Peckham, UK

London is not a hidden gem. Its iconic landmarks, storied past and vibrant arts scene have made England’s capital one of the world’s most famous cities. From ornate palaces to bustling street markets, millions of visitors flock to experience what is often described as "quintessential London life."

I repeat— London is not a hidden gem.

Growing up just a stone's throw from the city, I felt I knew London well. I’d shopped on Oxford Street, spent afternoons marveling at Covent Garden’s street performers, and in my later years, missed many a last train home after wandering Brick Lane into the early hours. I knew the tube routes, the unspoken rule not to smile at commuters, and though it wasn’t my home, I’d explored it countless times with family, friends and on my own.

When I decided to move to the city, I thought I’d seen it all. Sure, I hadn’t been to every pub, restaurant, or neighborhood, but I’d experienced enough to feel familiar with the London I knew and loved.

As anyone who has attempted to live in a major city will understand, living centrally is almost impossible for most of us. So, like many other wannabe—Londoners, I was faced with the choice: hipster East, edgy North, posh West, or green South. Drawn by more open spaces and affordable rent, I made my move to Peckham in South East London.

Like many London neighborhoods, Peckham is no stranger to gentrification. Once a predominantly working-class area, it has undergone significant regeneration in recent years. For better or worse, an influx of young professionals have settled here, attracted by its evolving appeal. Yet, despite these changes, Peckham has managed to retain its charm, celebrating the diverse communities that have long made it unique.

Not often seen on tourists lists of places to visit, Peckham has been hailed as Britain’s most vibrant cultural hotspot, and is affectionately referred to as ‘Little Lagos’ due to its thriving Nigerian community. While London itself is renowned for its cultural diversity, Peckham packs a punch when it comes to community and in my opinion, is one of the most dynamic and distinctive areas the city has to offer.

As someone that felt they knew the city all too well, Peckham was a welcome surprise and a side of London I had never experienced before. From the abundance of independent shops, restaurants and unique things to do, the area showed me that you really can still find hidden gems in London.

Need to Know

Seasonal Weather:

Spring (March - May): Mild temperatures (10-15°C / 50-59°F) with occasional rain.
Summer (June - August): Warm (18-25°C / 64-77°F), generally dry.
Autumn (September - November): Cooler (8-16°C / 46-61°F), increased rainfall.
Winter (December - February): Cold (2-8°C / 36-46°F), potential frost.

Entry Requirements:

Visa: U.S. and EU citizens typically do not require a visa for short stays.
Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
Customs: Be aware of restrictions on certain food items and large cash amounts.

Currency & Payment:

Local Currency: British Pound (£).
Exchange Options: ATMs are widely available; services like Wise offer favorable rates.
Digital Payment: Contactless payments are commonly accepted, including on public transport.

Safety:

Crime: Peckham is generally safe; exercise standard precautions, especially at night.
Political Stability: The area is stable, though London may experience occasional protests.
Natural Disasters: Minimal risk; rare instances of localized flooding during heavy rainfall.

Communication:

Language: English.
Useful Phrases: “Cheers” (thanks/goodbye), “Ta” (thanks), “You alright?” (how are you?).
Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafes and public areas; consider a local SIM or eSIM for mobile data.

Transportation:

From Airports:
- Heathrow Airport: Approximately 1 hour 14 minutes by train to Peckham, with transfers via Whitechapel. For airport information, visit Heathrow Airport.
- Gatwick Airport: Approximately 49 minutes by train to Peckham, with a transfer at Clapham Junction. For airport information, visit Gatwick Airport.
Local Transport: Peckham is well-connected by the London Overground and bus services, providing easy access to central London.
Taxi Tip: For an authentic experience, take a black cab. Black cab drivers pass a rigorous test called “The Knowledge,” covering over 25,000 roads and 20,000 landmarks within a 6-mile radius of Charing Cross.

Time Zone:

Standard Time: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT, UTC+0).
Daylight Saving: British Summer Time (BST, UTC+1) from late March to late October.

Climate & Clothing:

Attire: Layered clothing is advisable year-round. A rainproof jacket is essential, and warmer layers are recommended for winter months.

Cultural Considerations:

Dress Code: Casual attire is generally acceptable; some venues may prefer smart casual.
Etiquette: Politeness is valued; remember to say “please” and “thank you.”

Health:

Vaccinations: Standard immunizations are recommended.
Medical Care: Access to NHS and private clinics is available; travel insurance is advisable.