance due to our busy lives and work. It's a real suntrap and always felt very private and spacious enough for the kids to play with friends, relaxing outside and hosting BBQs in the summer.

The street has an exceptionally friendly feel and we've always got on very well with our neighbours on all sides. Nunhead, and particularly Surrey Road, is a lovely community. We were spoilt with food options – Ganapati in Bellenden is fantastic, The Begging Bowl, Mr. Bao, Artusi are all amazing, and nearby too - and it's easy to head to East Dulwich, Brockley or you can jump a train and be in central London within 20 minutes.

It was important for us to be well-connected to central London. Nunhead station gets you into Victoria in 18 minutes, Blackfriars in 18 minutes or Cannon street in 30 minutes with one change. You can walk or bus to Queens Road in Peckham and get to London Bridge in 9 minutes or equally hop on the frequent buses close to the doorstep towards Peckham Rye and Brockley for the Overground service - with a change at Canada Water for the Jubilee Line and London Underground network. The area is very well served in all directions.