Your guide to living in Bermondsey
We'd forgive you for not noticing Bermondsey. Set just back from the Thames and sandwiched between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, this pocket of London is one you might have walked through without even realising.
Filled with converted warehouses, stylish riverside flats and a village-like stretch of pubs, bars and restaurants, Bermondsey is a hidden gem in a prime location – right by the transport hub of London Bridge station.
How do I get there?
Bermondsey tube itself sits on the Jubilee line, spitting distance from the Thames. But it’s an easy area to reach from plenty of major central London stations too – London Bridge (National Rail, Jubilee and Northern Line) and Borough (Northern Line) are both a short walk away.
The area’s close proximity to the river makes it easy to walk to lots of key areas – stroll across nearby Tower Bridge and you’re in easy reach of city worker hotspots like Aldgate, Liverpool Street and Bank. Or if your feet don't fancy it, there are plenty of east, central and south London bus links within your grasp.
What is there to do?
Bermondsey is much heralded as a foodie’s paradise, but it’s got plenty of cultural highlights too. Fashionistas and art-lovers: make for the Fashion and Textile museum. You’ll find exhibitions, talks and lates covering all themes from T-shirt culture, to fashion through the ages and exhibitions from industry trailblazers.
Next door to this is the London Glassblowing Gallery, i.e. the city's best place to view amazing contemporary glass art, and if you’re lucky even watch some hot glassblowing in action. It’s surprisingly therapeutic…
If you’re around on a Friday, you can’t miss Bermondsey Antiques Market – home to collectible antiques and treasures, as well as a host of other weird and wonderful objects. The last stop on your Bermondsey art tour? White Cube for innovative contemporary art in 58,000sq ft of gallery space.
Once you’ve had your fill of culture, let off some steam at The Arch – a local climbing wall set under a glass roof, with lots of exciting angled walls for climbers to get to grips with. No membership required either.
And if you’re a little tired after ALL that, where better to unwind than in Bermondsey’s very own independent cinema, Kino, which shows both new films and old classics, alongside indie flicks too.
Where do I eat?
Start your culinary voyage at Maltby Street Market. Tucked away behind the railway arches, this teeny backstreet is easy to miss but when you do find it… prepare for your mind to be blown. Some of London’s most exciting street food traders line the market – we love the gourmet bakes from Bad Brownie, flavoursome dumplings at Gyoza Guys, the creamiest PB from Pic’s Peanut Butter, and London’s BEST gooey scotch eggs from Finest Fayre.
Tapas fan? Get a proper authentic fix at Jose Pizarro – the menu does change daily, but you’re guaranteed to find all your favourites from gambas to padron peppers. Or if you’re after something heartier, Constancia is a local Argentine steak house that offers outstanding prime meats, a laid-back vibe and delectable Malbec wines. We’re in.
Relaxed dining may be Bermondsey’s forté, but you can still go all out if the mood takes you. And when you do, make sure you do it at Casse Croute, a teeny French brasserie with a daily changing menu that promises modern tweaks on the country’s classics. Some pricier than others, all trés bon.
And the drinks?
First important thing to know: Bermondsey has its own BEER MILE. Yep, we’re not joking. Head this way for all the stops where you can get your craft beer fix.
But if beer bingeing isn't your thing, fear not. The Woolpack is a much-loved local pub that’s a gem in the summer – thanks to it’s huge, bustling pub garden. Word to the wise: come early, or you’ll never get a seat.
For the cocktail connoisseur, it doesn’t get better than Nine Lives. A hidden gem that’s tucked into a basement close to London Bridge station, this late night venue promises some of London’s best cocktails in a chic, tropical setting with a pretty decent soundtrack to accompany. Oh, and there’s a shuffleboard table too…
Want to know the average room rent for Bermondsey, and other London postcodes? Check out our latest guide here!