Tooting Newsie Weekly Newsletter
A Black History walk in Tooting, Diwali celebrations, loads of food & drink deals, Totterdown Street pedestrianisation to become permanent, new openings, and lots more...
Celebrate Black History in Tooting with a FREE walk this Saturday 18th October, 2pm-4pm!
Local historian Geoff Simmons leads an informative and entertaining guided walk, part of Wandsworth Black History 365! Music plays a big part – find out about Sadie Crawford (’The Lost Woman of British Jazz’), the recording studio dubbed ‘Studio Two’ (where some of the biggest names in reggae recorded) which is now Mixed Blessings Bakery on Mitcham Road, and the world famous Tooting Granada which saw early appearances by groundbreaking artists like Lena Horne, Little Richard and Sam Cooke. Jimi Hendrix played there on his first UK tour.
From Bob Marley to CLR James, from John Archer to ‘Mad Professor’, Tooting has seen so many notable figures pass through. The Southern Syncopated Orchestra lit-up this country after World War One and we have connections with two of their members, Evelyn Dove and Pete Robinson. SW17 also became the home of Constance Cummings-John, educationalist, women’s rights campaigner and the first black female mayor of an African city.
There’s lots more to discover! For more info and to book your free ticket, via Eventbrite.
Diwali Dance Trail in Tooting this Sunday 19th October, 1pm-4pm! Two dance parades from St. George’s Bhangra Team and Beeja Dance will make six stops through Tooting, including at Tooting Broadway, both markets, and Tooting Library – see graphic for more info!
This event is organised by the Wandsworth Council EDO High Streets Team.
The annual Chilli Sauce Championships 🌶️🌶️🌶️ returns to Balham Bowls Club this Sunday 19th October for its 11th year! There’ll be 40 entries with fantastic names such as The Funk Burner, Piña Passion, Mango Malice, The Hot Stepper and Getting Figgy With It - and much more!
As usual, the sauces will be tasted and judged by the public, with everyone being given a voting card. There’ll be four categories of sauces to sample: mild, medium, hot and nuclear. And the “Yoghurt Station” will be back, for all those folk whose sizzling tongues need cooling down.
The event opens at 2pm, with tastings between 3pm and 5pm, and the winners announced at 6pm.
There’ll be trophies for the winners, and generous gift hampers as prizes courtesy of sponsors, Some Like It Hot Shop.
Entry is £5 on the door.
📍Balham Bowls Club, 7-9 Ramsden Rd, London SW12 8QX
The Friends of Tooting Common annual Pumpkin Parade takes place on Sunday 26 October, 4pm-5pm, by the Tooting Common Café – all welcome!
There’ll be competitions for the Funniest, Scariest, and Most Artistic Carved Pumpkins, plus a Homemade Fancy Dress contest!
More info in poster – please email foctinformation@gmail.com with any queries.
Tooting-based property advisor Chuk, of Homes With Chuk, celebrates our fantastic Tooting Bec coffee shops! He says…
“I don’t know about you, but grabbing a latte, espresso, matcha or perhaps a delicious tasty pastry is a fabulous way to spend some ‘me’ time, catch up with friends, crack on with work and your laptop, or consider those homes you’ve just viewed with me!
“We’re blessed with fabulous coffee shops in Tooting Bec, and we want to direct newcomers to some of our wonderful independent spots where you can grab a drink.”
“However, after taking these photos, there may be a few in Bec that slipped my mind – which ones did I miss? And which is your favourite?
“...and look out for a feature on Tooting Broadway coffee shops coming soon!”
Check out a video and more photos on Chuk’s Instagram and Facebook pages!
Chuk Agudosi is a personal local property advisor. For more info, email him at hello@homeswithchuk.co.uk, call 07940 546 190, DM him at Homes with Chuk, or pop into Tooting Works at 89 Bickersteth Road and ask for him at reception!
If you’re looking for a local Orthodontist for your teenager, Dr Dipen Patel at award-winning local clinic Ten Dental on Balham High Road is here to help! Dr Dipen is a registered Orthodontic Specialist who provides orthodontic treatment to lots of local teens.
The clinic offers a free initial consultation to assess your teen’s needs and discuss treatment options.
Dr Dipen tells us more:
“I provide a range of orthodontic systems – including fixed braces, Invisalign, and lingual (hidden) braces – and work with teenagers to assess their dental development and create tailored treatment plans. Whether it’s traditional braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic solutions, we’ll find the right approach for your teen.
