Located between the bustle of Brixton and the calm of Dulwich, Camberwell stands proudly as one of south east London’s most distinctive neighbourhoods.
It’s rich in history, culture, and creativity and offers a mix of vibrant street life, leafy green escapes, and an unpretentious community spirit that keeps locals fiercely loyal.
One of Camberwell’s biggest draws is its independent food and drink scene.
For caffeine seekers, Lumberjack on Coldharbour Lane offers excellent espresso and a co-working-friendly atmosphere with a social enterprise twist.
Theo’s Pizzeria on Grove Lane is a local institution, known for its blistered sourdough Neapolitan pizzas, while Nandine, a vibrant Kurdish restaurant, delivers big flavours and heartfelt hospitality.
For drinks, Stormbird on Camberwell Church Street is a craft beer haven, with an ever-changing tap list and candlelit tables.
A few doors down, The Camberwell Arms offers both top-notch food and a buzzing bar, making it one of the area’s most loved hangouts.
Despite its urban energy, Camberwell isn’t short on green space.
Ruskin Park, named after the famed art critic and social thinker, is a local treasure with panoramic views, tennis courts, a bandstand, and community gardens.
A little further out, Burgess Park offers wide open fields, a lake, and cycling paths -great for weekend picnics or morning runs.
It’s home to a campus of the University of the Arts London, whose students have shaped the area’s vibrant, slightly bohemian atmosphere for decades.
Public murals and street art are everywhere, and venues like South London Gallery (just over the border in Peckham) and Blue Elephant Theatre provide cultural stimulation with exhibitions, plays, and youth projects.
On Saturdays, the Camberwell Green Market springs to life with local produce, artisan goods, and street food.
Community is at the heart of Camberwell, seen in places like The Remakery, a workshop and social enterprise supporting sustainable reuse, and Camberwell Library, which regularly hosts reading groups, workshops, and children’s events.
The Camberwell Arts Festival, held each summer, is a true celebration of the area’s creative spirit, showcasing local artists, performers, and makers in a mix of pop-ups, open studios, and street performances.
