SE21 February 2026

Melbourne Mews

Inspired Design, Exceptional Living

Six Contemporary Townhouses in the Heart of East Dulwich Completion Spring 2026

Melbourne Mews is an exclusive collection of six four storey townhouses located in the heart of East Dulwich, SE22, one of London’s most desirable neighbourhoods. These beautifully crafted homes combine architectural elegance with the very best in modern design, setting a new benchmark for luxury urban living.

Availability & Completion

Construction is well underway, with completion scheduled for Spring 2026. With only six homes available, this is a rare opportunity to own a beautifully designed, energy-efficient townhouse in one of South London’s most vibrant and wellconnected communities.

Enquire today to register your interest, arrange a private viewing, or request a brochure.

E M W-jamesyan@circalondon.com +44 7521 623616 circalondon.com

Welcome to SE21

After a mixed bag of weather in January (although I have to admit to working remotely in Spain for a few weeks and enjoying some sunshine!); let’s hope that February is dryer and warmer!

As usual I have rounded up all the great events taking place in and around Dulwich. The events pages start on page 6. February is proving to be a busy month for events, so we have a whopping nine pages of online and in person events happening in and around Dulwich. Please do check any event before turning up to make sure that they are still going ahead. Remember to check out www.arounddulwich.co.uk too as many events get added after I have gone to print. You can often find out more details online too.

As many of you know I also run a resident focussed website call Around Dulwich. I thought I would let you know more details on pages 28 & 29.

The Last Word goes to Caroline Bailey, who is the vicar at All Saints, West Dulwich. Find out more on page 32.

Remember the magazine depends on all the wondeful local advertisers, so please do let them know if you saw them in this magazine!

Remember the magazine depends on all the wondeful local advertisers, so please do let them know if you saw them in this magazine!

Until next time.

Angela

Call 020 8693 9040 angela@semagazines.co.uk www.semagazines.co.uk

@semags_arounddulwich

@SEMagazines

@SEMags_ADulwich

Angela Burgess Head of All Things Community SE

Magazines/Around Dulwich

If you would like to advertise in our next issue, you can download our rates from our website any time. Or if you prefer, give me a call!

March Deadline - 16 February (please allow an extra two days if design is required) To advertise in SE21 please contact Angela Burgess on 020 8693 9040 or e-mail: angela@semagazines.co.uk for further information. You can download our

pack from our website: www.semagazines.co.uk.

Events Calendar - February

Online

The Creative Writing Playground p6.

The Creative Writing Playground p6.

The Creative Writing Playground p6.

Breathing Class see p6.

An Evening with Nussaibah Younis, see p19.

Dulwich Park Runners see p8.

Goose Green Coffee Mornings, p8.

Portraiture @

Weekly Wine Sessions, see p9.

Sourdough Social, see

parkruns, see p18.

Breathing Class see p6.

New Moon Sister Circle see p26.

Dulwich Park Runners see p8.

Tennis Camp, see p26.

Zoom Portraiture @ Dulwich Art Group, see p9.

Weekly Wine Sessions, see p9.

Breathing Class see p6.

The Creative Writing Playground p6.

An Evening with Prue Leith, see p27.

Dulwich Park Runners see p8.

Zoom Portraiture @ Dulwich Art Group, see p9.

Weekly Wine Sessions, see p9.

Collage Landscapes, see p27.

parkruns, see p18.

parkruns, see p18.

parkruns, see p18.

Celebrating 50 years of Love · Care · Excellence and shaping futures by providing first-class Early Childhood Education (age 2+ to 7+)

SATURDAY 16 MAY 2026

Calling all former pupils, parents and staff to help us celebrate the School’s golden anniversary!

Visit your past stomping grounds, bump into old friends and colleagues, and see how we have evolved. Please visit the golden anniversary webpage to:

} Watch two short videos featuring our founders Phyll and Chris,

} Reserve a place ASAP to allow us to plan the day,

} Contribute your memories and stories for a ‘Book of Congratulations’.

SATURDAY 7 MARCH 2026

Golden Anniversary Open Day Watch and sign up: hernehillschool.co.uk/50 Reserve your space: hernehillschool.co.uk/visit

Prospective Parents’ Spring Open Morning

One of only two opportunities in the year to tour all facilities in greater depth. Whole school tours encompassing the Kindergarten and main site start from 9am. Main site tours for Pre-Reception and Reception applicants start from 10am.

‘Meet & Greet’ with the entire Kindergarten team from 11am for prospective autumn 2026 Kindergarten parents.

2-7 Years Early

What's On - February

Now until Tuesday 3

February: ABSTRACTS & SEASCAPES by Clare Emily

Thur - Fri 12 - 4pm | Sat - Sun 10 am - 5pm. MonWed by appointment only. Clare Emily returns to Jeannie Avent Gallery for a solo exhibition of her seascapes and new abstract paintings.

Jeannie Avent Gallery | 14 North Cross Road, SE22 9EU. https://www.clareemilyart.com/abstractsseascapes

Sundays 1, 8, 15 & 22

February: Peckham Rye

Junior Park Run 9am – 9:30am

A free, weekly, timed run for 4–14-year-olds, to get fit, stay healthy and have fun! We run 2km every Sunday morning at 9am, through rain and shine. The course is visible, well-marshalled, and all held on the paths around the sports pitches. Peckham Rye Park, Colyton Road SE22 0NE.

Sundays 1, 8, 15 & 22

February: Horniman Market

10am – 3pm. Located on the Bandstand Terrace, you will find stalls selling seasonal fruit and vegetables, artisan bread and cheese, organic meat, and delicious street food. If that’s not enough to have you feeling like our overstuffed walrus, we also have regular guest traders specialising in treats such as luxury chocolates, delightful drinks, irresistible cakes, and tasty pickle and preserves.