“I understand that teenagers can feel self-conscious about orthodontic treatment, so I take time to explain all the options available, answer questions, and make them feel comfortable throughout the process. I’m experienced in working with teens and helping them achieve the confident smile they want!”
To find out more and to book a free consultation, WhatsApp 07308 716 397, call 020 8675 1798, email hello@tendental.com or pop in to the clinic at 156 Balham High Road.
You can also visit their website.
🎙️ New health podcast from Tooting physiotherapist, Ed Thompson!
If you’ve ever wondered how to stay active, strong and pain-free as you get older, local physiotherapist Ed Thompson — owner of Instant Physio on Balham High Road — has launched a new podcast just for you.
It’s called The Active Life Podcast, and each week Ed dives into simple, evidence-based topics around joint health, strength, recovery and ageing well.
Ed says, “I started the podcast because so many people in the clinic were asking the same questions. Things like: is arthritis inevitable as we get older? Should I rest or move when I’m in pain? Do injections really work? There’s so much confusion out there, and I wanted to cut through the noise with clear, research-backed answers.”
Recent episodes from a mini-series on arthritis include:
🎧 Is Arthritis Inevitable as We Get Older? — what the latest science says about ageing joints
🎧 The Mediterranean Diet and Arthritis — how food choices can calm inflammation and stiffness
🎧 Why the Weather Affects Your Joints — and what you can actually do to help
🎧 The Truth About Exercise and Osteoarthritis — how to move safely without making things worse
Each episode runs around 10–15 minutes and is designed for people who are interested in looking after themselves.
You can listen now on Spotify.
And if you’re struggling with joint pain or arthritis and want one-to-one help, Instant Physio can guide you through recovery and build your confidence in movement again.
📞 020 3488 2698 | 🔗 instantphysio.co.uk
📍 Instant Physio, 261 Balham High Road, Tooting Bec (opposite The Sewing Shop)
🕘 Mon–Thurs: 8am–8pm | Fri: 8am–4pm | Sat: 8am–12pm
Looking for the ultimate festive night out with friends or colleagues? Join Smart Parties for a spectacular New York-themed Christmas celebration at Evolution London, Battersea Park – the perfect way to wrap up the year in unforgettable style!
Shared Party Nights are available for groups of eight or more, with dates to choose from, including Friday 28th November, Thursday 11th, Thursday 18th, Friday 19th, and Saturday 20th December.
Don’t forget to use the code NEWSIE10 at checkout to enjoy an exclusive 10% discount!
Lucy Gooby from Smart Parties tells us, “Our shared parties are ideal for smaller companies or groups of friends who want a big celebration without the big spend. Think snow-dusted trees, Manhattan vibes, themed bars, a 3-course feast, dazzling shows, dodgems, and dancing ‘til late.
“Step into NYC in the heart of Battersea – and let the festivities begin!”
Discover more & secure your place today via their website.
Get your first month FREE at Brilliant Beans Tutoring – perfect for the upcoming 11+ exams!
Brilliant Beans is excited to welcome children aged 7–11 to their Saturday sessions in Norbury! Their unique programme prepares students for 11+ exams, whilst building essential academic and life skills — and they’re currently offering the first month FREE for new families!
Brilliant Beans’ Charlotte tells us, “We support children across Tooting, Balham, Wandsworth, Sutton, and surrounding areas through:
• Expert-led 11+ preparation
• English, Maths, Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning
• Reading, Handwriting, and Personalised Assessments
• Fun and enriching life skills including Coding, Drama, and Kickboxing
“Our small-group sessions are led by fully qualified teachers, ensuring personalised attention, confidence-building, and academic excellence. Each child benefits from tailored support, regular progress reviews, and realistic mock exams.”
“Spaces are limited, and demand is high as families prepare for 2026 and 2027 entry. Book your child’s place today and give them the Brilliant Beans advantage!”
To find out more and to book: visit their website, email info@luckybeanschildcare.co.uk or call 0204 501 0894.
The area of Totterdown Street outside Tooting Market will become a permanent pedestrianised community space, Wandsworth Council has announced. Following a trial that included food stalls and seating, and after analysing community responses and other data, the council has approved the scheme.
Read the report, including aspects liked about the trial, difficulties faced and suggestions for improvement, plus an option to give your feedback, via Commonplace.
Transport users in London are being urged to step in if they see fellow passengers falling victim to hate crimes or harassment, reports BBC News.
