Car Hire Peckham

Peckham offers a unique blend of energy and charm, sitting comfortably in the southern part of Greater London. With major roads like the A202 and A2214 cutting through the area, it’s easily reachable for those exploring the city by car. The weather in this area that houses around 71,000 leans mild throughout the year, though spring and autumn visitors should pack layers for cooler mornings and sudden showers. Known for its independent arts venues, buzzing high streets and creative green spaces, the area draws a diverse crowd — including many passing through from Deptford who fancy something more offbeat. The best time to enjoy all it has to offer is between May and September, when the outdoor spots come to life and community events fill the calendar.

Attractions In Peckham

The appeal of Peckham lies in its variety — you’ll find artistic corners, cultural touchpoints, historical gems and wide green spaces scattered across the neighbourhood.

Burgess Park

Burgess Park is a sprawling green space packed with character, where you’ll find everything from picnic lawns to tennis courts and even a public fishing area. The park’s mix of open fields, shaded paths and quirky installations draws families, runners and cyclists alike, especially during warmer months.

Lucas Gardens

Hidden just off Vestry Road, Lucas Gardens is a narrow, sloped park that surprises with its peaceful charm. Trees line the walking paths and provide shade over well-placed benches, perfect for taking in views of the gently tiered green. Visitors from East Dulwich often praise how stroller-friendly the paths are and families with young children love the manageable size and calm atmosphere.

Surrey Canal Walk

A tranquil trail that weaves through Peckham’s urban edges, the Surrey Canal Walk is ideal for those seeking calm without leaving the city. Its path follows a waterway edged with cherry blossoms, native shrubs and the occasional Egyptian goose — offering moments of real stillness and reflection. With plenty of space to picnic and even public toilets, this leafy corridor remains a hidden gem for both locals and newcomers alike.

Peckham Rye Park & Common

This vibrant green space is a local favourite, known for its diverse offerings and peaceful atmosphere. Those coming from Southwark often find it an ideal weekend destination thanks to its ornamental gardens, open fields and family-friendly features. The Japanese Garden ornamental flower beds and the lake make it a visually stunning area to unwind. Whether you’re after a scenic jog, a picnic spot or a stroll with nature, this park delivers.

The Sexby Garden

Nestled inside the broader expanse of Peckham Rye, The Sexby Garden offers a Victorian-style oasis that feels almost hidden away. Winding paths take visitors through archways of roses, flowering shrubs and carefully kept beds, creating an enchanting maze-like layout. The garden’s romantic setting and peaceful atmosphere make it a popular choice for quiet reflection, photography and nature appreciation.

Ruskin Park

Ruskin Park is an Edwardian gem loved for its balance of natural beauty and recreational facilities. The bandstand, lake and labyrinth garden give the park a historical charm, while mature trees and floral displays create a scenic backdrop throughout the year. Visitors from New Cross often praise its tranquil atmosphere, with many enjoying the communal garden and shady spots ideal for a quiet afternoon.

Telegraph Hill Upper Park

Telegraph Hill Upper Park is a well-loved open space known for its panoramic views of London. Visitors often gather to admire the skyline while relaxing with a drink or catching up with friends. With two tennis courts, walking paths and open grassy areas, it’s ideal for light exercise or winding down after a busy day. The elevated location gives it a special charm that draws people back time and again.

House Of Dreams Museum

This museum is one of Peckham’s most eccentric and fascinating hidden gems. Many visitors from Brockley make the short journey to experience its bold, personal style and emotionally resonant art. Created inside the artist’s own home, it offers a tour like no other — one where every surface tells a story and each corner reveals something unexpected. Open only once a week, it’s well worth planning for.

AMP Gallery

This small contemporary gallery offers an intimate setting for art lovers and emerging artists alike. Its minimalist space is perfect for showcasing installations, photography and visual art in a way that feels accessible and unpretentious. With a welcoming vibe and ever-changing exhibitions, AMP Gallery has become a quiet but consistent part of Peckham’s creative community.

South London Gallery

Peckham’s South London Gallery is a favourite destination for contemporary art lovers. Visitors often combine a trip here with time in Bermondsey, thanks to the gallery’s standout exhibitions, free admission and community-focused events. Alongside the main gallery space, there’s a lovely café, a garden open on weekends and a gift shop full of creative finds. The fire station across the street also hosts further exhibits, rounding out the experience beautifully.

Moca London

Moca London is a modest but imaginative space that supports emerging artists with rotating contemporary exhibitions. Though small, the gallery’s curatorial style and setting give each display a lot of breathing room, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Its proximity to Peckham Rye Station and the buzz of Bellenden Road only add to its appeal as a cultural pit stop.

The Museum Of Stones

Despite its quirky name, The Museum of Stones is a thoughtfully curated space that fascinates visitors with its minimalist dedication to one subject. Each piece on display invites guests to appreciate textures, shapes and natural form in a calm, focused environment. Tucked away along Peckham Road, it’s a peaceful, niche destination that rewards slow attention and curiosity.

Burgess Park War Memorial

Standing quietly within Burgess Park, this moving war memorial features a bronze sculpture by Danish artist Arild Rosenkrantz. The piece has an unusual history — once stolen and later recovered in Brixton — but today it remains a poignant symbol of remembrance.

History Of The Old Kent Road Mural

This impressive mosaic stretches nearly 20 metres across a wall on Old Kent Road and tells a vivid, artistic story of London’s past. From Roman scenes to modern industry, the mural brings history to life in bold colour and texture. It’s a thoughtful piece of public art and a fascinating stop for anyone exploring Peckham on foot.

Hill Street Bridge

Though modest in size, Hill Street Bridge is an important part of Peckham’s character. Nestled within the Willowbrook Estate, it’s more than just a footpath — it offers locals a quiet link between residential areas and public green spaces. The bridge’s weathered design and tucked-away location give it a charm that’s easy to appreciate once you find it.

Dr Harold Moody Blue Plaque

This blue plaque on Queen’s Road honours Dr Harold Moody, a Jamaican-born physician and civil rights activist who made significant contributions to British society in the early 20th century. As the founder of the League of Coloured Peoples in 1931, Dr Moody campaigned tirelessly against racial discrimination and for social justice. His former home now serves as a quiet yet powerful landmark, reminding passersby of his legacy and ongoing relevance in conversations about equality and representation.

Orchard Mission

Tucked away on Mission Place, the Orchard Mission is a lesser-known historical site with deep community roots. For decades, it has served as a place of worship, support and connection for locals in Peckham. The building’s modest façade hides a long history of outreach work, offering a sense of continuity and stability amid the neighbourhood’s changing landscape.

Peckham is far more than its hip cafés and art galleries—it’s a rich patchwork of stories, resilience and creativity. From the tranquil paths of Burgess Park to the colourful charm of the History of the Old Kent Road Mural, every corner reveals something worth discovering. To discover more about other parts of Greater London go to Camberwell or Honor Oak Park.