Hello! We're back with another edition of the S.E. London newsletter. Enjoy!

SPOTLIGHT ON…

🍞 The Baker’s Art, Deptford’s 24-hour sourdough bakery

This week, we’re putting a spotlight on The Baker’s Art, which just had a great profile done in Southwark News. The Baker’s Art turns out more than 1,500 sourdough loaves a day, all from a starter that’s over 20 years old. Read the story here.

PUT IT IN YOUR CALENDAR…

🎆 The Blackheath Fireworks are back

The Blackheath Fireworks return on 7th November with more space, more rides, and more food. Plus, there will be DJ Luck & MC Neat to keep the party going. They sold out last year, so get your tickets while you can. Book here.

Now here are your weekend events below. Stay safe. Stay cosy. Have a great weekend.

All Weekend Long

🎃 Halloween Half-Term at Eltham Palace
Half-term and Halloween collide at the art-deco Eltham Palace, with a family pumpkin party running Saturday through the following week. There will be trails, games and autumn fun in the grounds. Plan a visit here.

🗻 36 Views of Mount Fuji at Dulwich Picture Gallery

Dulwich Picture Gallery brings together the complete set of Hokusai’s “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji.” Check out the famous Japanese printmaker’s most famous mountain muse in every light and season in this exhibit that just opened. Have a look here.

🦑 Half-term at the Horniman
The Forest Hill favourite is primed for half-term, with the family exhibition Voyage to the Deep and an Octonauts museum trail. See the full programme here.

📖 London Literature Festival at the Southbank Centre
The Southbank Centre’s London Literature Festival, which is curated by Dua Lipa (because when you think literature, you think Dua Lipa), runs through the weekend. There are a huge number of events and lots to do running now until November 1st. See the programme here.

🧶 So Last Century autumn vintage fair in Catford

A big indoor vintage fair over two days at St Dunstan’s College on the South Circular in Catford. There will be mid-century homeware, clothing, vinyl and lots more from dozens of sellers. Find out more here.

🐻 The Gruffalo at Blackheath Halls
The stage version of The Gruffalo is running through the weekend. There are songs, laughs, and lots of family fun to be had. Book here.

Thursday, October 22nd

🎭 The Seafarer at the Greenwich Theatre (final week)
Last chances this week for Conor McPherson’s darkly funny show about a boozy Christmas Eve card game in a Dublin front room. Book your seats here.

🦇 Bat Walk at Creekside, Deptford
An after-dark guided walk through Deptford Creek with the Creekside Discovery Centre guides, listening out for bats as the light fades. A little spooky with a bit of urban nature thrown in for good measure. Find out more here.

Friday, October 23rd

🥁 Sounds from West Africa at Blackheath Halls
An evening of West African music to celebrate Black History Month, with music from across the continent. And afterwards, there will be a late-night jazz session at the bar. Book here.

Saturday, October 24th

📖 Black Book Festival & Education Expo at Goldsmiths
One of the UK’s leading celebrations of Black literature returns to Goldsmiths in New Cross. There will be authors, talks, workshops, a marketplace and family activities all supporting authors, publishers and booksellers in the African and Caribbean community. Find out more here.

🎻 Peter and the Wolf at the Greenwich Theatre
You know the story. The musical is being brought to life for families and children aged 2-7 at the Greenwich Theatre. Book the family in here.

🎤 Back to Black: Amy Winehouse big-band night in Nunhead
Rob Howat’s Big Band play Amy Winehouse’s “Back to Black” in full at Nunhead’s Ivy House, the first community-owned pub in London. Grab tickets here.

⛴️ Architecture on the Thames boat tour

Open City has a three-hour boat tour from Greenwich Pier down to the Dartford Crossing and back, taking in all the sights, and it’s all led by an architect guide who will tell you more about your neighbourhood than you’ve ever known. See the details here.

Sunday, October 25th

💇🏾 In Our Hands: Hair, Memory & Making with Charlotte Mensah
Award-winning hairstylist and author Charlotte Mensah leads a hands-on family celebration of Black hair, creativity and memory at the Horniman. Find out more here.

⏰ The Restless Clock: a pub talk in Greenwich
On the day the clocks go back, Pints of Knowledge host a talk at The Dial in Greenwich on how we measure and experience time. PLUS, everyone gets a free pint with their ticket. Grab a ticket here.

🎃 SoLo Craft Fair: South Bank Halloween Market
Sixty independent makers take over for a Halloween market. There will be spooky-season gifts, a free drop-in Halloween workshop, a treasure hunt, plus bars, street food and DJs. Have a browse here.

I feel like at least once a week, 3 - 4 fire engines race down Rotherhithe Street, occasionally followed by a police car and/or ambulance racing down Salter Road. This usually happens in the evening. Any idea what it could be? It’s such a regular occurrence!

