Summer is the perfect time to plan a day trip across London. So, we’ve partnered with Greater Anglia to put together another guide to the ultimate city day out – this time exploring South London, a diverse corner of the capital packed with standout food, culture and things to do, all within easy reach of each other. That means you can keep the bulk of your travel to your Greater Anglia journey in, and get straight into the fun once you arrive.
What’s more, with Greater Anglia’s GroupSave offer you can get a third off Standard Off-Peak fares when travelling in a group of 3-9 adults. It’s valid for travel outside peak times on weekdays, as well as anytime on weekends and bank holidays. What better excuse to get your friends together for a fun day trip to London?
1. Settle into one of South London’s best rooftops for unreal food and drinks
This rooftop bar and restaurant in Peckham serves delightful “Italian-ish” snacks, 10/10 cocktails, and a sensational selection of wines – all before breathtaking views of the city. The food menu is designed to be shared and is available throughout the day, offering dishes such as grilled chicken with nduja, cauliflower fritti and aioli, fried polenta with hot sauce, and much more. With top-tier food, drinks and views all in one place, this spot ticks every box.
2. Enjoy a vinyl spun-soundtrack at JUMBI
JUMBI is a Hi–Fi music bar and restaurant in Peckham, with an impressive vinyl library that guests and dance floor-dwellers are often invited to select records from. Whilst the music collection spans genres and influences from around the world, almost everything on the food and drinks menu reflects the Dominican and St Kitts and Nevis roots. At JUMBI, what starts as a meal often ends on the dancefloor, but one thing is guaranteed from start to finish, and that is consistently great music.
3. Hunt for unbelievable second hand bargains at Peckham Carboot
It’s not truly a day trip if you don’t leave with a souvenir or two – and you’re guaranteed to find tons of pre-loved treasure at Peckham Carboot. Running every other Sunday (rain or shine!) sellers come from all over to flog clothes, homeware, books, and just about anything you can imagine. You can even pay for early bird entry to make sure you snap up all the best bargains.
4. Catch a sky-high movie screening at an open-air cinema
Make your next movie night (or afternoon!) the rooftop edition, with a trip to the open-air cinema, a-top Peckham’s iconic Bussey Building. With sweeping views across the South London skyline, there couldn’t be a better backdrop for watching whatever classic, cult, or newly released film you’re coming for. Drinks and snacks are available throughout the film – but we’d highly recommend hitting the rooftop bar for a pre-showing tipple as the sunsets.
5. Take a refreshing dip in Brockwell Park Lido
Nothing beats an al fresco dip in the summer – and Brockwell Lido is a favourite of the South London locals. Nestled in the heart of Brockwell Park, you’re perfectly situated for some pre-swim sunbathing amongst the beautiful greenery. And if some post-swim sustenance is in order, then Four Hundred Rabbits is the lido cafe’s permanent food residency, serving up poolside pizzas, pints and cocktails.
6. See a great exhibition at the South London Gallery
This compact yet influential local art gallery has been showcasing exhibitions for over 125 years. Here you’ll find the best in international contemporary art, with a particular focus on artists who are rarely found in London institutions. The calendar is always filled with fascinating things to see, and the best part is, it’s totally free to enter.
From quiz nights and karaoke, to resident DJs and raucous bottomless brunches, the Prince of Peckham has something for every kind of pub-goer. The food is a major draw in its own right, with White Men Can’t Jerk’s permanent kitchen residency serving up A-Grade jerk chicken and other Caribbean-inspired dishes. Whether you’re stopping by to eat, catch one of the World Cup games, or sticking around for one of the pub’s lively weekly events, you’re guaranteed to have a good time.
8. Indulge in a sauna session with stunning city views
Getting a great sweat whilst overlooking the London skyline is a sure-fire way to make your day trip a memorable one. Sitting at 11 storeys high, Rooftop Saunas Brixton offers fantastic views of the city’s iconic landmarks. Once you’re sufficiently toasty, take a dip in the outdoor plunge pool – and then go again!
9. Find incredible global cuisine and independent shops in Brixton Village Market
In London’s most diverse market you will find more than 100 vendors representing over 50 nationalities in the form of food, vintage clothing, handmade jewellery, fresh produce, and so much more. From traditional Jamaican seafood and authentic Mexican to award-winning burgers and mind-blowing dumplings, there is a cuisine for every craving. And in between all of the browsing, there are wine and cocktail bars, a taproom, and even a rooftop where you can pause and relax.
