Welcome to South London, new students of 2017! Now you’ve packed up your room at home, learnt how to navigate the tubes (sort of) and are getting ready to start your first lectures, it’s time to familiarise yourself with the local area. If you feel like London is a bit of an enigma, allow us to help you out. This list will help you find hidden gems that will become as much a part of your University experience as jagerbombs and all-nighter library sessions. Expect bars, hangover breakfasts and takeaways that might help you feel more grounded in the big city, and save some money with a South London Club card.
TOP TAKEAWAY
Cummin’ Up New Cross
You’ve probably already marked the local chicken shop and Domino’s as your favourite quick meal, but allow us to introduce you to Cummin’ Up New Cross. A Caribbean takeaway that is taking South London by storm, they’re here to make your takeaway experience a little more exciting and a lot more Caribbean! With “Jerk Tower” Burgers, curries and a huge range of rice dishes, you’re bound to find something tasty. We understand takeaways can add up, but we also know students want good food fast, which is why you can get 10% off everything at Cummin’ Up New Cross with your South London Club card.
BEST PLACES FOR A DRINK
We’ve got plenty of drinking establishments in South London, which makes it hard to narrow it down to a couple, so we’ve chosen ones that we think will be most local to students in South East London. Check out our blog for articles about great bars, such as this one about drinks in New Cross,
The Admiral Hardy, Greenwich
For the Greenwich students who want an affordable place to hang out and enjoy a few beers, The Admiral Hardy is your answer. The interior is vibrant and unique, with rock ‘n’ roll ephemera everywhere you look, making it a true hidden gem. If you’re looking for comfortable sofas, great music and affordable drinks, definitely give this one a go. If you’re still reeling from the price of a pint in London compared to your hometown, you can get 10% off this one with a South London Club card, just to ease the pain.
The Donkey Sanctuary, Peckham
For the girls nights out, The Donkey Sanctuary is where you want to be. It is an independent pop-up cocktail bar located at The White Horse pub in Peckham where all of the cocktails have fresh ingredients and garnishes, home-made syrups and premium spirits. We’d recommend the Donkey Punch and their Bloody Mary, they’re some of the best in South London! Whatever cocktail you want, just ask one of the professional mixologists and they’ll whip it up for you. Drinks can add up on a group night out, but it won’t be too pricey when you’ve got a South London Club card, as you can get 10% off.
BEST HANGOVER BREAKFASTS
Birdie Num Nums, New Cross
For the best hangover breakfast in New Cross, Birdie Num Nums should be your new go-to. Located directly opposite Goldsmiths University, you can grab a full English and then head to your lectures, feeling (somewhat) invigorated. With a South London Club card, you can get 10% off, which should make you feel better about the previous evening’s dalliance with your overdraft…
The Green Café, Greenwich
The Green Cafe is for all you nocturnal students who want a full English at 4pm, no questions asked. They serve a huge variety of breakfasts, including cereal and healthy options. We’d also recommend their coffee and cake as library fuel. Whatever you go for, The Green Café won’t disappoint. Not forgetting, your South London Club card can get you 10% off purchases over £6.
London Meatballs & Co, Peckham
Peckham students, we haven’t forgotten about you. Even better, we’ve got a treat! An Italian restaurant that serves a fantastic breakfast menu. Whether you just want a standard full English with crispy hash browns and bacon, a Spanish feast with chorizo and oven baked eggs or a taste of the Mediterranean with avocado and halloumi. Or maybe you want some fruit, granola or a detox smoothie. London Meatballs & Co aren’t going to stop you having the best breakfast to start your day.
WORK HARD, PLAY HARD
Curzon Goldsmiths Cinema, New Cross
On the nights you want a break from the books and partying, Curzon Goldsmiths Cinema means you can have a more relaxed night out and bond with your new friends. They have collaborated with Goldsmiths University and have become famous for their specially selected films on show. They really break the mould of the chain cinemas everyone has become used to, offering a wide range of films that are sure to suit everyone’s tastes. They also have a well-stocked bar paired with a vibrant atmosphere, making it a great place to relax after studying. South London Club cardholders can also get £2 off tickets on Tuesdays and Thursday – Sunday.
WHAT IS THE SOUTH LONDON CLUB CARD?
The South London Club is a local discount card to help support small independent businesses across South London whilst saving all who live, work & play in South London money! With over 500+ local discounts to choose from, you will discover & explore all the best hidden gems in South London. Join over 5,000 of us & celebrate all that's independent & South London!