Don’t let the early sunsets, grisly weather and back to work grind spoil your January fun.
South west London has plenty of things to offer all year round that will have you laughing, heartily fill your stomachs and leave you feeling refreshed.
With Blue Monday here, we’ve compiled a list of some of south west London’s treasures to help boost your mood and energy during this never-ending month.
Take a walk around Morden Hall Park
Blow away the January hibernation cobwebs with a crisp walk around this National Trust park.
On the banks of the River Wandle, this country estate is just a short walk away from Morden Underground station, a far cry from the busy back-to-work routine of January life.
Entry to this peaceful green oasis is free and visitors can explore the beautiful Edwardian Rose Garden or get lost amongst the reeds of the wetland boardwalks.
According to the NHS’ Every Mind Matters campaign, even just a short outside walk can act as a natural mood booster.
Even in the unpredictable January weather you can cosy up in the café with a book from the onsite second-hand bookshop and keep an eye out for some furry four-legged friends.
Have a laugh at Balham’s Banana Cabaret Comedy Club
With its home of 42 years in the Club Room at the iconic Bedford in Balham, Banana Cabaret prides itself in being London’s longest-running comedy club in one venue.
The club is a well-known favourite with established artists, having seen the likes of Jack Whitehall, Eddie Izzard and Michael McIntyre grace its stage.
Every weekend comedy goers are treated to a raucous laugh by up and coming emerging talent on Friday and Saturday evenings.
January’s line up includes Finlay Christie, Ali Woods and Elliot Steel.
Visit Merton Abbey Mills for great food while surrounded by history
A short riverside walk away from Morden Hall Park, on the site of a 12th century priory, Merton Abbey Mills is a hidden arts and crafts village.
It boasts a patchwork of independent shops and restaurants offering global cuisine.
Have a drink in the William Morris Pub in homage to the textile designer’s workshop which operated there in the late 1800s, printing and dying fabrics for Liberty & Co.
Explore the craft shops and read about the history all while listening to the soothing sounds of the River Wandle as it washes over the waterwheel still running today.
Also look out for their weekend markets across the coming months.
Step back in time at Hampton Court Palace with half-price tickets
The palatial home of King Henry VIII tells the story of Tudor England.
Used as a film location for the Netflix series Bridgerton and film The Favourite, this baroque palace walls are steeped in royal history, from the Great Hall to the kitchens and with 60 acres of gardens to explore you might be able to spot some deer too.
From 7 January until 6 February, visitors can get half-price tickets and can enhance their experience with a free audio guide.
Take a riverside walk to Fulham Pier and Palace
The newly-opened riverside destination borders on Craven Cottage and offers a full programme of events, from markets to workshops for all ages.
Treat yourself to some delicious food from the variety of food vendors while watching the winter sun set with stunning views over the river down to Hammersmith Bridge.
Afterwards, take a stroll through adjacent Bishops Park, home to Fulham Palace where London Bishops lived for 1,300 years.
Both the museum and tranquil walled gardens are free to visit.
Marvel at great local art at Clapham’s Studio Voltaire
Just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of Clapham High Street, this former church was transformed into an art studio in 1999 by a collective of creatives who had previously resided in a disused tram shed on Voltaire Road.
The group became a registered charity in 2001 and champions emerging and under-represented artists.
The studio is open Wednesday to Sunday, from 11am until 6pm, and is free to visit.
Go on a coffee shop crawl across south west London
Don’t let dry January stop you from grabbing your friends and going on a crawl.
Well known across London for its abundance of coffee shops and brunch spots, South West is home to some of the best cups of coffee and pastries this side of France.
Brave the queue and try the infamous brunches at Milk in Balham, treat yourself to a croissant at Bonjour Putney or a taste of Sweden in Blåbär Nordic Living.
Whatever your hot drink of choice, you will certainly find a place to cosy up this January.
Immerse yourself in theatre at the intimate Golden Goose, Camberwell
Situated near Oval Tube close to the heart of Camberwell and hidden snuggly beside the pub of the same name, this unassuming 85-seat theatre has played host to a variety of plays.
This creative hub was launched in 2020 and offers an intimate experience to be fully immersed into excellent theatre.
On the programme for the start of this year are two plays, Can I Come Bi? and Absence of Youth, as well as The New Rep Scratch Night, which opens the stage to new emerging talent.
Let your creativity flow by painting pottery pieces in Battersea
South west London is home to many pottery shops and cafes where you can pick your own piece and create a masterpiece, regardless of your artistic abilities.
Whether you want to craft the clay from scratch or just want to add a lick of paint, it is a great way to practice mindfulness in a relaxing environment.
The Pottery Cafe has shops in Fulham and Battersea and is offering a free hot chocolate with every Cocoa Mug painted in January.
Pick some plants to brighten up your home from Petersham Nurseries, Richmond
Nestled between the riverbank and Richmond Park, Petersham Nurseries offers rows of indoor and outdoor plants of all shapes and sizes to spruce up your home this winter.
Afterwards you can indulge in an afternoon tea sat in the warmth of the quaint fairy-light adorned polytunnel greenhouses at the Nursery’s onsite Teahouse and Restaurant.
Throughout the year, they also run various workshops and tasting sessions, all set to the backdrop of this beautiful Richmond Garden of Eden.
Feature image: Heidi Bates
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