On the south side of the River Thames, South London has some of the capital’s greenest areas. So, if you love the outdoors, it is a relaxing place to visit. It is known for Greenwich’s famous historical maritime district and its contribution to the universal means of navigation and timekeeping.
After you’ve taken on board the area’s history or shopped til you drop at the markets, South London’s cultural side blends with a vibrant nightlife where you can dance all night long. So, if you’re heading to the south of the river, here are ten of the best things to do in South London.
Things To Do in South London
The Cutty Sark – Ahoy There
The Cutty Sark is a must-see place to visit in South London. It is a fascinating experience to explore a ship designed for speed and built in 1869. As a Clipper Ship, The Cutty Sark helped revolutionise trade transportation by water.
After a varied life at sea, The Cutty Sark returned to the UK. Her main mast is 153 feet high and has 11 miles of rigging.
If you fancy yourself as a sailor or want to experience the dizzy heights, try the Rig Climb and experience the spectacular views. The price is £52.00 for adults and £43.00 for children (10 – 17 years).
Other activities include taking the helm and imagining what life would be like sailing the oceans.
Standard tickets are,
- Adults: £18.00
- Children: £9.00
You can take a boat trip from Westminster Abbey to Greenwich Pier, and the Cutty Sark is a two-minute walk.
Address: King William Walk, London SE10 9HT
Telephone: 020 8858 4422
Greenwich Market – Arts and Crafts
London has no shortage of markets, such as Borough Market and, Jubilee Market, Covent Garden. South London also has a charismatic market.
Greenwich Market opened in 1737 with 60 stallholders selling their wares. In 1831, it moved to its indoor location near the Cutty Sark.
Today, the market is a fabulous mix of stalls, with plenty of independent stalls selling handmade quality crafts. Wandering around the colourful market is a pleasurable experience, and enticing food aromas draw you to the street food stalls.
Address: 5B Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ
Telephone: 020 8269 5096
The Globe Theatre – A Replica of Shakespears Original Globe
The Globe Theatre would not be here if it weren’t for Sam Wannamaker. After a trip to London in search of the site of the original 1599 Shakespeare Globe, all he could find was a small plaque on the wall. Disappointed, Sam wrote, ‘He needs, and we need, something more substantial than that.’ He set about making it so.
Completed in 1997, The Globe Theatre is London’s only thatched roof. It is an outstanding work of art built with an oak frame using traditional techniques. The twenty-sided design creates an entirely immersive experience.
Performance prices range from £5.00 to £65.00.
Several tour options are available. A Globe Experience & Tour is £27.00 for adults and £18.00 for children.
Address: 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London SE1 9DT
Telephone: 020 7401 9919
Crystal Palace Park – A Great Day Out
Since its creation between 1852 and 1855, the vision for Crystal Palace Park was always to leave a mark on people, impress, educate, inspire, and entertain. All of which it successfully achieves.
The park is English Heritage and Grade II Listed. It has 200 acres for kids to explore and burn off energy in the open spaces and playground.
There is the Dinosaur Court for Jurassic Park fans, with large-scale dinosaurs hiding in the bushes and water since 1854. You can hire pedalos and rowing boats.
There is a 1,100 square metre roller skating park, a giant maze, a museum, and plenty of beautiful picnic spots. There is a small city farm where children can pet the animals.
Crystal Palace Park is an excellent free place to visit in South London for a fun day with the family.
Address: Thicket Rd, London SE19 2GA
Telephone: 0300 303 8658
Imperial War Museum – Helping Not To Forget
The Imperial War Museum opened in 1917 during the First World War as an archive of events and stories from the people who lived and fought during the war.
The museum found its permanent and current home in 1936. Based on six floors, you will see several exhibitions, including the Holocaust Galleries, The First and Second World War Galleries and the Extraordinary Heros Gallery.
The museum has a strong, award-winning, educational message that is great for all the family.
The Imperial War Museum is open daily and free to visit; however, booking a time slot online is necessary.
Address: Lambeth Road, London, SE1 6HZ
The Royal Observatory – Greenwich Mean Time and Prime Meridian
Charles II established a Royal Commission for the first publicly funded science observatory. In 1676, the Royal Astronomer started essential research that eventually led to a universal means of navigation, timekeeping, cartography and a means of plotting longitude.
In 1884, The Royal Observatory became the official Prime Meridian or Longitude 0° 0′ 0”, and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) became the official international system for timekeeping.
In 1960, the observatory opened to the public. In 2007, after significant investment, it reopened as a state-of-the-art gallery and education centre.