100 London Road, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ. www.horniman.ac.uk/

Mondays 2, 9, 16 & 23

February: The Creative Writing Playground 7pm -8.30pm

Join Tutku Barbaros as she guides you through seven playful weeks of creative exploration in search of your voice, the stories you ache to tell, and structured insights into how to get the best out of your ideas. If you are looking to identify and grow your voice, this sevenweek guided creative workshop is for you. You will gain the confidence to experiment, explore and develop your creative voice in a safe and structured setting. This practical programme offers the opportunity to generate ideas in a range of written mediums while learning how to refine those ideas into finished projects while cultivating a joyful, authentic and bespoke creative practice. www.bellhouse.co.uk.

Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7BG.

Tuesdays 3, 10, 17 & 24

February: Weekly Online

Breathing Class 7pm – 7.40pm

A 40-minute breathing and relaxation class. Unwind, centre yourself and use the breath to help relax and prepare for a restful evening. Using different breathing techniques that can be incorporated into your day along with a few gentle mat-based stretches and ending with Yoga Nidra a full body guided meditation for deep relaxation. All welcome. No experience is needed. £7. To join see: https://liveyogateachers.com/classes/ meditation-open-level-kerry-flower

What's On - February

Tuesdays 3, 10, 17 & 24

February: DPR Social Runs

7:30pm – 8:30pm. Fantastic local running club. Social runs every Tuesday 7.30pm at Trevor Bailey Sports Ground on the south circular. Plus runs every Sunday morning; coached sessions on Thursdays; cross country races; competitions; weekends away; frequent social activities. Come along on a Tuesday to try us out! www.dulwichparkrunners.co.uk enquiries@dulwichparkrunners.com

Trevor Bailey Club House Dulwich Common SE21 7HA

Tuesday 3 February: The Science of How the Arts Transform Our Health with Daisy Fancourt 7pm-8.30pm

Join us for an evening with leading researcher and author, Professor Daisy Fancourt, as she discusses her acclaimed book Art Cure and the growing evidence behind the power of the arts to transform health and wellbeing.

Drawing on research in neuroscience, psychology and immunology – among others – Art Cure explores how creative activities such as music, visual art, and dance can support mental and physical health over a lifetime. From reducing stress and loneliness, to improving recovery from illness, Fancourt reveals how creative engagement is a powerful tool in unlocking health and happiness.

In this interview between Nikki Crane and Daisy Fancourt, discover the science behind creativity and wellbeing, and reflect on what this means for individuals, communities and healthcare systems today.

Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7BG. www.bellhouse.co.uk.

Tuesday 3 February: Honor Oak WI Monthly Meeting

7.30pm-9.30pm. The Honor Oak WI is a friendly and supportive group of women of all ages, backgrounds and interests. We meet Monthly on the first Tuesday of the month. We also have a book club, craft club and gallery & museum visits group. February’s meeting is CPR & Defibrillator training with the London Ambulance Service. All are welcome but to cover the cost of materials there’s a £6 charge to non-members. Instagram: @honoroak_wi. www.facebook.com/groups/honoroakwi. Stanstead Lodge Café, Northwood Road, SE23 1DD. honoroakwi@gmail.com

Tuesday 3 February: Lamps on the Corner: 250 Years of Medicine in Dulwich 8pm-9pm

For generations, a red lamp on a Dulwich street corner was a sign of medical help nearby because doctors made themselves known by hanging them outside their houses, 90% of which were on street corners. This online talk by Dulwich Society Local History Chair Ian McInnes explores why medical practices clustered on corners, how patients found help after dark, and tells us the everyday history of medicine in Dulwich. This talk will be held online via Zoom. www.bellhouse.co.uk.

Wednesdays 4, 11, 18 & 25

February: Goose Green Coffee Morning 11am-12.30pm

Do drop into Goose Green Coffee Morning for a warm welcome, coffee, tea and cake! We are open every Wednesday, it's a great place to get to know others from the local community. ALL WELCOME! FREE! St John The Evangelist, East Dulwich, 62A East Dulwich Road, SE22 9AT.

Wednesdays 4, 11, 18 & 25

February: Zoom Portraiture

What's On - February

@Dulwich Art Group & School

2pm – 5pm. Paint a clothed model with a focus on the portrait over two three-hour sessions. We give you a wide view and a closer portrait view so you can work out the framing for yourself. The model will at times be engaged in conversation in order to bring some animation to the face. ONLINE EVENT: www.dulwichartgroup.co.uk.

Wednesdays 4, 11, 18 & 25 February: Weekly Wine Session 7.30pm-9.30pm

The Dulwich Wine Society started in 1991 meets most Wednesdays and provides a way for novices and seasoned wine lovers to explore the world of grapes and wine regions. Taste, learn and discover new favourites. We take a break mid-way through the meeting which provides a chance to get to know others socially, and you can bring your own cheese and biscuits.

The Rosendale, 65 Rosendale Road, West SE21 8EZ https://www.dulwich-wine-society.co.uk.

Thursdays 5, 12, 19 & 26

February: BNI Adventures

6:30am – 8:30am. Part of the award winning multi-national networking organisation, BNI, Adventurers brings together businesses local to Dulwich with the aim of passing business and keeping money in the local community. Givers gain, and members of Adventurers have excelled at both over the last 12 months. Breakfast included. Free parking. Get referrals: boost your business! Contact Hayley on 07843 989728 for information. Register at: www.eventbrite.co.uk Dulwich & Sydenham Golf Club, Grange Lane, College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7LH.

Thursdays 5, 12 & 26 February: Goose Green Lunch Club

12.30pm-2pm. The lunch club is a friendly and informal club for people over 55. We meet every Thursday during term time and enjoy a delicious main course and dessert with tea and coffee for £5. If you’re interested in joining us for lunch or if you would like to volunteer with us, please call: Martin on 07939 288885 or Barbara on 0208 693 2090 Goose Green Centre, 62A East Dulwich Road, SE22 9AT

Thursdays 5, 12 & 19 February:

Cosy Candlelit Gong bath on Sydenham Hill, SE23 8pm-9pm.

