Borough of Merton Area Guide
Living in Merton: A Local Guide
Located in the south west of London, Merton is a borough enriched with history. It's bordered by Kingston upon Thames, Richmond upon Thames, Wandsworth, and Sutton to the south.
The area's significance dates back over two thousand years when it was occupied by Celtic tribes before the Roman era. The arrival of the railways in the late 19th century marked a pivotal shift, transforming Merton Borough into a desirable location for London's upper class seeking a peaceful countryside setting. The prestigious Wimbledon Tennis Championships, established in 1877, further elevated Merton's profile.
Today, the Borough of Merton is a blend of historical charm and contemporary living. It's particularly favoured by retired individuals and families for its detached homes, expansive green commons, and escape from urban life. Indeed, the borough stands out for its greenery, offering plenty of tranquil residential areas.
The All England Lawn Tennis Club in the borough hosts the world-renowned Wimbledon Championships and is a significant draw. As the UK's largest annual sports event, it attracts over 200,000 visitors across two weeks in late June and early July.
Wimbledon Common is another notable feature of Merton. The common is a 460-hectare expanse of accessible green space, and ideal for family outings.
Morden Hall Park, owned by the National Trust, also presents a scenic green sanctuary, echoing the borough's agricultural and industrial past.
Within the borough, Merton's town centres are vibrant hubs of shopping, leisure, and cultural activities, with excellent dining and entertainment options.
What areas are in the Borough of Merton?
Merton has a population of over 200,000 residents across 14.7 square miles.
The main areas in the Borough of Merton are:
Wimbledon: Celebrated for the Tennis Championships, this area offers a blend of residential and commercial spaces, bustling with shops, eateries, and bars.
Morden: Predominantly residential, it's known for its parks and excellent travel connections via the Northern line.
Raynes Park: A residential area in the west of the borough, it features convenient transport links and a variety of amenities.
Colliers Wood: This area balances residential and commercial aspects, including a shopping centre and easy Northern line access.
Mitcham: In Merton's east, it blends residential and commercial zones, with shops, restaurants, and pubs.
Merton Park: Renowned for its picturesque streets and Victorian architecture, this area offers both residential and commercial properties.
Schools in the Borough of Merton
Merton is home to hundreds of schools, many of which are rated outstanding or excellent by Ofsted and are a major draw for families moving to Merton. Merton's schools focus on academic excellence and emphasize the holistic development of students, preparing them for challenges ahead. With strong community involvement and a range of educational pathways, Merton's schools are very well-equipped to serve the needs of its student population.
Stand-out primary schools include Bishop Gilpin Church of England Primary School, which has a reputation for academic excellence and a nurturing environment, Dundonald Park Primary, and Wimbledon Chase Primary School which are among the best primary schools in Merton.
State secondary schools include Ricards Lodge High School a comprehensive secondary school for girls aged 11 to 16. The most sought-after schools are the Roman Catholic Ursuline High School accepting girls aged 11 to 18, and Rutlish School a state comprehensive school for boys aged 11 to 18. Former Prime Minister John Major was educated here.
There are also a variety of independent schools in the Borough of Merton including the popular King's College School for boys and Wimbledon High School for girls.
Borough of Merton Transport Links
The Wimbledon branch of the District line and the southern part of the Northern line provide underground services from Merton directly to west and central London. However, Merton also benefits from a Tramlink service and a selection of National Rail stations on the Southern, South Western and Thameslink lines with direct trains to London Waterloo, Richmond and Guildford.
For those travelling by road, the A24 runs directly through Merton Borough and 'further into London, or out towards the M25.
In Wimbledon, the district line serves locals towards the north of the city, while the northern line runs diagonally from Morden, taking commuters straight to London Bridge.
Wimbledon is particularly well-connected, making it easy to travel in and around. It's served by Wimbledon Train Station, a major hub with access to National Rail services. The District Line London Underground station has a stop in the heart of Wimbledon providing an easy link to the wider Tube network. The Tramlink service also adds connectivity.
