Balham Newsie Weekly Newsletter
Renowned chef opens new restaurant near Wandsworth Common, Balham resident selected to represent England, weekend school fairs, litter picks, farmers' market and much more!
Just a note that there won’t be a Balham Newsie newsletter for the next 3 weeks while the team is on holiday, but don’t worry – we’ll still be sharing all the latest local news, events and updates on our social channels as usual.
The newsletter will be back on Friday 31st July with a bumper edition packed with everything you've missed!
The Telferscot Primary School Summer Fair takes place tomorrow, Saturday 4th July from 12pm - 3pm!
Join them for an afternoon of fun for the whole family, including:
Scavenger Hunt
Ice Lolly Bar
Glitter & Tattoo Station
Crafts & Games
Bouncy Castle
Tombola
Treasure Bags
Silent Auction & Raffle Hampers
Healthy Bar
Second-Hand Uniforms
Eco Stall
Tickets cost £2 for adults and kids go free!
THIS SATURDAY 4th JULY IN BALHAM AND AROUND WANDSWORTH: Discover Wandsworth is an initiative designed to showcase local businesses, venues and experiences across the borough, whilst encouraging residents and visitors to explore, shop and support local.
The campaign features 100 offers which include exclusive discounts, free tasters and one-off experiences from independent businesses, many of them running throughout July and beyond.
In Balham, a host of local shops and businesses are getting behind the day with special offers – jewellery designer Sam Ubhi Jewellery is offering 20% off, Hot Yoga South is running free yoga classes and a cold plunge/hot tub session, The Thoughtful Fruiter is serving free coffee alongside 10% off purchases, Balham Leisure Centre is giving away a free five-day pass, and dozens more Balham and Wandsworth favourites are joining in (link to full list below👇).
Organised by Wandsworth Council's business team, the event invites residents to shop local and make the most of the deals. For a full list of participating businesses, visit the Wandsworth Business Team website.
The brilliant Furzedown Farmers' Market is back THIS SATURDAY 4th July, from 9:30am - 1:30pm, in the playground at Penwortham Primary with lots of new and old favourites for you to browse & shop!
They have coffee, delicious food & drinks and a great deal of kids’ items this weekend too!
South London Vinyl will also be there, providing the soundtrack! 🎧
Dogs are very welcome 🐶
Penwortham Primary School, Penwortham Road, SW16 6RJ – just down the road from Tooting & Balham!
Join local community group Beautify Balham this Saturday 4th July for their monthly litter pick!
Meet behind Sainsbury’s Balham at Bedford Hill Place at 11am. Gloves, litter pickers and bags will be provided.
Beautify Balham works with local residents and businesses to help make Balham greener, cleaner and even more beautiful!
Congratulations to Balham resident, former Broomwood Prep student and Olympian, Katie Snowden, who’s been officially selected to represent England in the mile race in this summer’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow - her third time competing at the Games!
Best of luck Katie!
Congrats to Jefferson's Ice Cream, who have been named Best Artisan Food and Drink Producer in London at the 2026 Muddy Stilettos Awards! 🍦
With nearly half a million nominations and votes cast nationwide, this is a great honour for the local business!
The team at Jefferson's would like to thank every customer, supporter and follower who took the time to nominate and vote for them!
The Muddy Stilettos Awards are the UK’s most coveted awards for brilliant independent lifestyle businesses, connecting with over 14 million readers!
For a full list of winners, visit the Muddy Stilettos website here.
Jefferson's is located at 191B Balham High Rd.
We’re sad to report that Balham Bark, the much-loved independent dog store on Emmanuel Road on the edge of Tooting Common, will be closing at the end of August after three and a half years serving the local community.
The good news is that The Handsome Hound grooming will continue under new management from 1st September, with Andrew beginning a well-deserved move towards semi-retirement.
Over the coming weeks, Andrew will be personally introducing clients to the new owner to ensure a smooth and familiar transition. The Handsome Hound will continue welcoming both existing and new grooming clients, and will also retain a carefully selected retail range for everyday essentials.
Balham Bark owner Trevor tells us:
“After a huge amount of thought and with a very heavy heart, we’ve made the decision to close Balham Bark at the end of August. It’s incredibly sad and emotional – Balham Bark has been such a huge part of our lives, and we’ve been so lucky to have such loyal customers since day one.