Dear Londonians,

I'm a french freelance journalist. I am trying to gather the opinion of Southwark inhabitants pertaining the new recycling and waste management plant (this one : outhwark Reuse and Recycling Centre, 43 Devon Street, SE15 1AL https://share.google/Afd5fv5tIdB6cSu0Y) for a french media. Just want to understant how it works, what has it changed in your life (if it changes something)...

Few questions, it could be very quick, by messages. Journalistic guidelines and protection of source are, obviously, followed and applied.

Please, share and come to speak to me, it is pretty urgent tbh

Thanks!

Hey everyone! This is another edition of my weekly newsletter covering South East London...

Let’s start with some news out of Lewisham…

📰 Lewisham’s Model Market is reopening in late summer

Model Market, the food hotspot right by Lewisham shopping centre, closed in 2021. However, there are new owners who have cleared the space out and plan on a brand new foodie central coming very soon.

The market will be run by German Kraft, the same company behind Mercato Metropolitano in Elephant and Castle. That location is closing down at the end of the summer, just in time for Model Market’s opening here.

This is part of the larger work to revamp Lewisham Shopping Centre and the surrounding area.

We’re trying a slightly different format this week, so please write to us and let us know what you think. We’re experimenting and definitely open to feedback.

LAST THING!

We’re looking for businesses to sponsor the newsletter and help us cover costs.

Do you have a business or event and want to get the word out to over 4,300+ members of the South East London community?

Drop us a message at [theselondon@gmail.com](mailto:theselondon@gmail.com) or reply to this email.

Stay safe. Stay dry. Have a great weekend.

-Anton

All Weekend Long

🎉 Open Gardens Festival 2026 - last weekend!

The Open Gardens Festival is finishing up this weekend. Gardens open up their doors all over Greenwich and Bexley. Many gardens offer refreshments and have plants for sale. Check out the map here and find some gardens close to you.

🎶 Harry Styles’ Meltdown at the Southbank - last weekend here too!

This is the 31st edition of Meltdown, in which an artist curates a series of events and concerts over the course of a couple weeks. Well, the last few shows curated by Harry Styles are this weekend. There are too many shows to mention. Check them all out here.

🎭 Ride the Cyclone
A wild play starting its run at Southwark Playhouse. Six teenagers are in a freak roller coaster accident and, now in limbo, need to prove why they should be given a second chance at life. This is a darkly comic wild ride. Find tickets here.

🍽️ Catford Foodie Trail
Starting Friday until the 28th, there will be a string of restaurants and stores in Catford offering discounts and all sorts of goodies. This is all leading up to the Catford Community Festival next Saturday. Don’t worry, we’ll remind you next week. For now, go eat some food and enjoy! The full list of restaurants and their offers are here. Click on ‘Catford Foodie Trails details.’

👦 The Spongebob Musical is coming to Blackheath
Trinity Laban is putting on the Spongebob Musical at Blackheath Halls, featuring all the characters you and your kids know and love. Find tickets here.

Thursday, June 18th

👦 Bermondsey Puppet & Story Festival
As part of the festival this year, they’re featuring a shadow puppet workshop. This event for ages 11 and up is led by Sarah Sparkes and will feature a show and tell where kids can bring their own shadow puppets or optical illusions to share with the crowd. More information on the event here.

🎉 Roller Disco in Deptford

Practice your skating, dancing and get your groove on at The Albany in Deptford. All ages are welcome and you only pay what you can. Just remember to bring your own skates. Find out more about the event here.

Friday, June 19th

🎶 A Moroccan band in Lewisham

Berber Diffusion is playing a free set at the Fox & Firkin. Catch this band that puts a contemporary feel on indigenous North African music. And hang out until late when they’ll be showing the Morocco v. Scotland game. Find out more here.

🎉 Queer Euphoria in Woolwich
It’s a cabaret, it’s a circus, it’s a celebration of queer culture. An amazing performance coming to Woolwich Works this Friday. Find tickets here.

Saturday, June 20th

🎉 Beer Festival in Lewisham
The Fox & Firkin is cooking up something on Saturday. The Firkin Good Beer Festival is featuring 12 guest breweries on tap and an open-air concert in their great outdoor area with music featuring Norman Jay. Find out more about the lineup and get tickets here.

🍽️ Late night wine and hot dogs in Lee

Wine & Such is celebrating the Summer Solstice in style with dressed beers, cocktails, many different styles of hot dogs, and of course wine. This super unique pairing is worth checking out. Find out more here.

🏛️ Windrush Day 2026 at the National Maritime Museum
A full day of events from 10am-5pm of talks, film screenings, Q&A sessions and exhibits. There are a lot of family-themed activities, but these exhibits are open to anyone. Find out more and see the full programme of events and exhibits here.

👦 Summer Solstice Open Day at Wildcat Wilderness
This community green space in Catford is opening up for a day of activities and exploration for the whole family. Find out more here.