Step into the magical realm of my Secret Soul Sanctuary by the woods! It is a safe haven in the heart of South London, where I invite you to join me for an evening Gong Meditation / Sound Journey. Secret Soul Sanctuary, Sydenham Hill, SE23 3PH. Bookings via Eventbrite and www.thesoulnurturer.co.uk

Friday 6 February: Under 5s Explore: Mini Masterpieces

10am-11.10am or 12pm-1.10pm. Spark your child’s imagination through playful painting. Join these exploratory sessions for under 5s. Each session begins with a journey through the Gallery to discover the different people, places and animals in our paintings, followed by an art-making activity. Our themes change monthly to keep your little creatives engaged and open them up to new ways of playing. www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7AD.

Fridays 6, 13, 20 & 27

February: Lewisham Underwater Hockey Club

7:45pm – 9pm. Try out underwater hockey at Forest Hill pools every Friday evening. We’re a mixed ability club who play for fun and exercise. Complete beginners welcome - we’ll ease you in gently and have kit you can borrow. Forest Hill Pools, Dartmouth Road SE23 2HZ. www.luwhc.org.uk.

Dulwich Hamlet FC

Fill the Hill

After a winning start to the new year, the shortest month provides plenty of opportunity to fill the Hill and support your Hamlet. And for the more adventurous there are trips to Greenwich, Essex, and even North London to look forward to, providing valuable away support for our pink & blues in green & white.

Fixtures

Your February fixtures kick off under the lights when our men’s team host Whitehawk at Champion Hill on the evening of Tuesday 3rd. The following weekend they travel to Aveley in Essex, while our women’s team - back in home league action for the first time since mid-December and under new first team management - host Cambridge United at the Hill on Sunday 8th. That’s one not to miss.

Our men are then back home and bringing the romance, as we welcome Folkestone Invicta to Champion Hill on Valentine’s Day, Saturday 14th; while our women prepare for a midweek floodlit fixture of their own with the visit of Chatham United on Wednesday 18th. Kick-off under the lights is 7.45pm.

The following weekend both our first teams are out on the road, with our men away at Cray Valley Paper Mills on Saturday 21st and our women heading north of the river to face London Bees the following day. For all the latest fixture news visit dulwichhamletfc.co.uk

History

Alongside the DHFC History Group, this month also sees the club begin to explore this year’s entrants to the Dulwich Hamlet Hall of Fame. Up to five names will be added to a list of legends that includes Edgar Kail and Lorraine ‘Pa’ Wilson, so look out for news of our 2026 laureates online and in our excellent match day programme.

Join Us

There are loads of ways to be more involved with your local football club. One of them is by joining the Supporters’ Trust, for just £10 for the season (£5 concs.) at dhst.org.uk/join or in person at the Mega Container.

The Supporters’ Trust is the voice of the fans at the heart of our club. Alongside much else, it also runs the 100 Club Lottery, which for 20 years now has given fans the chance to win monthly cash prizes while raising significant funds to support the club and help ensure its long-term future in SE22. The 100 Club is open to all.

The Trust also delivers the merch from the Mega Container, where you can pick up all things pink ‘n’ blue to see you through the year ahead. We’re open on every match day before and after the action, and at half-time.

And for men’s Saturday fixtures we’re now open throughout the game, so when the urge takes you can nip round and pick up that glorious clobber which, along with your voice, might just be the difference come full time. Help us Fill the Hill this February and Up the Hamlet!

Plan Ahead For A Romantic Rose-Filled Summer Garden

Garden Talk with Janine Winlaw | Instagram @janinewinlaw

Winter might not feel like the obvious time to think about planting roses but now is a perfect time to buy them bare-root, ready to burst into life as soon as spring arrives. Cottage gardens are forever fashionable, and roses are at the heart of their dreamy, romantic appeal.

There are excellent modern roses that combine beauty with resilience. Intense pink ‘Gertrude Jekyll’ is a favourite for its scent and vigour, while ‘Desdemona’ is a superb creamy white rose with a wonderful fragrance. ‘Olivia’ is soft pink, ‘Vanessa Bell’ gentle yellow, and ‘Boscobel’ a peachy-pink delight. For a bit more colour still, ‘Lady of Shallot’ is a beautiful burnt orange. For larger gardens, ‘Penelope’ makes a generous shrub.

Climbing roses such as pale pink ‘Blush Noisette’ or the scented ‘The Generous Gardener’ add height and drama, smothering walls, arches, or pergolas, often alongside soft purple wisteria for a timeless look. Peachy pink compact rambling rose ‘Open Arms’ is lovely for a smaller garden. Add a bit more magic by climbing a clematis such as ‘Etoile Violette’ through the roses. While low growing 'Rosa Carpet’, available in amber, bright pink and white, make low maintenance groundcover.

Species roses like Rosa glauca with its grey/

purple foliage and Rosa mutabilis with pinky peach flowers bring naturalism and sophistication, with airy, relaxed forms and delicate single flowers as well as good hips. Other roses grown for hips to add winter interest include Rosa moyesii ‘Geranium’, while Francis E. Lester holds its display well into winter.

For shady corners, roses such as white ‘Iceberg’, yellow ‘The Country Parson’, dark purple, pink ‘Darcey Bussell’ and peach orange ‘The Lark Ascending’ tolerate shade.

Blue-toned geraniums, salvias, and nepeta harmonise with the pastel shades of English roses, while later asters, gauras, and penstemons extend interest into late summer and coincide with the roses’ second flush. Roses prefer not to be smothered at their base; interplanting rather than underplanting lets plants grow together and close gaps naturally.

Soil preparation is key. Roses thrive in enriched, well-drained soil. They enjoy moisture and benefit from feeding in April and again at the end of June. Choosing disease-resistant varieties helps reduce ongoing maintenance. Prune shrub roses by roughly half, removing thin or tired stems to encourage new growth. February is the ideal time to prune roses to set the plant up for a strong spring.

