Balham's Top Gems!

If it wasn't for the A24 running down the middle of it, or the newly installed CS7, or the underground plonked right in the centre, or the overground screeching above, or the massive Sainsbury's refurb with Waitrose across the (High) road, I think you could safely say that Balham is more of a village.  Seriously!  Devoid of the majority of high street chains and full of quirky independent shops, bars, restaurants and businesses, Balham is unique amongst it's neighbours and everyone who lives there agrees.

And to back up my 'village'  theory,  now's a good time to introduce some real hidden Gems.  Things you may not have known about Balham or things you did, but haven't got round to trying out.  I'll do my best but I'm sure you lot can emboss this list wonderfully.  See what you think!

61 Sudbrooke Road.  Just behind Nightingale Lane.  Architects, Anthony Thomas Ltd were give a brief to make this private house extension reminiscent of Sydney Opera House, complete with curved vaulted ceiling.  No joke and if you want to go and have a tour around the premises, it'll be open for viewings on 18/19 September as part of the the Open House London event which showcases London's great architectural heritage.

28 Old Devonshire Road.  This well known Balham Bed and Breakfast has a not so well known secret garden 'full to bursting with planting both familiar and surprising'.   Visitors and groups are welcome to view by appointment.  This garden regularly features in the National Gardens Scheme's 'Yellow Book' and all proceeds for viewings go towards the NGS charities, with a share to Trinity Hospice.

Quirky Dovetail on Ritherdon Road has another secret garden!  Summer weekends they're serving delicious tea and cakes alfresco whilst you peruse the 'quirky' renovated furniture and other interesting home paraphernalia.

We all know Balham favourite, The Exhibit.  But did you know that on Thursday evenings, you can go and see a classic film in their own 'quirky' cinema for just £3!  Couple that with a meal in their 393 Restaurant (starters and pus just £3, mains £9), and you get the film for free.  An altogether brilliant evening.  You'll need to book and the film will be listed the Monday before.

The Polish White Eagle Club 211 Balham High Road.  Go there for a robust Sunday lunch and feel like you're on the set of Dr Who!  As soon as you've walked up the stone staircase outside and enter sheepishly in through the doors, you're transported into a bygone era circa 1938, pre war Poland.  Try this from the menu. Red boorish with dumplings soup for starters, followed by Piramid of potato pancakes with beef goulash. 

The Publican's National community Pub of the Year 2009.  The Nightingale is a true local pub with great food, bar staff with time to chat like in the  good old days.  They've even got their own version of Betty from Coronation Street working behind the bar.

Feel free to improve, suggest or add to this list.  I know for sure that this is just a small part of Balham's Gems!