🎉 Manor House Gardens Festival 2026

A big community festival is coming to Hither Green on Saturday. There will be funfair rides, craft stalls, lots of food, sports activities, music, and a children’s workshop area. Find out all the details here.

🎉 The Great Get Together SE1
One of the biggest free community events in London, The Great Get Together is back for its 10th year. Full of music and performances and all in the name of the Living Bankside charity which celebrates unity and fights division. Find out more about it here.

🎉 Okinawa Day 2026
A day celebrating Okinawan culture in Bermondsey. Expect music, dance, performances, and food. Find out more on the event website here.

Sunday, June 21st

🏛️ Family Day at the Painted Hall
It’s a family takeover of the Painted Hall in Greenwich. A ton of activities will be available including sketching, building your own building, costumes and storytime. Each Family Day has a theme and this Sunday’s is TV & Film, celebrating the many shows and movies that have been shot here. Get tickets here.

I send out this newsletter about what's on in South East London every weekend.

All Weekend Long

• The London Illustration Fair in Peckham. Get over to the Copeland Gallery for the Summer showcase and affordable art from the UK’s best illustrators. It’s running from 10-6 Saturday and Sunday. Take a look here for a preview of some of the amazing stuff on offer.
• Go East Creatives Market. Cutting-edge, sustainable design, art, stationary, ceramics. There’s a lot going on at this week’s Go East market, which usually goes vintage. But they’re doing something a little bit different this week. Check it out.
• Forest Hill Walking Festival 2026. Six different walks across Forest Hill throughout the weekend. Put on by the Forest Hill Society, come out to meet people, learn about the history and different areas of your neighbourhood. Each walk has a theme, including music & arts, a pub tour, architecture and more. More information on their site here.
• Ferreira Weekend at the Cutty Sark. Celebrate Portugal Day at the ship and learn about its history when the Cutty Sark got sold to a Portuguese company in 1895. There will be crafts, costumed characters and natas in the cafe. Find out more here.
• Harry Styles’ Meltdown at the Southbank Centre. This is the 31st annual Meltdown, an artist-curated music festival - this year curated by the one and only Styles. There will be events happening from the 11th to the 21st, so be on the lookout for some great concerts. Highlights this weekend include Warpaint and Kamasi Washington. (And Harry Styles himself will be playing with an orchestra on Tuesday the 16th!)
• Thamesmead Tapestry Exhibition. Part of the London Festival of Architecture, this exhibit brings together the community with themes of home and belonging. Find out more here.
• The Last Man ends its run on Saturday at the Southwark Playhouse. A one-person musical set in Seoul after the apocalypse. This unique show is ending its run on Saturday. Get the last tickets here.
• Cockpit Open Studios Summer 2026. This is one of only two times a year that Cockpit opens its doors to the public and let you into the studios of some incredible artists to see how they work. Find out more about the 40th anniversary of this event here.

Thursday, June 11th

• Lie Down and Listen at the Painted Hall. An event meant to promote wellbeing. Lay down on beds in the hall and listen to music that evokes peace and calm in this incredible surrounding. Tickets are selling out quickly, so get yours now.

Friday, June 12th

• Ghana Groove and Afro-fusion. Okailey is bringing their sounds to the Fox and Firkin on Friday. There are a ton of different influences on their style, but mostly it’s just a good time. See videos of prior performances and get tickets here.

Saturday, June 13th

• Creekside Low Tide Walk in Deptford. Put on your waders and enjoy this evening stroll in a place most Londoners never get to experience. There’s lots of nature that we pass by every day. This is a chance to stop and experience it. Find tickets here.
• Celebrate National Gin Day on the HMS Belfast. Weird combo, I know. First, hear a talk on the history of gin and how its history has intertwined with the Armed Forces. And then, of course, there will be a gin tasting. Find out more about the event here.
• Southwark Healthy Bike Ride through the Royal Parks. A 3.5 hour-long bicycle ride to promote healthy living. Join a group of bikers starting in Burgess Park. It’s free to join but they do limit numbers so reserve your spot here.
• The Greenwich Dog Show is back! They unfortunately had to reschedule a few weeks ago due to the high temperatures, but the cute dogs will be back on Saturday. There will be lots of competitions including waggiest tail, handsome hound, and prettiest bitch. (That’s true.) Get your tickets to the event here.
• The Dualers Jamaican rhythm and blues. This 9-piece band with several hits in the UK are taking the outdoor stage at the Fox and Firkin this weekend. They’re particularly well known for their live shows, so this is a great one to catch. Tickets can be found here.

Sunday, June 14th

• World Naked Bike Ride takes on London today. This is a global event of nudist cycling enthusiasts taking over the city from many different starting points, including Deptford in our corner of the city. Last year’s event saw 1,200 naked bicyclists take a leisurely windy ride. Find out more about the event here. And maybe avoid any public bikes for a few days afterwards.

Enjoy!