Colliers Wood is also highly accessible and convenient for local and long-distance travel. The area is served by Colliers Wood Tube Station, part of the London Underground Northern Line, providing easy access to central London.
Raynes Park is also well-connected in terms of transport links, making it a popular location for commuters. For access to Central London, Raynes Park railway station has a regular service to Waterloo. Wimbledon station on the District Line is the nearest Tube station and can be reached by bus.
Morden's transport links make it another popular location for commuters. Morden Northern Line Underground Station, Morden South Railway Station and Merton Park Tram Link are all in the locality.
Top Attractions in the Borough of Merton
The Borough of Merton is home to a selection of delightful attractions including the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum for tennis fans. The Lawn Tennis Museum tells the Wimbledon story including its history and traditions. Tours of the grounds allow visitors to go behind the scenes at the famous venue.
Wimbledon is also known for its famous Grade II Listed Windmill which was working until 1864. Flour is no longer made there, but it's now a museum that tells the story of its past.
Morden is steeped in history and its centrepiece is the National Trust's Morden Hall Park, which dates back to the 18th century. This historical house and expansive grounds serve as a hub for community activities.
Merton Abbey Mills is an historic site along the River Wandle that once included a Liberty silk-printing works. It now hosts arts, crafts, and an artisan food market. The site has some wonderful walks along the river and live music events take place in the warmer months.
Shopping in the Borough of Merton
Retail options in the Borough of Merton are excellent. Most locals head to one of two shopping centres, The Wimbledon Quarter (formerly known as Centre Court Shopping) in Wimbledon or the Tandem Centre in Merton, for their shopping needs. These centres offer a range of stores including brands like Next, Pandora and Oliver Bonas. A selection of independent boutiques and high-end brands can also be found in Wimbledon Village, such as Matches Fashion. In Wimbledon town centre is Elys Wimbledon ' a luxury department store set over 4 floors, stocking the latest in fashion, beauty and homeware.
Branches of most major supermarkets can be found in the London Borough of Merton, including Waitrose, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, Aldi, Lidl, Tesco Express and Tesco superstores.
If you're after a more leisurely shopping experience, the weekend farmers' markets in Wimbledon, bring together local producers, showcasing organic produce.
Leisure in the Borough of Merton
The Borough of Merton has a fantastic range of green spaces for residents and families to enjoy.
Wimbledon Common's sprawling beauty is perfect for leisurely walks and family picnics, providing a natural setting for activities like jogging, and horse riding. The famous 460-hectare Wimbledon Common was once used for rifle shooting before it moved to Bisley. This was the home of William Wilberforce who succeeded in abolishing slavery in the British colonies.
Cannon Hill Common is another important expanse of open space situated between Morden and Raynes Park. It's also a site of borough importance - Grade 1 for Nature Conservation. Its 140-year-old mature woodland makes it incredible for dog walkers, bird watchers and those simply looking to enjoy a small piece of countryside in the city.
Morden Hall Park is a jewel in Merton's crown. The River Wandle runs through the nature reserve and there is a beautiful rose garden, and heritage features such as an old snuff mill and stable block.
Ravensbury Park is a 7-hectare nature reserve with lakes and woodland on the north bank of the River Wandle on the Wandle Trail. The 12.5-mile trail follows the River Wandle from Croydon to the Thames at Wandsworth. The trail includes walking and cycling routes (part of the trail is National Cycle Network Route 20) and these mostly run alongside each other.
Mitcham Common is another popular spot. It is a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation and is a haven for nature enthusiasts. It features woodlands, ponds, and grasslands, offering a habitat for a wide range of wildlife. The common is a recreational hub, popular for activities like walking, jogging, and bird watching. Its historical significance is marked by the presence of several ancient monuments and remnants of its past use for agricultural purposes.
