South London is packed with unique cultural landmarks, beautiful green spaces, and local gems that will appeal to everyone. Wander the landscape which inspired Turner and find yourself falling under its spell.
After that, experience the culture at Brixton’s exciting food market. From pop-up experiences to world-class art exhibitions, South London has it all.
Visit stunning storied art galleries such as the Dulwich Picture Gallery or experience the weird and wonderful at indie shops in Peckham. The area boasts diverse attractions, including scenic riverside walks and lively entertainment venues, making it perfect for both relaxing and adventurous days out.
In this article, we’ll dive into all the fun things to do in South London. Look forward to tons of inspiration to help you get here on your next visit!
1. Explore the Historic Borough Market
Given the historic nature of London, Borough Market remains a unique stop on our itinerary, a perfect blend of history and delicious food experiences. One of London’s oldest food markets, it has been in continuous operation for over 1,000 years. It has occupied its present site since 1756. The market is currently run by a charitable trust, making it a vital community hub. Home to over 80,000 visitors a week, it’s a bustling atmosphere where history beautifully intertwines with contemporary culinary flair, making it one of the must-visit London attractions.
Culinary travelers are met with a dazzling breadth of cuisine, from hearty British classics to far-flung dishes from every corner of the globe. Vendors dish out everything from flaky pastries and handcrafted cheeses to plant-based dishes to international street fare. You might find the ideal sourdough loaf from a nearby baker. Or, instead, you could eat mouth-watering, locally made, vegan dumplings from a thriving permanent Borough Market specialty vendor.
The produce is of extraordinary quality, with many traders bringing in the best, locally grown, ethical, and sustainable ingredients. Even aside from the food, the market is an absolute wonderland for exclusive and hard-to-find goods and products. You’ll find independent sellers specializing in rare spices, small-batch sauces, and handmade chocolates, showcasing the charm of indie businesses.
Whether you’re visiting to stock up on the freshest ingredients or looking for an extraordinary one-off gift, the choice seems limitless. The atmosphere is only heightened by the gorgeous, historic market buildings, designed by Henry Rose in 1851. Tudor-style buildings, Gothic Cathedral, and surviving traces of Roman and medieval activity give the feeling that you just stepped out of a time machine.
The ambiance is just as memorable. Weekends are less intense, swelled with crowds seeking the electric energy of markets, often featuring live music or seasonal festivities. Visit midweek for a calmer and more contemplative environment, perfect for those looking to explore the south London skyline. You’ll be leisurely strolling through all of it—the perfect amount of time to take in everything.
Whether you like it energetic or chill, the market has the perfect vibe for you, making it a true south London gem.
2. Stroll Through Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park provides the best views in all of South London, making it one of the top London attractions. From the hilltop, the gnarled path of the River Thames cuts a beautiful curve through the city, with stunning landmarks such as the Shard and Canary Wharf contributing to the captivating London skyline. It’s a wonderful place to stop and appreciate the view, especially at sunset.
If you love history or science, the Royal Observatory is the place to be in the park. Welcome to the original home of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time)! Here, you can stand on the Prime Meridian Line, which marks the divide between the eastern and western hemispheres. The museum’s exhibits on timekeeping and astronomy bring a unique, thought-provoking twist to your visit.
The park itself is one of London’s most beautiful Royal Parks and a paradise for animal lovers. In spring, cherry blossom avenue bursts with rich hues of pink and white. It’s truly one of the best places in London to experience these breathtaking flowers!
Midnight meadows summer fills the park’s pastures with buzzing prairies, alive with bees, butterflies and crickets. Our Rose Garden, laid out in 1960, is a blaze of colour and perfume, with the beautiful old Ranger’s House — home to the Museum of Greenwich — as a backdrop.
The park’s sweeping open green spaces are perfect for a leisurely picnic or a tree-shaded walk. If you find yourself getting a bit peckish or looking for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, the charming Greenwich Market is just a 10-minute walk away. You’ll discover handmade crafts, vintage treasures, and a finger-licking array of street food to try.
Getting to Greenwich Park couldn’t be easier, with links by rail, bus, and even riverboat. Don’t miss the Painted Hall nearby, where 40,000 square feet of painted walls and ceilings showcase stunning art, often referred to as “Britain’s Sistine Chapel.
3. Visit the Cutty Sark Ship Museum
The Cutty Sark is one of the most adventurous, hands-on attractions in the world. Stepping aboard this 19th-century clipper ship, you can wander its beautifully preserved decks and marvel at the beauty and craftsmanship of the ship’s original materials. Notable highlights include the Cutty Sark ship’s wheel, restored by talented wood artisans prior to its 1957 launch, and the elaborate steering mechanism, making it a must-see among London attractions.
Catch the world’s largest collection of merchant-ship figureheads on board! Learn about Nannie the witch, the newly commissioned character sculpture created to celebrate the ship’s rich heritage. The museum’s digital displays and immersive experiences take you inside the Cutty Sark’s storied past as a famous tea clipper.