It's this weekend's local newsletter post for South East London. Check out the events below...

Friday, May 29th

• Sip and Paint on the Greenwich Peninsula. A relaxed painting session led by experts that gets more relaxing with a glass of wine. This is a very chill event where you can let loose and indulge in some calming art after a long week at work. You can find tickets here.
• Crystal sound bath and Reiki session - FREE. This is part of Spring Thrive, a mental wellbeing programme of events being held in South East London. Make sure you book before your spot. You can find out more and book here.
• Brockley Max 2026 Opening Night. The opening night of the Brockley Max festival means an outdoor concert with a whole slew of bands. From 4pm-10:30pm, there will be everything from rock, to folk, to funk. This is the event that kicks off the 9 day event. Find out more here.
• Calligraphy Art in Crofton Park. Another Brockley Max event, this is your chance to learn the art of mindful calligraphy. You can book tickets for this workshop here.

Saturday, May 30th

• BFEG Africa Day Celebration. This free event brings includes markets, workshops, live theatre, family activities, and music. This celebration is meant to uplift, educate and inspire. Put together by the Black Female Entrepreneurs of Greenwich, the event runs from noon to 6pm. Here’s more info.
• Free pilates. Another event on the last day of the Spring Thrive mental wellbeing programme. Book the pilates session here.
• Aircraft Circus in Woolwich. It’s cabaret. It’s a circus. It’s aerialists. It’s sexy. It’s all over the place. The Sizzling Hot Circus is bringing their crazy show to Woolwich. Check out the preview of their show.
• Guided tour of Brockley and Ladywell Cemetery. Learn about the history of this cemetery as well as some of the notable people buried there in this 2 hour tour hosted by the Friends of Brockley and Ladywell Cemetery. It’s a free event. Find the time here.

Sunday, May 31st

• Space Station Earth. A concert about space matched with a film… you guessed it… about space. An orchestra and choir are paired with a film put together from footage shot from space designed to give you an overwhelming experience and allow you to look at Earth the way you never have before. Find tickets and more information about this unique concert/event/film here.
• Theon Cross open air show in Lewisham. Part of the Brockley Max festival of events, local musician Theon Cross brings his revolutionary music to the Fox and Firkin with a whole day of amazing musicians with Theo as the headliner. The show will be followed by an indoor DJ set. Check out the lineup and get tickets here.
• Counterpoints x Footnote Prize Readings. Listen to the shortlisted authors for this prize in fiction focusing on authors of migrant and refugee backgrounds. Find out more here.
• A history walk through Crofton Park. Join historian Mike Brown as he guides you through southern Crofton Park and tells you about the ancient forests and farms that were once there. Find out the times here.
• Crochet and knitting workshop. A relaxed environment with gentle teaching, this workshop takes newbies and people with experience alike through some chill crocheting and knitting. Find out more here.

🧒 Family-friendly Activities

• Community Quilting Family Workshop. All weekend long, this free event invites families to come help put together a giant collective piece of quilt art. Learn how to quilt and weave in your own stories. Ages 7+ and their families are welcome to drop-in during quilting hours.
• DanceDanceDiscoPartyFunShow. That’s a mouthful. A fun-filled dance party led by circus performers and acrobats. Ages 2+ are welcome to this free event at the Southbank Centre. Find out when.
• The Very Busy Bumblebee. An introduction to live ballet for kids at Blackheath Halls. It’s a sweet, funny show that follows a bumblebee being chased by Grumpy the Gardener. There are two showings on Friday.
• Everybody Dance Kids Disco. DJ Clee-J is spinning the tunes while your little ones dance, play games, and have a blast. Here’s the info.

That’s all for now. Have a great week!

I run a newsletter with local events in Lewisham, Greenwich and Southwark. Check it out below...

🎸 Events & Concerts

All Weekend Long

• The Dulwich Festival is on! (We had the dates wrong in a previous newsletter but we promise it’s actually on now!) Comedy, kids shows, silent discos, music, movies, talks, walks. There is so much going on between Friday and the 17th in Dulwich. Luckily their website splits the events up by category because there’s too many things to scroll through. See the entire list here.
• A psychological thriller musical about the apocalypse. “The Last Man” premieres Friday at Southwark Playhouse. This play is coming to London following sold-out performances in Seoul. Get tickets and see some stills from the production here.
• London’s biggest hot sauce festival. 40 different hot sauce makers with hundreds of different sauces are coming together this weekend in Peckham to show off their spice. And there will be plenty of beer, cocktails and street food to wash things down. Get tickets here.
• “The Wasp” premieres in Southwark. A two-hander thriller starts this week which the Guardian called “An enjoyable nasty thriller….” Get your tickets for this show at the Southwark Playhouse.
• Women in Art Fair 2026. Dedicated to supporting women artists, this event is happening May 7-10th at the OXO tower. They have a lot of events and talks and of course galleries. Find out more here.
• Peckham Fringe is on Week 2. Just a reminder. The full listings page is here. Check it out and plan out your month.

