Bird In Bush Road, Peckham, SE15

We bought this property in 2021 as first-time buyers and it has been a fantastic first home for us as a couple.

The first things that really grabbed us were the quietness of the road and the patio, as we wanted outside space of our own.

When we first moved in we used the second bedroom as a guest room/work space, with a double sofa bed and space for clothes.

The main living area is a great entertaining space, and it looks out to our patio garden area.

Having our own private patio has been such a blessing, especially through lockdown as we would have gone stir crazy without it. It's perfect for sitting out with a morning coffee, BBQs on warm evenings, or just opening the bi-fold doors to let the outside in - we barely have them closed in the summer. At times it's been a real sanctuary for us, and it's so quiet and idyllic.

The building is set back from the street, and so with beautiful trees and planting, it feels private and peaceful, and very un-London like. You would never think you're so close to bustling Peckham.

The street has a very friendly feel and we get along well with our neighbours, especially those in the building. We don't know everyone on the street, but we all nod and say hello and it's all very respectful.

Peckham is an amazing place to be, with plenty of restaurants, bars and shops. Forza Wine is a favourite bar with its rooftop views, and The Montpelier and Copeland Social are always great for a drink. We're pretty spoilt with food options - Ganapati, The Begging Bowl and Mr. Bao are all amazing - and it's easy to head to Camberwell or Bermondsey for even more choice.

The Surrey Canal Path meets the end of the street, and from there it's a 5-minute walk down to Peckham Pulse Leisure Centre and the top of town, or up to Burgess Park with its lake, tennis courts, cafes and running routes.

An important thing for us was to be well-connected to central London. We most often take the 63 from the end of the road, which gets to Elephant and Castle for the tube in 10 minutes, and continues on to Farringdon and Kings Cross. There are also direct routes to the City and Shoreditch, or it's a 15 minute walk to either Peckham Rye or Queens Road Peckham overground stations with direct rail routes to Victoria, Blackfriars and Clapham Junction. We also often cycle, and have a large bike shed at the front of the flat.

We're now ready to purchase a house, and we're moving out of the area, however we will really miss Peckham as it's been wonderful.

Lease 114 years
Council Tax Cost (£PA) £1,394.54
Service Charge (£PA) £756.94
Ground Rent (£PA) £300