When visiting, you can straddle the Prime Meridian line, check out the UK’s largest telescope and observe the stars in the planetarium. View the instruments of the original astronomical pioneers and marvel at their groundbreaking work.
Visiting the Royal Observatory is free for members, or £18.00 for adults and £9.00 for children.
A day out to The Royal Observatory is a fun and informative family trip.
Address: Greenwich Park, Blackheath Ave, London SE10 8XJ
Telephone: 020 8312 6608
Rivoli Ballroom – Boogie the Night Away
The Rivoli Ballroom is one of the last 1950s-style ballrooms remaining in London. Featuring a sprung floor and a vintage-style look, it is a popular choice for TV shows, including the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and the Muppets.
It is a beautiful venue brimming with history and character. The unpretentious, relaxed vibe is perfect for a night out with granny, mates, or a date.
Events include themed Discos, Northern Soul, Latin & Salsa, Jive, a pop-up cinema, and several one-off events.
Prices vary depending on the event. An example is the 70s and 80s Disco Night is from £16.00.
Rivilo is a great place to visit in London. It is diverse, and you can relax, let yourself go, dress up or wear jeans and T-shirts.
Address: 350 Brockley Rd, London, SE4 2BY
Telephone: 020 8692 5130
The Oval – Birthplace of The First Ashes
The Oval opened in 1845 when Surrey County Cricket Club made it their home. In 1880 The Oval became the first place to host an international test match, and in 1882, the first-ever Ashes took place at the ground. Unfortunately, England lost.
The famous gas holders have overlooked the ground since 1847. In particular, constructed in 1853, cylinder No.1 is Grade II listed.
- Tours of the ground are £20.00 for adults and £5.00 for children.
- An extra special tour is an Afternoon Tea Tour. Tours are on a match day. Watch Surrey play and take a behind-the-scenes tour before enjoying an award-winning afternoon tea. Prices start at £55.00 per person.
Address: Kennington Oval, London SE11 5SS
Telephone: 020 3946 0100
Black Cultural Archives – Documenting the History of African and Caribbean People in the UK
The Black Cultural Archives‘ mission is to collect and preserve African and Caribbean history in the UK. Since its start in 1981, the collection has remained unwavering in its support of its community.
Following the Second World War and the arrival of the Windrush generations, many new arrivals were not made welcome, mainly because of the colour of their skin. The Black Cultural Archives documents their struggles and triumphs and many of the positive influences the communities brought with them and still contribute today.
Entrance to the archives is £5.00 and £3.00 concession.
Black Cultural Archives is an interesting place to visit in South London. It holds regular informative, inspiring exhibitions with audio and visual elements. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and there’s a lively cafe.
Address: 1 Windrush Sq. Brixton, SW2 1EF
Telephone: 020 3757 8500
M. Manze – Pie ‘n Mash
M. Manze features in our Brunch Spots at London Bridge, and since the oldest eel and pie house has two shops in South London, it seems a must-visit. They have one in Peckham, which opened in 1927, and one in Sutton since 1998.
Pie & Liquor is £4.15 to eat in.
If you’re looking for a taste of authentic, hearty London food or a touch of nostalgia, M. Manze is a place to go.
Address: 105 Peckham High St, London, SE15 5RS
Telephone: 020 7277 6181
Things To Do in South London: FAQs
What Areas Are in South London?
Some areas under South London are Bromley, Peckham, Richmond, Greenwich, Wimbledon, and Sutton.
Bromley is like a breath of fresh air, where urban buzz meets country tranquillity. Think endless green spaces and charming high streets that ooze classic British charm – it’s an English countryside postcard nestled in London!
Imagine a place where creativity and culture dance a perfect tango – that’s Peckham for you. It’s a bubbling pot of dynamic nightlife, bold art scenes, and the hippest eateries you could ask for – it’s a riot of colours and flavours waiting to be explored.
In Richmond, life slows down to let you soak in the serene beauty. From spotting deer in Richmond Park to admiring the view from Richmond Hill, it’s a picturesque retreat that will make you fall in love with London all over again.
Greenwich is where you literally walk on the timeline of the world! Home to the Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian, and brimming with maritime history, Greenwich is like stepping into a time machine that takes you on an unforgettable historical journey.
Wimbledon is more than just the centre court and grand slams. Beyond the famed tennis championships, you’ll find a charming town full of boutique shopping, delightful eateries, and tranquil green spaces – it’s the perfect match of lively and laid-back.
Sutton is your peaceful haven amid South London’s vibrant bustle. It’s a delightful mix of quaint heritage buildings, calming parks, and nature reserves – your go-to spot to escape the city without ever leaving it.
