No Flats in Bexley Available

Flats to Rent in Bexley

Looking for genuinely affordable London living with excellent schools, outstanding green spaces, and one of the capital's lowest crime rates? The London Borough of Bexley offers what many consider the best value proposition in Greater London: suburban tranquillity, strong community spirit, and family-friendly neighbourhoods at prices that make other London boroughs look eye-wateringly expensive. With three-bedroom properties averaging just £1,507 per month (the cheapest in London) and the transformative Elizabeth line now serving Abbey Wood, Bexley has never been more accessible.

Whether you're a family seeking outstanding grammar schools and safe streets, a professional looking for an affordable base with reasonable commuting options, or an investor targeting London's highest rental yields, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about renting in this Kent-influenced corner of the capital.

About Bexley

The London Borough of Bexley occupies the southeastern corner of Greater London, covering approximately 61 square kilometres and bordering Kent to the south and east. Until 1965, the area was part of Kent, and this heritage remains evident in the borough's village character, green spaces, and community atmosphere that feels distinctly different from inner London.

With a population of approximately 250,000, Bexley is less densely populated than most London boroughs at around 4,230 people per square kilometre, giving it a spacious, suburban feel. The borough encompasses several distinct communities: the commercial centre of Bexleyheath, the historic village of Old Bexley, the cultural hub of Sidcup, the riverside regeneration areas of Erith and Belvedere, and the residential neighbourhoods of Welling and Crayford.

Bexley has a notably family-oriented population. According to the 2021 Census, 34% of households have dependent children (higher than both London and England averages), and 21% of residents are under 16. The borough is predominantly owner-occupied, with 69% of homes owned by their residents—the highest proportion in London—reflecting the area's appeal to settled families building long-term roots.

The population is 72% White British, with 28% from ethnic minority backgrounds (rising to 36% when including white ethnic minorities). The average household income is £38,000, and the employment rate of 83.4% ranks 5th among London boroughs, indicating a stable, working community.

Bexley consistently ranks among London's best boroughs for quality of life indicators. It places 4th of 32 boroughs for air quality (lowest NO2, PM2.5, and PM10 concentrations), and 5th safest in London for crime rates. These factors, combined with affordability, explain why families increasingly choose Bexley over more expensive alternatives.

Rental Market Overview

Bexley stands out as one of London's most affordable rental markets, offering genuine value that's increasingly rare in the capital. The average monthly private rent in Bexley reached £1,512 in August 2025, representing a 12.6% increase from £1,343 the previous year—higher than the London-wide increase of 5.7%, reflecting growing demand as renters discover the borough's appeal.

Breaking down by property size, Bexley's affordability becomes even clearer:

One-bedroom flats: £1,112 per month (4th most affordable in London)
Two-bedroom flats: £1,357 per month (2nd most affordable in London)
Three-bedroom properties: £1,507 per month (the most affordable in London)

These figures represent significant savings compared to the London average of approximately £2,100 per month. For families needing space, Bexley's three-bedroom rents being London's lowest is particularly compelling—saving potentially £500-800 per month compared to mid-range alternatives.

For property investors, Bexley offers some of London's highest rental yields. DA8 (Erith) leads with 5.7% gross yield, while DA17 (Belvedere) delivers 5.2%. Even more established areas like DA7 (Bexleyheath) and DA14 (Sidcup) provide 4.7% and 4.6% yields respectively—significantly above the London average of around 4%.

Property prices remain among London's most accessible, with the borough ranking as the 2nd most affordable in London. Average property prices of approximately £404,000 are 26% below the London average, making Bexley an attractive entry point for investors. Five-year price growth has been strong, with DA17 (Belvedere) leading at 21.4% and DA16 (Welling) at 20.9%.

Popular Neighbourhoods

Bexley encompasses diverse neighbourhoods, each with distinct character and appeal, from historic villages to regenerating riverside areas.

Bexleyheath

As the borough's principal commercial and administrative centre, Bexleyheath offers the most comprehensive amenities and best transport links. The town grew rapidly in the 20th century and became the administrative base when the London Borough of Bexley was created in 1965.

The shopping centre, Broadway, and surrounding high street provide extensive retail options, while the area is well-served by restaurants, cafes, and the Broadway Theatre for entertainment. Bexleyheath station offers direct trains to London Victoria, Charing Cross, and Cannon Street.

