Are you looking for things to do in Peckham? With some of South London’s best brunch spots, markets, parks, and art — Peckham has it all. Here’s the best things to do in the area — from a Londoner.
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Look south of the River Thames and you’ll find Peckham, one of London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
Known for its unique mix of cultures, cuisines, and entertainment, a day out in Peckham will be nothing less than exciting.
So, if you’re looking to explore a new bit of London (and some great food and culture), why not head down to Peckham?
With something for everyone, here’s the best things to do in the area.
The Best Things to Do in Peckham, London
1. Chill Out at Peckham Levels
Tik Tok went wild back in 2021 over what seemed like the newest and most exciting activity, hanging out in a parking garage. But trust me when I say Peckham Levels have been making this cool since their opening in 2015.
The multi-story car park has been transformed into a hub of excitement for South Londoners, filled with all sorts of shops, hand-crafted jewelry and art.
The first four floors are home to Hatch Peckham, a lovely co-working space, and over 80 businesses, all run either independently or by local traders.
Further up, the top two levels, 5 & 6, are filled with a variety of different coffee spots, bars, and street food stalls.
But, if you’re looking to switch it up, you can also find Dog & Bone, a tattoo shop, and The Scissors of Oz, an all-inclusive hair salon that will help you find your new look while you’re in South.
Peckham Levels also strives to engage the community, hosting some of the coolest events like their Art Club, Puppy Yoga, and even Crystal Healing workshops.
P.S.- You can find out more on their website!
2. Roam Peckham Rye Park
Peckham Rye Park is 113 acres of incredible green space. From carefully curated gardens to beautifully overgrown meadows and ponds swimming with ducks, this area is a place to find peace in South London.
Within the park there’s something for the whole family. Fancy a cup of coffee? Check out the Round Cafe. Did you pack your football or skateboard? There’s multiple pitches and even a half pipe!
Or, if you’re just looking for a wander, they’ve already mapped out the perfect route to see all the park’s best bits.
If you keep walking at the northern bit of the park, you’ll find Peckham Rye Common, 64 acres of manicured grass, and a fantastic summer picnic location. If I do say so myself…
3. Join the Buzz at Bellenden Road
Bellenden Road is no doubt the heart of Peckham and one of the best places to go in the area.
With funky art, you can admire pieces both painted around the street and ingrained in the structures built along the road.
Of course, you can’t miss the food scene. From start to finish of the road, you can indulge in trendy eateries like The Begging Bowl, an inspired take on classic Thai food, or enjoy some divine pastries from Persepolis.
There’s also some lovely little boutiques where you can pick up amazing new pieces like Form SE15, and the cute grocery stores along the road are sure to give that village feel.
4. Wander Warwick Gardens
Protected by Fields of Trust, you’ll be happy to hear that Warwick Gardens is not going anywhere any time soon.
Only a stone’s throw away from the busy Rye Lane, you’ll find this lively green space. With a multi-use games area, football pitches, and a few table tennis structures here and there.
You can join in on the recreation side, or take a stroll through the paths worming throughout the park in spring or summer, all while listening to the lovely ambiance of people laughing and enjoying a day in South London.
Plus, if you’re lucky (and know anything about London green space), your day might even be made by seeing a Peckham dog or two.
5. Visit MOCA London
New York might have the MOMA, but right here in Peckham London is the MOCA.
The Bellenden location hosts some fantastic and memorable exhibitions that are both interactive or immersive. Plus tickets are often free (but best to book in advance on their website).
On Bellenden Road, you’ll also find the Museum of Contemporary Art, a physical location that gives a place for new and established artists a place to work on their next big creation.
MOCA also curates external exhibitions of art from their artists that are sometimes displayed as part of the building, so if one day you see something pop up outside — don’t be surprised!
P.S. – You can find more information on the MOCA website.
6. Visit South London Gallery
In 1868 the South London Gallery as part of an ongoing movement to improve culture, art, and education in London and in 1891 it opened its permanent and current location on Peckham Road.
Since then, the gallery has overtaken neighbouring houses, fire departments, and even an old lecture hall — all of which have been developed into different wings of the museum, with remarkable collections on display.
The art displayed was once all donated work, or on loan to the gallery, but with the rise of temporary exhibitions in the 20th century, the South London gallery made their own which stands as the main attraction today.
Throughout its history, the South London Gallery has made it a focus to engage the community and be a place for people to explore creativity, including an ongoing programme to help young creatives dip into the world of art.
P.S. – They offer drop-in sessions for free on the final Sunday of each month, called ‘Sunday Spot’
7. Grab a Drink at Prince of Peckham Pub
Self-proclaimed as a “pub for South London, by South London” The Prince of Peckham Pub is one of the best things to do in Peckham.
With everything from daily menus, to comedy nights, bottomless brunches, and live sports broadcasts, it really has it all.
A pub on a normal day is always a great place to meet new people here, but Monday through Friday from 12.00pm – 6.00pm the pub takes that to a new level — becoming a co-working space where you can complete your tasks and talk to new like-minded professionals.
So whether you’re in the mood for a glass Prosecco at brunch, a pint after work, a cocktail from their never-ending menu, or bottomless coffee during co-working hours, you’ll definitely be able to kick back at this Peckham favourite.
8. Discover Peckham’s Street Art
If you haven’t seen any street art while wandering around London already, a trip down to Peckham should definitely be added to your to-do list.
