Southwark Park, Rotherhithe
Winter in SE16 and its neighbouring postcodes is always full of activity, and this year brings another strong line-up of community celebrations, festive markets and family-friendly events.
From street food under the arches in Bermondsey to candlelit concerts in Rotherhithe and creative fairs in Deptford and New Cross, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season close to home. Here is a detailed look at what’s happening across Bermondsey, Canada Water, Rotherhithe, Surrey Quays, Deptford and New Cross this winter.
Maltby Street Market
Maltby Street Market brings back its popular Festive Fridays for 2025, with evening openings on 28 November, 5 December, 12 December and 19 December from 5.30pm to 9pm. Ropewalk’s food and drink traders extend their hours for these four nights, offering seasonal dishes, mulled drinks, gift stalls and live music under the Victorian railway arches. The market’s cosy layout makes it an easy winter pick for anyone wanting a lively atmosphere without the crowds of central London.
The Alex & Matteo team also visited Maltby Street Market back in March 2023 to capture one of Bermondsey’s best local food spots in action. The video follows our trip through the market’s standout vendors, from Venezuelan street food at Pepia to Neapolitan pizza at Bonvino and tapas at Tozino. As local agents who know the area well, we highlighted why Maltby Street Market remains a favourite weekend destination for residents — a lively place for great food, a relaxed stroll, and a real taste of Bermondsey’s community atmosphere.
Bermondsey Square
Bermondsey Square marks the start of the festive period with its annual Christmas tree light-up on Tuesday 18 November 2025. Taking place from 4pm to 6pm, the event includes the tree switch-on, free churros while supplies last and seasonal music performed in the square. It’s a relaxed community moment and one of the earliest festive gatherings in the area.
St Mary Magdalen on Bermondsey Street hosts its Family Carol Concert by Candlelight on Friday 12 December 2025. This traditional carol service is held in the characterful parish church, offering an atmospheric evening of music suitable for children and adults alike.
Surrey Quays Shopping Centre welcomes back its free Santa experience for 2025. The Merry Magical Workshop runs from 5 to 7 December and again from 12 to 24 December, with two daily sessions from 11am to 1pm and 1.30pm to 4pm. SEND-friendly sessions take place from 10am to 11am on 6, 13 and 20 December. With no booking needed, it’s a convenient drop-in activity for families looking to meet Santa without queues or ticketed timings.
The annual Christmas Fair at Surrey Docks Farm returns on Saturday 6 December 2025, running from 11am to 4pm. Visitors can browse craft stalls, pick up a real Christmas tree, enjoy festive food and meet the farm’s animals. Carol singing and seasonal entertainment help create a warm community feel, and while entry to the farm is free, donations and paid activities support its educational and outreach work.
The Finnish Church on Albion Street holds one of London’s most distinctive Nordic-style Christmas markets. The 2025 fair runs across two weekends, from 28 to 30 November and again from 5 to 7 December. Visitors can explore stalls selling Finnish crafts, bakery items and festive food, alongside hot glögg and traditional Scandinavian gifts. Each day has specific opening hours, and the atmosphere tends to be busy but welcoming, with many returning visitors each year.
Brunel Museum
The Brunel Museum hosts a candlelit classical concert in the Thames Tunnel Shaft on Thursday 4 December 2025. Presented by the music collective DEBUT, the evening begins with drinks and mince pies in the Engine House before audiences move underground into the historic cylindrical chamber for the performance. Reduced-price local tickets are usually available for SE16 and SE8 residents, making this a popular seasonal outing for the area.
Another highlight at the Brunel Museum is the annual screening of The Muppet Christmas Carol, taking place this year on Wednesday 17 December. Held in the same extraordinary underground space, the film showing has become a regular favourite and often sells out well in advance.
The Albany in Deptford presents a winter family show based on The Snow Queen from Saturday 6 to Wednesday 24 December. This production is designed for children aged three to eight, with interactive moments and creative staging that turn the story into a playful adventure. Performances take place throughout the day, and ticket prices are kept accessible for families.
Deptford Lounge: Queermas
Deptford Lounge runs a varied winter programme, which in 2025 includes Queermas on Sunday 7 December. Hosted by LDN Queer Mart, this free community event brings together makers, performers and local residents for a day of art, stalls and inclusive festive celebrations suitable for all ages.
Deptford Market Yard hosts a Christmas Sample Sale from 5 to 7 December, led by independent lifestyle store iyouall and participating local designers. Extended hours give visitors a chance to browse discounted homeware, stationery, gifts and design pieces from small creative brands.
New Cross Inn holds its annual Christmas Bash on Saturday 20 December 2025. Known for its grassroots music events, the venue hosts an all-day line-up of bands and artists, making it a lively option for anyone who prefers a festive night out with strong community energy and live performances.
The Amersham Arms in New Cross has a full December calendar, including a special edition of the long-running Happy Mondays Comedy night on Monday 1 December. The venue also presents additional comedy, DJ sets and live bands throughout the month, giving locals plenty of choice for winter evenings.
The Hill Trader Christmas Market returns to Telegraph Hill in late November 2025. This small but well-supported community market focuses on handmade crafts, local makers and creative gifts, making it a useful early stop for anyone wanting to support small traders before the December rush begins.
Travel around SE16 and SE14 is straightforward, with most venues close to Overground or Jubilee line stations. Walking or using public transport is the easiest way to get between areas, and it allows you to enjoy a mulled drink without needing the car. Winter events at venues such as the Albany or the Brunel Museum often sell out, so booking ahead is sensible. Supporting independent traders and community organisations also goes a long way, whether that’s choosing a real tree from Surrey Docks Farm or picking up gifts from Maltby Street Market or Deptford Market Yard.
Alex & Matteo Estate Agents are also supporting the local community this year through their sponsorship of Musical Mayhem. Their contribution to the group’s Bursary Fund helps cover tuition for children whose families may not be able to afford performing arts classes, ensuring more young people can take part. Musical Mayhem’s cast will be carolling across the area this season too, adding to the festive atmosphere and showcasing the talent within SE16.
Winter is an ideal time to get a feel for these neighbourhoods. Explore an evening market on Maltby Street, take the children to see Santa in Surrey Quays or enjoy a concert at the Brunel Museum. If you are considering a move within Bermondsey, Rotherhithe, Canada Water or the surrounding areas, Alex & Matteo can guide you through the local property market.
From period conversions in Rotherhithe Village to modern apartments around Canada Water and riverside homes by Greenland Dock, we can help you find a home that fits your lifestyle and priorities.