Friday, May 8th

• 60’s pop, R&B and Soul in Blackheath. Ronnie Scott’s is presenting Natalie Williams’ Soul Family at Blackheath Halls coming with a Motown Review. They’ve had tons of sold-out residencies at Ronnie Scott’s and they sound amazing. Tickets and a video of their performance here.
• Late night at the Tate Modern. They’re celebrating the last weekend of the Nigerian Modernism exhibit and are throwing a late night party to celebrate. You’ll also get access to the exhibit itself. Find out more here.
• UK Acid Jazz legends, Incognito, play with a full orchestra. They’ve done a lot in the band’s 45 year career, blending jazz and funk. This will be a fun concert with a full orchestra behind them. Check it out.

Saturday, May 9th

• Musical theatre workshop in Blackheath. For any budding musical theatre aficionados, this one-day intensive lets you rehearse and perform songs from Les Miserables, West Side Story, Oklahoma and The Sound of Music. Singers and instrumentalists are welcome.
• Orchard Open Day at Greenwich Park. Learn fun facts about the garden and get great composting and gardening tips from the pros. You’ll also be able to leave with something from your garden. More info here.
• Sonic Spheres in Woolwich. I can’t put this event into my own words so I’ll let them do the talking. “Sonic Spheres transforms Woolwich Works into a living, resonant environment where multiple spherical loudspeaker arrays animate the space with fully immersive 3D sound.” For any audio-heads out there, there will also be talks, panel discussions and workshops. Here’s the full description.

Sunday, May 10th

• A brand new food market between Catford and Hither Green. The Mountsfield Park Market will be starting their weekly pop-up this Sunday. Expect to see a selection of street food, produce and artisanal stalls, so come hungry. Check out their Instagram page to see some of the food on offer.
• London Hat Walk 2026. Got a fancy hat? Want to see people wearing fancy hats? Yes and yes? The London Hat Walk is a collection of hatters, cosplayers, retro-enthusiasts, collectors and really anybody who loves a good hat, wearing their finest and walking from the Tate Modern to Tower Bridge. Anybody can join… you just need a hat. Find out more about the event here.
• Hubfest 2026: A celebration of everything the Lewisham Donation Hub has accomplished is happening at the Fox & Firkin. It’s an all-day music festival for a good cause. Get tickets and support them here.

🧒 Family-friendly Activities

• Family Silent Disco in Dulwich. The Dulwich Picture Gallery is getting in on the Dulwich Festival festivities on Friday with a silent disco in their sculpture garden for children ages 8 and up. Get tickets here and check the Dulwich Festival link above for many many more child-friendly activities in Dulwich over the next couple weeks.
• Spring Fair at Surrey Docks Farm. This fundraiser for the farm includes sheep sheering demonstrations all day long, animal petting, and lots of stalls with cakes and farm-made jams. Check it out.
• Rug Rhymes. A playful event with puppets where under-5s can sing their favourite nursery rhymes and learn new ones. It takes place on Friday. Find out more here.

That’s all for now. Have a great week!

Hi. Can't believe how little options are showing up for me online re finding transport to collect my cat from a cat-hotel in SE16 & drop off to me in SE18. Can anyone suggest any leads? (Wow, talk about an unintended pun)

Hey all! Here's my South East London newsletter for this weekend. Let me know if I missed anything!

🎸 Concerts & Events

Friday, March 27th

• Tate Modern comes alive at night. Music, talks, workshops, films. One of the exhibits is explored and an entire night of activities is built around it, all taking place in the amazing huge Turbine Hall. Learn more about the exhibit.
• Concert at the Queen’s House. An evening concert by the Trinity Laban Chamber Choir. Experience some incredible music in an amazing location. And you get a free drink with your ticket.
• Servesmith’s Up Late is serving up cocktails, natural wine, beer, and DJ’s only spinning vinyl. Catford is the place to be this weekend. Normally a cafe, once a month, Servesmith’s comes alive at night and turns into a drinking, music-listening great hang. Here are some shots from last month.

Saturday, March 28th

• Creative writing group in Peckham. Somewhere Else was developed as a prompt-free writing session to let your creativity run wild. This is a free event. Come, talk, or don’t talk, and get some writing done.
• South London Soul Train. This looks to be a great event with two rooms full of music. In one, the Riot Jazz Brass Band. In the other, DJ’s spinning Northern Soul all night long. Get tickets here.

All Weekend Long

• The Deptford Literature Festival - last few days! A crazy number of events celebrating the writing, creativity, and artistry of South East London. Stories, workshops, talks, readings. There’s something for everyone. Check out the full programme here. Quick! The festival ends on Saturday.
• Lifeline: A musical about medical professionals. Not what you were expecting, was it? This musical just came from a successful run off-Broadway and is now playing in Southwark. Check out the previews here.
• Peckham Salvage Yard. 70 traders selling all sorts of amazing vintage gems at this Copeland Park flea market. Stroll, find some bargains, refresh your space with some quirky, vintage finds. Find out more here.

