Billsters

Bus to the WE is slow in rush hour, but I go from Clapton (or you can walk 5 mins to hackney from lower clapton) to Liverpool St, then get central line, takes about 40 mins overall to Oxford Circus, or go to Walthamstow and get on Victoria line. Funny, I would like to move soon, as there's just too much of a buzz here, but feel I have to hang on to see the prices rise (and if they fall, they will fall everywhere).

I don't agree that it's as straightforward as that. Hipsters aren't yuppies, they don't have conspicuous wealth (having spent it on housing, in some cases), especially compared to the gangs. They may have more life chances, and better prospects (or not, these days) but they don't have better phones, tellies or trainers. The trendiest youngsters have naff all, and dress out of charity shops. The new pub by the roundabout is The Clapton Hart and it is very nice, attracting hipsters (many of whom count out their pennies to buy a pint).

Good morning. I've been reading the forum, and whilst I find the general discussion of property prices interesting, really can't have you dissing my hood to this extent. :-) Clapton is doing well for the following reasons: 11 minute rail link to Liverpool St. Huge Victorian properties, many intact with original features, many with large gardens. Walking distance from Dalston and Stokey; easy distance from Islington and Shoreditch; not too far from West End. Good range of buses. (Admittedly I get a lot of cabs as the buses are slow, which is the main downside for me, but then living here, I can afford to.) Springfield Park and Marina - beautiful and peaceful, bordering on a nature reserve. Lea Valley park. Stables and ice rink. Great library. As for crime, if you tense up when you see a hoodie, or generally feel vulnerable, it's not for you. I popped out to the cashpoint at 1am this morning and then got wine and milk from a 24 hr shop; I wouldn't walk teeter home drunk in high heels, with an expensive handbag, I'd get a cab, but that's the same everywhere. If you take reasonable precautions you'll be left alone, and the yoot generally only bother one another. In the Hassidic streets, you're probably safer than most places. When I moved in 10 years ago, getting the last train from Liverpool St. felt a bit scary. Now, it's packed, with lots of people getting off at Clapton and happily walking home. It's still shabby and rundown on the main drag, but it's far from a hellhole. Trendiness continues to spread outward and it's the next area predicted to take off - if I had investment money I'd open a posh coffee shop here, right now. Seriously. There's a gastro pub and an art cinema opening by the roundabout in the next couple of months. Chatsworth Road is getting chi chi. Sorry, had to put the record straight as I see it - people buying here aren't complete mugs, they want easy City access, good property, convenient amenities and green space. Carry on!