Corporate Accommodation in Clapham
Located close to the beating heart of London, Clapham provides excellent transport links throughout the wider city, making it a perfect destination for those looking to do business in the city. Served by a number of TFL routes, as well as National Rail services into Waterloo station, trips into Central London can be completed in a matter of minutes, meaning that the city’s financial and commercial hubs are right on the doorstep of industrious visitors. Flexible, efficient accommodation options for those with a busy schedule, all corporate apartments from TheSqua.re are designed with their guests in mind, with their fully-equipped kitchens, flatscreen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi and much, much more, so even the busiest business resident can unwind after a long day. Make the most out of that business trip and save a profit with TheSqua.re.
Holiday Accommodation in Clapham
Due to its excellent location and popular local attractions, Clapham is also a much sought-after destination for those looking for a long-awaited leisure retreat or family holiday. Close to the city centre, while still retaining a suburban feel, Clapham offers plenty to see and do in and around its busy streets and open green spaces, ideal for a long weekend or brief escape. Whatever is on the agenda, holiday apartments from TheSqua.re can accommodate for quiet evenings in and nights on the town, thanks to their home-cooking and entertainment facilities. Plus, the cosy bedrooms allow guests to be well-rested for the next day, ensuring every trip is a memorable one.
Where to Stay in Clapham
There are a number of notable neighbourhoods in the Clapham area that offer great accommodation within easy walking distance of many of the top sights and attractions locally. Clapham Town and Clapham North are great for their bustling high streets and proximity to the popular music venues of Brixton. The neighbourhoods of Clapham South and Clapham Common meanwhile offer easy access to the luscious greenery and open spaces of Clapham Common, allowing visitors a ready reprieve from the city crowds. Though London is generally a safe capital city to visit, guests are still advised to keep an eye on their possessions, as pickpockets may operate in even the quietest areas.
Facts About Clapham
Perhaps most known for the pleasant parkland of Clapham Common, Clapham is also a major transport hub for both rail and road. Clapham Junction station sees thousands of commuters pass through it every day, and the present day Clapham High Street is, in fact, an ancient diversion of the Roman military road Stane Street, which ran from London to Chichester. An area with a history and legacy in keeping with much of wider London, these are some of our favourite facts about Clapham visitors may find interesting:
- Clapham Junction Station is said to be the busiest train station in Europe, with over 2,000 trains passing through it every day.
- The area has a strong link to British explorers. Captain Cook’s widow lived there from 1788 to 1835, and Clapham Junction is also the name of a prehistoric site in Malta, named so because the English explorer who discovered it suggested the marks on the rocks reminded him of the busy London station.
- The famous Orient Express passes through the station, a great find for trainspotters everywhere!
- Clapham was once the site of the famous Arding and Hobbs department store (now a Debenhams). Built in the early 1900s in an Edwardian Baroque style, the store is now a Grade II listed building, and at the time was the largest and grandest department store south of the Thames. Residents can enjoy some of the original features by visiting the top floor and marvelling at the stained glass domed ceiling.
- Despite its name, Clapham Junction Station is actually in Battersea. The extra junction was added in 1863 in order to cope with increasing rail lines, and the station was renamed after the village of Clapham, seen to be more upmarket, about a mile away.
Cost of Living in Clapham
Though less expensive than some of the more central parts of London, rental prices in Clapham can still be relatively high for most properties. With average monthly costs ranging anywhere from £700 to £2,000+, serviced accommodation becomes an increasingly viable option for extended stays given the many benefits and perks that go hand-in-hand with longer tenancy periods from TheSqua.re.
Unfortunately, there are few savings to be found in day to day expenses. Weekly travel passes (for Zones 1-2) can run to upwards of £35, while the cost of dining out can range from £15 for a meal for one to £55 for a three-course dinner for two. The reasonably low price of local groceries does, however, mean that this expenditure can be offset by stay-at-home meals, always a viable option thanks to TheSqua.re’s fully-equipped kitchens. Medical costs will also be next to nothing, thanks to the UK-wide NHS, with residents normally only needing to pay for private or cosmetic surgery or dental care. Money can also be saved on local entertainment, including theatres and cinemas, with inexpensive ticket prices and membership options available.
