Leafy, relaxed and full of character, East Dulwich is one of South London’s most liveable neighbourhoods. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s plenty to explore. Start your day with coffee at Nido or brunch at Golden Yolk, unwind at Goose Green, discover street art on side roads, or catch a film at the Picturehouse. Shop for plants at Forest or homewares along Lordship Lane, pick up handmade goods at the North Cross Road Market, and end your day with Sri Lankan small plates at Trinco. From art installations to friendly cafés, these ten ideas capture the charm of East Dulwich.
It was challenging to whittle down my list, and perhaps I should have created a list of 20 things. However, instead, you may want to read my East Dulwich area guide and make your own decision. These are the ten I settled on (in a logical rather than rated order):
1. Unwind on the grass at Goose Green
2. Step inside the House of Dreams Museum
3. Spot the street art around SE22
4. Catch a film at the East Dulwich Picturehouse
5. Visit North Cross Road Market
6. Browse for homewares on Lordship Lane
7. Find your perfect plant at Forest
8. Grab a coffee from Nido Café
9. Enjoy brunch at Golden Yolk
10. Try tasty Tamil food at Trinco
My Favourite Ten Things To Do In East Dulwich
- Unwind on the grass at Goose Green. This peaceful green space sits at the heart of East Dulwich. It’s perfect for a morning stroll, an impromptu picnic, or just relaxing with a takeaway coffee in hand. 76 East Dulwich Road, London SE22 9AN.
2. Step inside the House of Dreams Museum. A private art installation by Stephen Wright, this kaleidoscopic home-turned-museum is colourful, surreal and emotional. It’s not for everyone, but it’s unforgettable. Booking is essential, and places fill up fast. 45 Melbourne Grove, London SE22 8RG.
3. Spot the street art around SE22. Look out for murals from the Dulwich Outdoor Gallery, including reinterpretations of classical paintings on side streets. You’ll find Stik’s Guardian Angel near Push Studios and Conor Harrington’s mural on Spurling Road.
4. Catch a film at the East Dulwich Picturehouse. This cinema showcases a diverse range of films, from big releases to indie gems, and features comfortable seating and a relaxed café. 116A Lordship Lane, London SE22 8HD.
5. Visit North Cross Road Market. A lively local market that pops up every Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm. Expect fresh flowers, handmade jewellery, vintage finds, artisan bread, and tasty street food. It’s compact but full of charm. North Cross Road, London SE22 9EU.
6. Browse for homewares on Lordship Lane. From vintage-inspired furniture to sustainable gifts and colourful home accessories, the shops along Lordship Lane are full of character. Don’t miss Lordship, Mrs Robinson, Roullier White, Jumping Bean, House of Roya and Karavan Eco.
7. Find your perfect plant at Forest. Part café, part plant shop, Forest is a serene, leafy space to browse houseplants and garden tools while savouring excellent coffee. Ideal for a thoughtful gift or a spot of plant therapy. 35 North Cross Road, London SE22 9ET.
8. Grab a coffee from Nido Café. Located on a quiet residential street, Nido is a stylish neighbourhood café serving expertly made Assembly coffee and pastries in a cute space.11 Melbourne Grove, London SE22 8RG.
9. Enjoy brunch at Golden Yolk. This laid-back local favourite on Grove Vale is known for its selection of excellent egg dishes, fluffy pancakes and tempting toasties. The service is friendly, portions are generous, and the vibe is relaxed, with outdoor seating available. 34 Grove Vale, London SE22 8EF.
10. Try tasty Tamil food at Trinco. For something different, Trinco serves Sri Lankan rice bowls by day and elegant Tamil small plates in the evening. Dishes are colourful, creative and full of flavour. 143 Lordship Lane, London SE22 8HX.
Helpful Information About East Dulwich
East Dulwich is located in the London Borough of Southwark, situated between Dulwich Village, Peckham, and Forest Hill. Trains from London Bridge take around 15 minutes to East Dulwich Station, and you can also use the Overground via nearby Peckham Rye or Denmark Hill. Buses 40, 176 and 185 all serve the area. Once there, it’s best explored on foot. Start on Lordship Lane, stroll through North Cross Road, and make time for a detour down Grove Vale and Melbourne Grove. Whether you’re coming for coffee, shopping or a wander, East Dulwich offers a relaxed day out with plenty of local flavour.
While you are in the area, you may find these articles of interest:
Mrs Robinson Shop East Dulwich
Jumping Bean Shop East Dulwich
Forest Plant Shop East Dulwich
Brunch At Golden Yolk East Dulwich
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.