The area's most famous attraction is Red House, a Grade I listed building designed by Philip Webb for William Morris in 1859. Described by Edward Burne-Jones as "the beautifullest place on earth," it's now managed by the National Trust and represents one of the most important examples of 19th-century British architecture. Red House features original Morris and Webb furniture, Burne-Jones stained glass and paintings, and embroidery by Jane and Elizabeth Burden.

Celebrities including Roger Moore and author Roald Dahl have lived in Bexleyheath, attracted by its balance of accessibility and suburban character. Rents in DA6/DA7 (Bexleyheath) average around £1,400-1,600 per month for two-bedroom properties.

Old Bexley

Old Bexley retains genuine village character, with an attractive high street, historic buildings, and a pace of life that feels far removed from London's bustle. The medieval St Mary's Church dates back to the 13th century, and the village green creates a quintessentially English atmosphere.

The area sits within DA5 postcode, where average property prices reach £571,388—the highest in the borough, reflecting Old Bexley's desirability among families seeking character properties with good schools nearby. Rental properties are less common but command premium prices when available.

Sidcup

Known as the borough's cultural capital, Sidcup hosts two international performing arts institutions: Rose Bruford College of Theatre & Performing Arts and Bird College Conservatoire. This gives the area a creative, youthful energy unusual for outer London suburbs.

The town centre provides the primary shopping destination for southern Bexley, with a mix of specialist independent retailers and chain stores, plus a strong selection of pubs, restaurants, wine bars, and cafes. Sidcup station offers fast links to central London, making it popular with commuters.

The nearby Foots Cray Meadows covers 100 hectares of parkland and woodland—the largest open space in the borough—with the River Cray running through, offering excellent walking and nature opportunities. Rents in DA14 (Sidcup) are mid-range for the borough, with yields around 4.6%.

Erith

With nearly half a mile of River Thames frontage, Erith has a long maritime history dating to Henry VIII's naval dockyard. Victorian visitors arrived via river steamer, and the town became an important manufacturing hub in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Today, Erith is undergoing significant regeneration. London's longest public pier offers riverside walks, the newly refurbished Pier Square provides community space, and Riverside Gardens connect to the Thames Path. The town has an active Yacht Club and Rowing Club, giving it a distinctive waterfront character.

Erith offers the borough's highest rental yields at 5.7% (DA8), with more affordable property prices making it attractive to investors. The area suits renters seeking value who appreciate the riverside location and regeneration potential.

Belvedere

Positioned between Erith and Abbey Wood, Belvedere has seen the strongest property price growth in the borough at 21.4% over five years. Its proximity to Abbey Wood station (Elizabeth line) has transformed accessibility, making it increasingly attractive to commuters.

The area offers good rental yields at 5.2% (DA17) combined with this strong capital growth, representing an appealing balance for investors. For renters, Belvedere provides relatively affordable accommodation with dramatically improved transport links.

Welling

Welling's High Street is one of London's longest, stretching nearly a mile with over 250 outlets. The street features an antique Russian cannon captured during the Crimean War and several historic buildings, giving it distinctive character.

The area offers excellent value—a small-town feel with all essential amenities while remaining within reach of London. Bus services are extensive, with train stations at both Welling and nearby Bexleyheath and Falconwood providing rail access. DA16 (including Welling) has seen 20.9% property price growth over five years, second only to Belvedere.

Abbey Wood and Thamesmead

Abbey Wood has been transformed by the Elizabeth line, which opened in 2022 with the station as the southeastern terminus. Journey times to central London have been halved, with Paddington reachable in 29 minutes and Canary Wharf in just 11 minutes.

The area is the focus of major regeneration, with the Thamesmead and Abbey Wood Opportunity Area identified for over 15,000 new homes and 8,000 new jobs. Peabody's South Thamesmead masterplan alone will deliver up to 2,800 new homes close to Abbey Wood station across seven phases.

Phase 1 (Southmere) completed in 2022 with 534 new homes, a new public square, library, and commercial space. Phase 2 is completing in late 2025 with 329 energy-efficient homes. In December 2025, Homes England awarded £23 million for bus infrastructure connecting to Elizabeth line stations, ahead of a planned DLR extension that could enable 25,000-30,000 new homes.

