Whatever it is you’re after, Battersea presents a unique blend of experiences that truly have something for everyone. Enjoy a leisurely stroll admiring the beautiful flowerbeds and lakes that fill Battersea Park.
Find out more about Battersea Power Station’s incredible history and see all that this exciting new district has to offer! The charming neighborhood features a distinct mix of sprawling green parks and pretty riverside vistas.
You’ll be pleasantly surprised by a growing number of adorable cafés, mouth-watering restaurants and friendly shops. Whether you’re looking to relax by the Thames or dive into the lively community vibe, Battersea has something for everyone.
Here’s our guide to the best places in Battersea that will help you create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking a calming escape or an action-filled thrill, there are amazing experiences for every adventure level.
1. Explore Battersea Park’s Scenic Gardens
Battersea Park’s beautiful walking paths, vibrant gardens, and rich vegetation make this park one of the most picturesque landscapes in all of London. This Victorian park—one of London’s largest at 200 acres—had its gates thrown open by Queen Victoria in 1858. Stroll along lovely pathways and fragrant floral gardens that adorn the park, including the serene garden centre that adds to its charm.
The Old English Garden, nestled behind towering red brick walls, offers a peaceful retreat from urban clamor. Maintained by Thrive, a charity supporting vulnerable individuals through gardening, this hidden gem features a calming fountain and crisp golden foliage in autumn, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding. Nearby, the iconic Battersea Power Station pier provides a stunning backdrop for leisurely walks.
For nature lovers and those looking for active recreation, there’s lots to enjoy. The park’s tranquil boating lake invites you to sit back and unwind on the water. Close by, the Pear Tree Cafe makes fresh, seasonal food and drink to enjoy right on the water’s edge, making it a great place to relax after a stroll.
Designated picnic districts are located across the park, providing a convenient way to find a peaceful al fresco lunch amid a flurry of colorful blooms. As for families, kids will get a kick out of the delightful children’s zoo! Creatures such as lemurs and monkeys amaze kids and adults alike, while educating and enriching your family trip.
Art lovers will find the Pump House Gallery, located in the heart of the gardens, a welcome addition. This gallery space rotates exhibitions, making it an unexpected and dynamic cultural hot spot nestled amid the park’s natural beauty. The park is also close to attractions like the Battersea Brewery, enhancing the local experience.
Find your zen at the Peace Pagoda. This beautiful structure, one of just 80 in the world, offers a calm place for contemplation in the midst of the bustle of the park.
Having more than half of Londoners residing in concrete jungle, Battersea Park provides a radical escape from urban life. When walking the leaf-strewn paths under trees ablaze with autumn color, it’s almost impossible not to feel rejuvenated.
The jewel-like quality of the lake only enhances the restorative vibe of this lovely park. Finding natural beauty, leisure options, and cultural highlights all under one roof—or sky—in Battersea Park. It’s not to be missed if you’re in the area!
2. Visit the Iconic Battersea Power Station
Retained picturesque Battersea Power Station – now an iconic symbol of the city’s successful preservation/redevelopment. The building’s crowing architecture is a blessing as well, with its iconic brick twin chimneys and stunning Art Deco architectural decor, rebuilt after a massive restoration effort.
With more than 90% of the original structure left in place, including bricks turned into art installations, the landmark is a priority history and design buff’s bucket list attraction. The Power of Place exhibition celebrates the site’s amazing cultural transformation. It includes historic proposals for its redevelopment, providing a thrilling and inspiring experience.
For stunning vantage points, the newly opened Lift 109 experience takes you to the summit of one of the landmark’s famed chimneys. From its glass-enclosed platform, which climbs to 358 feet, the building offers striking, 360-degree views of London’s skyline.
It’s a fantastic experience, and a great way to enjoy the city’s iconic architecture from a completely different perspective. The multimillion pound shopping center under renovation is full of tony retail and culinary pursuits.
From high-end fashion houses to hip eateries, there’s so much to do and see. Foodies will fall in love with the Arcade Food Hall, where you’ll find 13 distinct cuisines from all around the world gathered under one roof.
If only because Control Room B has now become a mesmerizing 1950s-style cocktail bar. It’s now positioned in a surround of original dials and control desks, making for an immersive experience. Reservò a tavola quì assicura una serata indimenticabile fora.
Searching for things to do? Try your hand at our ‘Escape The Power Cut’ escape room in Control Room B! It’s a novel and engaging way to learn more about the station’s fascinating history.
History enthusiasts can take a 75-minute walking tour led by an entertaining and passionate historian. With exclusive access to historic Control Room A, it’s not to be missed! The Heritage and Learning Hub makes that experience even richer by sharing stories of how the station helped light up a city.
Jubilee or Northern Line, it’s very easy to access and worth the visit!
3. Discover the Battersea Arts Centre
Today, Battersea Arts Centre is known as a feeding, brilliant centerpiece for art and performance and constituency. Famed for its cutting-edge theatre shows, it’s been home to famous plays such as Jackson’s Way, winner of the Perrier Award. This vibrant cultural hub is part of the charming South London district, making it a great place for both locals and visitors alike.
The center remains successful with approximately 70% of its historic spaces restored. This includes the impressive 200-seat Council Chamber, the Scratch Bar, and Members Library, which all miraculously survived the devastating fire in 2015. After an incredible internal rebuild, the Grand Hall reopened in 2018, bringing a beautiful combination of vintage magic and new energy to the room, reminiscent of the iconic power station building nearby.
