Car Hire Deptford

Once shaped by shipyards and markets, Deptford today carries a quieter kind of energy, woven through its streets and open spaces. Tucked along the Thames between Greenwich and New Cross, it’s easy to reach by car via the A2 and South Circular. Driving gives you the freedom to drift between river paths, parks and market streets at your own pace. Parking fills up fast near the market on weekends, so arriving early is wise. Weather here shifts quickly, so a waterproof and good shoes are always a smart idea. Spring brings a fresh brightness to the parks, while autumn light makes the old streets glow.

Attractions In Deptford

With a car at your side, Deptford opens up in small, satisfying stretches—a mural glimpsed down a side street, a green park just a few turns away, a market buzzing behind an old railway arch. It’s a place best explored without rushing, letting each stop lead to the next.

Deptford Pearls Mural

Along Giffin Street, a line of giant ceramic “pearls” stretches between rooftops—a playful wink to Deptford’s market roots, created by the Artmongers collective. Approaching from Peckham, this was an easy first stop on our day’s wander.

Twinkle Park

Tucked away off Wharf Street, Twinkle Park is a tiny escape. Trees gather round a small pond and dragonflies dance across the water in the summer warmth. A popular option with those based in Brockley too, this green pocket offers the perfect place to linger.

Creekside Street Art Footpath

Walking along Creekside feels like stepping into a shifting outdoor gallery. The walls buzz with murals, stencils and graffiti layers built up over years. While driving in from Lewisham, we decided to stop and stretch our legs here—it’s one of those spots best discovered slowly.

Margaret McMillan Park

Along Glenville Grove, Margaret McMillan Park is more local hangout than manicured green. Children crowd the playground, teens kick footballs across the open field and neighbours stop for a chat along the paths. This spot draws a lot of interest from people in Rotherhithe, looking for a quieter green space outside the main parks.

Deptford Park

Spread along Scawen Road, Deptford Park has a refreshing straightforwardness to it. Long rows of trees cast shade over wide walking paths and open lawns invite football games, dog walkers and impromptu picnics. We planned a morning outing from Bermondsey, finding it a perfect spot for a relaxed start to the day. Opening hours are from 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM, daily.

Greenwich – Point Hill

Just a few streets from Greenwich Park, Point Hill offers one of London’s most unexpected skyline views. From the top, the glass towers of Canary Wharf gleam against the river and on clear days you can even spot the Wembley arch. During a visit to Blackheath, we found time to swing by for sunset—a simple detour with a big reward.

The Fan Museum

Stepping inside The Fan Museum along Crooms Hill feels like crossing into another century. Every fan—painted, carved, embroidered—seems to carry its own secret, from court gossip to tales of distant voyages. After drifting among the delicate displays, we stopped for tea in the Orangery—a sunlit room that feels as much a hidden attraction as the museum itself. Opening hours are 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM, Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays).

The Old Royal Observatory Garden

Hidden behind the main paths of Greenwich Park, the Old Royal Observatory Garden feels like a secret meant for slower afternoons. Shady trees, soft lawns and a rare sense of quiet—we found ourselves slowing without meaning to. Working hours are daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Cutty Sark

From a distance, the Cutty Sark looks frozen mid-flight, sails poised for a wind that never comes. Up close, it’s even more impressive—a survivor of ocean races and roaring trade routes, polished and preserved along King William Walk. We wandered the decks, peering into tight bunks and heavy timber holds, before standing beneath the copper hull where the whole ship seems to float overhead. Opening hours are daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Deptford Anchor

Heavy and rooted, the Deptford Anchor sits along the High Street—a reminder that this was once a working river town. It’s easy to miss if you’re moving quickly but worth slowing down for. We paused with a coffee from Market Yard just across the road, the perfect spot to sit and imagine the shipbuilders who once filled these streets. Opening hours are 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Monday to Saturday (closed Sundays).

A Day Well Spent In Deptford

Exploring Deptford by car lets you slip between market stalls, riverside walks and tucked-away cafés without watching the clock. Lomond Coffee and Isla Ray near Deptford Market Yard are perfect for a relaxed break, whether you’re after a strong flat white or a slow brunch. For dinner, Winemakers Deptford on Resolution Way serves seasonal plates and natural wines in an easygoing setting. Overnight stays are simple too—Staycity Aparthotels Greenwich High Road offers a practical base with parking close by. However you plan your day, Deptford rewards a slower, more open-ended kind of visit.