Glen Morrison, senior lettings agent at Harrisons estate agents, believes Sydenham is better value than its neighbours because of a perception that it is in the middle of nowhere.
In fact its transport links are excellent. Journeys from Sydenham station to London Bridge take about half an hour. Trains from Sydenham Hill station are at Victoria in 15 minutes.
“It has been a bit underdeveloped in the past in terms of shops and infrastructure,” says Morrison. “There is a high street, and recently it has been changing; a new gym has opened and there are new restaurants opening up.”
Sydenham’s stock is mostly Victorian, whether houses or conversions. Sydenham Road has all the basic shops you will need while Crystal Palace is five minutes by bus and offers a lively range of places to eat and drink.
Locals organise an annual arts festival, and sporty types can join local tennis and cricket clubs.
Those looking for Sunday afternoon walks after their Saturday night out, will like Sydenham Hill Wood, Crystal Palace Park, Sydenham Wells Park and Mayow Park.