Today I want to share another self-guided London walking tour with you. I promised to tell you more about south London, so this walk is focused on Dulwich village. I’ve been walking here a lot since I moved south of the river, and I love the beautiful houses, pretty streets, and green spaces. As such, here’s another free tour of London in the form of A Lady in London’s self-guided walk in Dulwich village.
Dulwich Village
Dulwich is one of the prettiest south London neighborhoods. The park and picture gallery are its star attractions, but the shops, pubs, and village atmosphere make the rest of the area worth a wander as well.
Some of the loveliest houses in south London are dotted throughout the neighborhood, and I love everything from the little cottages to the brick beauties with colorful doors.
Dulwich Village Walk
My self-guided walk in Dulwich village will take you through the area’s most beautiful streets and squares.
From the high street to Dulwich Park, historic almshouses to local bookshops, you’ll get a good overview of the neighborhood as you go.
This London walk starts at North Dulwich station. When you arrive, turn left out of the station and exit onto Red Post Hill. Continue on the street as the name changes to Dulwich Village and walk into the village itself.
You’ll start to see shops and cafes as you make your way into the heart of the neighborhood, so feel free to pop into a few on the way.
When you get to Calton Avenue, turn left and walk down to Woodwarde Road. There are more shops and cafes here, as well as some pretty cottages, historic gravestones, and lovely houses to admire.
When you reach Woodwarde Road, turn right and walk all the way to Eynella Road. You’ll pass by some of the village’s loveliest houses along the way.
When you reach the intersection you’ll see Dulwich Library and its little garden in front of you.
Dulwich Park
Turn right on Eynella Road and follow it down to Dulwich Park. Spend as much time as you’d like exploring the green space.
There are plenty of gardens to stroll through, and the boating lake and lawns always have something to catch the eye. There’s street art tucked away here, too, so you can try spotting it if you want a challenge.
When you’ve finished exploring Dulwich Park, take the exit onto College Road (and admire the big house by the gates as you go).
Dulwich Picture Gallery
Dulwich Picture Gallery is across the street. It’s the oldest public art gallery in England and is known for having one of the UK’s finest collections of Old Masters paintings and historic British portraits.
You can visit the gallery if you’d like to, or continue your walk in Dulwich village by walking south down College Road.
Neighborhood Highlights
Head along College Road until you reach Dulwich Common. Turn right on Dulwich Common and continue along the grounds of Dulwich College, the prestigious boys’ school in the area.
The first street on your left will take you to a nice view of the college, or you can continue on Dulwich Common until you reach Gallery Road.
Turn right on Gallery Road and make your way along the green spaces as you head back towards Dulwich Village.
When you get near the roundabout, pop into the courtyard to see the war memorial, Christ’s Chapel, and the almshouses that date back to 1616.
This is one of the most beautiful places in Dulwich, and it often gets overlooked by those that don’t know to seek it out.
Dulwich Village Area
Once you’ve explored the courtyard, exit onto the roundabout and walk up the road called Dulwich Village.
You’ll see more of this London neighborhood’s stunning houses and colorful doors, as well as shops, pubs, cafes, and restaurants. This is a good place to stop for lunch or a drink if you want a rest.
When you reach Turney Road, turn left and walk towards Herne Hill. The houses along this street are worth admiring as you go.
Once you reach Burbage Road, turn right and follow it up to Half Moon Lane. Turn right on Half Moon Lane and follow the street back to North Dulwich station, where your London walk in Dulwich village ends.
Details and Map
I’ve published more London walks and compiled them in my London walking tours blog post.
There are additional great walks outlined in London’s Hidden Walks, too. You can get it here. There are further ideas in my London walking books post, too.
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need to visit Dulwich next time I’m in London:)
Yeah! I hope you can.
I lived in pickwick rd for 13 years in the late 50.s. early 60’s. No. 1
That’s great!
From your recommendation, we visited Dulwich & the Dulwich Picture Gallery last Wednesday – it was a really great day. The Gallery is an absolute treasure trove of amazing art. Thank you for all your suggestions for off the beaten track adventures in London 😃
You’re welcome! I’m so glad you enjoyed it!