For renters, Abbey Wood offers the unique combination of Elizabeth line access at prices below inner London equivalents. The ongoing regeneration means improving amenities and environment over the coming years.

Crayford and Blackfen

Crayford offers a more industrial heritage with the River Cray running through, while Blackfen provides a quieter residential alternative with two retail areas on Blackfen Road and The Oval. Independent businesses thrive, including a specialist menswear store, butcher, and J Ayre Bakery—one of the area's longest-running businesses.

The Broken Drum, one of the borough's earliest micropubs, reflects the area's community-focused character. Blackfen Community Library sits at the centre, and excellent bus services connect to train stations at Sidcup and Welling.

Transport Links

While Bexley has no Underground stations, the opening of the Elizabeth line at Abbey Wood in 2022 transformed the borough's connectivity. Combined with extensive National Rail services, most of central London is accessible within 30-45 minutes.

Elizabeth Line (Abbey Wood)

Abbey Wood station serves as the southeastern terminus of the Elizabeth line, providing direct services to:

Canary Wharf: 11 minutes
Liverpool Street: 22 minutes
Paddington: 29 minutes
Heathrow Airport: 55-60 minutes

Services run every 5 minutes during peak hours, with eight trains per hour—significantly higher frequency than the borough's other rail services. The Elizabeth line has effectively halved journey times to central London from the northern part of Bexley.

National Rail Services

Three main rail corridors serve the borough:

Bexleyheath Line: Stations at Bexleyheath, Welling, and Falconwood serve Victoria, Charing Cross, and Cannon Street. Journey times to London Bridge approximately 25 minutes, Victoria around 35-40 minutes.

North Kent Line: Stations at Slade Green, Erith, and Belvedere connect to London Bridge, Charing Cross, and Cannon Street via Woolwich.

Dartford Loop: Sidcup, Albany Park, and Bexley stations serve Charing Cross and Cannon Street.

Southeastern operates most services, with approximately 4 trains per hour on the Bexleyheath and Crayford lines. Thameslink provides half-hourly services through central London from Rainham to Luton via the corridor.

Future Transport Improvements

A proposed DLR extension to Thamesmead and beyond would further transform the borough's connectivity. The December 2025 Homes England infrastructure grant supports bus transit improvements as a precursor to the DLR extension, which was backed in the 2025 Autumn Budget.

Campaign groups also advocate for Elizabeth line extension from Abbey Wood to Ebbsfleet, which would benefit intermediate stations including potentially serving more of Bexley.

Road Connections

The A2 provides fast road access to central London and the M25, while the A20 connects to Kent and the Channel ports. The Dartford Crossing (M25) is easily accessible for journeys north of the Thames.

Schools and Education

Bexley is one of the few London boroughs retaining selective grammar schools, making it highly attractive to academically ambitious families. The grammar school system, combined with numerous good comprehensives, explains why education is a major driver of families moving to the borough.

Grammar Schools

Bexley Grammar School: Rated Outstanding by Ofsted (renewed October 2022), this co-educational grammar school (ages 11-18) has been recognised by SSAT in the Educational Outcomes Awards as among the highest-performing secondary schools in the country based on 2024 performance.

Townley Grammar School: This Outstanding-rated girls' grammar school (with boys admitted to sixth form) achieves exceptional results, with 99% of pupils gaining 5+ GCSE passes and 80% of students going on to study at their first-choice university.

Chislehurst and Sidcup Grammar School: A co-educational grammar school rated "Good" by Ofsted, admitting 197 students to Year 7 with a total roll of 1,440 students.

Beths Grammar School: A boys' grammar school with mixed sixth form, praised for its "Outstanding team of teaching and support staff."

Other Schools

Beyond the grammar schools, Bexley has numerous good-rated comprehensive and primary schools. The borough's family-oriented character means schools are generally well-supported by parent communities, and many achieve good results despite not being selective.

Further Education

Sidcup hosts two internationally recognised performing arts institutions: Rose Bruford College of Theatre & Performing Arts and Bird College Conservatoire. These attract students from across the UK and internationally, contributing to the area's cultural character.

