London’s festive transformation is already well underway, with inspiriting light displays twinkling overhead as cheerful shoppers continue their hunt for the perfect presents.
Among the glitter and grandeur, London's neighbourhoods shine just as brightly with their own unique celebrations – and to the locals of Peckham, it’s beginning to look a lot like Peckmas.
If you have never experienced Peckmas – or rather ‘Pexmas’ - then you’re in for a real treat! Each December, Peckham’s Copeland Park transforms into a vibrant winter wonderland to host one of London’s most beloved Christmas markets. Over the past fourteen years, this local event, that originally began as a small boutique market, has become an annual festive fixture on the London scene.
Running on the weekend between the 14th and 15th of December, this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever. With more than 150 stalls showcasing unique gifts, local crafts, homewares, and delicious treats, you can expect street food, mulled wine, and festive beats from live DJs, all mixing together to create the perfect atmosphere for holiday shopping with friends and family.
Pexmas encourages community building, placemaking and the promotion of small businesses through independent events, markets and social spaces. But, at its heart, Pexmas is really a celebration of community, creativity, and Christmas cheer—a must-visit for both London locals and visitors.
So, without further ado, here are the details you need to know to join in the festive fun, as well as some local Peckham spots that are always worth a visit.
Pexmas at Copeland Park - Getting There
First things first, how can you get to this magical market space that is tucked away in Peckham’s pocket? Easy – thanks to its South London location, there are many ways depending on whether you’re local and what your preferred mode of transport is.
By train
You can take the Overground or National Rail services to Peckham Rye station, which is just across the road from Copeland Park.
By bus
With Peckham being so well connected to the wider London area, you have quite a few bus options to choose from – bus routes 12, 37, 63, 78, 197, 343, 363, N63, N343, P12, or P13 will all see you safely to Peckham Rye Station.
By car
If you’re driving, you can use the gated entrance at 133 Copeland Road, SE15 3SN. Please note that parking is available for around £2 per hour.
Peckham eats, drinks, and places to visit
While Pexmas is certainly the shining star atop the tree of December activity, Peckham also offers a festive feast of restaurants, activities, and more markets than you can shake a candy cane at.
Yada’s Green Kitchen
Yada’s on Rye Lane is a Kurdish-run restaurant specialising in mezze. Closely linked to Camberwell’s beloved Nandine, they serve up a selection of small plates that are guaranteed to hit the spot – from the ‘Falafel Beauty’ plate to baba ganoush and everything in between. Whether you’re dining solo, with friends, or with family, Yada’s has the perfect option for everyone – and remember, sharing is optional!
Forza Wine
Celebrate the countdown to Christmas in style and raise a glass (or two) at this wildly popular rooftop bar. Open all year round, in part thanks to its cosy heated terrace, Forza Wine serves up delicious Italian-inspired small plates, which can be enjoyed alongside some of the best panoramic views Peckham has to offer. Tables are so in demand that it recently spawned a fancier sibling on the terrace at the National Theatre, but it’s the Peckham OG that remains the best – so make sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment.
Ron’s Coffee
Not only is the best coffee in Peckham conveniently positioned at the front of Holdron’s Arcade, but it is also completely vegan. Ron’s offers oat milk as standard, and their coffee is expertly prepared however you like it. Take a moment to recharge between shopping trips or start the day off in style with a warming flat white and cinnamon roll. And, for the night owls among you, they are also open from Thursday to Saturday evening for cocktails, local beers, live music and DJs.
Christmas Independant Ceramics Market
Looking for the perfect gift for the ceramic lover in your life? Then make sure you swing by the Christmas Independent Ceramics Market, located within Unit 8 of Copeland Park, where you can browse a diverse range of ceramic artwork – and buy directly from the makers themselves. This event features over 150 ceramic artists, ranging from students and up-and-coming graduates to established ceramicists from both UK and European studios.
DIY Christmas Art Market
Also located within Copeland Park, the DIY Art Market returns to Unit 8 Saturday 9th December, offering visitors the chance to engage directly with over 100 artists and independent publishers, and purchase a broad selection of artwork at affordable prices. You can expect everything from screen prints, comics and original artistic pieces, to tote bags, T-shirts and jewellery, making this event the ideal spot to pick up a unique Christmas gift for that discerning friend or family member.
Peckhamplex
Peckhamplex has an incredibly enviable title: it’s the cheapest cinema in London, with tickets priced at £6, no matter the time of year. The space runs a brilliant selection of films, both mainstream and independent, so you’re sure to settle on something everyone will enjoy. This true South London stalwart is a much-loved bastion of Peckham, and a great way to round-off a busy day of shopping and exploring.
Peckham Rye Park and Common
In many ways Peckham Rye Park is the centerpiece of the area, offering residents and visitors a 113-acre outdoor space to enjoy throughout the year. Any given weekend sees various local sports teams playing and practicing everything from rugby to hurling. There is a well-maintained playground for the kids, and many idyllic spots within the manicured gardens and open green areas that are perfect for impromptu walks and picnics.
Have You Made Your Plans for Pexmas?
Pexmas in Peckham is a unique opportunity to experience a taste of south London Christmas culture – an event that brings the wider community together and fosters the festive spirit in everyone’s hearts. If you’re still unsure what your plans for December in the city are, then we hope this guide has given you the spark of inspiration and we hope to see you there!
To discuss buying, selling, or letting a property in SE15, contact Urban Village today – we're here to help you discover the best that Peckham has to offer. Just give us a call on: 020 3519 9121.