With it’s leafy common, riverside pubs and restaurants, you can easily spend the day enjoying the delights this quiet South London borough has to offer.
It takes a little bit of insider knowledge to get to know Wandsworth, but once you start exploring the borough there really is a lot to discover. With plenty of great restaurants, pubs, cafes, shops and museums to visit you will really enjoy getting a deeper glimpse into this community.
Here are five fun things to do in Wandsworth and the surrounding area, so that you can explore what this London borough has to offer:
1. Battersea Power Station
This building, made famous when depicted on the cover of the 1977 album “Animals” by Pink Floyd, is one of the most iconic symbols of industrial London in the mid-20th century and is considered an impressive example of industrial design in the Art Deco Era. It is now empty and is a listed Grade II protected building. The best place to view it, is from the north side of the Thames in Chelsea, so that you can see the building from a distance.
2. The Battersea Arts Centre
The Battersea Arts Centre is a Grade II Listed Building that is housed within the original town hall. It is known for its exceptional theatrical performances, as well as its discussions, dances, family events and homemade food. Artists live within the building all year round and its open every day to the public. Check out the ever-changing programme of shows and workshops.
3. The Bedford
Looking for somewhere to enjoy some live music in Wandsworth? The Bedford is known as one of the best music venues in London and it has hosted big names including James Morrison, KT Tunstall and Paolo Nutini. The Bedford was originally a hotel in the 1830s and has been a central community hub ever since. Live music is offered four nights a week and there are also comedy acts and dance classes featured. It is an excellent place to watch a live game of rugby or football while enjoying a refreshing pint.
4. Tooting Common
This 221-acre park is one of the largest open spaces in the area and is the ultimate outdoor playground, with an athletics track, outdoor swimming pool, nature trail, lake, sports pitches and tennis courts. Tooting Bec Lido is the largest open-air pool in the UK and is a very popular spot for a refreshing dip during the summertime. The pool is open from late May until the end of September and there are a paddling pool and café onsite.
5. Chez Bruce
Want to treat yourself to a truly fine meal? Wandsworth is home to many great restaurants, but Chez Bruce stands out from the rest and is considered one of the very best restaurants in the United Kingdom. It is a Michelin-starred French restaurant that is located across from the peaceful green space of Wandsworth Common. French classics are offered here, including homemade bread and charcuterie, slow-cooked braises, warm and cold salads and beautifully presented desserts. The wine list is also one of the finest in the country.The prices are at the higher end of the spectrum, but if you really want to treat yourself to a superb meal you will be impressed by the excellent cuisine.
These are just a few of the things that you can see and do in the London borough of Wandsworth. Once you have visited the area, your list of top things to do will vary and grow as there is so much on offer.