Shoreditch and Soho usually steal the limelight as London’s most vibrant areas, but Peckham shouldn’t be forgotten. Living in Peckham, you’ll enjoy the buzz of the capital and have quiet places to escape to right on your doorstep.
Firstly, this South London neighbourhood is home to a bold creative scene. But in addition, it also has an abundance of independent businesses and a sprawling parkland. You don’t have to wander far to find the area’s old railway arches, which house everything from breweries and bars to bakeries and art galleries. The main Peckham Rye Overground station also keeps you well-connected to central London, making commuting hassle-free.
So if you’re thinking of living in Peckham, here are ten of the coolest places to hang out.
Things to do in Peckham
South London Gallery
Showcasing art by London creatives and international talent, South London Gallery is a leading contemporary art space. There are plenty of free exhibitions and art events throughout the year, so there’s always something different to see.
Pop by Crane’s Kitchen for a pick-me-up coffee or brunch after a morning of art. Specially designed by Mexican artist Gabriel Orozco, the outdoor garden-patio area is open to visits on weekends. There’s also a small gift shop selling a carefully curated selection of art books and unique art pieces to decorate your home.
Address: 65–67 Peckham Road, London SE5 8UH
Phone: 020 7703 6120
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @southlondongallery
PeckhamPlex Cinema
Independent cinema theatre PeckhamPlex has become an iconic part of the area’s community. Decked out with classic no-fuss interiors, the cinema offers an immersive film screening experience.
Tickets are lower-priced than most other cinemas in the capital, making it the number one place to watch the latest film releases or arthouse cinema in West London. And occasionally, the cinema hosts special film events, including back-to-back film series screenings and Q&As with industry professionals.
Address: 95a Rye Lane, Peckham London SE15 4ST
Phone: 020 7732 1010
Email: [email protected]
Peckham Rye Park & Common
An essential part of the area, Peckham Rye Park and Common offers a tranquil green retreat for those living in Peckham. Spanning an incredible 113 acres of grassland, the Victorian park is home to formal ornamental gardens, a lake, woodlands, a play area and sports pitches.
Whether you’re an avid runner or want somewhere to walk your dog, there are so many different park routes to try out. The park’s ‘Green Gym’ is also a great way to embrace outdoor exercise, offering a range of gym equipment and bars available for free.
Address: 34 Straker's Road, London SE15 3UA
Phone: 020 8299 0861
Places to eat and drink in Peckham
Two Hundred Rye Lane
Savour the diverse selection of small plates and cocktails at Two Hundred Rye Lane. The restaurant is an ideal venue for a relaxed date night or evening with friends. Choose a mix of the eclectic dishes to share, including wild mushrooms in a fino cream sauce, chimichurri marinated steak, and falafel and halloumi nibbles. And similarly, the cocktail menu won’t disappoint either. For those with a taste for the classics, try the Smoked Rye Manhattan rum cocktail or Brooklyn Heights gin and lemon cocktail.
Visit earlier in the day to join the busy brunch crowd, enjoying favourites like Huevos Rotos (fried potatoes, eggs and ham) and smashed avocado on toast. And make sure you dine al fresco in the garden at the back on sunny days.
Address: 200 Rye Lane, Peckham, London SE15 4NF
Phone: 020 7732 8519
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @twohundredryelane
Prince of Peckham
Classic British pub Prince of Peckham will become your local spot for a pint whilst living in Peckham. You’ll receive a warm welcome thanks to the huge lettering ‘Welcome to Peckham’ hanging over the front door. Relax inside on the cosy armchairs or soak up the summer sunshine outdoors in the beer terrace.
If you’re looking for something to nibble while you enjoy a pint, the menu features Caribbean-British fusion food. The pub also has a full schedule of events throughout the week, including open mic nights, stand-up comedy, pub quizzes, and even dance classes.
Address: 1 Clayton Road, Peckham, London SE15 5JA
Phone: 020 7635 8844
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @princepeckham
Persepolis
It’s hard to miss Persepolis thanks to its bright sunshine yellow frontage. The Persian food store and vegetarian restaurant is run by cookery writer Sally Butcher.
The restaurant functions as a lowkey canteen serving mezze platters, wraps and hotpots. Tempt your sweet tooth with the dessert menu of Turkish delight sundae, saffron banana split and hot paklava. After that, visit the grocery store to buy spices, Middle Eastern relishes and candied nuts to make your own Persian-inspired meals at home.
Address: 28-30 Peckham High Street, Peckham, London SE15 5DT
Phone: 020 7639 8007
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @persepolis_peckham
Forza Win & Forza Wine
If you’re living in Peckham, you can enjoy the relaxed communal dining setting at Forza Win. The Italian-inspired menu makes the most of seasonal ingredients, serving hearty dishes like braised lamb with rigatoni pasta and roasted tomato with parmesan spaghetti. Your meal wouldn’t be complete without a digestif in the form of limoncello or coffee liqueur.
Head up to the restaurant’s neighbouring rooftop to visit Forza Wine, a wine and snack bar. The wine menu features a mix of independent wineries, with a focus on the best of Italy.
Address: Unit 4.1, Copeland Park, 133 Copeland Rd, Peckham, London SE15 3SN
Phone: 020 7732 9012
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @forzawin
Brick Brewery
The craft beer microbrewery Brick Brewery offers a no-nonsense selection of beers. Born out of a garden shed in 2013, the brewery has since become a popular haunt for beer lovers. Now set in one of the old railway arches behind Peckham Rye station, the space doubles up as a taproom.
Try one of their foundation range beers, including the Peckham IPA and Peckham Pale. Or be among the first to sample a taproom exclusive, guest collaboration or seasonal beer. You can also enjoy their beers from the comfort of your home via their online shop and local delivery service.
Address: Arch 209, Blenheim Grove, Peckham, London SE15 4QL
Phone: 020 3583 9640
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @brickbreweryse15
Artusi
Fine dining restaurant Artusi serves authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant’s simple menu reflects the changing seasons, utilising local produce and fresh ingredients. What’s more, all of the pasta is handmade on the day. Dishes included ox cheek ragu tagliatelle and cavatelli pasta with greens.
The wine menu expertly complements the cuisine. The restaurant sources all of their wines from different regions and producers in Italy. In addition, the knowledgeable waiters can help you pair your dinner with wine. The neighbourhood atmosphere makes this a relaxing place, as a result it's perfect for date nights and suppers with friends.
Address: 161 Bellenden Road, Peckham, London SE15 4DH
Phone: 020 3302 8200
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @artusipeckham
Living in Peckham
So there’s no denying that Peckham is one of London’s trendiest neighbourhoods. With no shortage of cool events and places to visit with friends, the area is a good choice for those seeking a lively London lifestyle.
Undecided which part of South London is right for you? Read our complete guide to the best places to live south of the Thames.
