Dulwich is South East London in Southwark, it has a lovely village, and is a charming part of London to spend the day, and tempting you further maybe is that Enid Blyton once lived here.
The Dulwich Picture Gallery is a gallery somewhat off the beaten track of the more famous central London art galleries, but equally as important in terms of its own collection and visiting exhibitions.
East Dulwich is perhaps the less ‘gentrified’ area, but much for the use of a hackneyed phrase, ‘up & coming’. Along the lovely names Lordship Lane (which used to be a rural thoroughfare back in the day) is a host of buzzy cafes, artisan foodie shops and fun brunch venues.
Dulwich Village itself is as English countryside as you will ever get this close to London. Alongside the Dulwich Picture Gallery, you have Alleyn’s School which has stunning architecture, alongside the architecture of Dulwich boys school. Lined with stunning large Georgian houses, impeccably groomed green spaces (Dulwich Park and Dulwich wood is where Charles I used to hunt) and there are more than a few in-keeping independent shops, cafes and boutiques.
Dulwich is home to the Dulwich Picture Gallery, and you cannot come to Dulwich and not visit this boutique gallery. It will surprise you to see their permanent collection inside this stunning little building. Gainsborough, Reynolds, Canelettos interspersed with Rembrandts, Veronese, Poussins and so much more – it has such an abundance of priceless works of art. It is the National Art Gallery on a smaller scale, far more intimate and quieter. It is a charming place to walk around.
There are always great exhibitions, but don’t go for those alone, take in everything else, and hang out at the café in the pretty grounds for lunch or just coffee – you could even have a picnic at one of the many tables dotted around. A day in Dulwich is perfect if you don’t want to go too far, but want to be transported in time Dulwich Village ticks all the boxes. A gorgeous location with some impressive culture and lovely places to eat or even picnic – perfect.
Dulwich eating out:
Gails for coffee or delicious all day food from breakfast, light lunch or tea
Dulwich picture Gallery for picnic or light lunch
Rocca for pizza
Café Rouge
Christophers – Half Moon Lane
