It may be a cliché, but London remains a collection of villages, and one of the most delightful is Dulwich. Its prime attraction is the Picture Gallery, the first purpose-built public art gallery in England. The collection consists of 17th and 18th century masterpieces by Rembrandt, Rubens, Poussin, Murillo, Van Dyck, Watteau, Gainsborough and many others.
This is an excellent place for a lively Sunday lunch - somewhere Londoners head for a little r&r. It boasts several friendly brasseries, some pleasant pubs and a restaurant-within-a-mansion, Bel Air House in Dulwich Park. It is an ideal spot for some lazy wandering, across the Common, along the tree-lined roads and into the gift shops, boutiques and bars …
The village is also home to Dulwich College, the famous public school founded by 17th-century actor, Edward Alleyn – former pupils include PG Wodehouse and explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton.
A short ride away is the Horniman Museum and Gardens, one of London’s hidden free attractions, boasting unique collections of musical instruments and natural history, plus delightful gardens and an aquarium.
Must see and do
- Dulwich Picture Gallery, London
- Horniman Museum, Crystal Palace
- Dulwich Park
- Sydenham Hill Wood