Clapham, London

Just across the River Thames from the über-wealthy areas of Sloane Square and Belgravia, Clapham is home to a largely middle-class mix of foreigners, current and recent university grads, and a vibrant gay community – all enjoying the proximity to London’s poshest neighborhoods without paying the accompanying rents.

Although the name Clapham goes back over a thousand years, the area has a distinctly 21st-century vibe, especially along the main drag of Clapham High Street where a plethora of ethnic eateries, rowdy pubs, gay-friendly drinking dens, and bumping clubs do brisk business with young barhoppers. Many would describe the nighttime scene along High Street as thriving, but calling it wild wouldn’t be a stretch either, especially at anything-goes venues like The Church where hordes of boisterous twenty-somethings pile in every night of the week.

Those looking for a less frenetic pace can merely walk a few blocks north to the picturesque series of streets that make up Clapham Old Town, where trendy clothes shops and boutiques keep everyone up to date on the latest fashions, and several relaxed cafés and bars dot the blocks.

On summer days, the 220-acre grassy expanse of Clapham Common is flooded with young partiers and sun-seekers, and the park routinely plays host to concerts and festivals throughout the year. Meanwhile, the monthly Venn Street Market provides an excuse to mingle in the streets as locals select from fresh produce and other goods.

Exuding a vibrant, youthful energy, Clapham is a solid choice for mainstream fun, whether that involves window shopping, all-night madness, or a relaxed day on the grass.