The story of the building itself is a fascinating one, first opening in 1893 as Battersea Town Hall. Created by architect E.W. Mountford, the architecture itself is a testament to its late 19th century creation. Beyond performances, the centre houses the Hope-Jones organ, partially restored in 2008-2009, a fascinating piece of musical history that survived the fire.
It’s quite the popular filming location at that. Productions such as Portrait Artist of the Year and the 1975 film Slade In Flame have put a spotlight on its charm. Workshops and community events here provide an opportunity to engage with the local arts and culture scene, making it a vibrant part of Battersea today.
The centre has deep ties to the community. Its iconic battle to save itself from demolition in the 1970s proves that this is far more than a venue. Whether you’re participating in a creative workshop or stopping by for a local event, it’s a living, breathing, diverse community space that connects people.
No visit is complete without a stop at the on-site café. It’s a lovely spot to enjoy a coffee or light bite, taking in the dynamic and creative atmosphere around you. The café adds to the chill vibe that complements the indie cultural exploration, making it a popular BYO picnic spot for families and friends alike.
We’re calling it the maker oasis, and it’s the perfect place to recharge before returning to all the great maker activities around the Battersea area, including the nearby Battersea Brewery and the picturesque viaduct gardens.
4. Enjoy Riverside Dining at The Boat House
Absolutely Riverside, this little gem offers the ideal blend of delicious foods and breathtaking views of the River Thames. Enjoy mouthwatering cuisine while keeping an eye on boats cruising up and down the river. That, paired with the relaxed vibe, will have you convinced that you’ve really gotten away from it all.
Whether you’re coming in after a day of boating or exploring nearby spots, the vibe here is all about relaxing with “deck shoes and shades meets bottles and breeze.” It’s a perfect place to relax and reenergize.
The menu is particularly inviting with something for every palate, seafood or not. From hearty mains to something a bit lighter, you’ll find it easy to zero in on what suits your cravings. Order a cocktail, beer, or wine from their impressive selection to enjoy with your meal.
You’ll be delighted with something fresh, tasty, and far from a snooty dining experience. Like, you’ll begin the experience with seasonal, local seafood or the restaurant’s signature burger, then enjoy a fun, chef-inspired mocktail or cocktail. It’s pure California, making choices that seem exactly right for the time.
Outdoor seating is a plus here. With fresh air and great views, it truly is a beautiful table to savor your meal. On warmer days, sitting riverside makes for an even better experience, combining delightful fare with the refreshing sounds of the Thames River.
If you’re planning a celebration, The Boat House is a great venue for hosting events, from birthdays to casual gatherings. With its idyllic riverside setting, The Boat House makes an enchanting backdrop for any get-together.
You can hardly imagine a better, more bike-and pedestrian-friendly campus home. If walking isn’t your style, take a bus from the convenient Pump House Lane stop right outside the entrance.
The surrounding area, including Power Station Park—rich with history and a beautiful backdrop—provides ample opportunity to find adventure before or after your stop.
5. Stroll Along the Thames Path
Hiking the Thames Path provides beautiful vistas, both over London’s quickly evolving skyline and downriver’s gorgeous pastoral landscape. The path is an easy, flat route perfect for all ages and abilities, whether you’re up for a quick two-hour walk or a leisurely full day exploring the riverside. Along your stroll, you’ll pass some of London’s most famous landmarks including the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Big Ben.
These iconic sights make the walk a great opportunity to snap some unforgettable photos. The path is rich with delightful places to discover. Battersea Park is a leafy haven, known for its picturesque gardens and calming vibes. It makes for a perfect place to kick back and rejuvenate.
Art lovers enraptured by history, or vice versa, can expand their horizons at the Tate Britain. The collection has one of the world’s finest collections of J.M.W Turner masterpieces. If you’re really fortunate, get treated to a street performer or two. Their live music around the waterfront, from buskers to shows, makes your walk more exciting and delightful.
There are no shortage of cafés and pubs located along or just off the path, perfect for picking up a snack or a pint. Nine Elms Tavern, pictured above, is a favorite, with a beautiful outdoor dining area along the river. It’s a nice place to sit and enjoy the scenery.
In autumn, when the colors of nature are red and gold, the walk is particularly charming. Enjoy the mild temperatures and changing leaves amid a dreamlike, welcoming atmosphere. This time of year brings with it the sunniest three months of the year in London, ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor sights.
Trek through an unusual rural beauty in South London on the Thames Path. Explore beautiful parks, iconic monuments and exciting new riverside destinations like Nine Elms and Woolwich.
Conclusion
There’s a lot that the Battersea has to offer – including their mix of green spaces, iconic landmarks and a vibrant arts scene. Absorb the natural beauty in this green oasis. Enjoy the tranquil vibes of Battersea Park. Take in the Power Station’s history and character, or see a performance at the Arts Centre. Every time, there’s something to rouse your imagination. The meandering Thames Path helps to stop time and add a relaxed aspect to your visit. In the opposite direction, venues like The Boat House make riverside dining fun and entertaining on the heavenly Thames.
Each section of Battersea has a unique narrative, and with a little time spent wandering on foot, visitors can fully appreciate this vibrant community. So plan your visit, and find out why it’s consistently been named the best thing to happen to Battersea for both locals and tourists. There’s so much in store here—see you soon!