Now, I’m not entirely sure why – but eating, drinking, and yapping with your friends is just so much more enjoyable when done al-fresco, right? I mean, it might have something to do with the fact that for the vast majority of the year, we Londoners can either be found clutching our hot water bottles or clinging onto our brollies for dear life. But the very moment that the weather in London begins to cooperate, you can bet your bottom dollar that we’ll be making the most of it. And a particular corner of the capital has just made that a whole lot easier to do this sunny season.
Wandsworth Council recently announced that Northcote Road (one of the busiest and buzziest streets in south-west London) will be completely pedestrianised on weekends throughout the summer. In a bid to transform the road into a vibrant hub of community and culture; it’ll be given the traffic-free treatment every weekend from July 11 until August 30. And the extra space will be used for additional outdoor seating for summer socialising.
Running from Battersea Rise to Broomwood Road; Northcote Road spans approximately half a mile. It’s jam-packed with independent businesses, and filled to the brim with delicious spots to eat, drink, and be merry – making it the perfect place for mooch, munch, and meet your mates.
This summer will mark the first time in three years that Northcote Road will be closed to vehicles. The initiative was first launched back in 2020 as a way of helping local businesses during the pandemic. The scheme returned for the subsequent summers, but was axed after 2023. A petition (that managed to get over 5,000 signatures) was previously created to bring back the scheme – and so I think it’s safe to say that locals and visitors alike will be pretty pleased to see its grand return.
The season of summery shenanigans will certainly kick of in style, as the very first weekend of Northcote Road’s summer pedestrianisation coincides rather perfectly with the Northcote Road Summer Festival. On July 12, a whole host of activities will be taking place in the area, including Wimbledon final screenings, street food stalls, live entertainment, and even a dog show.
Councillor Tom Pridham, Cabinet Member for Opportunity, said: “Northcote Road is the vibrant heart of the community – a welcoming, family-friendly hub of independent businesses and a place where people come together to relax, connect, and spend time together. We are delighted to bring back the weekend pedestrianisation over the summer, supporting local businesses while once again transforming Northcote Road into a destination for both residents and visitors.”
Northcote Road will be closed to vehicles between 6am and 10pm on Saturdays and Sundays between July 11 and August 30.
