South Woodford Local Area Guide

South Woodford beckons as a quintessential London suburb, offering a harmonious blend of urban convenience and suburban tranquility. Nestled in the vibrant borough of Redbridge, this leafy enclave boasts an array of amenities, from lush green spaces to bustling high streets. Renowned for its excellent schools, diverse housing options, and seamless transport links, South Woodford presents an idyllic setting for families, professionals, and individuals alike.

With its proximity to Epping Forest and easy access to central London, residents enjoy the best of both worlds—a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, coupled with effortless connectivity to its cultural and commercial epicentre. Whether strolling along the charming streets, exploring local eateries, or unwinding in one of the many parks, South Woodford exudes a captivating charm that makes it a sought-after destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

Property in South Woodford

South Woodford boasts a rich architectural tapestry, showcasing a mix of Victorian, Edwardian, and Twenties houses alongside Thirties flats and period conversions. Noteworthy among its residential offerings is the prestigious Edwardian house on Aldersbrook Road, reflecting the area's affluent charm.

South Woodford's rich heritage is accentuated by landmarks such as the Gothic clock tower of the former Wanstead Hospital, standing as a testament to the area's historical significance. With its seamless blend of past and present, South Woodford offers a plethora of opportunities to find your dream home. Explore the diverse range of properties available to buy or rent through DABORACONWAY, and uncover the perfect residence to embrace the vibrant spirit of South Woodford.

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South Woodford Transport Links

South Woodford boasts excellent transport connectivity, anchored by its convenient tube stations and comprehensive bus network. The area is served by South Woodford and Snaresbrook tube stations, providing swift access to central London via the Central line. Additionally, a multitude of bus stops are strategically located throughout the neighbourhood, offering efficient intra-city travel options. While South Woodford enjoys proximity to major roadways, including the A406 North Circular Road and the A12, residents also benefit from easy access to nearby amenities and attractions. With its seamless blend of tube and bus services, South Woodford ensures effortless commuting and exploration, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both convenience and accessibility in their daily travels.

South Woodford Local Facilities

Schools

South Woodford boasts a diverse range of educational opportunities, with schools catering to the academic needs of students at various stages of their educational journey. These institutions are renowned for their commitment to academic excellence, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for students to thrive. From primary schools providing a solid foundation in learning to junior schools preparing students for future endeavours, South Woodford offers a local educational landscape that ensures every child receives a quality education early in life. Explore the educational options available in South Woodford through the following schools:

Churchfields Junior School
Churchfields Infants' School
Nightingale Primary School

Post Offices

South Woodford Post Office
115 George Ln, London E18 1AN
Open Monday to Saturday 09:00 – 18:00

GP Surgeries

South Woodford Health Centre

118-122 High Rd, London E18 2QS
Tel: 020 8491 3333

Glebelands Practice

2 Glebelands Ave, London E18 2AB
Tel: 020 8989 6272

Southdene Surgery

The Shrubberies, London E18 1BD
Tel: 020 8530 3731

Hospital

The nearest NHS hospital with an A&E department is Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone.

Whipps Cross University Hospital, Whipps Cross Rd, London E11 1NR
Tel: 020 8539 5522
Open 24 hours

Community Centres

Woodford Community Centre

Prospect Hall, 28-42 Prospect Rd, Woodford, Woodford Green IG8 7NA
Tel: 020 8616 0535

Wanstead House Community Centre

Wanstead House Community Association, London E11 2NT
Tel: 020 8989 3693

Local residents can also join the South Woodford Society community group, set up by local residents with a membership of over 600 households (and an online reach of over 3000) in and around South Woodford, E18.

Leisure Centres, Gyms and Swimming Pools near South Woodford

Sylvestrian Leisure Centre

College Pl, London E17 3PY
020 8509 6526

South Woodford Library and Gym

114 High Rd, London E18 2QS
020 8708 9067

Wanstead Leisure Centre

94 Redbridge Ln W, London E11 2JZ
Tel: 020 8989 1172

Pick of the Best Things to Do in South Woodford

Picture your everyday life in South Woodford—a welcoming community where charming cafes beckon with freshly brewed coffee and cozy corners, perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Explore tranquil parks ideal for leisurely dog walks, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. In this section, we'll unveil the best local spots for residents to relax, recharge, and enjoy the simple pleasures of everyday living in South Woodford. From quaint cafes serving up comforting treats to picturesque parks offering scenic strolls with your furry friends, discover the inviting charm of our neighbourhood, where every day feels like a delightful adventure.