“We’re not disappearing overnight – we’ll continue trading until the end of August and would love customers to keep popping in. To kick things off, we’re launching 50% OFF all collars, leads, bowls, jackets, coats, blankets and selected accessories – while still stocking all the favourite treats, chews, food and toys you know and love.
“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been part of the Balham Bark family over the past three and a half years – from our wonderful team to our fantastic suppliers and incredible customers. You’ve all helped create something we’ll always be proud of.”
We’d like to wish Trevor & Andrew the very best for the future!
Sales Property Of The Week from Keating Estates, Balham: “A bright studio apartment with a separate sleeping area, situated on the third floor of a well-maintained Art Deco building, featuring the added benefit of a communal business centre, ideally located on Balham High Road.
“Arranged over the third floor and enjoying far-reaching views across Balham, the apartment is wonderfully bright and airy throughout.”
For full info, visit their website www.keatingestates.com, visit the team at 61 Bedford Hill, email balham@keatingestates.com or call 020 8079 3161.
If you’re planning a home improvement project over the coming months, local construction company, Asllani Constructions are here to help - and they now have availability for new projects, large & small!
Whether you’re dreaming of a bespoke kitchen designed around your style, a loft conversion for a bright new living space, or a fresh new look for your business or studio, Manthi & his highly-experienced team are here to bring it all to life!
Manthi tells us more about his business:
“Every space tells a story, and we combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to help you get your home or business exactly as you want it, delivering results that last.
“We specialise in the following construction work:
• Bespoke Kitchens & Furniture: tailored designs built around your style & needs
• Carpentry & Joinery: precision woodwork for doors, wardrobes, and interiors
• Flooring & Tiling: durable, stylish installations
• Painting & Decorating: seamless finishes that refresh and elevate
• Renovations, Extensions & Repairs: complete home improvements from start to finish
“No project is too small, no vision is too big. We create custom-made solutions for every client, and all of our work is built on detail, quality, and care.”
To find out more & to book in a free quote, call or text Manthi at 07903 208 450, email manthos09@icloud.com and see more great examples of their work at Asllani Constructions!
‘Glass Glow Facials’ are available at Balham dental practice Ten Dental Facial – all part of their rapidly growing facial aesthetics offering, which is proving increasingly popular with local residents!
Ten Dental co-founder, Dr Nik Sisodia tells us:
“Your skin deserves the spotlight, and our Glass Glow Facials deliver intense hydration and a radiant, glass-skin finish that leaves your complexion looking fresh, smooth, and luminous.
“Our Facials are designed to deeply nourish, smooth, and brighten your skin for that flawless, dewy finish that everyone loves.”
To book a Glass Glow Facial or find out more, WhatsApp 07907 366 397, call 020 8675 1798, email hello@tendental.com or pop in at 156 Balham High Road.
You can also visit their website at tendental.com
For over 8 years, The Strings Club has been a familiar part of school holiday life for families in Balham – woven into the rhythm of long summers, half terms and busy working weeks in the local area.
Founded by musician and mum Amy Cunningham, The Strings Club began with a simple idea: that school holidays could feel more creative, more confidence-building, and more joyful for children.
What started as a small local camp of just 6 children in Camden has grown steadily over the years – but remains rooted in the same purpose: screen-free days blending the joys of music with creative, interactive experiences children genuinely love.
And they’re back for SUMMER 2026! The Strings Club’s award-winning, music-focused Holiday Camps return to Balham for children aged 4-11 – and new customers can get 10% OFF using code NEWSIE at the checkout!👇
Led by some of the UK’s best childcare practitioners and string teachers, each day includes engaging violin or ukulele sessions (with free instrument hire) plus interactive workshops designed to spark creativity and confidence – all building towards a joyful Grand Concert!
BALHAM SUMMER HOLIDAY CLUB DETAILS:
🏠 Venue: Trinity St Mary’s CE Primary School, 6 Balham Park Rd, SW12 8DR (4 minutes from the tube)
📅 Dates: w/c Monday 27th July to w/c Monday 24th August – choose the days you want or book the full week!
