Peckham - Things to do in London

Things to do in Peckham

Famous in most peoples minds for The Trotters, council flats and drug crime, Peckham has laboured under a serious image problem since at least the mid '80s. In fact, over the past three decades, this small London district has unfairly been held up as something of a whipping boy for London’s social ills, with one Del Boy once remarking that the “only people to miss Peckham were the Luftwaffe”.

However, the tide of gentrification has hit all of London’s inner-city areas, and Peckham is no different. Thanks mainly to the rising rents in Hackney and the local councils stance on new businesses, Peckham derelict industrial spaces are in the process of being taken over by the capital’s art set, and with them has come an influx of new bars, clubs and restaurant as well as ripped-jeans arty types to inhabit them. No ones saying ‘Dalston of the south’ just yet, but give it a few years and who knows?

For a bit of a low down on the area’s art scene, why not check out the Spoonfed/Art Licks tour.

Places to go in Peckham

Bussey Building
Tucked away behind a door on the Golden Mile, The Bussey Building falls under the current trend of disused industrial spaces being appropriated by artist collectives in order to bring a little counter-cultural flavour to areas not exactly associated with such things. Containing both Peckham Vision and the CLF Arts Cafe, and playing host to everything from house all-nighters to Radfest, it’s fast becoming one of South London’s best destination venues.

auto-italia
Run by young artists, auto-italia on the Old Kent Road seeks to provide a platform for the development of other young artists. Whilst this means that the artists are free from the constraints of commercialism, the people involved ensure that this doesn't all go too far in the direction of self-indulgence. Exhibitions are generally pretty short but are almost always really brilliant.

Frank’s Cafe
A seasonal pop-up bar situated on the top-floor of Peckham multi-story during the summer months, Frank’s has to be one of the most amazing out door drinking spots in the capital, offering awesome views over South London, pretty tasty food and the odd spot of high culture.

The Montpelier
A gastro-pub in Peckham? Yes, it’s true, and what’s more the Montpelier is actually a pretty good one, boasting a very decent Sunday lunch, the odd film night and some pretty tasty ales. It is Peckham though, so expect the odd fruity character.

South London Gallery
A melting pot of creative energy, the South London Gallery is known widely for its support of the contemporary art world it has become a popular venue with the viewing public and artists alike. Having exhibited works by artists ranging from Gilbert and George to Tracy Emin, The South London Gallery celebrates the unique and exciting and aims to share its passion with all who pass through its doors.