10 things to do this summer in south London

South London is a diverse area made up of a number of boroughs south of the River Thames. From Bexley to Greenwich, Lambeth to Wandsworth, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant part of the UK capital. Here are our top ten things you must do this summer in south London.

1. Visit Brixton Market

Looking to do something different? Brixton Market is renowned for the quality and variety of food! Run by local traders, this community market is the place to go for street food from all across the globe. There are also general stalls to peruse once you’ve eaten your fill.

Street food is available throughout the week, and there are themed markets every Saturday if you’d like to look for something a little different. The Brixton Farmer’s Market brings you the very best in free range produce every Sunday, so whenever you are in Brixton, there’ll be something for you.

2. Take a stroll in Richmond Park

Enjoy the Great British Summer outdoors! While sun can never be guaranteed, when it hits, Richmond Park Nature Reserve is absolutely beautiful. One of the Royal Parks, Richmond is a haven of flora and fauna; from the Isabella Plantation ornamental woodland garden to a range of cycling and horse riding activities, to superb panoramic views.

Take the family out for a picnic anywhere in the vast, sprawling greenery or woods, and take some photos with the hundreds of wild deer who roam. The red and fallow deer are certainly the main attraction in the park, and their fawns are born in summer so it’s one of the best times to come and enjoy Richmond.

3. Enjoy Battersea Park Children’s Zoo

For a wonderful family day out, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo is the perfect choice. Battersea Park sits on the banks of the River Thames in Wandsworth. The zoo not only has a great range of animals to meet and feed, but there are plenty of other activities for your children, including a café, picnic area, and adventure playground.

The zoo also runs various events throughout the year, including days dedicated to specific animals to give children the chance to learn about and interact with a range of creatures.

4. Catch a film at Clapham Picturehouse

Looking to sit back and watch the latest blockbuster? Clapham Picturehouse is not a cinema to miss. It’s an independent arthouse cinema opposite Clapham Common, an unassuming building nestled alongside bars, coffee houses, and pubs.

Not only do they show a range of modern and classic cinema, if you sign up to become a member of the Clapham Picturehouse, you’re also entitled to discounts and offers at various local businesses and restaurants, so you can get the most out of Clapham! Getting there is easy simply jump on one of the many trains and buses in the area or there are always plenty of Clapham Taxi’s around.

5. See an exhibition at Imperial War Museum London

The Imperial War Museums are always worth visiting, and there are five of them throughout the UK. IWM London is in Lambeth, and like most museums, is completely free to visit.

The museum showcases a number of exhibitions depicting key moments from the First World War through to the present day, as well as boasting a sizeable archive of photographs and film. The museum also puts on events, such as meeting authors, as well as providing exclusive private tours.

6. Covent Garden Market (Apple Market)

Covent Garden is home to the Apple Market, known for its handmade art and design. Throughout the week, you can buy everything from silver and jewellery to antiques and clothing. Tuesday – Sunday is dedicated to handmade goods and artwork, while Monday’s market is specifically home for antique stalls and collectables.

While the all-day market is underway, a range of jugglers and miming acts perform alongside to entertain you, making it a thoroughly enjoyable day out for all the family.

7. Watch a cricket match at The Oval

The Kia Oval is home to Surrey’s Cricket Club based in Kennington, and is one of the highlights of Lambeth. Not only is it a famous sporting venue, where you can experience match day as part of the 24,500 members of the crowd! With a rooftop terrace and beautiful suites, it’s one of the most unique places to host or attend an event.

You can also book coaching courses and have your children learn the basics and develop a passion for the game in one of the most iconic stadiums in the UK.

8. Explore Kew Gardens

Perhaps one of the most famous attractions in all of London are the Royal Botanic Gardens; Kew Gardens is in southwest London is the largest UNESCO World Heritage site in London, with incredible landscapes, walks, and dozens of attractions for you and your whole family to enjoy.

Kids are sure to love the treetop walkway, and the Victorian Palm Glass House is one of the most beautiful and recognisable parts of the gardens.

9. Be entertained at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

It wouldn’t be London without including one of the classics! Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in Southwark is not only visually stunning, but it has a full season of outdoor performances to enjoy. With their “Summer of Love,” Festival of Independence, and various events, there’s never been a better time to visit The Globe.

Visitors from around the world travel to watch productions in this iconic theatre, and with a range of public events and the completion of the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, you can enjoy programmes indoors as well.

10. Dance the weekend away at SW4 Festival – August Bank Holiday

Want to let your hair down this summer? The incredible South West Four Festival comes to London on the August Bank Holiday; Clapham Common plays host to world-class DJs for an incredible festival experience.

SW4 festival has been going for over ten years, attracting thousands of attendees every year. If you’re in south London, there’s no better way to spend your August bank holiday.

If you need to get a more than a taxi in south London we are here for you.