Rather than looking away, people should approach the victim, pretend like they are old friends and engage them in conversation, thus deterring predators from continuing their attacks, Transport for London (TfL) said.
As part of its new Act Like a Friend campaign, TfL teamed up with charity Protection Approaches to provide free training classes on how to be an “active bystander”.
Passengers should only intervene if they feel it is safe to do so, TfL added.
Full story via BBC News.
Thames Water is currently carrying out works at Tooting Broadway, at the junction of Tooting High Street and Mitcham Road, with lane closures leading to likely traffic delays.
Work is expected to be completed on Sunday 26th October. More info and updates via one.network (reference MU057MITCHAMRD-TH).
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Tooting bar Goldfinch has a new cocktail menu, and to celebrate, they’re entering anyone who books a table into a prize draw to win a bottle of Rathfinny English Sparkling Wine and a round of happy hour drinks (see below)!
Try their new Uzumaki, Peach & Fig Spagliato, Pisco Punch cocktails this Autumn, and lots more besides – check out their menu in the images for full details!
Simply book a table during October 2025 via goldfinchsw17.co.uk – and quote ‘FINCH’ in the Special Requests box when booking – to be entered into the prize draw! The winner will be announced on Friday 31st October. See goldfinchsw17.co.uk for Ts & Cs.
📍145 Mitcham Road, SW17 9PE.
Open 5pm-12am Sunday to Thursday, 4pm-2am Friday and Saturday.
Happy Hour at Tooting Korean restaurant Green Choy in Tooting Market every day, plus fantastic lunch & dinner deals!
Get a starter and main for just £13 every weekday lunchtime and evening (times below). Choose from favourites such as Corn Dogs, Spring Rolls or Bao Buns to start, followed by Bibimbap, Gochujang Stir Fry Noodles, Korean Fried Chicken Bites, Noodle Soup or Bang Bang Cauliflower to follow!
And get 2 pints of their house lager for just £10 and any cocktail for £7.50 every day until 10pm!
Open:
• 12pm-3pm, 5pm-9.30pm Tuesday to Thursday
• 12pm-10.30pm Friday to Saturday
• 12pm-8pm Sunday
📍Green Choy, Tooting Market, 21-23 Tooting High Street, SW17 0SN
More info via their website.
HALF PRICE KEBABS every Tuesday at Broadway BBQ in Broadway Market Tooting!
Manager Zozy tells us, “Our signature kebabs have customers coming back again and again, so we thought we’d entice Tooting even more with a great offer every Tuesday! Try our chicken or lamb skewers, Adana kebabs, a mix of both, and more – there’s even half price on our vegetarian halloumi and falafel options!”
Find Broadway BBQ near the Longmead Road entrance of Broadway Market. Open 11.30am-10.30pm Tuesday to Thursday, 11.30am-11pm Friday and Saturday, and 11.30am-9.30pm Sunday. All food is halal. Ts and Cs apply. Offer valid on eat-in only. Offer ends Tuesday 25th November 2025.
More info and full menu via their Instagram.
Indian Room in Balham has launched daily dine-in offers throughout October – with discounts up to 50% OFF your food bill!
• Get 30% OFF the food bill, Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday - any time
• Get 25% OFF the food bill, Friday & Saturday, 4pm-6pm
• Get 50% OFF the food bill, Saturday & Sunday lunchtimes, 12.45pm-3.45pm
• BYO Beer or Wine, every Monday & Tuesday (corkage fee of just £2.75pp)
Tables must be booked in advance via their website, quoting NEWSIE in the comments when you book to get the discount. Offers end 31st October.
Located at 59 Bedford Hill, family-run Indian Room offer a menu packed full of delicious starters, main dishes and sides. Most vegetarian dishes can be made vegan on request & they cater for special dietary requirements.
Indian Room also prides itself on making their cuisine as healthy as possible, without compromising on taste. All dishes are prepared without using ghee and therefore, relatively low fat. They don’t use any artificial colourings, all meat is British bred from a farm down in Devonshire and only the freshest, seasonal vegetables are used in their cooking.
To book a table at Indian Room, or order online, visit their website, and quote NEWSIE in the comments to claim the dine-in discounts!
You’ll find Indian Room located at 59 Bedford Hill, Balham, open 7 days a week!
2-FOR-1 STEAK DEAL at Burrito Cartel and Mezzanine in Tooting Market every Wednesday!
