London area of SE8 guide

What to do and where to stay in London's SE8 neighbourhood

Home to Britain's largest Buddhist community, SE8's Deptford has been touted as "the new Shoreditch" by estate agents owing to its trendy arts and music scene and up-and-coming affordable property. Features include the Albany Theatre, the Laban Dance Centre, the local market and the Deptford Project, while St Paul's, Deptford, is one of the finest Baroque churches in the country. Named after a ford of the River Ravensbourne, Deptford used to be a major shipbuilding centre but the area experienced economic decline in the 20th century with the closing of the docks, and the damage caused by the bombing during World War II. The Elizabethan playwright Christopher Marlowe was killed during an alleged drunken brawl in Deptford in 1593. It's worth noting that on the pillars of the gates of St Nicholas Church in Deptford are two skulls and crossbones. These inspired parishioner Captain Henry Morgan, the renowned privateer, to use them as his ensign, and soon pirates the world over duly followed suit.

See our recommended nearby SE8 Hotels, Entertainment, Sights and Attractions, Shopping, Restaurants, Pubs, Leisure, Education, and Meeting Venues.