A newly circulated map, dubbed the 'London squirrel,' has rekindled debates about the most desirable neighborhoods in the capital, challenging traditional notions of prime London living. This comes a year after the 'London banana' map, which delineated preferred areas in north-west, south-west, and central London.
The 'London squirrel,' posted on X by user EwanBen, favors swathes of east London, including areas like Peckham, Stratford, and Sidcup, over traditionally affluent locales such as Knightsbridge and Chelsea. The map's unconventional shape and its inclusion of outer London suburbs like Sidcup have drawn significant online commentary and mockery. One user described it as 'potentially the worst interpretation one could even fathom,' while another questioned its resemblance to a squirrel.
Despite the initial ridicule, residents from areas highlighted by the 'squirrel' have defended their neighborhoods. Honey, 26, a pie and mash shop worker from Greenwich, expressed that the 'London banana' map overlooked southeast London. "Everyone is different and where you belong in London definitely depends on the type of person you are. South is for me," she stated, praising Greenwich for its vibrancy, culture, history, and friendly community.
Peter Addiall, 32, argued that Stratford in east London merits its inclusion in the 'squirrel' map. He noted the area's transformation since the 2012 Olympics, citing infrastructure improvements, increased affordability, and a growing sense of multiculturalism. "A lot of people have been priced out of Hackney and Clapton, and they are coming out this way," Addiall said.
Reon Tyndale, 38, a police officer who has lived in nearby Newham for three years, also supported Stratford, calling it one of the best areas to visit. "Everywhere in London has its problems but Stratford is looked after. There is always security everywhere," he observed, while also commenting on the displacement of lower working-class residents.
Clapham, situated where the 'banana' and 'squirrel' maps converge, is described as an affluent suburb. Robyn Moffat, 27, a nanny, considers it a prime suburban location, citing good amenities, restaurants, and the appeal of Clapham Common. Jean Cristoph, 61, a long-term Clapham resident, also praised the area for its community feel, shops, bars, and restaurants, preferring it even to Chelsea. Joan Greenbury, 70, a resident of 43 years, highlighted the common as a major attraction for younger people.
The original 'London banana' map, which went viral the previous year, identified desirable areas as primarily in the north-west, south-west, and central parts of the city. Unlike the 'squirrel' map, areas within the 'banana' typically had higher house prices, suggesting greater desirability for homeowners. Conversely, crime rates outside central London often tend to be lower.