Things to Do in Clapham
From paid day trips to fun freebies, there are plenty of things for new and returning visitors to see and do in and around Clapham. Whether travelling solo or with the family, these are just a few of the top sights and attractions to help guests make the most out of their leisure time.
Q. What are the most popular things to do in Clapham?
Here are just a few of the many opportunities for entertainment and enjoyment to act as the cherry on top of any stay:
- Explore the stunning contemporary works on display at Studio Voltaire, a non-profit organisation hosting public exhibitions, performances, and live events.
- Dive into history with a tour of Clapham South’s deep-level WWII bomb shelter.
- Visit 575 Wandsworth Road, the elaborately-decorated former residence of Kenyan poet Khadambi Asalache, who left his property to the National Trust upon his death. Guided tours available.
- Take in a show at Clapham Picturehouse, offering the latest blockbusters and independent releases.
- Visit Battersea Flower Station, a pun-tastic and social media friendly garden centre.
Q. What are some free things to do near Clapham?
Want to save some pennies on those day-to-day activities? Here are some great ways of passing the time in Clapham without breaking the bank:
- Visit Clapham Clock Tower, a historic feature of the high street since 1906.
- Explore the displays of Clapham’s numerous charity shops.
- Escape into the greenery of Clapham Common for a relaxing break from the city.
Q. What are the most family-friendly things to do near Clapham?
For families with children, or simply the young at heart, there are a number of fun days out we would recommend:
- Visit the animals of Battersea Park’s Children’s Zoo, including otters, meerkats, monkeys and lemurs.
- Or look in on the more domestic animals of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. Entry fees apply, but all the money goes to a good cause.
- Explore the fun and games of The Four Thieves, a pub which boasts a miniature arcade on its first floor.
Places to Visit in Clapham
As with the rest of London, Clapham itself also boasts a number of specific tourist attractions and sites of historic significance. For any travellers looking to fill some hours in their spare time, there are plenty of great things to see and do locally. Here are a few of our favourites:
- Clapham Clock Tower - a small monument in the main high street, this historic clock tower dates back to 1906 and was donated by the Mayor of Wandsworth. It stands directly over the booking hall of Clapham Common Underground Station and had to be taken down and rebuilt when the hall was first constructed.
- Clapham Common - open 24 hours a day, the Common is Clapham’s largest park, at 220 acres, as well as the centre of life for the area. Featuring three ponds and a Victorian bandstand, visitors to the Common can enjoy a nice respite from the busy city, and architecture enthusiasts can also check out the many Georgian and Victorian homes that surround its perimeter.
- Venn Street Market - one of the best places for food in Clapham, Venn Street Market offers both street food stalls and fresh produce vendors. The market runs every Saturday in Clapham Common from 10am to 4pm, and features such regulars as Ted’s Veg, Bad Brownie, and Pate Moi.
- 575 Wandsworth Road - the former house of Kenyan poet Khadambi Asalache, this National Trust-owned building is elaborately decorated, with embellished pine floorboards lining the walls, and is a site of specific cultural interest. Well worth a visit.
- Battersea Dogs & Cats Home - this famous animal shelter is home to many adoptive furry friends that can be visited. There’s also a café and gift shop on-site, with all proceeds going to the organisation.
- Battersea Arts Centre - finally, why not take in a show at Battersea Arts Centre? One of the finest examples of a Grade II listed building in Clapham, it is also the leading stage theatre for the district. Formerly Battersea’s Town Hall, The Great Hall alone (where the performances are held) is a marvel unto itself.
- The Breakfast Club - a popular eatery and chain diner, this is a major mainstay for residents and tourists alike. No matter what the mood is, The Breakfast Club’s large menu guarantees there’ll be something to suit all tastes, and the charming eclectic atmosphere is just the icing on the cake.
- Battersea Park - similar to Clapham Common, Battersea Park is a great location in which to while away a pleasant day. Featuring plenty of gardens, a boating lake, sculptures, statues, cafes and a Go Ape Course, the park makes for a fun day out for the whole family.
