One Tower Bridge: Luxury SE1 flats set to open

Forget the pretentious West London postcodes: it seems SE1 is the place to be in 2017. With the area's landmark development One Tower Bridge approaching completion, its high-end apartments are currently sold out – ahead of what is certain to be a sought-after final release. While its lucky new residents can look forward to a deluge of cultural and dining destinations arriving on their doorstep throughout the year.

Its popularity comes as little surprise; the 376 new homes will be situated within a stone's throw of two of the capital's most important pieces of history – the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, while its Thames-side location ensures some of the best views around. The eight buildings, designed by award-winning architects Squire and Partners, feature state-of-the-art interiors and a number of amenities to match; in addition to the 24-hour concierge service provided by Harrods Estates will be a hi-tech gym, private health club, luxury spa and swimming pool.

Among the development's biggest draws is the new five-star Lalit London, which will open its doors on Tooley Street later this month. The hospitality group's first foray in the UK, the 70-room boutique hotel, built on the site of a Grade II-listed former grammar school, will bring a taste of Indian hospitality to the capital. It promises a luxurious spa specialising in Ayurvedic techniques – a healing system that has its roots in the subcontinent – as well as a range of dining options offering a contemporary take on Indian cuisine.

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In addition, a new Ivy brasserie has also been confirmed to open in a prime location fronting onto the river. The flagship 8,000sq ft restaurant will build on the success of its famous King's Road counterpart, and visitors can expect more of the group's modern take on classic British fare.

The headline attraction, however, is set to be the Bridge Theatre, a 900-seat venue due to launch in the autumn. Run by the London Theatre Company, it comes with an impressive pedigree: it will be led by the former artistic director and executive director of the National Theatre, Sir Nicholas Hytner and Nick Starr.