Paul Humphreys, Head of Knight Frank Dulwich Village, on why the area has the strongest track record for house price growth in the UK at an astonishing 897% since 1995

Best known for
Dulwich Village offers all of the wonderful benefits of a country-style community while being only six miles from central London. The area is best known for the magnificent Dulwich Picture Gallery, its excellent state and public schools, plus its abundance of green spaces, including Dulwich Park.

Where can I shop?
Dulwich Village is also the name of the main shopping street in the area. Here you can find charming boutiques, cafes and restaurants, as well as the usual facilities you would expect, such as a post office, bank and supermarket.

Good schools
The exceptional quality of schools in the area is one of its major draws. Dulwich College attracts pupils from all over the world, alongside James Allen’s Girls’ School and Alleyn’s School, which are two other prestigious private schools. State options are also well regarded, including Dulwich Village Infants’ School, Dulwich Hamlet Junior School and The Charter School at secondary level.

Why we love it
The picturesque 1,500 acre area has been controlled by the freeholder (the Dulwich Estate) for 400 years, meaning there has always been a long-term approach to development and conservation. Nowhere else in London has such an old-fashioned beauty and charm while offering everything a modern family needs. Transport links are excellent with an array of train stations including North, East and West Dulwich, Sydenham Hill and Herne Hill (with access to Victoria, London Bridge and King’s Cross), meaning central London travel times are typically quicker than south west London.

The property market
According to our recently launched Dulwich Market Insight Report (find it online in full here), Dulwich has the strongest track record for house price growth in the UK. Recent price growth in central London has prompted both domestic and international buyers to seek better value further afield. While price growth in the area has been an astonishing 897% since 1995, it still represents better value than more high-profile areas such as Wandsworth, Wimbledon and Clapham. Families in particular are always looking for space, lifestyle and superb schools. Dulwich offers the perfect solution.

The Resident: The picturesque Dulwich VillageThe picturesque Dulwich Village

Knight Frank, Dulwich Village, 1c Calton Avenue, Dulwich Village SE21 7DE; 020 3740 3731; knightfrank.co.uk

The Resident: This spacious property on College Road is typical of the areaThis spacious property on College Road is typical of the area