- SW4 Festival - if travellers are visiting in August, there’s a good chance they’ll be able to experience this two-night festival. One of the biggest music events South London has to offer, the line-up includes everyone from up-and-coming artists to stadium veterans, guaranteeing a fantastic experience for all comers.
- Brixton Market - just a short walk over to Brixton will yield another local market, but while those around Clapham are focused mainly on food, this market is all about the goods. Some of the finest flowers, medicines, antiques and gifts can be found among its stalls, and there are also plenty of restaurants and cafes at which to grab a bite while shopping.
Places to Eat in Clapham
Whenever quiet nights in of home cooking seem like more of a hassle, Clapham residents can get out and explore the many fine restaurants and eateries in the nearby area. From familiar chains to artisan eateries, there is a huge host of catering options available to suit all tastes, and with so much choice available, it can sometimes be hard to narrow a selection down.
Here are a few places to eat in Clapham we would recommend to any visitor:
- Metro Garden.
- Tsunami.
- Barsito.
- WC Wine & Charcuterie.
- Sorella.
- Minnow.
- Trinity.
- The Breakfast Club.
- Olives & Meze.
- Radio Alice Pizzeria.
Street Food in Clapham
Street food is also an option in the area, with the likes of Balham Kitchen, Stewed! and Venn Street Market offering delicious takeaway meals for hungry visitors. For a true street food dining experience, however, we would recommend paying a visit to some of the more regular pop-up markets around Central London, such as Maltby Street Market, Model Market, Street Food Union, and the Southbank Centre Food Market. Adventurous guests can even venture over to Stratford Westfield’s Food Hall for a delicious range of national and international cuisine, and partake in some window shopping after. What’s not to like?
Shopping in Clapham
Though not quite as well-known as some of the more familiar shopping destinations in London, such as Stratford, Covent Garden or Oxford Street, the area around Clapham still offers plenty of high street chain stores and independent boutiques in which visitors can indulge in some retail therapy. Excellent transport links provide ready access to the larger shopping hubs in the city for those looking for a specific purchase; for the rest, there is a great selection of fashion, food and technology close to home, so both short term and long term residents will be able to find everything they could possibly need during their visit.
Some of the best places to shop in Clapham include:
- Shopstop @ Clapham Junction - open 24 hours, this shopping centre features retail outlets, cafes, food stalls and a gym, perfect for that busy commuter.
- LCLB Clapham South - a shopping centre featuring numerous high street brands and independent outlets, just a short walk from the picturesque Clapham Common.
- Clapham High Street - the main high street in the Clapham area, featuring unique boutiques, brand name stores, and a Picturehouse cinema.
Transportation in Clapham
With 11 Underground lines covering 270 stations, London’s public transport network is world-famous and all-encompassing, meaning that visitors can feel assured they will never be too far from home. Residents of Clapham will be able to traverse the many boroughs of the capital with ease, and several major overground terminals, such as London Victoria, Waterloo and Kings Cross, open up options for getting out and exploring the wider country. Clapham is served by several tube stations, overground lines and National Rail services, among them Clapham North, Clapham Common and Clapham South (Northern Line), Clapham High Street (Overground) and Clapham Junction (Overground and National Rail). These stations are arguably the most efficient ways of travelling around the city, and Day Travelcards can be bought (accepted through Zones 1-5) for around £20.
London is, of course, famous for its iconic black taxis and red buses, and these can both be a great way of sightseeing during travel. Buses, in particular, are exceptionally useful: they can be boarded with a simple tap of a Contactless Payment Card, Travelcard or Oyster (£1.70 for a single fare, £4.50 for a day of bus-only travel), and run over 700 routes, including 52 night services. Visitors with their own vehicle will also be able to easily get out and explore the wider area in no time at all, as Clapham is usefully linked via the A3 to a whole network of road routes.
Weather in Clapham
Due to a generally temperate climate throughout much of the UK, the weather in Clapham can be quite unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from below freezing during winter, to dry and balmy heights of thirty and above in the summer. Wet weather gear is however essential packing for any time of year, as downpours can still be just a cloud away. We would recommend visiting in September, as this month offers warm days and comfortable cool evenings, enabling travellers to maximise their time outside and make the most out of their stay.
