Attractions and Places To See around Kennington - Top 20

Kennington and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit Chilham Square, a picturesque Kentish village with a castle and many Grade-listed, timbered buildings. Another significant historical site is Pluckley Village, known for its historical charm and its reputation as the 'Most Haunted Village in England'. Additionally, the area features beautiful religious buildings like St James' Church Egerton, dating back to the 13th century, and the stately Georgian St Gregory and St Martin’s Church.

Yes, Kennington offers several family-friendly options. Chilham Square is a charming village with a castle and park that families can enjoy. For nature lovers, Bluebells in King's Wood features a sculpture trail and is home to a herd of fallow deer. Kennington Park provides playgrounds and open spaces for children, while Vauxhall City Farm, a short walk away, offers a chance to see friendly animals and participate in workshops.

Kennington boasts several lovely green spaces. Kennington Park is one of London's oldest public parks, offering beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and mature trees. You can also explore Bluebells in King's Wood, a former royal hunting wood known for its sculpture trail and fallow deer. Cleaver Square is a tranquil garden square surrounded by elegant 18th-century houses, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Kennington has a vibrant cultural scene. The Imperial War Museum offers extensive collections on conflicts from World War I to the present day, with free admission. For film enthusiasts, The Cinema Museum, housed in Charlie Chaplin's former workhouse, showcases memorabilia from the golden age of cinema. You can also discover the process of making classic London gin at the Beefeater Gin Distillery, which offers tours and tastings.

For a unique local experience, visit the Oval Farmers' Market held every Saturday in the grounds of St. Mark's Church. Here you can find seasonal produce, artisan foods, and street food. The central Kennington Cross area also features a cluster of shops alongside pubs and striking period architecture.

There are various outdoor activities to enjoy near Kennington. For running, you can explore routes like the 'Food and Fragrance Factory loop' or the 'View of Eastwell Lake – Eastwell Manor Gatehouse loop'. If you prefer hiking, easy trails include 'St Mary's Church – Eastwell Lake loop' and 'Park Pathway and Pond View loop'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can tackle routes such as 'King's Wood – North Downs Way – Crundale Church loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the MTB Trails around Kennington, Running Trails around Kennington, and Easy hikes around Kennington guides.

Yes, The Oval Cricket Ground is one of the world's oldest and most iconic cricket stadiums. It hosts international matches and is the home of the Surrey County Cricket Club. Guided tours are available, offering a behind-the-scenes look at its rich history.

Beyond the main attractions, Kennington has some charming hidden gems. The Cinema Museum, with its quirky collection and location in Charlie Chaplin's former workhouse, offers a unique experience. Cleaver Square, one of London's first formal garden squares, provides a tranquil escape where locals play boules. The Gasworks art gallery offers a chance to see works on display and sometimes peer into international artists-in-residence studios. Also, The Little Garden is a hidden oasis tucked behind Kennington Cross.

Kennington's attractions can be enjoyed year-round. Spring is ideal for seeing the bluebells in King's Wood. Summer allows for enjoying the green spaces like Kennington Park and Cleaver Square, and outdoor events like the Oval Farmers' Market. Indoor attractions like the Imperial War Museum and The Cinema Museum are great options regardless of the weather.

Yes, Kennington has connections to famous figures. You can see the boyhood home of the renowned comedian Charlie Chaplin at 39 Methley Street (though it's a private residence). The Cinema Museum is also housed in the former Lambeth Workhouse where Chaplin once stayed, adding another layer to his local history.

Visitors particularly appreciate the picturesque charm of places like Chilham Square, often described as a perfect postcard location. The historical significance of sites such as Pluckley Village and the serene atmosphere of churches like St James' Church Egerton are also highly valued. The natural beauty and sculpture trail at Bluebells in King's Wood are frequently highlighted as enjoyable experiences.