As autumn draws in, it’s easy to get stuck in a routine: up early for work, big coat on, soup for lunch, sofa in the evening. And while routine can be a comfort, sometimes a bit of spontaneity is a very good thing. So, for any south Londoners looking to break the predictable back-to-school cycle, we’ve got some suggestions, ranging from comedy to caves. Thankfully, Transport for London has your back when it comes to making last-minute plans. You can keep your outings more affordable thanks to TfL’s fare freeze until March 2025* and daily capping at £8.50**, plus you can travel as much as you like on buses within an hour for £1.75 with the Hopper fare***. Nice one!
Nearest station: Waterloo Tube
It’s never too early to start your Christmas shopping. At least, that’s what we say. Explore independent craft traders of all kinds at the Southbank Centre’s Winter Market – any day of the week. This haven for festive indulgence welcomes makers from all over the city to sell their goods in a charming, waterside setting.
Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX. Nov 1-Dec 26. Free.
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Nearest Tube: Battersea Power Station
If you’ve not yet visited this shiny new redevelopment of one of London’s most iconic buildings, then now’s the perfect time to do just that. Not only is the Power Station a great destination for shopping, it’s surprisingly arty too. Over on the ground floor of Boiler House North, the free ‘Power of Place’ exhibition charts the fascinating history of the Power Station, from its closure in 1983 to opening in October 2022. Kids will also love the Prospect Park playground (open daily 8am-8pm).
Battersea Power Station, Circus Rd W, SW11 8DD. Free.
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Nearest station: West Croydon, Overground and Tram.
Offering a monthly schedule of new and old films, October’s listings include everything from My Old Ass to Lee by way of The Apprentice, this is a proper spot for film buffs. South London's premier not-for-profit independent cinema is based in the heart of Croydon, and run by the community for the community – so expect ever-affordable prices (usually under £10).
David Lean Cinema, CR9 1ET. Various dates, tickets start at £9.50.
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Nearest bus stop: Chislehurst Station on the SL3 Superloop network.
For something truly different, might we recommend a day out at Chislehurst Caves? This man-made network is spread over 22 miles beneath Chislehurst and Bromley; it was originally dug for flint and chalk, used in lime burning and brickmaking. The caves have had many lives since – they were used as munitions storage during World War I and dance venues in the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s. Today, they’re one of south London’s coolest tourist attractions. It’s great fun for history buffs, but honestly, who doesn’t turn into a big kid when they’re exploring a cave?
Caveside Close, Old Hill, BR7 5NL. Daily, 10am-4pm. £8, £6 for kids aged three to 15.
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Fancy feeling that autumnal breeze in your hair? We recommend riding a bike through one of south London’s best-loved green spaces, Clapham Common. This sprawling, varied park is perfect for a leisurely ride – and it’s also close to several Santander Cycles docking stations. If you’re a student, we have good news: you can enjoy a discount of 25 per cent off the £120 annual subscription, which also offers unlimited 60-minute rides for the year.
Windmill Drive, SW4 9DE
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Nearest station: Crystal Palace Overground
If you’re a bit of a magpie, or if you’re just sick of the usual high-street shops, dive headfirst into the world of treasures that is Haynes Lane Market in Crystal Palace. This place is a veritable wonderland, consisting of two floors packed to the rafters with trinkets, vintage clothing and second-hand curiosities. It’s a guaranteed hit, whether books, jewellery or antiques are your shopping Kryptonite, and can always be relied upon for a weekend wander and a one-of-a-kind find.
Haynes Lane, SE19 3AN. Thu, Fri and Sun, 11am-5pm; Sat, 11am-6pm. Free entry.
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Thanks to Transport for London’s affordable fares, you can get even better value as you travel across the city.
Download TfL Go to your iOS and Android devices to plan your journey and check live arrival times or visit TfL’s website.
*Take advantage of frozen fares
TfL’s pay as you go single fares on bus, Tube, DLR and Tram are frozen, as are the majority of pay as you go single fares on the Elizabeth line and London Overground, including the £1.75 bus Hopper fare, until March 2025.
**With the daily cap, you can make unlimited trips all day long in Zones 1-2 and never pay more than £8.50.
Always use the same card or device when touching in. Excludes London Cable Car, River Bus and Southeastern highspeed services. Daily capping applies to trips completed between 4.30am and 4.29am the following day.
***Pay just £1.75 with the Hopper fare
Travel as many times as you like within an hour for £1.75. Applies to buses and trams. You can also make unlimited bus trips all day long for £5.25 with daily bus fare capping. Always use the same card or device. Daily capping applies to bus and tram trips taken between 4.30am and 4.29am the following day. For full terms and conditions, visit www.tfl.gov.uk/hopper.
Wherever you’re going, by choosing public transport you’re making a good choice for you and a more sustainable choice for London.