Pet Valentine Ideas

Pets

Corner with Leonie St Clair | www.londondogstraining.co.uk

This could have been a cheesy article about bougie pet gifts on Valentine’s Day. It might have involved mention of glittery collars and expensive dog hotels but our pets could not care less how much a toy costs or how chic they look. There are much better ways to show our love for our pets:

1) Tellington TTouch

Originally devised to calm horses this specialist form of massage is heavenly for cats, dogs and other companion animals. Learning to use the classic hand -circle- and- a -quarter TTouches will not only relax your pet but also improve behaviour and general wellbeing. The beauty of these techniques is that owners can learn the basics and apply them at home. Find out more at: http://www.ttouch.com/

2) Homemade Treats

Why not ditch shop- bought treats and make your own? The benefits are in knowing exact ingredients, reducing overall costs, and you can make a large batch and freeze and thaw for use as you want.

• If you want to push the boat out for your dog, make hard-baked garlic chicken.

• Cut up five boneless breasts of chicken into quarter inch cubes.

• Cover and mix well with one dessert spoon of olive oil and a tiny pea-sized squeeze of garlic puree.

• Bake in a medium oven until golden brown and completely hard (2-3 hours). Once cool keep in an air tight container.

For the puss get 2 cans of sardines or mackerel in oil (do not drain).

• 2/3 cups cooked rice

• 1 tablespoon pureed, cooked chicken livers.

• 1/4 cup chopped parsley

• Combine all ingredients and mix well. Shape into balls of desired size.

• These treats may be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and can also be frozen.

3) Trick Training

Boredom is a major cause of stress in all pets. Whether you own a budgie, a rabbit, a cat or dog, consider trick training as an additional way to stimulate and work your pet’s brain. However, especially where dogs are concerned, trick training should never be a substitute for basic training.

• Teaching your dog to do high five, to crawl or play dead, are effective ways to use their brain but cats may also enjoy training; find out more at: http://www.entirelypets.com/teachpetricks.html.

• Budgie owners may also learn to enjoy hand training and teaching their bird to talk, see: http://budgieplace.com/taming.html

• Some rabbits can be taught rabbit agility but owners should first find out if their bunny is suited to jumping- not all rabbits have the right physique or temperament for agility, see: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/ rabbits/behaviour/agility

4) Learn More About Pet Communication

Communication is a two- way thing. Animals that feel misunderstood may become stressed and fractious. Owners that take time to educate themselves about pet communication will reap the benefits. As it is February we can remind ourselves about the different ways animals’ express affection for their owners.

• Cats may deliver a gentle head-butt or roll over to expose their belly. Be warned though, this is not an invitation to ‘rub my tummy’. Instead, gently stroke your cat’s cheek or under their chin.

• Rabbits may bump an ankle with their nose, stretch up for attention or even give a little lick.

• Dogs greet friends with gentle, squinty eyes, a relaxed open mouth and sweeping tail wag.

• Owners can learn more about pet communication from authors like Jonathan Bradshaw on cats, Turid Rugaas on dogs and Anne McBride on rabbits.

Leonie St Clair www.londodogstraining.co.uk

How to Train for the Skiing Season

Fitness tips with Antonia Bannasch | www.bodyshotperformance.com

Ski season is already underway, but it’s not too late to train smarter. You can start using these exercises now or save them for next year. Skiing is far more demanding than most people expect: long days, repetitive movement, tough terrain and cold conditions. Turning up unprepared often leads to fatigue or injury. The right training helps you feel stronger, ski longer, and enjoy every run.

Focus on Leg Strength and Endurance

Your legs do the majority of the work when skiing. Quads, hamstrings, glutes and calves all need to be strong enough to cope with long days of continuous effort. Exercises such as squats, lunges, step-ups and deadlifts are excellent foundations. These movements mimic skiing positions and help build the strength required for both descending and stabilising.

Endurance is just as important as strength. Skiing involves holding semi-squat positions for extended periods, so incorporating higher-rep sets, tempo work or wall sits can be particularly effective. Aim to train your lower body two to three times per week in the lead-up to your trip.

Don’t Ignore Your Core

A strong core is essential for balance, control and injury prevention on the slopes. Your core helps transfer power between your upper and lower body and allows you to stay upright when conditions are unpredictable.

Planks, side planks, dead bugs, Pallof presses and rotational movements all help develop the type of core stability needed for skiing. Rather than endless crunches, focus on exercises that challenge control and coordination.

Train Balance and Stability

Skiing is essentially controlled instability. You’re constantly adjusting to changes in speed, gradient and snow conditions. Including balance work in your training can make a noticeable difference to how confident you feel on skis.

Single-leg exercises such as split squats, single-leg Romanian deadlifts and step-downs are

brilliant for this. Adding unstable surfaces or slow, controlled movements can further challenge your balance and joint stability, particularly around the knees and ankles.

Build Cardiovascular Fitness

Even if you are not racing downhill, skiing places a significant demand on your cardiovascular system. Improving your fitness will help you ski for longer without feeling breathless or exhausted.

Interval-based cardio works especially well. This could include cycling, rowing, hill walking or stair climbing, alternating harder efforts with recovery periods, so, for example, one minute on one minute rest. This style of training mirrors the stop-start nature of skiing runs and lifts.

Mobility and Recovery Matter

Cold muscles and stiff joints increase injury risk, so mobility work should be part of your preparation. Pay particular attention to hips, ankles, knees and thoracic spine mobility. Regular stretching and dynamic warm-ups will help you move more freely and efficiently on the slopes.

Finally, start your training at least 8–12 weeks before your ski trip if possible. Gradual, consistent preparation will always outperform last-minute panic workouts.

Train smart now, and your body will thank you when you are carving confidently down the mountain rather than nursing sore knees in the chalet.