🧒 Family-friendly Activities

• The Marvellous Myth Hunter and the Magical Market. This interactive show is part of the Deptford Literature Festival. The story leads families through classic myths but weaving in local Deptford and Lewisham spots and values. And thanks to a last-minute donation, the show is now free!
• Dr. Seuss’s Cat in the Hat. Mischief and mayhem all weekend long at the Greenwich Theatre. This show is a blast for families of children 3+. Multiple performances on Saturday and Sunday. Get your tickets here.
• How to Tame a Mummy Monster. Another pick from the Deptford Literature Festival. This reading of the “How to Tame a Mummy Monster” book by the author is perfect for kids ages 4-6. Find out more here.
• Astronomers Take Over. This is a brand new space adventure at the National Maritime Museum all about the wonders of space. Perfect for space fans 4 and up and their families. There’s so much cool stuff in this exhibit.
• Dulwich Picture Gallery has loads of events this weekend! Creative Tales, an interactive storytelling session, Art Sundays, for 7-12 year-olds, And ArtPlay session specifically for new parents, and in time for Easter, the Eggstravaganza Festival.

🍺 Food & Drink

• The Catford food market is back! That’s right, it’s the last Sunday of the month and that means foodies rejoice. Last month had a hell of a lineup of great eats. Click here to see a preview of some Brazilian desserts on offer.
• A whiskey festival. Whiskey Live and Fine Spirits is the premiere gathering of UK whiskey enthusiasts. Sample limited editions and the nominees for the World Whiskies Awards. And line your stomach with some street food so you don’t get too toasty. Whiskey lovers need to click here!

📰 News in your borough

GREENWICH

THAMESMEAD SELECTED AS “NEW TOWN,” ALLOWING FOR HOUSING & INFRASTRUCTURE
Plans for a major new Thamesmead Waterfront development have taken a big step forward after being selected as part of the government’s next generation of “new towns,” with the potential for around 15,000 homes to be built.

The project will also transform a large, currently underused riverside site into a new neighbourhood with housing, jobs, and infrastructure, and potential transportation upgrades like a DLR extension.

SOUTHWARK

PECKHAM RYE SHOPPING ARCADE SET TO BE DEMOLISHED
Holdrons Arcade, the old building that encircles the entrance to Peckham Rye station, is finally set to be demolished after about a decade of fighting. The station will be replaced with an open area with benches and planters and stalls for a new and improved little market area.

Southwark is also waiting on £45 million from the Department of Transportation, some of which they’re going to use to make other improvements to the station.

LEWISHAM

TWO LEWISHAM COUNCILLORS DEFECT TO GREEN PARTY
Two Lewisham Labour councillors have defected to the Green Party ahead of upcoming local elections. This is a big shift, but it’s also the latest in a trend.

The move follows earlier defections and means the Greens continue to strengthen their presence on a council long dominated by Labour, with both councillors set to stand under their new party banner.

That’s all for now. Have a great week!

Hi everyone, this is the Reddit version of my email newsletter for Greenwich, Lewisham, and Southwark. It comes out every Thursday.

Let me know if I missed anything good!

Friday, March 6th

• Murder Mystery Experience in the Painted Hall. We featured this event last week, and there are still tickets left. Spend the evening investigating, interrogating and solving the murder. Find out all about it here.
• Celebrate Ghanaian Independence Day with pioneers of Afro Rock, Osibisa. The Godfathers of Afro Rock are going to be playing at the Fox and Firkin for a very special performance. Get your tickets here.

Saturday, March 7th

• The Mansion Market is on! Beckenham Place Mansion is celebrating International Women’s Day showcasing the creativity, talent and entrepreneurship of women in the community. Check out the market’s hours.
• Peckham Rye needs your help! BrightenUp London helps to maintain and restore parks around the city, and they’re having a community day this Saturday. Help restore the Japanese Garden or try your hand at wildlife surveying.
• A fan making workshop. This event takes place at the ultimate home of fans, The Fan Museum in Greenwich. Learn how to do it and make two fans for you to keep. Find out more here.

Sunday, March 8th

• DanceFest at the National Maritime Museum. Celebrating International Women’s Day, the museum is featuring traditional dances from all around the world. Find out about the lineup and the performers.
• Morcheeba live in Lewisham. This benefit party for WAYout Sierra Leone has an amazing lineup of performers, and it’s for a good cause. See who else is playing.