Mezzanine’s Nico tells us more, “Join us every Wednesday for an unbeatable 2-for-1 deal on our mouthwatering Mexican Steak! Think perfectly cooked, flavour-packed steak topped with our signature chimichurri sauce and served with delicious sides.
“But that’s not all – we’re rolling out a brand-new cocktail list inspired by the vibrant tastes of South America. Sip on handcrafted Pisco, Mezcal, and Tequila cocktails that will take your taste buds on a journey. Plus – enjoy our happy hour until 8pm!
Come for the steak, stay for the cocktails, and make your Wednesday night something special with us. See you at Burrito Cartel!”
More info: Burrito Cartel (Instagram) and Mezzanine (Instagram).
📍 Burrito Cartel and Mezzanine, Tooting Market, 21-23 Tooting High Street, London SW17 0SN.
Hats off to The Ramble Inn Tooting and its customers for raising £1,000 for Royal Trinity Hospice through their pub quiz (bringing the total they’ve raised over the last few years to £8,000)! Pictured is owner, Jimmy, handing the cheque to Royal Trinity Hospice’s Mia.
📍Ramble Inn, 223 Mitcham Road, SW17 9JG
Little Village, a network of baby banks in London (including Tooting), is urgently appealing for donations to help support families with young children this winter with clothes, blankets and other supplies, reports the BBC.
The charity, which represents a number of baby banks in the capital, told the BBC that supplies at its hubs were running low due to more families facing increased financial pressures.
A survey by the charity found 81% of parents it currently helps felt they could not afford warm coats, boots or jumpers for their children.
CEO Sophie Livingstone said increasing winter costs were “robbing parents of sleep and peace of mind,” and she urged people to donate “before the cold sets in.”
Full story via BBC News.
To find out more about donating to Little Village, visit their website.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Tooting Community Kitchen is looking for new volunteers to help out at the TCK Clapham stall on Saturday evenings. It’s just for one hour from 8pm, serving hot drinks and handing out food parcels on Venn Street near Clapham Common tube. No obligation to come every week, the charity is very flexible!
To book a trial session, visit their website or email info@tck.uk.com
Schools across Wandsworth can apply for funding of up to £500 for inspiring green projects as part of Wandsworth Council’s Climate Action Microgrants programme, with the next round of applications welcomed until 24 October.
Forest school sessions, gardening kit, eco club support and even a mud kitchen are just some of the projects funded so far by the scheme.
Whether you’re a primary or a secondary school, schools can receive a cash injection from £100 to £500 for projects focused on climate change and sustainability.
More info, including how to apply, via Wandsworth Council.
Eleven more trees have been added to the Woodfield Community Orchard on Tooting Common – bringing the total number of trees so far to 25!
55 local schoolchildren (from Telferscot, Rutherford House, Christ Church Streatham and Streatham & Clapham Prep School) helped plant the trees, getting stuck in with digging, mulching and watering on Friday 10 October, and the new saplings – which include three dessert apples, one crab apple, one pear, two plums, two mulberries, one quince and one apricot – now join their older cousins on the Woodfield field next to the Pavilion.
Among the new trees is the Merton Joy, a fruit tree with a local heritage sourced from the National Fruit Archive in Kent. Producing crisp and juicy fruit, it is a cross between the Sturmer Pippin and the Cox Orange Pippin.
The age range on the planting day was from junior school to a 101-year-old supporter who had sponsored a tree.
On Saturday 11 October, a team of volunteers also got to work making protective structures to keep the trees from harm.
Woodfield would like to say a big thank you to everyone involved.
The orchard’s first saplings, planted last year, were watered every Saturday for twenty weeks by enthusiastic volunteers over the exceptionally hot summer.
The trees hugely enhance the biodiversity on the field and the surrounding areas on Tooting Common and are there for the local community to enjoy.
📍 Woodfield Recreation Ground, Tooting Common, 16A Abbotswood Road, SW16 1AP.
More info on the Woodfield website.
Tooting Pizza & Burger House has opened at 61 Trinity Road in Tooting Bec (where Pizza 2 Night was previously located), serving pizza, burgers, chicken, soft drinks and more for takeaway, and delivery on Deliveroo.
Open 11am-9pm Monday to Sunday. All food is halal and vegetarian options are available. More info via their Instagram.
Congratulations and good luck to the team!
Tooting in 1914 and this postcard of the lodge on Tooting Common (which is still there today) on the corner of Dr Johnson Avenue and Hillbury Road.
Postcard available on ebay.
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