I assume we are just talking about London. Have lived in, to name a few off the top of my head, Tooting, Southfields, Northfields, Fulham, Shepherds Bush, Lewisham, Ladywell & Blackheath.

I can honestly say that the only thing I miss from any of these places was the café culture in Fulham. I could just sling a guitar over my shoulder and find a jam anytime I fancied - have much less opportunity to do that these days anyway. These parts are greener, friendlier and a lot less manic.

Agreed re comments about Forest Hill (lived there too) and South Circular - now in Honor Oak which is just lovely and only really suffers from the lack of a decent pub. Have never had an issue with travelling across London for a drink anyway and there are plenty of choices much closer so this isn't a showstopper.

Having lived, or spent time, in a lot of London, would choose this area again in a heartbeat. If we could afford it that is.