Area guide Camberwell

Want to lose yourself amidst bohemian beauty and grow your own organic vegetables safe in the knowledge that central London is just a 10-minute train ride away? Then Camberwell’s the place for you!

To the east, nestled among the abundance of well-kept Victorian and Georgian properties, lies the South London Gallery – the hub of Camberwell’s artisan community. Artists regularly exhibit their work at the historic Flying Dutchman pub on Well’s Way too – in fact Camberwell is quite a hub for the culturally curious and creative thinkers.

If you prefer a more rustic approach to life, a visit to the weekly farmers’ market on Camberwell Green is a must, unless you’re already tending to your own produce at the communal greenhouse in glorious Myatt’s Fields Park that is.

Camberwell’s commercial centre boasts something for everyone from internet cafes to cycling shops and second-hand record emporiums. And the area’s brand new library caters for bookworms and those in need of a little peace and quiet – all part of the area’s appeal as the perfect antidote to hectic city life.

"I love Camberwell because all buses lead to SE5, it has a Victorian swimming pool, brand new library, a world beating hospital and a big heart"

Jenny Éclair – Author & Comedian

Area Highlights

Head down Camberwell Church Street where, among the gastropubs and restaurants, you can sip a Special Brew cocktail at the Communion Bar, or struggle to choose from the delicious options at the Camberwell Arms.

Myatt’s Fields Park boasts a children’s playground, an all-weather football pitch and even a community greenhouse – little wonder it finished in the top 10 of Green Flag’s 2015 poll of the nation’s favourite parks.

Check out Angels & Gypsies – the cosy independent tapas bar sits diners on restored church pews, and the kitchen ethos is all about being fresh, even the ice cream is homemade.

Both John Ruskin Primary School and Sacred Heart Catholic Secondary School have been rated “outstanding” by Ofsted.

London Victoria is less than 10 minutes away via Denmark Hill train station, or you can reach Clapham Junction or Shoreditch on the Overground swiftly too. Proposals to extend the Bakerloo Line to Camberwell are still going back and forth.