Recently christened “South London’s coolest quarter” by Vogue, Bermondsey has more than its fair share of top-rated venues. Throw in a friendly community plus London’s best public space and it’s no wonder that people are flocking to the SE1 borough.

Bermondsey Square

Hungry? Then Bermondsey Street alone has it covered. One of the top Italian restaurants in Europe, Zucca is renowned for “beautiful food without leaving you bankrupt.” We’ve heard excellent things about the tagliatelle with a veal ragu and panna cotta “that made you want to lick the plate clean and beg for more.” Definitely our kind of restaurant. Or if you fancy something lighter, sample some of London’s best patatas bravas and dry sherry at José just down the road.

The Garrison

Described as the “elegantly batty ballerina of Bermondsey Street”, The Garrison is a little on the pricey side and should really be booked in advance. But what you get is a beautiful gastropub (perfect for impressing dates) that does everything from a full english breakfast to slow-roast lamb shoulder very well indeed.

If you’re in Bermondsey on a Saturday morning then a visit to Maltby Street Market is essential – you’re guaranteed all the foodie delights of Borough Market but none of the touristy crowds. Expect to find Neal’s Yard Dairy, Monmouth Coffee Company and plenty of cheese, pastry and charcuterie stalls in a “secret garden atmosphere.”

Bermondsey Antiques Market

But there’s more to Bermondsey than (albeit excellent) food. Bermondsey Antiques Market is the place to go for Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian finds on a Friday morning. For a dose of culture, the Fashion & Textile Museum is worth a visit. Founded by designer Zandra Rhodes, it’s unsurprising that the bright building explores fashion, textile and jewellery design.

Shortwave Cinema is billed as “a great addition to the ever-trendifying Bermondsey Street area” and screens a selection of films that you might not find at your local Odeon. Plus, you’re allowed to take in your drinks from the bar.

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Image of Bermondsey Antiques Market from bagelmouse’s flickr photostream