THINK GREENHOUSE NOT Nurture HOTHOUSE

Exemplary independent co-ed education in an enriching and joyful environment for ages 2-11

What's On - February

Saturdays 7, 14, 21 & 28

February: Parkrun 9am – 10am

Dulwich Parkrun

Free, weekly timed 5k run, jog, or walk in Dulwich Park starting from Queen Mary’s Gate. Register once and bring your printed barcode (can be used at any parkrun across the world). Firsttimers briefing at 08.50. Also in Peckham Rye, Brockwell and Crystal Palace parks. https://www.parkrun.org.uk/dulwich/

Peckham Rye Park Run

A 3-lap anti clockwise course, entirely on tarmac and is mainly flat and therefore a potential PB course The start & finish are located close to the Colyton Road entrance of the park. Peckham Rye Park, Colyton Road SE15 4JR. https://www.parkrun.org.uk/peckhamrye/

Saturdays 7, 14, 21 & 28 February: Peckham Farmers' Market 9.30am-3pm

One of Peckham’s coolest streets now hosts the Peckham Farmers’ Market transforming The Belham Primary School into a vibrant weekly food destination designed to be a true onestop shop for the weekly food shop. Peckham Farmers Market is built around one core principle: freshness and variety. The market brings together 25+ handpicked traders, offering the freshest, most nutrient-packed produce available, all set to the backdrop of live music, street food, great coffee, wine and a relaxed neighbourhood atmosphere.

The Belham Primary School, Bellenden Road, Peckham, SE15 4DG

Saturday 7 February: Men

Walk Talk - Honor Oak

10am-11am. A monthly walk for men, taking in the green spaces of SE23 and surrounding area. Traditionally, men often avoid seeking mental health support, but we provide a community of support for guys to know they are not alone, and they can speak up. Join Richard for a walk and a talk on the first Saturday of every month.

For more information: menwalktalk.co.uk

76-78 Honor Oak Park, SE23 1DY

Saturday 7 February: Tapestry Weaving Beginners Class

10am-1pm. This class is for anyone who would like to pick up a bobbin and try tapestry weaving. Or if you have a little experience, the perfect practice session to improve your foundational weaving skills. On an upright loom, get started with plain weave, then try blending colours or weaving a simple shape. By the end of the session, you'll have made your own small tapestry to take home. It's the perfect antidote for busy people with busy lives and is easy to continue at home once you have the basic skills. All weaving materials and instruction are included and a loom will be prepared for you to use in class. www.bellhouse.co.uk.

Bell House, 27 College Road, SE21 7BG

Saturday 7 February: Valentine Gift Printing

1.30pm-5pm. Come start the year in our new Print Room & Bindery using our historic 1880’s Albion printing press and vintage hand presses to create a unique Valentine card and gift for your loved one. With lots of metal and wooden typefaces and vintage illustration blocks to hand and some historic printing presses to use you can be sure to make something unique and different. Take away a Valentine card, a bookmark or two and a frameable print. All made with love. Bell House, 27 College Road, SE21 7BG www.bellhouse.co.uk.

Saturday 7 February:

Gong

Bath - Sound Meditation in Brockley Theme:

Softening the Heart

4pm-5pm

Step into an oasis of calm and stillness. Follow the sounds of the gong to the cosmos and back, without having to leave your yoga mat! Imagine stepping into a tranquil space, laying down on a yoga mat, and allowing the soothing vibrations of the gong to wash over you. With an open heart and mind, you’ll be guided into a state of deep relaxation, as the powerful yet gentle sounds of the gong help you melt into the floor. Book via Eventbrite - search for Theresa Royle. &osteo, 179 Brockley Road, London SE4 2RS.

What's On - February

Sunday 8 February: Cinnamon

Roll & Pineapple Tepache Workshop

12pm-3.30pm

Join us for a cosy, hands-on workshop, making Swedish-style cinnamon rolls and brewing our own pineapple tepache! Whether you’re new to fermentation or already love crafting food from scratch, this session will guide you through creating beautifully spiced kanelbullar and a refreshing, naturally fermented pineapple drink. All ingredients and materials are provided, and you’ll leave with your own cinnamon rolls ready to bake at home, a jar of pineapple tepache to ferment, and the confidence to recreate both recipes in your own kitchen.

Yellow House #71, Kingswood Road, Penge, SE20 7BL. Book tickets via https://www.atelier-alveo.com.

Sunday

8 February:

The Moonhaven Chronicles: The Last Wolf by Rob Biddulph

2pm-3pm. The legend of the werewolf is reimagined in this thrilling, spine-tingling adventure by superstar author and illustrator Rob Biddulph. Jax, Jovi, Esau and Fourth live for full-moon adventures – sneaking out after curfew, dodging the Nighthawks and roaming the empty streets of Moonhaven. But when a rare werewolf attack rocks the town, the friends become prime suspects. Perfect for children of 8-12, this hardback is packed with more than 100 spectacular black-and-white illustrations by Rob. A Village Books event in association with Alleyn's Schools Enterprises. The Great Hall, Alleyn's School, Townley Road, East Dulwich, SE22 8SU. BOOK VIA https://www.trybooking.com/uk/ events/landing/99093.

Sunday 8 February: Echoes through the centuries: 18th Century Duets for

Baroque Flutes and Recorder

3pm-4.45pm. Madera returns to Bell House for an afternoon of glorious duets from the Baroque and Classical eras. Join them for a programme of works by leading composers of the eighteenth century, alongside some less-known gems and unexpected delights. Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7BG. www.bellhouse.co.uk.

Sunday 8 February: The Goose Is Out! Singaround at The Castle 7pm-10.30pm

If you like singing, come to our Singaround! It is very informal and participative. We take it in turns to sing a song - any genre, any language. Everybody is welcome. You don't have to be a "good singer", and you can just listen if you want. www.thegooseisout.com. £5 on the door (cash or BACS only). The Castle, 280 Crystal Palace Road, East Dulwich, SE22 9JJ.

Tuesday 10 February: An Evening with Nussaibah Younis 7.30pm-8.30pm

Join us for an evening with Nussaibah Younis and Bryony Gordon to discuss Nussaibah’s Women’s Prize Shortlisted book, Fundamentally. A bitingly original, wildly funny and wickedly sharp debut, Fundamentally upends a defining controversy of our age with heart, complexity and humour.