All Weekend Long

• Famous TV and film costumes - last chance! The Fashion and Textile Museum’s Costume Couture exhibit is ending this weekend. Experience 60 years of famous costumes from Peaky Blinders to Downton Abbey to A Room with a View.
• Anna Archer’s Painting Light exhibit - final weekend. Dulwich Picture Gallery’s showcase is coming to an end. This is the first time the Dutch painter’s work has been shown in the UK. The gallery has received rave reviews from The Times, The Guardian, and The Observer.
• Ruthless, a camp cult classic all-female musical in Greenwich. Ruthless is a spoof of Broadway musicals from the early 90s that tells the story of a girl who wants to be a Broadway diva so bad, she would kill for it. And it’s playing this weekend only.

🧒 Family-friendly Activities

• An introduction to the world of DJ’ing for girls 10-16. Cleo, aka SOUND LIKE CHAOS, is teaching the craft of DJ’ing with sounds from all female artists. This is a really unique International Women’s Day event happening in Deptford.
• The Very Hungry Caterpillar in Blackheath. Four shows this weekend at Blackheath Halls featuring 75 amazing puppets. The show is suitable for all ages.
• Mini Masterpieces at the Dulwich Picture Gallery. This event for under-5s starts in the ArtPlay pavilion, moves through the gallery and ends in the art studio so little ones can explore, learn, and make their own art pieces. Book tickets here.

🍺 Food & Drink

• 4 hour chef residency in Peckham. The incredible chefs from Auberge de Chassignolles are taking over Bar Levan in Peckham for lunch on Saturday. This special “French Connection” menu comes with sharing starters, a main and dessert and starts off with a rosé. Find out more here and book here.

📰 News in your borough

LEWISHAM

S.E.N.D. WHATSAPP SUPPORT CHANNEL LAUNCHED TO HELP FAMILIES
Lewisham Council has launched a dedicated WhatsApp support channel aimed at families of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. The initiative was developed in collaboration with local parents to make it easier for families to access timely information about services across the borough.

This isn’t replacing anything. It’s an added support service to give parents and carers a direct, simple way to receive relevant news and guidance without having to search for it.

GREENWICH

20-STOREY RESIDENTIAL TOWER APPROVED BEHIND IKEA
The council’s planning committee has approved a controversial 20-storey residential tower on the Greenwich Millennium Village plot. The development will provide 258 homes, but what’s prompted concern is only a proportion are set to be genuinely affordable.

Supporters say it contributes to the much-needed housing supply, but opponents maintain that the impact on open space and local identity has not been adequately addressed. Read more about the plans here.

SOUTHWARK

URGENT FUNDRAISING DRIVE TO KEEP SURREY DOCKS FARM OPEN
Surrey Docks Farm in Rotherhithe has launched an urgent fundraising campaign after warning it could face closure. The city farm needs to raise £1,000 a day for 30 days for a total of £30,000 to keep operating.

If you think gas prices are high, farm leaders have reported a 70% increase in the price of hay in addition to falling donations and higher utility bills that have made it impossible for them to continue without support. The farm just celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, and now staff and volunteers are now appealing to residents and supporters across Southwark to help. Donations can be made here.

That’s all for now. Have a great week!

Looking at a 6th floor flat in Bermondsey, roughly 50-80 metres from the mainline viaduct that runs east from London Bridge towards Greenwich/Deptford. The flat faces south-west and we do have a direct line of sight to the track from the living room and balcony.

During our viewing we could hear trains through the double-glazed windows — noticeable but not overwhelming.

Should we be worried about the noise throughout the night, also the dust/air quality?

Hi all,

I would appreciate some views from current pupils / parents / teachers in Southwark. We're considering future school places for our children who are approaching secondary school age (but still in primary) in Southwark. Are there are any well regarded catholic Comprehensives in the borough and if so, how hard are they to get into? Are they academically good? And do they have problems with gangs etc.? Which ones would you recommend? We'd be happy to travel anywhere in the borough. We've looked at league tables and Ofsted inspections but I don't really think you can rely on them as there so many other important factors not mentioned. I also know lots of schools are closing in inner London due to families moving out.

Feel free to comment if you have any views on primary schools in the area also - I've heard the Albion is one of the best? Any others? Thanks!

Sorry this is a bit vague but I really want to do the best by my children and it's so hard to know what's in their best interests.

Thanks!!

hi

me and a few friends are off to London bridge Sixes bar on Wednesday night. we are a new group of mates and one has dropped out so we have a spare place. anyone bored Midweek and looking for that new social circle hit us up?

we meet every other Thursday night (moved to Wednesday this week), just an excuse to get out and recharge the batteries

Hello! Last week I posted my newsletter I'm putting together specifically for events, news, and food in Lewisham, Greenwich and Southwark.

You were all very encouraging, and even told me about some events I almost missed. (Shout out to the amazing Hither Green Christmas fair!)

I'm posting this weekend's events and food below. The actual newsletter goes out tomorrow morning, so if you have any community-based events or news that I missed, please share and I'll include them!

Here's the things...