Wandle Park is an 11-acre National Trust green space with the tranquil River Wandle flowing through it, and brims with diverse wildlife. It has very well-maintained walking and cycling paths to enjoy, a children's play area and bandstand.
Finally, there's Wandle Meadow Nature Park, a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Close to the centre of Wimbledon, it provides a mix of meadowland and wetland habitats.
Other green spaces in the borough include the Cottenham Park Recreation Ground named after Charles Pepys, Lord Cottenham, a popular local spot for picnics and outdoor activities. Then there's the incredible Morden Park with woodland, a bandstand, children's playground and paddling pool, outdoor gym, tennis courts, cricket pitch and a pitch and putt course. There's something for everyone here! Finally, Colliers Wood Recreation Ground is a park with facilities for sports and fitness, including football pitches. It also has a playground for children, making it a great spot for families to enjoy outdoor activities and picnics.
The Borough of Merton is also home to AFC Wimbledon. Merton also has five non-League clubs, including Celeb FC, which is a celebrity fundraising football team that plays for charities all over the UK for free.
Sports and exercise facilities are covered by a selection of gyms in the Borough of Merton including national chains such as Virgin Active, Nuffield Health and David Lloyd Leisure. There are also three leisure centres: Canons Leisure Centre in Mitcham, Morden Leisure Centre and Wimbledon Leisure Centre and Spa.
As you would expect, there are various tennis facilities to be found throughout the borough, particularly in Wimbledon!
Golfers can enjoy the scenic Royal Wimbledon Golf Club - the third oldest golf Club in England dating back to 1865, Wimbledon Common Golf Club, Mitcham Golf Club and Malden Golf Club.
Eating Out in the Borough of Merton
Arguably, the best restaurants in the Borough of Merton can be found in Wimbledon, where there is a cosmopolitan selection of cuisines including authentic Italian, sushi, and Thai.
For those living in Merton and looking for traditional British food, there are several historic pubs in Wimbledon where one can enjoy a pint alongside classic pub grub in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The Alexandra and The Crooked Billet, are local favourites that offer a selection of local and craft beers.
On the other side of the borough, Mitcham is the spot for a selection of Indian, Chinese and Sri Lankan restaurants.
In Colliers Wood, The Charles Holden pub is an excellent choice for a relaxed drink, with its traditional setting, local beers, ales, and tasty food.
In Raynes Park, indulge in authentic international tastes ranging from Mediterranean style at Lime & Thyme and The Olive Garden, the atmospheric Mora Meza Bar and Restaurant or the best Japanese sushi at Hoshi. Gaya serves beautiful Korean dishes, while Thai Cafe 46 serves tantalizing curries, and Hatay offers authentic Turkish cuisine.
In Morden, the Italian restaurant Bella Donna is a firm favourite with locals and is always busy. Traditional pub food is served at the Morden Brook.
Cafes in the Borough of Merton
The cafes and bars of Wimbledon Village and the town centre are perfect for casual meet ups with friends or remote working, with their welcoming environments and delicious coffee and pastries.
Morden's town centre has a few independent cafes and coffee shops like Coco Beanz which serves exceptional Italian coffee. El Cafetal is an independent family-run coffee roastery specialising in single-origin Colombian coffee and the Metronome Coffee House is Morden's iconic coffee and events space. Visit here for beautiful coffee, pastries, or lunch. The National Trust caf', The Potting Shed, in Morden Hall Park is a local caf' popular with residents.
For casual meet-ups, the quaint and cosy Coffee in the Wood in Colliers Wood serves a tempting range of coffee, cakes, pastries, and sandwiches.
For coffee lovers living in Raynes Park, it doesn't disappoint. A spot worthy of attention is Three Apes Coffee where delicious beverages are served in a warm, organic, community-oriented space.
Local Amenities in the Borough of Merton
Healthcare needs are covered by several hospitals and clinics, ensuring those living in Merton are well served. Prominent healthcare facilities include St. George's Hospital, one of London's largest teaching hospitals, offering a wide range of specialist care and general services.
