A Resident's Guide to: Waterloo with Michael Anastassiades
Widely known as a dynamic transport hub, Waterloo is quickly establishing a reputation as a new cultural centre in the capital. Situated within the central London Borough of Lambeth, the area is home to two world-class theatres, growing independent galleries and a wealth of small-scale businesses.
Here, local resident and designer Michael Anastassiades shares his insights into the area.
“The area around Waterloo has changed drastically since I moved here 20 years ago, but it has resisted commercialisation in many senses and retained its independent character. Lower Marsh in particular has all of these awkward, eccentric shops. I moved here when it was a neglected pocket of London but I love being in the heart of London and within walking distance of all of the theatres and galleries.”
1. Greengrassi Gallery
Cornelia Grassi and her husband share this space in Kennington and it has a beautiful programme of exhibitions and shows the work of incredible artists. I only discovered it a couple of years ago but it was a very pleasant surprise.
Photograph courtesy of Eva Joy
2. Anchor & Hope
Everybody knows the Anchor & Hope. It opened a long time after I moved to the area but I’ve been going ever since. The chef used to work in the kitchens at The Eagle in Clerkenwell and they have exceptional food. They don’t take bookings but I always manage to find a table.
Photograph courtesy of Siobhan Harrison
3. Waterloo Acupuncture, 88 Roupell Street
This is a great find. It’s quite hidden away but the treatments are exceptional. I used to be a yoga instructor and I’ve always been interested in alternative therapies. It was recommended to me by a friend and it was a great discovery.
4. The Old Vic and The Young Vic
I follow the theatre and read about new productions and whenever there’s something interesting on I always find myself there. The Old Vic and Young Vic are great neighbourhood treasures.
Photograph by Ellie Kurttz, courtesy of The Young Vic
5. Imperial War Museum
I love this museum. It’s somewhere not many people would think of visiting but it has an incredible presence as a building and the collections are fascinating. They’ve had some amazing exhibitions. I also love the open lawns and the Buddhist garden is very inspiring.
Photograph courtesy of Elena Matsui
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