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Living in Southwark

A culturally rich and diverse borough in south London, Southwark offers historic landmarks, vibrant neighbourhoods and excellent transport links across the capital.

About Southwark

Stretching from the Thames to Crystal Palace, Southwark is a borough steeped in history and buzzing with modern energy. From Shakespeare’s Globe and the Mayflower pub to street food markets and cutting-edge galleries, it’s a place where heritage and creativity meet. 

With leafy parks, top schools and a wide range of housing, Southwark appeals to all. Regeneration projects and a thriving cultural scene continue to attract new residents to this dynamic part of London.

Fact file

  • Southwark includes Borough, Bermondsey, Rotherhithe, Walworth, Peckham, Camberwell, Nunhead, and Dulwich.
  • Famous locals include Enid Blyton, Florence Welch, Tim Roth, and John Boyega.
  • The borough’s coat of arms references Hamlet, Chaucer, maritime history, and Dulwich College.

Architecture and housing

Southwark offers everything from riverside warehouse conversions and Georgian terraces to Victorian homes and new-build apartments. Elephant and Castle is undergoing major regeneration, while areas like Camberwell and Peckham feature solid period housing. Properties tend to get larger and greener the further south you go.

Going out

Dining options range from the riverside OXO Tower to Latin American flavours at Paladar and crepes at Necos. Corsica Studios and East Dulwich’s bar scene offer lively drinking spots, while The Mayflower in Rotherhithe is a historic gem. Nightlife includes Ministry of Sound and CLF Art Café, while entertainment venues like The Old Vic, Globe Theatre and Jazzlive at the Crypt offer world-class culture.

Local amenities

Tate Modern is London’s leading contemporary art gallery, showcasing world-class exhibitions and permanent collections. Nearby, the Hayward Gallery hosts rotating modern art shows and offers a fascinating digital archive. 

For something unique, Peckham Levels transforms a former car park into a creative hub with studios, shops, bars and performance spaces. Art lovers should also visit Dulwich Picture Gallery, a historic gem designed by Sir John Soane, renowned for its light-filled neo-Greek architecture and exceptional collections.

Green spaces

Southwark is home to Brunswick Park, Southwark Park, Dulwich Park and Peckham Rye. These green spaces offer playgrounds, sports facilities, boating lakes and peaceful gardens, making them ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Education

Southwark offers a rich mix of educational opportunities, from prestigious independent schools to specialist colleges and universities. Dulwich College stands out as one of London’s most respected independent schools, while London Nautical School provides a unique curriculum with a maritime focus.

Camberwell College of Arts attracts creative students from across the UK, and London South Bank University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. 

Transport

Southwark is one of the best-connected areas in London, offering a comprehensive network of transport options. London Bridge and Elephant & Castle stations provide access to National Rail and multiple Underground lines, making travel across the city fast and efficient. 

The area is also served by a wide range of bus routes, ensuring easy access to neighbouring boroughs and central London. Cyclists benefit from dedicated lanes and quiet routes, supporting active travel. Whether commuting, studying or exploring, Southwark’s transport infrastructure makes getting around simple and convenient.