Looking for things to do in Battersea? From wandering Battersea Park to wining and dining like a local, here’s the best things to do in the area. From a Londoner!
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If you’re looking for things to do in London, why not head over and explore Battersea? Located on the south bank of the River Thames, the vibrant South West neighbourhood is full of things to see, eat and do.
Whether you’re a park lover, culture vulture, or adventure seeker, there’s something in Battersea for everyone! So, here’s the best things to do in Battersea, London — from a Londoner.
The Best Things to Do in Battersea, London
1. Roam Battersea Park
One of the best things to do in Battersea, London is to visit the beautiful, historic Battersea Park. This 200-acre park borders both sides of the River Thames and was designed by renowned Victorian landscape architect Sir James Pennethorne.
In terms of things to get up to, you’ll be spoilt for choices. But in particular I suggest checking out:
- Pump House Gallery – with tons of exhibitions, workshops and talks hosted year-round.
- The Old English Garden – home to 1,000 varieties of roses and tended to by the Thrive charity, empowering those with disabilities and mental illnesses
- Go Rollerskating – if you’re visiting on a weekend you can take up your skate skills with the Easy Saturday Skate club throughout the park
- Bike around Battersea Park – rent a bike from the London Recumbents to bike the 1.8 mile long Carriage Drive going around the park
- Battersea Park Boating Lake – rent a pedalo for 30 minutes on Battersea Park Lake from Bluebird Boats to see Battersea Park by water!
- Putt in the Park – take up some mini-golf Battersea Park style, open to beginners!
- Battersea Park Millennium Arena – from Track & Field to fitness classes and tennis courts, grab a day pass and get your sweat on
- Go Ape – an outdoor treetop canopy overlooking canopy park — perfect for adventure seekers!
- Pear Tree Cafe – a casual cafe serving all-day brunch, lunch & drinks, great for a pit stop in the park
P.S – If you’re driving, you can park at Battersea Park from £2.70
2. Marvel at The Peace Pagoda
Although it’s also in Battersea Park, The Peace Pagoda needed its own mention.
Designed by Japanese monk Nichidatsu Fujii, it’s a Buddhist monument overlooking South West London, gifted to Britain in 1985.
Outside you’ll find several shrines dedicated to Buddha’s life teachings of birth, contemplation, enlightenment, teaching, and death.
It’s a peaceful place where Londoners can come together and contemplate world peace and harmony, most often seen with visitors sitting outside on the grassy knoll around the pagoda and taking in its beauty while soaking up some of London’s fresh air.
P.S. – The pagoda gets beautifully illuminated when the evening sets, something you won’t want to miss!
3. Bungee through the sky with the UK Bungee Club
If you’re an adrenaline-junkie looking for things to do in Battersea, then I highly suggest heading to the UK Bungee Club.
The 160-ft Bungee Jump is set right on the River Thames. Offering fantastic views of Battersea as you (safely) plunge into the London air.
Once you take your pick from a standard 160ft jump, a Tandem jump, or a forwards or backwards jump, you’ll be on your way…with a safety briefing of course.
4. Catch a Film at The Cinema in the Power Station (& the Arches)
For a relaxing night in Battersea, make your way to The Cinema In the Power Station.
Filled with charm and luxury this is where you go to treat yourself, Battersea style.
Kick back to the latest releases with their cosy reclining seats, fine wines, cocktails, treats, and even a mini-bar! If you’re so inclined.
For a more intimate experience, head to The Cinema In The Arches in Battersea with three bespoke screens for the ultimate viewing experience.
5. Visit Battersea Power Station
One of the most iconic landmarks in the Battersea area is the majestic Battersea Power Station.
The Grade II listed building, completed in 1941 and decommissioned in 1983, has been a source of fascination for visitors ever since it was built.
Despite its derelict state for many years, recent regeneration efforts have seen this structure transform into London’s newest cultural and entertainment destination.
There are plenty of things to do here — from learning about the power station’s history to taking up an exhibition, afternoon tea, or enjoying the 100+ incredible bars, shops and attractions all on the grounds.
6. Walk Along Albert Bridge
The Albert Bridge is a must-see if you’re looking for things to do in Battersea. Built in 1870, it’s one of the most iconic bridges in all of London.
Spanning the Thames River, this beautiful bridge connects Chelsea and Battersea with its Gothic-style architecture and ornate decorations, making it one of the most photographed landmarks in the city.
During festive seasons, you’ll find colorful lights and decorations adorning the bridge, adding to its SW beauty even more.
Whether you’re looking for a great photo opportunity or want to take a leisurely stroll in Battersea, this is the place to go!
7. Catch an Uber Boat & Ride Along the Thames
To see Battersea (and London) from a new perspective, head to the Battersea Power Station Pier and sail to Central London in under 20 minutes on the Uber Boat by Thames Clipper.
The best part? You can pay using your Oyster or contactless card! Easy peasy.
8. Become a plant mum (or dad) at Battersea Flower Station
For those with a green thumb, the Battersea Flower Station should be #1 on your list for things to do in Battersea.