Parks and Green Spaces

Bexley maintains over 100 parks and open spaces totalling 638 hectares (1,580 acres), ranging from small gardens to large parks with extensive facilities. Four designated Local Nature Reserves provide protected wildlife habitats.

Danson Park

At 75 hectares, Danson Park is the borough's second-largest public park and its most-used green space. Voted London's Best Loved Park by Fields in Trust in 2019, it has twice been awarded London's Best Park and received the Silver Gilt award for horticultural excellence.

Facilities include a children's splash park, cafe, pub, car park, woodland walk, fishing, watersports, outdoor gym, and boating lake. The park sits between Welling and Bexleyheath, easily accessible to residents of both areas.

Lesnes Abbey Woods

This 88-hectare area of ancient woodland surrounds the ruins of Lesnes Abbey, founded in 1178. It's designated a Local Nature Reserve and includes the Abbey Wood geological Site of Special Scientific Interest, important for early Tertiary fossils.

The woods connect to adjacent Bostall Woods, creating an extensive area for walking and wildlife observation. Lesnes Abbey Woods is considered of metropolitan importance for wildlife and conservation, offering a genuine woodland experience within Greater London.

Foots Cray Meadows

The largest open space in the borough at 100 hectares, Foots Cray Meadows comprises parkland and woodland with the River Cray running through. Bordering Albany Park, Sidcup, Foots Cray, North Cray, and Ruxley, it provides extensive walking routes and natural habitats.

South East London Green Chain

Bexley has joined three adjoining boroughs to form the South East London Green Chain, linking green spaces across southeast London. This provides connected walking routes between parks and natural areas, extending recreational opportunities beyond the borough's boundaries.

Other Notable Spaces

Erith's riverside offers London's longest public pier and Riverside Gardens connecting to the Thames Path. The Crossness Nature Reserve provides wildlife habitat in the Thames marshes, while numerous smaller parks serve local communities throughout the borough.

Major Regeneration Projects

Billions of pounds of investment are transforming Bexley's northern areas, particularly around Abbey Wood and Thamesmead, creating new homes, jobs, and amenities.

Thamesmead and Abbey Wood Opportunity Area

Identified by the Mayor of London as one of the capital's major growth areas, this opportunity area has potential for over 15,000 new homes and 8,000 new jobs. Peabody's long-term vision includes 20,000 new homes across the broader Thamesmead area, transforming it into "a thriving new town for London."

South Thamesmead Masterplan

The seven-phase South Thamesmead masterplan will deliver up to 2,800 new homes close to Abbey Wood Elizabeth line station:

Phase 1 (Southmere) - Completed 2022: 534 new homes (55% affordable), new public square, The Nest library and community facilities, commercial space for shops and cafes.

Phase 2 - Completing late 2025: 329 energy-efficient, mixed-tenure homes (42% affordable) in a lakeside setting, developed by Peabody and Lovell, designed by Karakusevic Carson Architects.

Phases 3-7: Up to 1,950 additional homes, new commercial premises, and high-quality green spaces, with completion by 2027.

Transport Infrastructure Investment

In December 2025, Homes England awarded £23 million for bus transit infrastructure connecting new housing to Abbey Wood and Woolwich Elizabeth line stations. This forms part of preparations for a DLR extension backed in the 2025 Autumn Budget, which could enable 25,000-30,000 new homes and create two new communities.

Safety and Crime

Bexley consistently ranks among London's safest boroughs, making it particularly attractive to families and those prioritising security.

The borough is the 5th safest in London (of 33) when ranked by crime rate. The overall crime rate in Bexley is approximately 68 crimes per 1,000 people—17% lower than the London average and 14% lower than the England, Wales, and Northern Ireland overall figure.

In 2024, Bexley recorded 11,384 crimes compared to the Outer London average of 16,705, confirming its relatively safer position. Violence and sexual offences represent the most common crime category at 29.19 per 1,000—below the London average.

The 10-year trend shows a downward trajectory of approximately 13 points in Bexley's crime risk score, indicating sustained improvement. Burglary rates are lower than most London boroughs, and violent crime sits below the UK average.

Bexley regularly appears in lists of London's top 5 safest boroughs alongside Richmond, Kingston upon Thames, Sutton, and Harrow—all outer London boroughs with similar suburban characteristics.