Dr Nussaibah Younis is a peacebuilding practitioner and a globally recognised expert on contemporary Iraq. She studied at Oxford, Durham and Harvard Universities, and has a PhD in International Affairs. She was born in the UK to an Iraqi father and a Pakistani mother, and currently lives in London.

Bryony Gordon is an award-winning journalist, author and mental health campaigner. In 2020 she won the Journalist’s Charity Special Award for her writing about mental illness, and she was a judge for the 2025 Women’s Prize for Fiction.

A Village Books event with Alleyn's Schools Enterprises. The Great Hall, Townley Road, East Dulwich, SE22 8SU. www.trybooking.com/uk/events/landing/100134

Financial Matters

With David Frederick FCCA | Marcus Bishop Associates | marcus-bishop.com

Couples Can Show Love Without Breaking The Bank

Just as we have recovered from Christmas and New Year, what’s around the corner? Yes, Valentine’s Day. A day to express and shower your loved one with all things demonstrative of, as the Bee Gees asked, “how deep is your love?” The depth of our love is reflected somewhat in the Valentine’s Day spending statistics.

In 2025, circa £1.5bn was spent on Valentine’s Day an increase of over 60% on the £926m spent in 2021. However, the annual growth was some 7.1%. What is your planned Valentine’s Day spend? In 2025, the average plan spend per UK adult was £52. Topping the table for spending was eating out with some £137m, with £100m spent on flowers coming a close second.

Despite these impressive expressions of love spending, there is still scope for expressing love in a more economical manner. Some couples, who shall remain nameless have shared some romantic Valentine budget tips.

The biggest saver was shared by the couple who swapped their over £100 Valentine’s restaurant bill for a home cooked Italian feast (other food styles are available, but Italian is their Valentine special).They provided an itemised break down of their spend on fresh pasta, wine and candles. This saved them over £60. Other than the financial saving was the more intimate personalised atmosphere. The level of savings will differ for other couples. However, some reflection may need to be assigned to the meal preparation cost but in the spirit of love that can be parked for now.

Another creative couple prefer writing a heartfelt letter recalling and reflecting on that first holiday (date or when their eyes collided). This can also be presented in a handmade envelope; allegedly, zero cost yet priceless emotional value. It was said to save money and deepen affection.

One couple’s healthy alternative to their £100 plus restaurant bill was a mini picnic walk, Dulwich to Sydenham Woods. A walk in the open, chatting, laughing and eating nibbles along the way. This

alternative cost a fraction of their usual restaurant bill; plus provided the health benefits of fresh air and exercise. In addition to these alternative ways to spend your Valentine’s, here are three more tips to stretch your pounds for the big day.

1) Set a joint budget early. This keeps both partners aligned and is designed to avoid overspending; or points scoring on who spent more on whom.

2) Experiences are remembered long after the price tag. True love is never measured in the size of the gift or pounds spent. The most valuable gift is time spent together.

3) Avoid last minute purchases. If you are planning a Valentine’s present or surprise, start today as procrastination and last minute snatch and grab of what is left is often a costly experience. Why bring home flowers from the local petrol station? Or the last meal for two from the supermarket!

Elton John sung, “right from the start, I gave you, my heart.” So don’t go breaking it with lack of Valentine’s Day planning.

Happy Birthday Herne Hill School!

This year, Herne Hill School is turning 50 - an opportunity to celebrate and say thank you.

Thank you to every pupil whose future we have had the privilege to shape!

Thank you to their parents for working with us so collaboratively to that end and entrusting us with this huge responsibility.

Thank you to all our current and former staff for your love, care and dedication. You have always been the School's greatest asset, creating that special friendly, happy, family-feel environment in which young children thrive best.

And thank you to our founders, Phyll Bennett and Chris Ratsey, for having started it all in 1976! We are grateful for your enduring foundational gifts, especially:

• Our ethos of Love • Care • Excellence, which encapsulates so well our commitment to excellence and conviction that love and care are prerequisites for a top-quality education.

• The School's co-educational nature, from the outset.

• The concept of our ‘Golden rules’, which have signified for decades the importance we attribute to developing the ‘whole child’, including the provision of a moral and behavioural compass.

• Our passion for outdoor learning, nature and trees.

• Our age range from 2+ to 7+, which coincides precisely with what is worldwide recognised as Early Childhood Education (ECE).

These foundational pillars have withstood the test of time, with an extensive body of research having now proven just how important they are in optimising a child’s ECE. It is fantastic to witness the outside world and society at large increasingly recognising that this educational period is the most formative in a child’s life and that it requires both a specialist pedagogical approach and continuity throughout it.

Internally, we have been acutely aware of this all along and are therefore continuously incorporating into our curriculum the latest research findings and best practice models, judiciously balancing this with the evolving societal demands and constraints of the current age. Standing still is no option, especially in these fast-changing times, with the need for cultivating emotional intelligence (EQ) for this generation of children having become particularly evident.

To gain a glimpse of our thoughts on this and a host of other ECE aspects, we invite you to visit the 'Insights and videos' page on our website.

If you are a prospective parent, we would love it if you visited us on our Open Morning on Saturday 7 March 2026.

And if you are a former pupil, parent or staff member, please join us on Saturday 16 May for a special Golden Anniversary Open Day (see details on our website).

We are looking forward to continuing to serve our Herne Hill, Dulwich and neighbouring communities and to hopefully seeing you soon!

Ngaire Telford (Headteacher) and Dominik Magyar (Director)

Ripe Old Age

Practical Advice for Navigating Later Life with Michael Scott | rightathome.co.uk/mitcham

Still Got It: Why Over-60s Are the Workforce’s Best Kept Secret

Attitudes about working life after 60 are changing. For years, ageism has made it hard for older workers to find work: people were seen as “slowing down,” “stuck in their ways,” or simply too old to fit in. But that stereotype is being re-examined. Employers who are starting to see just how much value people in their 60s and beyond can bring to the workplace.

