Country life

Just over a mile south of the river lies Clapham, a suburban idyll made up of row upon row of terraced houses surrounded by vast areas of green space. But don’t go thinking you’re in the sticks – this village is famed for its cafés, restaurants and shops. And Honeybrook Road is within easy walking distance of all of it. Classically decorated yet kid-friendly and fun, this is the family home of your dreams. Early in the morning, well-heeled commuters sally forth from Clapham to turn the wheels of capitalism. But yummy mummies – and you – can take your time.

To the manor born

Originally from the countryside, your hosts revel in this glory of suburbia. He works in the City, while she is a full-time mum to their two children. When they’re not serving lunch for eight in their private garden, they can be found romping with the kids in the playroom or tossing a ball around at the nearby tennis courts.

Golden Age

When it comes to interior design, no-one could accuse our hosts of not marrying form with function. All antique wood, creams and olives, this is a home that’s grand when it needs to be, yet comfortable and easy at the same time. Sink down on the plump sofa in the drawing-room and look up at the extraordinary canopied curtain above. Open the patio doors and send the kids down the garden to play in the (fully-wired) playhouse, while you cook up a storm in the kitchen – there are acres of counter space and not one but two dishwashers. And when it’s time for bed, thrill your grown-up girl with her very sophisticated bedroom (no Barbie pinks here!). And fold your little man into the racing car bed and zoom him off for sleep.

Pastoral pleasures

From the Michelin-starred Chez Bruce to the smart market stalls and child-friendly shops of nearby Northcote Road, Clapham is packed with things to see and do. Both Wandsworth and Clapham Commons are a short toddle away. And when you decide to head into the city, you’re only twenty minutes from the centre of town by tube.