Local Amenities and Attractions

Bexley offers comprehensive amenities reflecting its family-oriented, suburban character.

Shopping: Bexleyheath provides the main retail destination with Broadway shopping centre and surrounding high street. Sidcup offers a good secondary centre with independent retailers. Welling's mile-long high street houses over 250 outlets. Local parades throughout the borough serve daily needs.

Culture and Heritage: Red House, the Grade I listed Arts and Crafts masterpiece designed for William Morris, is the borough's most significant cultural attraction, managed by the National Trust. Lesnes Abbey ruins date to 1178, while Erith's pier and maritime heritage tell the story of Thames-side industry. The Broadway Theatre in Bexleyheath offers year-round entertainment.

Riverside: Erith provides genuine Thames-side character with London's longest public pier, Riverside Gardens, and connections to the Thames Path. The Yacht Club and Rowing Club maintain the area's waterfront traditions.

Food and Drink: Town centres offer diverse dining options, from traditional pubs to international cuisines. Blackfen's Broken Drum represents the growing micropub trend. Independent cafes and restaurants serve communities throughout the borough.

Leisure: Over 100 parks provide extensive outdoor recreation. Danson Park offers boating and watersports. Ancient woodlands at Lesnes Abbey and Foots Cray Meadows provide walking and wildlife opportunities. The Green Chain connects to neighbouring boroughs' green spaces.

Healthcare: Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Woolwich (neighbouring Greenwich) provides the nearest major A&E. Darent Valley Hospital in Dartford (Kent) offers additional capacity. Numerous GP surgeries and dental practices serve the borough.

Who Should Rent in Bexley?

Bexley's combination of affordability, safety, and family-friendly character suits several renter profiles:

Families: Outstanding grammar schools, numerous good comprehensives, extensive parks, one of London's lowest crime rates, and the most affordable three-bedroom rents in London make Bexley ideal for families prioritising children's education and safety without breaking the budget.

Elizabeth line commuters: Abbey Wood's Elizabeth line access transforms commuting to Canary Wharf (11 minutes) and central London. Renters can access this connectivity at prices significantly below equivalent Elizabeth line locations in east or west London.

Value-seeking professionals: Those willing to accept slightly longer commutes from Bexleyheath or Sidcup gain genuine affordability and quality of life. The suburban character provides a peaceful return from work unavailable in busier inner London areas.

Investors: Bexley's combination of London's highest rental yields (up to 5.7%), strong capital growth (up to 21.4% over five years), and ongoing regeneration makes it attractive for buy-to-let investment.

Those seeking community: High owner-occupation rates (69%), strong schools, and the borough's Kent heritage create genuine community spirit rare in London. Renters seeking belonging rather than anonymity may find Bexley's character appealing.

Why Rent in Bexley?

Bexley offers a compelling value proposition for London renters:

Genuine affordability: Three-bedroom rents averaging £1,507 (London's lowest) and two-bedroom rents at £1,357 (2nd lowest) deliver real savings compared to most London alternatives. Families can access space that would be unaffordable elsewhere.

Elizabeth line transformation: Abbey Wood's Elizabeth line access has revolutionised connectivity, halving journey times to central London and making the northern part of the borough viable for Canary Wharf and City workers.

Safety: As the 5th safest London borough with crime rates 17% below the London average, Bexley offers peace of mind for families and individuals prioritising security.

Grammar schools: Four grammar schools including Outstanding-rated Bexley Grammar and Townley Grammar make the borough highly attractive to academically ambitious families.

Green space: Over 100 parks including award-winning Danson Park, ancient Lesnes Abbey Woods, and extensive Foots Cray Meadows provide exceptional outdoor amenities.

Regeneration momentum: Major investment in Thamesmead and Abbey Wood is creating new homes, amenities, and infrastructure, with potential DLR extension to further improve connectivity.

Quality of life: Top-5 rankings for air quality and employment rates, combined with the borough's suburban character and community spirit, create genuinely pleasant living conditions.

While the lack of Underground stations means longer commutes from some areas and the borough lacks the cultural vibrancy of inner London, for renters prioritising value, safety, schools, and family-friendly environments, Bexley represents one of London's most sensible choices.