Today, more employers are willing to hire and retain older workers than ever before. The number of employees aged 65 and over grew by over 6% between May 2023 and May 2024 alone, and the employment rate for those 65+ has roughly doubled since 2000.

Part of this shift is due to skills shortages, but a lot of it is about changing attitudes. Businesses are recognising that experience, reliability and good judgment are real assets. Someone who has handled difficult customers, tight deadlines and office politics over several decades often brings calm and perspective that cannot be taught in a training session.

Ageism hasn’t disappeared, of course. Some people over 60 still worry about being overlooked because of grey hair. Doubts creep in: “Will they think I’m past it?” or “Will I fit into a younger team?” But the narrative is changing. More employers now actively value mixed-age teams, seeing how different generations can give the team balance. Older colleagues often make excellent mentors, sounding boards and problem-solvers, and that recognition is helping to chip away at outdated unfair assumptions.

There’s also a growing realisation that work isn’t only about money or status — it’s about purpose. Many people over 60 want to stay involved because they enjoy using their skills, meeting others, and being part of everyday life. Employers responding with flexible hours, job-sharing, phased retirement and retraining

opportunities are finding that older workers are enthusiastic, committed and loyal.

If you’re over 60 and thinking about return to work, it is increasingly realistic to expect to find opportunities that may suit what you are looking for. Volunteering, consultancy, and small business ventures are popular routes that make use of long-built expertise. The old idea that work “ends” at 60 is being replaced with the idea that it simply evolves.

In short, attitudes are catching up with reality: people in their 60s are healthier, more active and more capable than stereotypes suggest. As ageism recedes and employers become more willing to hire older people, the door is opening wider. Later life is no longer about stepping aside — it’s about staying involved, sharing wisdom, and proving every day that capability doesn’t come with an expiry date.

What's On - February

Tuesday 10 February:

Cosy Candlelit Gong bath on Sydenham Hill, SE23

8pm-9pm. Step into the magical realm of my Secret Soul Sanctuary by the woods! It is a safe haven in the heart of South London, where I invite you to join me for an evening Gong Meditation / Sound Journey. Secret Soul Sanctuary, Sydenham Hill, SE23 3PH. Bookings via Eventbrite and www.thesoulnurturer.co.uk

Wednesday 11 February:

EDWI: Meet Kevin FortuneMake-Up Artist & Hair Stylist

8pm-9.30pm. Make-Up Artist & Hair Stylist for stage & screen & Personal Stylist to the Stars

Let’s glam up! Join us at our February event for an evening with Kevin Fortune, about his life in hair and make-up design for stage and screen. Kevin has worked in the world of Film, Music, TV, Editorials, and as a Personal Stylist to many A-list artists, taking Kevin on shoots and locations all over the world. Kevin has worked as a Personal Makeup Artist and Hair Stylist to: Kim Cattrall, Alexa Chung, Brooke Shields, Kelly Osbourne, La Roux, Nick Grimshaw, Jameela Jamil, Serena Williams, Naomi Ackie Chinenye Ezeudu. Guests welcome, the guest fee is £5, to be paid in cash. We welcome new members; the subscription, pro rata for January'26 to March'26, is £11.75 when joining in January 2026. The new subscription year, for the year from 1/4/26 to 31/1/27, starts on 1/4/2026 and the subscription is £54. The Castle Pub, Upstairs Function Room, 280 Crystal Palace Road, East Dulwich, SE22 9JJ.

We are a group of local women of all ages and backgrounds, with monthly events, plus a monthly book club and other activities. For further information, please email: join@eastdulwichwi.co.uk.

Wednesday 11 February:

Sourdough Sauna Social in South London 7pm-9pm

Taste homemade sourdough from Elise (@atelieralveo) and kimchi from Loz (@ southlondonferments), meet new people and relax in the 6-person garden sauna. It’s a relaxed social, not a workshop — come for the flavour, sweat it out in the sauna and stay for the community. We will have plenty of time for everyone to sauna as we will be in and out of the sauna. We recommend 10 minutes and then a break to hydrate before going back in. The event is limited to 12 participants. The sauna will be hot from 7pm - 8.15pm. We will feast on Cheese & Kimchi toasties afterwards. Feel free to BYO booze for after the sauna. Event closes at 9pm. Yellow House #71, Kingswood Road SE20 7BL. Book via Eventbrite.

Thursday

12

February: Kimchi Fermentation Workshop

7pm-8pm. Join a hands-on kimchi fermentation workshop in South London, a practical and friendly session for anyone interested in making this delicious Korean condiment. Participants will learn the basics of fermenting Chinese leaf cabbage, making the seasoning suited to your spice levels and safe storage methods while preparing their own 500ml jar to take home with full instructions.

Led by an experienced instructor in a relaxed home kitchen setting in Penge/Crystal Palace, the workshop blends demonstration with guided practice, making it suitable for beginners and more confident cooks alike. All ingredients and equipment are provided. Kimchi samples are available on arrival and cheese and kimchi toasties are provided in snack sizes (contains gluten and dairy). Expect a lively, social atmosphere where you can ask questions, taste the kimchi you will make and discover ways to incorporate kimchi into everyday meals. Ideal for food lovers seeking a practical skill and a chance to meet fellow fermenting enthusiasts. Age 18+. https://southlondonferments.wordpress.com. 71 Kingswood Road, Penge, SE20 7BL.

You can submit your events for free at: www.arounddulwich.co.uk

Thursday 12 February: Lee

Miller - Witnessing

Women

What's On - February

at War 8pm-9pm

Lee Miller (lecturer Anthony Penrose’s mother) was a woman at war, as was any woman caught up in WWII. She shot faultless images for Vogue’s haute couture in London’s bombed-out streets. She documented the magnificent work of the WRNS, ATS, Land Girls, the WRVS and nurses. She showed us refugees in Europe, women accused of collaboration and those forced into slave labour or prostitution. She also showed us the horror of concentration camp victims.