The Nelson Health Centre in Raynes Park provides integrated healthcare services, including GP practices and community health services.
For more localized care, the borough hosts numerous medical centres like the Wimbledon Village Surgery, catering to everyday health needs, Colliers Wood Surgery, The Morden Hall Medical Centre, and Raynes Park Health Centre
Dental care is well-represented with clinics across the borough offering a range of dental treatments. For eye care, residents can turn to opticians like Specsavers or the independent Morden Eye Centre.
Merton is also home to several libraries, including Wimbledon Library and Mitcham Library, which serve as vital community resources for information, learning, and leisure.
These amenities cement Merton's commitment to providing accessible and quality services, ensuring the well-being and enrichment of its community.
Living in the Borough of Merton ' Desirable Areas
Merton offers a desirable mix of urban and suburban living, marked by its green spaces, diverse housing options, and excellent connectivity to central London.
The South Park Gardens area in Wimbledon is renowned for its exquisite Victorian and Edwardian houses. Desirable areas here include streets like Kings Road, Dudley Road, and Effra Road. Near Wimbledon station, the tranquil John Innes Conservation Area in Merton Park is another prime location, with streets like Mostyn Road, Sheridan Road, and Dorset Road offering a peaceful living environment.
In Wimbledon's town centre, The Ministers area is where you'll find streets named after famous British Prime Ministers, including Gladstone Road, Pelham Road, Griffiths Road, Balfour Road, and Palmerston Road. Here, homes blend Victorian elegance with late Georgian design. The Poets Roads area, featuring streets like Milton Road and Dryden Road, celebrates renowned poets, adding an artistic and cultural dimension to the neighbourhood.
Meanwhile, in Raynes Park, the larger residences, particularly those closer to Wimbledon, have a sense of openness and seclusion, reminiscent of countryside dwellings. This characteristic is also present in the Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses, as well as in some homes from the 1930s, many of which come with beautiful gardens and the convenience of off-street parking. North of the station, streets such as Tolverne, Lambton, and Trewince are lined with terraced houses. In contrast, more southerly areas like Blenheim Road and Heath Drive feature homes with expansive gardens.
In Morden, the most northern part falls within the sought-after SW19 Wimbledon and SW20 West Wimbledon postcodes making it a highly coveted location. The area's property market is reflective of this, featuring sizeable period homes. Within the John Innes conservation area in Merton Park, homes designed by Henry Goodall Quartermain between 1873-1903, and later by John Sydney Brocklesby from 1905-1926, are in high demand. These residences are especially appealing due to their significantly larger gardens compared to those built in earlier Victorian and Edwardian times closer to central London.
Colliers Wood is a serene neighbourhood with quaint lanes dotted with Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses. The area is home to charming Victorian cottages near the river, offering picturesque views. Additionally, Colliers Wood has modern flats, notably in Bennetts Courtyard, Merton Abbey Mills, and on Cavendish Road, at the corner of the main high street.
When considering the best streets for living in Colliers Wood, Norfolk Road, Park Road, and Wilton Road stand out for their appeal. These streets are particularly sought-after due to their proximity to the vibrant Tooting area.
Warren Road is another notable street, lined with impressive four and five-bedroom Edwardian semi-detached homes. These houses are known for their high ceilings, open fireplaces, and bay windows.
For those seeking a more private lifestyle, the gated Chaucer Way community offers apartments and houses adjacent to the tranquil Wandle Meadow Nature Park.
Merton is a great location to bring up a family and is proving to be one of London's best boroughs to live or invest in, so properties for sale in Merton are popular!
Ellisons are your local estate agents in Merton. We deal exclusively in the Wimbledon, Morden, Raynes Park, West Wimbledon, Motspur Park, Colliers Wood and Merton Park areas.
Call us on 020 8944 9494 or email us at wimbledon@ellisonsuk.com and talk with us about your next move.