Folk at Florence Dock

Crossing south on London’s Wandsworth Bridge, Folk at Florence Dock stands high with panoramic views of the city. Offering short and long-term accommodation right along the Thames, this social, co-living property is quietly building a community and breathing life into unsung corners of Battersea. It’s perfect for a longer stay, or just to feel like you’re making it your own – it’s self-service and private kitchens over public dining rooms or breakfast buffets.  

What is the service like at Folk?

Whether you’ve booked for two years or a two nights, the staff at Folk make each aspect of the property feel like it's part of your home, with events almost every night of the week to get to know people staying. When I was checking in, for example, I was lucky to catch the tail-end of a piano concert in Folk’s cosy lobby. Residents young and old, kicked back with drinks and snacks while fawning over classic tunes and chatting quietly.

What are the rooms like at Folk?

Each room here is a studio set-up, and they’re sweet and simple, with all the quality necessities. Double beds are comfortable. Kitchen appliances are modern and clean, and the ensuite bathrooms are spotless, with ample room. A half-moon table has just enough room for a quick meal for two, and the wardrobe behind it holds a surprisingly good amount of storage space. There are also a decent amount of shelves, and a TV near the foot of the bed. 

If you do end up needing extra space, ask management about Folk’s “bigger” and “biggest” studio options that are also available for short stays at an upgraded cost. 

What is the food like at Folk at Florence Dock?

There’s no restaurant at Folk, but there is a mini-convenience shop near the reception area for any last-minute groceries or late-night snacks you may be craving. And here comes the best bit – there’s a self-service bar. Catch Folk residents browsing the beer and wine selection before they pour themselves a drink and find a seat for one of the weekly communal events in the lobby. 

When you feel like whipping something up solo, you have your private kitchenette or two massive community kitchens (one in each building) to really get your cookin' on. You’ll find all the necessary utensils and appliances, along with multiple ovens for elite efficiency. And if you simply can’t be bothered, there’s always Deliveroo.

What else will I find at Folk at Florence Dock?

What Folk lacks in food, it sure as hell makes up for it in amenities. You’ll find a reading room filled with books and giant bean bags that swallow your entire body for ultimate cosiness, as well as tonnes of work spaces and quiet corners for studying. There’s also a cinema for movie nights, two gaming rooms – one for video games and one for table tennis, a laundry room and a giant gym in the basement that holds your typical cardio machines and weight lifting equipment. 

As a New Yorker-turned-Londoner, the two roof top terraces were the cherries on top of the properties. There’s lots of outdoor seating, tables to work or eat al fresco, and a view of the city and Thames that most Londoners could only dream of having. 

What’s the area like around the Folk at Florence Dock?

The biggest perk of Folk’s location? You’re right by the river, overlooking Wandsworth Bridge. Start your days with a jog along the Thames. Grab a pint at The Waterfront pub by sunset, or hop on board the Uber Boat – its St. Mary’s Pier stop is less than five minutes away. It’s a swift and scenic way to get around the city while taking in landmarks like Tower Bridge and The London Eye. If you prefer a greenspace, York Gardens is a short walk from the property and has its own library. 

Aside from that, this little slice of Battersea is still a little sleepy. There’s the tempting French restaurante, Gazette, across the street and a couple of average eateries on nearby roads, but the Co-Op around the corner might be your best bet – thankfully, your studio has a nifty kitchen. 

Why should you book a stay at Folk? 

Folk at Florence Dock successfully merges independent living and communal spirit. It’s the place for those who appreciate personal space, but love a good gathering when their social battery is charged. Whether you're attending one of the property's events, cooking in the community kitchens or saying a quick ‘hello’ to a passing neighbour, you can't help but feel that these quiet Battersea corners are slowly breathing more life. 

DETAILS 

Address: 45 Chatfield Road, SW11 3SH, London

Price: Starting from £217 per night. 

Closest transport: Chatsfield Road bus stop (buses 295, 44, N44) is only a two-minute walk away. St. Mary’s Pier Uber Boat dock is about a three-minute walk away. Wandsworth Town train station is about a 15-minute walk. 

Book now: Via Booking.com

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