Nunhead Area guide 

Small, quirky and packed with pretty Victorian properties, Nunhead nestles between East Dulwich, Peckham and Brockley – but still has its own station and its own distinct identity.

Legend has it the area takes its name from an old inn named The Nun’s Head, popular in the 1600s. We can’t vouch for that, but The Old Nun’s Head gastropub that overlooks the village green today is well worth a visit.

There are plenty of open spaces to enjoy here too. Nunhead Cemetery, the second largest of London’s Magnificent Seven Victorian cemeteries, offers 52 acres for quiet contemplation and fabulous views. From among the haunting headstones you can see St Paul’s Cathedral on a clear day – a reminder that the centre of London is not far away.

A wander around the hidden retail thoroughfare of Evelina Road offers everything from a hardware store to a spa salon – as well as Papa Bear’s retro, vintage and contemporary furniture emporium, which is open by appointment.

And when you’ve had enough retail therapy, indulge in a cake (or two) from Ayres Bakery or Bambuni Deli. Nunhead might be small, but there are certainly some big reasons to love it.

"Nunhead is a great place to live. There are some great restaurants and pubs, but our crown jewel is Nunhead Cemetery, built in 1840 around a beautiful gothic chapel"

Leanne Spencer – Bodyshot Performance coach

Area Highlights

The Telegraph at The Earl of Derby stands out as the place to be seen, where you can enjoy a burger while listening to a choir, or take your chance on stage on open mic night.

Nearby Peckham Rye Park & Common is a sprawling 113-acre green space refuge – with natural and manicured gardens, sports facilities and a playground.

The Old Nun’s Head and The Habit on Nunhead Lane both offer an array of delicious options. And The Ivy House is London’s first co-operatively owned pub, saved by investment from local fans when the building was set to be sold for development.

The area is awash with popular schools, including St Thomas the Apostle College (rated outstanding by Ofsted) and Ivydale Primary School (rated good).

Nunhead is served by the Thameslink Kent line, running to Blackfriars in 15 minutes, or St Pancras and the Eurostar in half an hour. London Victoria is only 20 minutes away on South Eastern trains.