This is a sponsored article on behalf of L&Q.
Top-notch cycling infrastructure, fantastic independent businesses, excellent transport links and beautiful open spaces right on your doorstep: Walthamstow has so much to offer when it comes to choosing where to live in London.
It was named last year by The Times as one of the best places to live in London, and the north-east London borough of Waltham Forest has received £30m to fund a Mini Holland cycling programme. The scheme will radically improve the borough’s cycling infrastructure and increase the number of local people choosing to cycle.
Property developer L&Q teamed up with local blogger and resident @poppyloveslondon for a cycle tour of Walthamstow. The tour highlighted just how easy it is to get around the area by bike. It also uncovered some of the fantastic businesses who can help you do so — like Cycle Spirit, a bike shop and repair workshop. Your ride can be fuelled by highly-recommended local businesses such as independent coffee shop The Curious Goat, bakery Today Bread, and deli/cafe St J's Cafe.
Walthamstow is also home to some wonderful eating destinations, including the tasty collection at CRATE St James Street — but if you're more into whipping up a feast at home than eating out, organic shop Olive & Thyme is a great place to stock up.
That's foodies sorted, but there's much more to Walthamstow. For a dose of culture, head to the William Morris Gallery, located in the artist's former family home, then step outside to the greenery of Lloyd Park. Lot One Ten Antiques is just a block away. It sells antiques, collectibles, and vintage and retro homewares — ideal for kitting out your new abode if you take the plunge and move to the area.
Walthamstow also has fantastic transport links, with Walthamstow Central, St James Street and Walthamstow Queen's Road stations offering easy access to the Victoria line and London Overground, and direct access into central London. From Walthamstow Central you can be at Oxford Circus in just 21 minutes, and the London Overground will whizz you from St James Street to Liverpool Street in just 20 minutes.
If you're considering laying down roots in E17, L&Q is currently offering one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments across two developments in Walthamstow: The Chain and L&Q at Blackhorse View. New homes at both developments are available through Shared Ownership. It's an easier way to get your foot on the property ladder in one of the most happening parts of town.
Let's take a look at what each of these new developments has to offer you.
The Chain
A collection of one-, two- and three-bedroom contemporary apartments (think video door entry system and bespoke mirrored wardrobes, as well as an on-site concierge) centred around communal gardens, available via Shared Ownership or outright sale. The focus is on sustainable living, and The Chain aims to be a virtually car-free development. It offers residents safe and secure bike storage, and a three-year complimentary membership to Zipcar for those occasional times when you do need four wheels.
You'll find The Chain just around the corner from St James Street station on the Overground, which offers direct services into Liverpool Street. The area boasts plenty of shops, restaurants and cafes within walking distance of your new home. It's located right by the new cycle routes, too.
Deposits start from £5,813. Current Shared Ownership prices start from £116,250 for a 25% share of a two-bedroom apartment (FMV: £465,000).
L&Q at Blackhorse View
Located opposite Blackhorse Road tube station on the Victoria line, L&Q at Blackhorse View is a collection of 108 one- and two-bedroom Shared Ownership apartments, each with their own private balcony or terrace. Enjoy communal landscaped gardens, with Walthamstow Wetlands just a short walk away. Rooftop solar panels help to reduce carbon emissions.
L&Q at Blackhorse View is located within the wider Blackhorse Lane regeneration area, which includes plenty of new retail and commercial spaces. Expect to see exciting new businesses move into the area.
Deposits start from £4,531. Current Shared Ownership prices start from £90,625 for a 25% share of a one-bedroom Shared Ownership apartment (FMV: £362,500).
Both of these brand new L&Q developments are located close to the cycle routes being delivered as part of the Waltham Forest Mini Holland scheme. This programme is transforming Waltham Forest into a cycling-friendly area with Dutch-style infrastructure, making it easy for you to ditch the car and get around on two wheels. They also offer easy access to those three main train stations — Walthamstow Central, St James Street and Walthamstow Queen's Road — for an easy commute.
A cheaper and healthier commute, excellent transport links for heading further afield, and stylish apartments designed for 21st century living — what's not to love about Walthamstow?
Find out more about available properties at The Chain and L&Q at Blackhorse View.