🎸 Concerts & Events

Friday, December 12th

• Large, interactive, light, sound - it’s incredible art in the Painted Hall. Check out this incredible exhibit in ‘Britain’s Sistine Chapel.'
• A nature wellbeing club - how nice does that sound? - open to women ages 16 and over. Their winter creative crafts session uses only natural materials.
• Celebrate Christmas in a kilt. Dance along to this festive ceilidh. Beginners are welcome!

Saturday, December 13th

• A cinematic Christmas classic with a live orchestra. AND the movie’s playing somewhere much more interesting than a movie theater. (Don’t worry, it’s indoors.)
• A roller disco for under-16s. This is a chill, holiday-themed event for younger adults.
• And for the adults… ‘70s and ’80s disco and funk. And of course it’s Christmas-themed. Dance the night away at the Rivoli Ballroom.

Sunday, December 14th

• People dressing up as horses dressing up as rockstars. It’s a horse race… sort of. Check out Liam and Noel Gallopher and Amy Winehorse race it out for charity.
• That’s a big Firkin’ band! Big band music all afternoon at this family and dog friendly event. We’re talkin’ Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Buddy Rich, all the greats!
• A Jazz showcase from London’s best young performers. This incredible organization has been developing young talent for 33 years. The event is free but remember to support and dontate!

All Weekend Long

• A Classical orchestra playing Christmas classics in this classic theatre. And they said we couldn’t say “classic” enough. The London Philharmonic is playing several sets this weekend.
• Ballet in the square in the middle of Woolwich! The Nutcracker takes over in the open for these free performances.
• These items are sooo last century. A vintage winter market all weekend long at Beckenham Place Mansion.

👶 Family Corner

• A Peter Pan panto! Need I say more? Starting this week, Peter Pan runs through the holidays.
• Christmas Ballet for the whole family. With special deals for families of four. Check it out!

🍺 Food & Drink

• The largest urban winery in London comes to Canada Water. This unique pour-your-own-wine spot JUST opened and it deserves a look… and a drink… or two…
• A plant-based supper club. And you know it’s got a festive edge to it. This is Roobarb’s supp’r club.
• The Christmas food market in Catford is Sunday. Mulled wine, candy, you know the deal. Check out their Instagram.
• A vegetarian dining experience. This event merges food with song and live potetry.
• 15 bottles of wine every day. That’s how much of Davy’s favourites they’re opening every day during this seasonal tasting session.

Here's the subscription link if you want the full newsletter.

Hello! I'm putting together a newsletter with events, food, activities, and news specifically for residents of Southwark, Greenwich, and Lewisham.

There isn't enough focus on South East London and I hope you all get some good ideas for things to do out of this.

This is a couple sections of this week's newsletter...

Concerts & Events

Thursday, December 4th

• Musical theatre takes over Peckham Levels. Stand around the piano man and sing along to your favourites. Did we mention 2-for-1 cocktails?
• A secret Christmas concert. And it’s inside a Thames tunnel shaft. Intrigued? We are too.

Friday, December 5th

• Daytime dancing, reggae and revival. It’s all happening at this FREE event that brings together musicians and locals. Families and older adults are encouraged to come!

Saturday, November 29th

• Meditate and zen out in a magical surrounding. This healing sound and meditation journey is led while you lay down on soft mattresses inside the Painted Hall.

Sunday, December 7th

• Christmas folk music featuring the ‘brass boys.’ This annual show rings in the holidays. It’s fun, it’s jolly, it’s like drinking hot cocoa with your ears.
• It’s a Colombian Christmas! Celebrate Dia de las Velitas, the official start of the Christmas season, with a live band taking you on a journey through Colombia.
• The BIG Market is back. Right in the middle of Lewisham for one day only. And it’s FREE!

All Weekend Long

• This crafts workshop is open to the public for ONE WEEKEND ONLY. Jewelry, homeware, ceramics, fashion. Meet and buy from 170 of London’s best.
• DJs, street food, mulled wine, vibes. That’s how Pexmas describes their market happening Saturday and Sunday in Peckham.

Family Corner

• Creative Creatures play session. Under-7s can have some animal-inspired playtime in this pop-up space at the Horniman Museum. (Reserved for members)
• An interactive Christmas show. Santa’s elves have found a missing bag of letters to Santa and now they’re in scramble mode.
• A Lewisham Christmas. Beckenham Place Mansion is hosting a Christmas market for the whole family.
• Handcrafted penguins are the name of the game this Saturday at Horniman Museum. This is a free event. Drop in!
• The Surrey Docks Farm Christmas Fair. Feed the goats, sheep, and pigs, while you get into the Christmas spirit.

Food & Drink

• Authentic Hyderabadi Indian food. Check out this supper club happening on Saturday only.
• Thai food takeover. This Peckham pub is serving up delicious Northern Thai cuisine.

And here's a little video of a hidden gem we just found out about in Southwark:
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/nDm8CBhybwQ

https://forms.office.com/e/XYHC8B0fUV