There is something about exploring a city with a Black-owned focus that really changes the way you remember it. With London being such a huge and varied city, Black-owned South London is not to be overlooked. South London has a Black presence that is a major part of the city’s history. With historically Black neighborhoods such as Brixton and Peckham, there has always been much culture, history, and vibrancy to come across.
Experiencing the best of Black-owned South London is easy. In this Travel Noire guide, we make it even easier. Black British, Caribbean, and African establishments come together to make Black culture in South London undeniably impressive. Be it music, history, eateries, or places to shop and chill, we’ll show you a side of London you won’t forget.
Black-owned shopping
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Start the day off by shopping in one of Brixton’s most cherished gift stores. South London’s Diverse Gifts is famed for offering gifts that are Black-owned and community-centered. From cards that celebrate and prioritize Black representation to showcasing local Black vendors from across the country, this store has it all.
Head to Diverse Gifts not only for the array of awesome gifts but also to have a conversation with the founder, Anita, who always has an interesting fact or story to share about Black culture in London or Birmingham, her home city.
Grab a bite to eat at The Flygerians
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Next, a food break is in order. Head over to Peckham to enjoy authentic Nigerian food at The Flygerians. It’s one of the best spots to stop for Jollof rice, Naija style. You know it’s certified when the King of Peckham, Giggs, passes through and shows support.
Take in some Black history
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‘Collecting, preserving, and celebrating Black British History’, there is no better place to indulge in Black history in London than at the Black Cultural Archives. Founded in 1981 by Len Garrison, it has been a cornerstone in the archiving of Black livelihood and contribution to the UK. The heritage center located in Brixton has an endless amount to explore. With changing exhibitions and local history, there is always something new to learn.
Check out London's rising Black spoken word artists
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Poetic Unity, is a Brixton-based charity that provides support for children and young people aged between 10-30 years old. It is the perfect environment to enjoy the never-ending creative energy of South London’s poetry scene. The events are bi-monthly at the Black Cultural Archives and allow performers and poets of all levels to jump on the mic.
Enjoy an evening in Peckham
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An evening in Peckham simply has to begin at The Prince of Peckham, a Black-owned pub loved by many in the lively neighborhood. The pub draws people in from all over the city and truly does justice to the community and the culture.
The Dutchie
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As your day draws to an end, head to The Dutchie, an authentic and unmatched Caribbean eatery and cocktail bar. With various locations in London, the South East bar in Camberwell would be a nice touch to your South London itinerary. Sip on the Caribbean flavors while taking in all that South London has offered you in a day!
Related: How To Spend 48 Hours Eating In Black-Owned West London