With art splashed throughout the neighbourhood, you won’t want to miss the sights of Zabou’s vibrant mural outside Peckham Levels and Fate, Imaone, and Suiko’s mind-boggling masterpiece on the side of Copeland Park and Bussey Building walls.
If you prefer to really ponder the art you’re looking at, the entire exterior of Kanpai Sake Taproom & Brewery is painted with a magnificent mural to fill your Instagram feed.
Many times the hidden side streets are often encompassed in a brilliant collaboration of colours as well, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled!
9. Party at the CLF Art Café (aka The Bussey Building)
Ahh the CLF Art Café or better known as the Bussey Building. Even hearing the name brings me right back to my night outs in South London.
In fact, some of my best nights out in London were spent here with friends, boogieing into the early hours of the morning in the dark-lit room to the best songs. Shoutout to whoever that DJ was!
Narrowly escaping becoming a train depot in 2009, Copeland Park is home to the 120-year-old warehouse, previously a manufacturing site for sporting goods. Today the five floors are a hub of creativity in South London.
With all sorts of events revolving around music, dance, theatre, film and art there’s something everyone will love.
It’s also the flagship location of one of London’s most iconic summer events (which if you were in London last summer, your FYP had to be flooded with videos about), a rooftop film night put on by the London Film Club!
So if you love to dance or want your movie of the night to have central London as a backdrop, head down to this amazing spot in Peckham, London.
10. Taste the Peckham Brunch Scene
With Peckham’s bustling nightlife, they of course are prepared for the morning after with a variety of fantastic brunch places.
From the Portugese flavors of Uva, to the eclectic dishes at Larry’s, and the simplicity of Petitiou, there’s a brunch place for almost every cuisine in Peckham.
Those are just a few recommendations (and they don’t disappoint), but if you’re looking to brunch it up properly, head to my post on the best places to brunch in Peckham for a full run down.
11. Feast on African and Caribbean Cuisine
The neighbourhood of Peckham, is home to the largest Nigerian population in London, and streets like Rye Lane are lined with independent shops where you can find the shops of community members selling things from material goods to fresh meats and other foods.
Imprinted on the neighbourhood, the Afro-Caribbean influences shine through most in the delicious food and you’ll regret not having a taste.
Here’s some of the best places to grab a bite:
Taste of Caribbean – Salt Fish, Jerk Chicken, Goat Curry, Rice & Peas, you name it, they’ve got it!
Agrobeso African Cuisine – At exquisite prices, enjoy great Ghanian dishes
Soul Fuel Eatery – Try their Jerk Chicken Wrap, which has been notoriously called the best in London
Lolak Afrique Peckham – Plating up traditional flavors of Lagos, from only £5.00!
12. Play Games at Four Quarters
Four Quarters gives game lovers the nostalgic serotonin we all need.
From Pac-Man to original Mario Cart machines, you’ll be transported back to the arcade of your childhood in an instant.
In exchange for £1.50 you will receive 4 Quarters that can be used to power and play classic games from all the way back to the 70’s right up until the 2000’s.
Now, let be real, the games are definitely the best part but of course anything can be made better with a drink, and how could you not indulge when the cocktail deal is 2 for £13 and served all day…not just during happy hour.
Read More: The 5 Best Arcades in London
13. See a Film at Peckhamplex
Movie tickets for only £4.99? In this day and age? YES please!
Independently run for now over a decade, Peckhamplex is the epitome of local cinema. They support local charities and back neighborhood campaigns as well as holding their own inclusive events like weekly screenings for those with hearing sensitivity.
With a loyal local and London audience, it’s one of South London’s most popular places to watch a film on the big screen.
P.S. – If you’re a creative, check out the space too as it can be booked to film your own projects!
14. Watch Sunset at Frank’s
One of the best-kept secret sunset spots has to be Frank’s Cafe in Peckham.
Opened in 2009, this rooftop bar is part of Bold Tendencies, a nonprofit organisation looking to welcome everyone to enjoy a night filled with art, music, and creative conversation.
Open in the summertime, this is a great spot to go spend an evening cheering pints with friends while watching the sunset over London with an unmatched view of Central.
Read More: (Seriously the) Best Views in London: 41+ Places That’ll Make Your Jaw-Drop
15. Get Jellied Eels at M. Manze
Jellied Eels are, well, they are exactly what they sound like. But trust me — everything is worth a try once!
No sweat if this classic English dish doesn’t sound like something you fancy; M. Manze also has some amazing pies on their menu and is a great place to head if you’re looking for that local family feel.
They even have a delivery service, bringing Pie & Mash right to your doorstep if you are so inclined.
16. Go Record Shopping at Rye Wax
Rye Wax is one of the best record stores in town. So, if you’re looking for a record shop that feels inviting and exciting, look no further.
Their diverse music collection supports both smaller music that deserve recognition and new releases, so a trip to Rye Wax might just have you discovering your new favourite artist!
Plus with ambient lighting and low-slung ceilings, you’ll experience the real record store vibe — South London style.
P.S. – If you’re a collector, they buy and sell records too!
17. Shop at Rye Lane Market
Rye Lane Market is on its way to becoming one of London’s best markets, and if you live in South — it probably already is!
First pro? It’s indoors, so rain is never an obstacle. And with over 50 shops under its roof, you’ll have plenty to choose from.
P.S. – You can find it on 48 Rye Lane!
Map of Things to Do in Peckham, London
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Happy Londoning,
