South London city guide for fabulous travellers

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Queer guide to polyamorous London

If you’re beginning to explore the wonderful queer world of polyamorous London, then here’s my guide to all the dating apps, events, podcasts and parties that you’ll probably want to know about. I’ve been active within London’s polyamorous community for…

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Sexy things to do in London

Whatever your tastes and quirks, there is something to stimulate everyone’s desires in London. From art deco swimming spots and warm oil play parties to naked men reciting stories and practising yoga, this city is truly a treat for the…

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Review: ABBA Super Troupers exhibition

The new ABBA exhibition opened today in London – so, of course, I had to go. My love for the Swedish supergroup is undeniable. Having been a campy queer teenager in Australia when Muriel’s Wedding and Priscilla, Queen of the…

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Fabulous things to do in London this autumn

Are you visiting London this autumn? Or a local looking for the best that your city has to offer over this fabulously festive season? Well, luckily for you, I’ve handpicked the best of everything the UK capital has to offer…

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Fabulous things to do in London this summer

Are you visiting London this summer? Or are you a local looking for the best that your city has to offer now the sun is (finally) out? Well, luckily for you, I’ve handpicked the best of everything the UK capital…

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Fabulous things to do this winter in London

Spending this winter in London? Or simply looking for some fabulous things to do during this icy season? Well, luckily for you, I’ve handpicked the best of everything the busy UK capital has to offer over the next couple of…

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Fabulous things to do in South London

South London’s fabulousness may not be immediately apparent to a newbie, but you just need to scratch the surface to see the wonders it has in store. It’s not as showy or in love with itself as the other parts…

Fabulous local: Viks’ guide to Peckham

When I think of South London, I think of Viks. She embodies all the good things I associate with this side of town: real ale, awesome politics, and a big-hearted authenticity that would be impossible to replicate. She’s lived in…

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Where to find the best brunch in South London!

If you don’t live south of the river, you’ll definitely need some recommendations if you heading there for brunch. Here are some great options worth checking out if you’re after the best brunch in South London. Looking for fun things…

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Fabulous South London locals’ guide

London is such a huge metropolis that venturing to a part that you don’t live in can feel like visiting an entirely different city. I’ve been an East London girl for the past decade, which means I rarely head South…

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Gluten-free chain restaurants and cafes in London

London has an abundance of chain restaurants and cafes; some are big international brands like Pizza Hut, Pret and Starbucks, whilst others are very UK specific, like Wahacca, Leon and Zizzi. Over the past couple of years, there has been…

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Discover more about South London on my Pinterest board What's on in South London Why you will love South London Things to watch out for in South London South London highlights

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What's on in South London

Why you will love South London

When I first moved to London in 2004, I lived in South London because it was the cheapest place I could find. Living in Camberwell, right next to Peckham, suited me so well because it was an incredibly affordable area - especially the films that were £3 at the Peckham Plex then. I moved North the following year and then East in 2006 (where I've stayed for the last decade) but I'm so glad I had the chance to get to know this part of London. Mainly because it has barely changed. Ok, so it has become a whole load cooler in the last 12 years (there was nothing like Franks or the Bussey Building then, let alone Peddler or Lido Cafe) but compared to the rest of the city, it is still very much the same. This has a lot to do with the people who live here I feel: South London knows who it is and if you want to see the "real" London, I would go here.

Things to watch out for in South London

Its areas aren't that showy: so you have to hunt for the good places. Use this guide to help you.
Some transport options aren't great: it's so much better now the Overland runs from North/East London to the South now, but if that line isn't running, you may have to catch a few different tube lines or buses. Areas like New Cross can be quite hard to get to and Brixton can feel like a long way away if the Victoria line is down. Make sure you check out your route in advance.

South London highlights

Peckham: the Bussey Building and Franks are probably the first places people will recommend you go for a good night out. Franks is only open in the summer, whilst the Bussey parties all through the year. Worth coming here during the daytime to check out Rye Wax and Feastival food market. If you want to hang at a real local boozer, head to The Gowlett.
Brixton: take a wander around the amazing little restaurants and bars are hidden inside Brixton Village, grab a burger from the original Honest Burger, cake from Sponge & Cream and then head to Stansfield Rd to see the house where David Bowie was born.
Brockwell: the perfect sunny Sunday spot for lazing around, either in the park or by the pool after a leisurely brunch at the Lido Cafe.
Vauxhall: fun times at Horse Meat Disco and the RVT.
Camberwell: skip across from Peckham to check out the contemporary art at the South London Gallery and have brunch at great cafe/restaurant, No67.
Greenwich: catch the ferry all the way along the Thames to Greenwich and spend an afternoon exploring the area, including the Painted Hall.
The South Bank: take a long walk along here, starting at Borough Market and stop off along the way at Shakespeare's Globe, Tate Modern, Dandelyan, National Theatre, British Film Institute, Royal Festival Hall and Queen Elizabeth Hall.

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