🕰️ Hours: 9:30am-4pm or 8am-5:30pm (depending on the flexibility you need)
For more information and to book, visit thestringsclub.org/collections/balham
New customers: use code NEWSIE at checkout for 10% OFF!
Renowned chef and local resident, Adam Byatt has opened Rosina Restaurant at 35 Bellevue Road (on the corner of Trinity Road), where Brinkley’s was previously located! Adam is also behind the Michelin-starred Trinity restaurant in Clapham.
Reservations are now live for bookings - book via their website at rosinarestaurant.co.uk
The neighbourhood restaurant is inspired by the love that Adam has for Italian cuisine, produce and hospitality and is named after his daughter Rosie.
When announcing the new restaurant, Adam said on his Instagram page:
“Rosina is a space I want people to really enjoy, a restaurant to use all week, a Wednesday on a whim, an intimate Friday date night, as well as a family get-together over the weekend.”
You’ll find Rosina located at 35 Bellevue Road, SW17 7EF
Dear Jay, a new venue serving all-day breakfast, brunch and lunch, has opened today at 9 Chestnut Grove, where Oy Bar was previously located. They also have future plans for evening dining and an alcohol license.
Dear Jay has an existing, very popular café just down the road in Streatham Hill - and the team are excited to have opened their second branch right here in SW12, with a real focus on the food and making customers happy. The team told us, “We like to feed people here!”
The kitchen at Dear Jay is headed up by Daniel Newman, a chef with over 20 years of experience. After training at the prestigious Vincent Square Culinary school, Daniel honed his skills in restaurants in France and Vancouver. Known for holding local supper clubs, as well as working as a private chef to high-profile clientele, Daniel specialises in blending traditional techniques and recipes inspired by his travels.
You’ll find Dear Jay located at 9 Chestnut Grove - open 7 days a week from 8am-5pm.
Local mum Bella Urquhart has launched Bella Nota Tuition, a personalised music tuition service for children, teenagers and adults. Bella tells us more:
“As a local mum, I understand how important it is to find enriching activities that fit around busy family life. That’s why I created Bella Nota – a music tuition service designed to inspire confidence, creativity and a lifelong love of music.
“Bella Nota offers piano, guitar, singing, music theory and GCSE exam preparation, with lessons tailored to each individual’s goals, learning style and pace.
"Whether students are learning for fun, working towards exams or building their confidence, lessons are designed to be engaging, supportive and enjoyable.
“With over 10 years of private teaching experience and as a current Head of Department in an Outstanding secondary school, I have extensive experience supporting learners of all abilities, including students with SEND, ensuring every student feels encouraged and inspired.
“To support busy families, Bella Nota also offers a wraparound care service. Students can be collected from school and brought to their lesson, or attend a lesson before school and be dropped off afterwards, providing a convenient and enriching extension to the school day."
Lessons are available for children, teenagers and adults, and all tutors are Enhanced DBS checked with previous teaching experience within London schools.
For more information or to book a trial lesson, visit their website here or email bellanotatuition@gmail.com
A new shawarma take-away The Shawarma Club has opened at 210 Balham High Road, just under the railway bridge.
The Shawarma Club is owned by two sisters and this is their first shop! They serve chicken shawarma, halloumi wraps, fresh-cut chips and salads but may adjust the menu in the coming months.
They are open Sunday - Wednesday from 2pm - 8pm and Thursday - Saturday from 2pm - 11pm.
Local residents Skye and Andy have launched a new app Hot Doggos, to help dog owners have safer, cooler and happier walks! Co-founder Andy tells us more:
"The Hot Doggos website (app coming soon!) helps dog owners have safe walks in warm weather with a temperature checker that takes into consideration things like flat-faced breeds, double coats and other features as well as offering alternative things you can do with your dog.
"This was an idea we came up with on the way to the cinema on a really hot day and inspired by Skye’s family dog Ollie, who recently passed away (not from heat!), who spent the summers on cooling mats and eating ice lollies and avoiding the heat. But it got especially hard to tell when it was ok for a walk as he got older and was a lot more affected by the heat and we saw an opportunity to make it easier for other dog owners!"
For more info, visit the Hot Doggo website here.
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