Living in Peckham
Located in the bustling streets of south east London, Peckham is becoming a highly sought-after area by working professionals and students who enjoy the array of bars and restaurants in this multicultural neighbourhood. In particular, it is an area becoming popular with those involved in the creative industries due to its vibrant atmosphere, artistic spaces and convenient proximity to the University of the Arts London, Camberwell campus.
Peckham became industrialised during the 18th Century when business owners wanted to avoid the staggering rent prices in Central London. This is still evident in Peckham today, which is dotted with market stalls and small businesses. Take a stroll down Rye Lane to see a plethora of stalls, restaurants, shops and cafes offering cuisine from around the world; everything you could need to entertain yourself on a Saturday afternoon.
Transport
Tube:
No tube stations in Peckham
Denmark Hill Station: 25-minute walk from Peckham High Street
New Cross Gate Station: 26-minute walk from Peckham High Street
Trains:
Trains depart from Peckham Rye Station (Zone 2) and Queens Road Peckham Station (Zone 2) to Central London
Peckham Rye to London Bridge: 10 minutes
Peckham Rye to Victoria: 12 minutes
Peckham Rye to Blackfriars: 14 minutes
Peckham Rye to St Pancras: 24 minutes
Queens Road to London Bridge: 8 minutes
Bus:
Buses depart from Peckham Rye Station
Bus Number 12: Oxford Circus
Bus Number 63: King’s Cross
Bus Number 78: Shoreditch
Bus Number 171: Holborn
Bus Number 363: Elephant and Castle
Bus Number P12: Surrey Quays
Bus Number P13: New Cross Gate
Average Rental Price
1 bed: £1,216 pcm
2 bed: £1,559 pcm
3 bed: £2,231 pcm
4 bed: £2,597 pcm
Council Tax
To be paid to Southwark Council
https://www.southwark.gov.uk/council-tax/bands-and-charges
Schools
Most schools located in and close to Peckham have Ofsted ratings of “good”. There are a few different schools to choose from, the best primary schools being John Donne and Angel Oak. Secondary schools include Sacred Heart Catholic School, The St Thomas the Apostle College, Harris Academy Bermondsey and Harris Academy Peckham.
Life in Peckham
Often feted as the “New Shoreditch”, Peckham is frequently visited by artists and students looking to have fun and experience different cultures. Below are our recommendations of where to eat, drink and visit from the Home Made team.
Food & Drink:
- Frank’s Café
This highly “instagramable” rooftop bar is the perfect place to unwind with friends in the evening. Located on the roof of a car park, Frank’s Café has become infamous among students and young professionals for its cheap cocktails and incredible view of the London skyline. You can also often find art exhibited in the bar by local artists looking to showcase their new material - shoring up Peckham's reputation as one of London's premier creative hubs.
- CLF Art Café Bussey Building
Protected from demolition by CLF (The Chronic Love Foundation) in 2007, Bussey Building is the place to go for some exciting nightlife. The venue offers party-goers events where you can dance to every genre of music (really, everything is on offer at some stage). If clubbing isn’t your scene, you can visit Bussey Building in the daytime where it transforms into an arts venue hosting cutting-edge theatre shows. Keep an eye on their website to find upcoming events and to find the night where your favourite music will be playing.
- Bellenden Road
Often described as the ‘jewel’ of Peckham, Bellenden Road is the best place to go for some flavoursome food in highly rated restaurants. One highlight is Ganapati South Indian Kitchem. For an authentic taste of South Indian cooking at an affordable price, try this well-loved local institution. We recommend you try the Ganapati Vegetarian Thali (a selection of small plates allowing you to sample a range of curries). If you're looking for a good brunch spot, head to Anderson & Co where you will find a tasty breakfast menu offering classics such as eggs benedict and french toast. It's also the perfect place to put your feet up with a cup of coffee, a good book, and a slice of their homemade cake!
Culture and Leisure:
- PeckhamPlex
Winner of the Love London award in both 2015 and 2016, PeckhamPlex is one of London's most exciting and affordable cinema experiences. This independent cinema plays both the latest releases and all-time classics for an amazing £4.99 per ticket all day every day. Why pay £20 at one of the large chains when you can come to Peckhamplex? You can watch the film of your choice and still have money left for some snacks.
- South London Gallery
The South London Gallery is perfect for lovers of art, film and media. With free entry and access to all exhibitions, it is a great place to kill a Saturday afternoon while stimulating your cerebrum and supporting local art. Check the website regularly to see what is on display this week, and go to several stellar exhibitions a month all for the grand total of £0.
- Urban Farmers Market
What better way to spend your Sunday that visiting a good, old-fashioned Farmers Market? Located on Peckham High Street, a bustling market comes to town every Sunday from 9am-1pm where you can browse the market stalls and find local delicacies. Traders offer fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, homemade preserves, cheeses, cakes…the list goes on! Finding a bargin has never been so fun.
Is it for you?
Peckham is a perfect place to be for working professionals and students who enjoy art, exotic foods, and a vibrant nightlife. If you work in Central London or study in Camberwell, it is an easy commute on the train or bus. It's a great place to live if you're looking for an affordable property in one London's most exciting emerging neighbourhoods.