The independent florist holds all the plant, flowers and gardening goods you could ever need. Making it a great spot to grab a coffee and have a walk around while you’re exploring Battersea.
Not to mention the grounds are super aesthetic, so bring your camera!
9. Brunch in Battersea & Clapham
Given brunching in London is one of my favourite pasttimes, it’d be a sin to not mention a Battersea brunch spot or two.
Lucky for you, I wrote a whole Battersea brunch guide for the area to spoil you for choices. So make sure to read it before you go!
10. Grab a bite at the Battersea High Street Food Market
If you’re looking for a local dining experience in Battersea, the Battersea High Street Food Market is an unmissable spot.
The vibrant market offers a wide selection of affordable international cuisines to tantalise your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for fresh baklava to imported cheeses, there’s something here for everyone!
11. See the Battersea Arts Centre
The Battersea Arts Centre is a hub for all things performance arts in Battersea. Including a host of live music shows, theatre performances and karaoke nights.
Head down to see What’s On after a day of exploring the neighbourhood for an evening worth remembering.
They’re also home to an amazing ‘Pay What You Can‘ movement to help make theatre accessible to all (but if you’re reading this, please pay full price!).
P.S – You can also visit the Turbine Theatre in Battersea Power Station for smaller productions
12. Find Antiques at the Battersea Boot
The Battersea Sunday Car Sale (locally known as the ‘Battersea Boot’) is a bustling Sunday market that’s been kicking it since 1999, and don’t worry — there’s more than cars to see here.
Outside of old car gear, there’s heaps of vintage clothes, antique goods, and some cheeky designer to browse here if you look close enough.
My suggestion? Start your Sunday with brunch in Battersea, do a Battersea Park walk, then make your way here for some Sunday shopping.
Read More: The Best Antique Markets in London: An Insider’s Guide
13. Visit the New Covent Garden Market
In its olden days, Covent Garden was a hub for local traders, nowadays it’s home to…many delicious posh restaurants.
The New Covent Garden Market in Battersea is simply bringing back the original Covent Garden spirit, with wholesale flowers, food & drink, and independent traders that’ve been running their family businesses since the 1600s!
Although this isn’t your typical London market, it’s a great place to visit if you’re looking to snag a bargain on some fresh goods.
14. See Live Music at The Magic Garden
You know those neighbourhood spots only the locals know about? In Battersea, it’s The Magic Garden.
The cosy pub & restaurant sits pretty on Battersea Park Road, home to ‘festival-like’ nights fit with live music from every genre.
Whether it’s jazz, blues, Latin or Balkan (yes, really) there’s nothing you won’t find here.
When you’re not jamming out to their epic music nights (especially on their Wednesday & Thursday free gig sessions) you can have a daytime visit in their fairy light courtyard for a lunch or remote work session.
15. Wine & Dine in Nine Elms
For an endless list of things to do in Battersea, simply start the day at Nine Elms.
The trendy neighbourhood is home to everything from the infamous Sky Pool at the Embassy Gardens to the US Embassy.
Outside of pools and government buildings you’ll be smack-dab in the heart of dozens of riverside restaurants, bars and pop-up food markets to enjoy.
Once you’ve had a nice meal (or drink) take a Battersea walk up the promenade for the full experience.
16. Grab a Bite in Battersea (or drink)
Grabbing a bite (or drink) is a non-negotiable for your things to do in Battersea list.
There’s too many amazing restaurants & bars in Battersea to count, but here are my personal favourites:
Battersea Brewery – a local South West brewery with fresh taproom pints & yummy British light bites
Tapas Brindisa Battersea – an iconic tapas bar with 30 years of history
The Wright Brothers – a riverside restaurant specialising in seafood (especially Oysters!)
Four Thieves – A pub…arcade…games room… brewery…comedy club…and VR hangout, did I mention they do food too?!
Battersea Barge – a casual barge restaurant great for grabbing a pizza, drinks and taking in Battersea riverside views
Map of the Best Things to Do in Battersea
Best Hotels to Stay or Staycation in Battersea, London
art’otel London Battersea Power Station by Radisson – an art deco hotel perfect for a luxurious stay in Battersea, including an art gallery, restaurant, café, sauna, Wi-Fi, treatment rooms, and gym — just two minutes from Battersea Power Station. Check prices and availability.
Chelsea Bridge Apartments – self-serviced apartments, ideal for feeling like a local while you’re in Battersea. Check prices and availability.
Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel – a 4-star stylish Chelsea hotel just outside Battersea Park — including an onsite restaurant and the Atlántico Bar. Check prices and availability.
Thanks for reading my Things to Do in Battersea, London Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
Check out more Battersea & London Guides:
- Where to Brunch in Clapham & Battersea: 10 Best Breakfast Spots
- 50+ Beautiful Parks and Gardens in London To Explore ASAP!
- London Travel Tips & Inspiration
- London Brunch & Breakfast Spots
- London Neighbourhood Guides
Happy Londoning,
