Camberwell has a reputation for the arts which the college and its neighbour, the South London Gallery, are at the heart of. It’s a creative community that inspires us and is one that we are proud to be a part of and work alongside.
Where to live
There are many housing options available to students including halls of residence. Camberwell College of Arts has 4 halls of residence in easy walking distance:
You can also rent privately. UAL accommodation will give you more information and advice about finding somewhere to live.
The local area
Camberwell is a lively and unique area of South East London with good transport links to all parts of the city including Brixton and Dalston. The area may look a little gritty on the outside but it’s an easy place to fall in love with.
Popular local venues and creative initiatives include DKUK, an innovative salon run by Camberwell alumnus Daniel Kelly, Balamii Radio and the Peckhamplex cinema.
Going out
There are some great places to go out in the area. Student favourites include The Hermits Cave, The Tiger and The Stormbird pubs in Camberwell and Rye Wax and the Four Quarters bar in Peckham.
Arts organisation Bold Tendencies runs an annual programme of lives events and commissions as well as hosting Frank's Bar on the roof, with some of the best London views in the city.
For health and fitness, Camberwell Leisure Centre, built in 1892 and recently renovated, has a swimming pool and gym facilities while at Peckham Levels you will find a yoga studio alongside their street food stalls, bars and studios which house nearly 100 local and independent creative businesses.
Eating out
You can get some of the best food in London at affordable prices in Camberwell and the surrounding area, with the restaurants, cafes and grocery stores reflecting the rich mix of people living in the area.
Our students are particularly fond of Falafel and Shawarma Lebanese cuisine, FM Mangal - famous for traditional Turkish food, and Sophocles Bakery for sweet and savoury treats.
For traditional Chinese cuisine head to Silk Road. For pizza there is Voodoo Ray’s, and Theo’s Pizzeria is one of the best around.
Studios and galleries
Right next door to the College is South London Gallery and its second space The Fire Station showing international contemporary art. Other local galleries include Hannah Barry Gallery, Copeland Gallery, Flat Time House and Bosse and Baum.
In addition, many Camberwell graduates run and work at local art and design studios and galleries such as:
Find out more about the local art scene via the South London Art Map (SLAM) which provides a handy guide to the galleries in south London.