Thanks for the advice.

I think I really need to take a look around to get a feel for these places but Forest Hill definately sounds promising.

I currently live in North Camberwell / Walworth. The street I live in is quite nice, lots of big Georgian terraces, but the surrounding area is a bit rough although it's really easy to get to work - 15mins on the Vespa. That's the other thing I'd have to consider, I commute into Aldwych by scooter, Crystal Palace might make a the commute longer than I'd like.