Peckham’s Diversity

Peckham’s Diversity

7.60miles Peckhamplex to Peckham Rye Arches

Alberto Serna

I'm a Spaniard living in London. I've always enjoyed the freedom of cycling, which is why I ended up working for a bike brand.

Peckham is that place in south London where my girlfriend and I like to go with our bikes on a weekend, when we want to stay local. It’s a really special neighbourhood, truly authentic and full of hidden gems to be discovered – from pleasant cafés and art galleries to rooftop bars and independent cinemas. It even has a cosy park where you can unwind after a full-on week in London. We love Peckham because few places are so multi-cultural and eclectic.

Alberto's Stops

1. Peckhamplex

95A Rye Lane, London SE15 4ST

Discovering Peckhamplex changed our lives – no other cinema in London lets you watch new releases and indie films for £4.99. We also love its extremely friendly staff and 80s/90s vibe – neon lights, popcorn, hot dogs, ice cream and even a pop-up comic store. It’s extremely popular on weekends, no matter what time of the day.

2. Frank’s, Copeland Park and the Bussey Building

133 Copeland Rd, Peckham, London SE15 3SN

Trendy Copeland Park is a creative community epicentre, with several art and event spaces, a vintage market and the much-loved SeaBass cycling shop. Highlights include rooftop Frank’s Cafe and the iconic Bussey Building – a former industrial estate, now with rooftop bar and cinema, several music and design studios, eclectic galleries and venues like the CLF Art Café.

3. Choumert Road

Montpelier Pub, 43 Choumert Road, London SE15 4AR

One of Peckham’s most charming streets has three compulsory stops: the Montpelier Bar, with its art house back room cinema and inviting terrace; Petitou café, a quaint and favourite breakfast spot for locals; and Review, a quaint little bookshop where you can find some hidden gems. Nearby Bellenden Road is filled with nice restaurants and eateries, including an artisan chocolate store.

4. Bottom of Peckham Rye Lane + Peckham Rye Park and Common

187 Rye Lane, Peckham SE15 4TP

We always like to stop at The Four Quarters and Corals restaurant. You can play 90s arcade video games in the former (yes, including Street Fighter) using American quarters while enjoying a nice craft beer. Peckham Rye Park is really chilled and reminds us of The Meadows in Edinburgh, where we spent many jolly days as students.

5. Peckham Rye Arches

Bar Story, 213 Blenheim Grove, London SE15 4QL

Beneath the arches of Peckham Rye train station lies Blenheim Grove, with its popular bars, restaurants and galleries. Bar Story is one of the trendiest, serving yummy pizza and cocktails all year round. Peckham Springs brings together an art gallery, good vibes, and great cocktails and food. Best enjoyed al fresco during warmer summer evenings.