My list of the ten best things to do in Kennington, London SE11, helps you get the most out of this part of Lambeth. Kennington sits between Vauxhall, Oval and Elephant and Castle, blending historic landmarks, leafy green spaces and a friendly, village-like atmosphere. In Kennington, you can watch world-class cricket at The Oval, stroll through Kennington Park, book a tour of The Cinema Museum, visit the Beefeater Gin Distillery, and browse the bustling Oval Farmers’ Market. You’ll also find a cosy pub theatre, inviting coffee shops, relaxed brunch spots, Japanese comfort food, and places to enjoy wine and cheese with friends. Whether you’re visiting for a cultural fix, a meal out or a weekend wander, Kennington offers the perfect mix of history, hospitality and charm.
Here’s my list, more in a logical rather than priority order:
1. Catch a game at The Oval Cricket Ground
2. Spend time in Kennington Park
3. Book a tour of The Cinema Museum
4. See inside the Beefeater Gin Distillery
5. Shop at the Oval Farmers’ Market
6. Eat and watch a play at The White Bear
7. Buy plants and coffee at Urban Botanica
8. Have brunch at Vanilla Black or Liloo
9. Head to Taro for Japanese comfort food
10. Share wine and cheese at Didi and Franc
My Favourite Ten Best Things To Do In Kennington
1. Catch a game at Oval Cricket Ground. Home to the Surrey County Cricket Club and a venue for international fixtures. You can also book a behind-the-scenes tour to learn about its fascinating history. Oval Station is just a short walk away, London SE11 5SS.
2. Spend time in Kennington Park. This green escape has tennis courts, a playground, a fabulous flower garden and a café by Collective serving coffee, pastries and pizza. It’s a favourite meeting place for locals and visitors alike. Kennington Park Road, London SE11 4BE.
3. Book a tour of The Cinema Museum. Housed in the former Lambeth Workhouse, where Charlie Chaplin once stayed, it’s filled with movie memorabilia from the golden age of cinema. Entry is by guided tour only for a more personal experience. 2 Dugard Way, London SE11 4TH.
4. See inside the Beefeater Gin Distillery. Discover how this London classic is still made to a 19th-century recipe. You’ll see original pot stills, learn about the botanicals, and enjoy a gin tasting at the end. 20 Montford Place, London SE11 5DE.
5. Shop at the Oval Farmers’ Market. Taking place every Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm in the grounds of St Mark’s Church, it’s packed with seasonal produce, artisan bread, cheeses, cakes and street food. Perfect for a picnic in nearby Kennington Park. St Mark’s Church, Kennington Park Road, London SE11 4PW.
6. Eat and watch a play at The White Bear. This friendly pub pairs hearty, comforting food with a small upstairs theatre staging new writing and classic revivals. Enjoy a pre-show meal before heading up to watch an intimate performance. 138 Kennington Park Road, London SE11 4DJ.
7. Buy plants and coffee at Urban Botanica. A cosy café with houseplants lining the shelves, it’s a lovely little spot to relax. I enjoyed a latte and pistachio pain au chocolat in their small outdoor garden. 14 Windmill Row, London SE11 5DW.
8. Have brunch at Vanilla Black or Liloo. I’ve eaten at both. Vanilla Black serves Assembly coffee, full breakfasts, healthy bowls and banana bread with toppings in a contemporary setting where you can also buy books. 308 Kennington Road, London SE11 4LD. Liloo is another brilliant brunch spot where you can get a meat or vegetarian breakfast, eggs with house hollandaise or decadent French Toast. It’s a short walk from Oval station at 8 Claylands Road, London SW8 1NY.
9. Head to Taro for Japanese comfort food. The menu features udon noodles, sushi and bento boxes, all served in a casual, welcoming setting. I had a warming vegetable curry on my last visit and would happily order it again. 14 Kennington Road, London SE1 7BL.
10. Share wine and cheese at Didi and Franc. This neighbourhood spot offers a great selection of wines and perfectly matched cheeses. It’s ideal for a relaxed evening with friends. 298 Kennington Road, London SE11 4LD.
Helpful Information About Kennington
Kennington is often considered to cover SE11 in the Borough of Lambeth, stretching into parts of SE17 and SE1. It’s framed by the River Thames near Vauxhall to the north, Elephant and Castle to the east, Oval to the south, and Albert Embankment to the west. Transport links are excellent, with Northern Line stations at Kennington and Oval, and easy walking distance from Elephant and Castle or Vauxhall. The area combines a strong sense of community with proximity to central London, making it a rewarding place to explore, whether for its parks, cultural spots or great food.
If you want to explore the area, you may find these articles of interest:
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.