Explore the life and times of an intrepid young sailor 150 years ago! Join Cutty Sark for a digital adventure that recreates the music of life at sea. There’s something for everyone, and families will have a lot of fun, with workshops and activities specifically designed to cater to the interests of children and their parents, making it a fantastic option for a weekend market visit.
The ship walls are a top-rated visitor attraction and consistently rated a top 10 fun and learning destination by visitors. From the top deck, sweeping views of the Thames make for a stunning photo backdrop. The ship itself, poised on a glass pedestal at Greenwich’s water’s edge, is a really beautiful sight.
Roam the interior to explore The Wernher Collection. It’s home to more than 700 one-of-a-kind pieces, from beautiful medieval sculptures, French tapestry, and court jewelry. The Cutty Sark makes a wonderful stop for families with kids, maritime history enthusiasts, or anyone exploring London, especially those interested in the royal museums.
With its rich interactive exhibits and remarkable restoration, it’s easy to see why it continues to be so well loved, becoming a favorite city attraction for both locals and tourists alike.
4. Discover the Art at Dulwich Picture Gallery
Dulwich Picture Gallery is a jewel box of history and artistry, making it one of the must-see London attractions. As England’s oldest public art gallery, it holds over 600 paintings by renowned Old Masters like Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Rubens, and Canaletto. The collection dates from the 17th and 18th centuries and includes works by Italian, Spanish, French, Flemish, and Dutch masters. Founded in 1817, the gallery is in addition to its collection the world’s first purpose-built public art gallery.
Seasonal exhibitions and special events in the gallery’s landscaped gardens introduce a vibrant energy into this historic gem. Recent inspirations are described in more than 50 works that supplant the theme of the ‘woman in the window’. These rotating exhibitions are frequently focused on new work, providing guests with an exciting look at the new alongside the old masters in the permanent collection.
With regular events like artist talks and workshops, each visit feels different. The surrounding gardens make for a beautiful, contemplative retreat from the city’s racket. Perfect for a quiet afternoon, the landscaped grounds invite you to relax, read, or simply take in the serene atmosphere, all while enjoying the charm of this south London gem.
The outdoor space doubles down on the gallery’s charm, turning what could be a purely indoor experience into something unexpected and truly special. Guided tours or audio guides offer a more comprehensive exploration of the gallery’s artistic wonders. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating details about the artists and their works, helping you connect with the stories behind the paintings.
Whether you’re an art lover or someone looking for something to do on a day trip to London, these tours bring a playful new dimension to your visit. The museum is located on Gallery Road in Dulwich, south London. Read on, we’re only a quick 12 minutes from both Victoria or London Bridge station.
The facility is open Tuesdays – Sundays from 10 a.m. To 5 p.m., making it accessible to many different audiences. Students, Under 18s, & those in full time education free!
5. Experience the Vibes of Brixton Market
With every stall, Brixton Market offers a unique opportunity to experience a melting pot of international cuisines with vibrant flavors from all over the world. Treat yourself to rich, spicy jerk chicken and fresh-made dim sum. Or catch an incredible vegan meal at the London-based Plantopia—try the plant-based burgers or zingy falafel wraps!
The smell of fried spices wafts through the air. There’s no shortage of surprises, whether it’s time-honored recipes or thrilling combinations that would never cross your mind.
There’s no shortage of independent shops and boutiques showcasing the talents of local makers and artisans. Maybe you’ll find some handmade jewelry, a quirky print for your apartment, or some clothing with brilliant, eye-catching patterns.
Some even sell homeware or alternative souvenirs, ensuring there are always multiple reasons to wander around. It’s the perfect place to leave with something special in hand all the while, supporting a community of small businesses.
Live music and cultural events injected an additional dose of eclectic energy to the market’s vibrant atmosphere. Take in a soulful acoustic performance, or jump into the rhythmic swirl of a drum circle.
You may even hear a DJ playing beats that will get you dancing! Beyond the aesthetic renovation, these events speak to Brixton’s creative and diverse community. Each visit turns into an inspiring tribute to homegrown talent and culture.
A little way down the street, Brixton Academy brings a whole different sort of entertainment. Even more iconic than its look is what takes place there, with the venue regularly hosting the world’s best musicians from every genre, including rock, hip-hop and beyond.
The exceptional acoustics and intimate space make it an oft-emulated jewel box that delights performers and audiences alike. Explore the market and then head to a night of music or comedy at the Academy.
This unique combination is the best introduction to Brixton’s exciting nightlife!
Conclusion
South London has a richness of history, culture and energy that just feels vibrant. Every place has its own unique experience. Whether it’s the local markets bursting with flavor, the tranquil parks offering breathtaking views, or the wall art that narrates a powerful story, you’ll quickly fall in love. Whether you’re strolling through the history of Greenwich or experiencing the energy of Brixton’s markets and restaurants, you’ll never be far from the next adventure.
What makes South London so enchanting is its diversity. One might think a day is sufficient to simply immerse oneself in the collective ambiance and uncover the city’s lesser-known gems. A little planning will go a long way to ensuring you experience the very best of all that this vibrant slice of our great city has to offer.
Spend the day discovering, relaxing and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for culture, nature, food, or adventure, South London is open.