3 of the Best Cafes and Restaurants in South Woodford

Here are the top three rated cafes and restaurants in South Woodford:

BOBO & WILD - South Woodford

127 George Ln, London E18 1AN
Independent café with all day brunch
Rated 4.8 stars out of 5 on Google from 101 ratings

Bread & Oregano

90 George Ln, London E18 1JJ
Café specializing in Greek cuisine
Rated 4.7 stars out of 5 on Google from 90 ratings

Cucina Bettina

96 George Ln, London E18 1AD
Classic Italian restaurant
Rated 4.7 stars out of 5 on Google from 85 ratings

3 of the Best Pubs & Bars in South Woodford

Here are three highly rated places to enjoy a drink in South Woodford:

Railway Bell

87 George Ln, London E18 1JJ
Outdoor patio seating
Serves pizzas, burgers and bar classics
Family friendly
Sports TV
Rated 4.3 stars out of 5 on Google from 780 ratings

George Woodford

70 High Rd, London E18 2QL
Live sport
DJ and karaoke nights
Rated 4.2 stars out of 5 on Google from 918 ratings

Slug & Lettuce - South Woodford

184 George Ln, London E18 1AY
Serves cocktails
International cuisine
Dog friendly with beer garden
Rated 4.2 stars out of 5 on Google from 921 ratings

Places to Visit in South Woodford

In the friendly community of South Woodford a blend of suburban charm and relaxing green spaces awaits. From tranquil parks to entertainment venues, there's something for everyone in this thriving local area.

South Woodford Parks and Green Spaces

Churchfields Recreation Ground: This expansive green space offers a range of recreational activities, from sports facilities to playgrounds for children. Take a leisurely stroll along its scenic paths or enjoy a picnic with family and friends.
Elmhurst Gardens: Nestled amidst residential streets, Elmhurst Gardens provides a peaceful retreat with its lush greenery and serene atmosphere. Ideal for a relaxing afternoon stroll or quiet contemplation.
Hollow Pond: Located just a short distance from South Woodford, Hollow Pond is a hidden gem offering scenic views and nature trails. Perfect for dog walkers or those seeking a peaceful escape from the city.

South Woodford Cinema

Immerse yourself in the magic of cinema at South Woodford's local multiscreen cinema, the Odeon South Woodford. Catch the latest blockbuster or enjoy a classic film in the comfort of this intimate venue.

Redbridge Drama Centre

Experience the thrill of live theatre at the Redbridge Drama Centre. With a diverse program of performances, workshops, and events, there's always something new to discover at this cultural hub.

South Woodford Shopping

Local Independent Shops: Explore the charming boutiques and independent stores that line the streets of South Woodford. From artisanal crafts to unique gifts, you'll find treasures aplenty in this eclectic shopping district.
Supermarkets: Stock up on essentials at the local supermarkets, including Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, the Co-op, a Tesco Express and an international supermarket, where you'll find a wide range of fresh produce, pantry staples, and household items. With convenient locations throughout the area, shopping for groceries has never been easier.

South Woodford Council Tax

South Woodford is controlled by Redbridge Council Tax bands and charges.

All properties in the Redbridge area are in 8 Council Tax bands from A – H, with most recent rates at the time of writing shown below.

Council Tax bands for London Borough of Redbridge
Council Tax band	Council Tax 2024-25	Council Tax 2023-24
A	£1,393.25	£1,317.17
B	£1,625.45	£1,536.69
C	£1,857.66	£1,756.22
D	£2,089.87	£1,975.75
E	£2,554.29	£2,414.81
F	£3,018.70	£2,853.86
G	£3,483.12	£3,292.92
H	£4,179.74	£3,951.50

South Woodford Image Credit: George Lane, South Woodford by Robin Webster, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons