Tooting has been named as one of the top ten "coolest neighbourhoods to visit" in the world by Lonely Planet.

According to Lonely Planet: "Few travel lovers have trouble naming the world’s greatest cities; the likes of London, New York and Rio de Janeiro will always draw curious wanderers.

"But keeping tabs on the local trends that keep city life so exciting is another matter.

"Tooting in south London has developed into an uber cool neighbourhood in recent years and lost none of its gritty charm in the process.

"Rubbing shoulders with perfectly pleasant but slightly square Wimbledon, Earlsfield and Balham, Tooting is a more captivating affair, revelling in multiculturalism and originality.

"Its high street, which stretches between two tube stations, is one of the best ‘curry corridors’ in the country, and contains some superb South Asian restaurants like Dosa n Chutney and Apollo Banana Leaf.

"The best shopping can be found inside eclectic Tooting Market, and quirky bars and pubs include The Castle, The Antelope and The Little Bar. The Tooting Commons create over 200 acres of green space between them, and are home to Tooting Bec Lido – the largest swimming pool in the United Kingdom."

Tooting is well-known in London for its bustling, near 100-year-old market and vast array of delicious restaurants. 

Dr Rosena Allin-Khan, Labour MP for Tooting said: "Tooting is getting the recognition it deserves; being recognised by Lonely Planet is a fantastic achievement for our area.

"I was lucky enough to grow up in Tooting, and am now raising my young family in this vibrant and diverse part of South London.

"From serving the best South Asian food in London to being home to award-winning quirky bars and restaurants, this is the ideal place to spend a lazy weekend - and the multi-cultural community spirit encourages people to stay. 

"With initiatives from Business Launchpad and South Thames College teaching Tooting's young people business skills and offering local apprenticeships, Tooting will continue to thrive on the world stage."

Manager of Tooting Market, Roi Mengelgrein, said: "When arriving to take on the Tooting Market challenge in 2010, people thought we could never turn around the market and that it would be impossible to change the area because of its notable stereotype linked to crime and poor demographics.

"With persistence, investment and vision, we were able to prove everyone wrong.

"We call on other London Boroughs to get in touch with us as we’re actively looking for other sites which we can similarly kick-start a retail revolution of their own."

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said: "It’s great to see Lonely Planet recognise what many of us have known for decades."

What’s your favourite place in Tooting? Let us know: grainne.cuffe@london.newsquest.co.uk