Kennington, London SE11, is a vibrant corner of the Borough of Lambeth, located between Vauxhall, Oval and Elephant and Castle. It blends historic landmarks with leafy green spaces and a welcoming mix of independent cafés and restaurants. From catching a match at the Oval Cricket Ground to exploring Kennington Park, browsing the Oval Farmers’ Market, or taking a tour of The Cinema Museum or Beefeater Gin Distillery, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Add in the area’s coffee shops, brunch spots, eateries and pubs, and you have the perfect setting to socialise, relax and explore. Whether you’re here for a weekend wander, a cultural fix or simply a great cup of coffee, Kennington is full of charm.
Best Things To Do In Kennington
The Oval Cricket Ground is one of Kennington’s most famous attractions. Kia is the current sponsor, and it is home to the Surrey County Cricket Club. The ground hosts international matches, county games, and guided tours that offer a behind-the-scenes look at its history. You’ll find it a short walk from Oval Station, London SE11 5SS.
For a touch of greenery, Kennington Park is an oasis, with tennis courts, a café, a playground, and a beautiful flower garden that’s perfect for a peaceful stroll. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to relax or meet friends. Kennington Park Road, London SE11 4BE.
Film lovers must book a visit to The Cinema Museum. Housed in the former Lambeth Workhouse, where Charlie Chaplin once stayed, it’s packed with memorabilia from the golden age of cinema. Entry is by guided tour only, which makes for a fascinating and personal experience. I visited and found it utterly charming. 2 Dugard Way, London SE11 4TH. Behind The Cinema Museum is a tall water tower, once part of the workhouse, which was transformed into a residential property.
Gin aficionados will want to see inside the Beefeater Gin Distillery. They offer a behind-the-scenes look at one of London’s most famous spirits, still made here to a 19th-century recipe. Set in an Edwardian building with a 1950s extension, it’s a fascinating exploration. Tours are available in both standard and VIP formats, where you can see original pot stills, a botanical room, and interactive displays, ending with a tasting of their classic London Dry Gin. 20 Montford Place, London SE11 5DE.
For fun, Umber Works is a pottery shop and studio offering beautiful handmade ceramics alongside classes and workshops for those wanting to get creative. 178 Kennington Park Rd, London SE11 4BU.
The Durning Library provides the community with a mix of book loans, study space and adult reading services. You can also book time with a librarian if you have a specific project. 167 Kennington Lane, London SE11 4HF
Looking for something to do in the evening? The White Bear Theatre is a cosy pub theatre that’s known for showcasing new writing and revivals. It’s a welcoming venue where you can catch an intimate performance before or after a drink in the bar. 138 Kennington Park Road, London SE11 4DJ. If you fancy a laugh, head to The Tommyfield for stand-up comedy. 185 Kennington Lane, Kennington, London SE11 4EZ.
Get away from urban life by visiting the 18th-century Cleaver Square. It’s one of Kennington’s prettiest spots, surrounded by Georgian houses with benches in the centre. It’s a quiet place to pause with a coffee and watch the world go by. London SE11 4EA.
In need of some meditation or mindfulness? Head to the Jamyang Buddhist Centre, which is housed in a former magistrates ‘ court and is now a Grade II listed building. You can even stay in their Lotus Guest House.
Kennington is home to some remarkable architecture. Imperial Court on Kennington Lane, built in 1836 as the Licensed Victuallers’ School, is a neo-classical Grade II-listed landmark later used by the NAAFI before becoming apartments. The Lycée on Stannary Street is a Victorian Grade II-listed former school, now stylish residential homes. On Kennington Park Road, the Old Town Hall, once the seat of the Metropolitan Borough of Lambeth, also holds Grade II-listed status, as does a nearby historic gas holder set to be restored within a major redevelopment.
Best Places To Eat And Drink In Kennington
Start your day with coffee and pastries. Urban Botanica is a small, inviting café serving caffeine alongside houseplants. It’s a lovely spot to start your day or take a break, with a little garden at the back. I stopped by for a latte and pistachio pain au chocolat. 14 Windmill Row, London SE11 5DW. Capheum is another option at 54 Kennington Park Road, London SE11 4RS. You’ll also find coffee stands outside many of the churches in the area.
If you have a sweet tooth, Collective Cakes is a tiny bakery selling organic bread, handmade cakes, and pastries with a few seats outside. 248 Kennington Park Road, London SE11 4DA. Sally White is another local favourite, known for brownies and savoury bakes. 353 Kennington Road, London SE11 4QE.
I can recommend brunch at Vanilla Black Coffee and Books. They serve Assembly coffee, full breakfasts, healthy bowls, and indulgent treats like banana bread with Greek yoghurt, berries, and Biscoff crumbs. It’s a place to linger over food while browsing their book selection. I’ve eaten there a couple of times and loved it. 308 Kennington Road, London SE11 4LD. Liloo is another brilliant brunch choice with indulgent French toast or house hollandaise. 8 Claylands Road, London SW8 1NY.
Those seeking a place for lunch or dinner, Taro offers Japanese comfort food, including udon noodles, sushi, and bento boxes at 14 Kennington Road, London SE1 7BL. I had an excellent vegetable curry there. Those preferring Korean cuisine may enjoy Kuma for bibimbap and barbecue dishes, 305 Kennington Road, London SE11 4QE. Inside Kennington Park, Collective Kennington Park Café serves pastries and coffee in the morning, with pizzas taking pride of place later in the day. For wine and cheese, check out Didi and Franc at 298 Kennington Road, London SE11 4LD.
For a hearty Sunday lunch in a townhouse bistro, head to 24 The Oval, London SE11 5SW. There are also pubs like the aforementioned White Bear at 138 Kennington Park Road, London SE11 4DJ. You’ll find The Prince of Wales Pub in pretty Cleaver Square, London SE11 4EA.
Best Places To Shop In Kennington
Oval Farmers’ Market takes place every Saturday from 10 am until 3 pm in the grounds of St Mark’s Church. You’ll find some lovely stalls selling seasonal produce, fresh bread, artisan cheeses, and street food. It’s a great place to stock up on ingredients or grab lunch. St Mark’s Church, Kennington Park Road, London SE11 4PW.
There aren’t many interesting shops in Kennington, but I can recommend Pretty Shiny Shop, a treasure trove of fashion accessories, jewellery, homeware, gifts, and greeting cards. There’s a playful selection of small toys and games for children, and everything is thoughtfully chosen and of good quality at attainable prices. 16 Clapham Road, London SW9 0JG. If you want plants, check out Urban Botanica. For books, go to Vanilla Black.
Helpful Information About Kennington
Kennington doesn’t have officially fixed borders, but it’s generally seen as covering SE11 in the Borough of Lambeth, stretching into parts of SE17 and SE1, framed by the River Thames near Vauxhall to the north, Elephant and Castle to the east, Oval to the south, and Vauxhall’s Albert Embankment to the west.
Kennington is well-connected, with the Northern Line at Kennington and Oval Stations. Alternatively, you can walk from Elephant and Castle or Vauxhall. Combining a community feel with easy access to the city, it’s an area that rewards wandering, whether you’re here for green spaces, a cultural fix, or a good meal.
If you want to explore the area, you may find these articles of interest:
Ten Best Things To Do In Kennington
Brunch At Vanilla Black Coffee And Books
Coffee And Plants At Urban Botanica
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. To avoid disappointment, please check that the places I referenced in this article are still in business before you visit.