The Arts Society Dulwich membership fee is £60 single, £110 double, £12 for students for ten lectures October to July. Lectures also live on Zoom but not recorded. Guests welcome at £10 per lecture at the door, cash or card, or for the Zoom link; info@theartssocietydulwich.org.uk.

James Allen's Girls' School (JAGS) Sixth Form Centre, Green Dale, SE22 8TQ.

Monday

16

Friday 13 February - Sunday 1 November: Voyage to the Deep – Underwater Adventures 10am-5.30pm

Immerse yourself in a fascinating realm of deepsea discovery. From piloting a giant submarine to exploring ocean mysteries through hands-on activities and getting up close to living marine creatures, this engaging, interactive exhibition invites visitors to discover the marvels of the deep. On display in Europe for the first time, Voyage to the Deep – Underwater Adventures is inspired by Jules Verne’s classic novel 20,000 Leagues Under the Seas and blends science, storytelling and adventure into an unforgettable experience. The Horniman has added six aquarium tanks to the exhibition and partnered with Octonauts to provide ‘creature reports’ about the species on display and their habitats. Voyage to the Deep – Underwater Adventures is a travelling exhibition produced by the Australian National Maritime Museum and toured internationally by Flying Fish. Advanced booking recommended. Horniman Museum & Gardens, 100 London Road SE23 3PQ. https:// www.horniman.ac.uk/

February: Turner & Constable at Tate Britain

Curator talk: 7pm-8.30pm. Two of Britain’s greatest painters, J.M.W. Turner and John Constable were also the greatest of rivals. Born within a year of each other – Turner in 1775, Constable in 1776 – the art critics of the day compared their paintings to a clash of ‘fire and water’. Marking 250 years since their births, Turner and Constable: Rivals and Originals (27 November 2025 – 12 April 2026) is a landmark exhibition which explores Turner and Constable's intertwined lives and legacies. Discover unexpected sides to both artists alongside intimate insights seen through sketchbooks and personal items. This talk will explore the key moments in the careers of two of Britain’s favourite artists, highlighting key works in the current exhibition. Dr Nicole Cochrane is an art historian and curator. She is currently Assistant Curator of Historic British Art at Tate Britain and Assistant Curator of Turner and Constable: Rivals and Originals. Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7BG. www.bellhouse.co.uk.

What's On - February

Monday 16 February: Dulwich WI Monthly Meeting

7.30pm-9.30pm. Launched in 2018, the Dulwich WI is a supportive and stimulating group for women of all ages and backgrounds. We meet once a month at No 57, 57 North Cross Road, SE22 9ET. We would love to meet you and look forward to welcoming you to our group. https://dulwichwi.com.

Monday 16 February: Cosy Candle Lit Gong bath on Sydenham Hill, SE23 8pm-9pm

Step into the magical realm of my Secret Soul Sanctuary by the woods! It is a safe haven in the heart of South London, where I invite you to join me for an evening Gong Meditation / Sound Journey. Secret Soul Sanctuary, Sydenham Hill, SE23 3PH. Bookings via Eventbrite and www.thesoulnurturer.co.uk

Monday 16 - Friday 20 February: February Tennis Camp 9am-3pm

Get ready for a week packed with rallies, smiles, and loads of tennis fun! Whether your child is picking up a racket for the very first time or already smashing winners, our camps are perfect for kids aged 3–16 of all abilities. With games, challenges, and brilliant coaching, every day is full of action, laughter, and confidence-building on court! Dulwich Lawn Tennis Club, Giant Arches Road, Burbage Road, Herne Hill, SE24 9HP. Book via https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/ SebastienBlanchonCoaching/Coaching/Camps.

Tuesday 17 February: New Moon Sister Circle with Mini Gong Bath & Fire Release Ceremony 8pm-9pm

Come and connect in at this month’s sharing circle gathering, where you will be surrounded by sisterhood as you step into the magical realm of my Secret Soul Sanctuary by the woods.

In a departure from my usual Sistership Circle events, this one will be less curated, more about sharing from your truth in that moment to the group to witness (and not fix). Followed by a 2030min gong bath journalling on what you'd like to manifest and what's needed to be released to make this happen. We will then gather round the fire for a short fire release ceremony under the stars by nature (weather permitting) before you make your way home.

Secret Soul Sanctuary, Sydenham Hill, SE23 3PH. Book via Eventbrite & www.thesoulnurturer.co.uk.

Saturday 21 February: Kimchi & Sourdough Workshop with Atelier Alveo and South London Ferments 2pm-5.30pm

Join us for a unique Sourdough & Kimchi Workshop, where you’ll dive into the world of fermentation and artisanal baking! Whether you’re just starting out or already passionate about homemade foods, this hands-on session will guide you through the essentials of making delicious sourdough bread and vibrant kimchi. All materials and ingredients are provided, and you’ll leave with your own creations, new skills, and plenty of inspiration.

Enjoy a friendly, interactive atmosphere led by Loz from South London Ferments (@southlondonferments) and Elise from atelier alveo (@atelieralveo). Reserve your spot and experience the joy of crafting real food from scratch.

www.atelier-alveo.com/en/event-details/ sourdough-kimchi-workshop. Yellow House #71, Kingswood Road, Penge, SE20 7BL.

You can submit your events for free via our website: www.arounddulwich.co.uk

What's On - February

Tuesday

24 February:

An Evening with Prue Leith

7.30pm-8.30pm. Join Village Books for an evening with Great British Bake Off judge, author, chef and restaurateur Prue Leith to celebrate the publication of Being Old and Learning to Love It.

In this candid, uplifting, and funny book, Prue explores the trials and taboos of growing older –along with its unexpected joys. Part memoir and part reflection, it's packed with Prue’s trademark wit, wisdom, and no-nonsense charm as she takes a spirited canter through the triumphs, challenges and surprises of ageing well. Prue speaks with refreshing honesty about life as a modern woman in her eighties. Nothing is off limits: from beauty, staying active and finding fame on The Great British Bake Off, to friendship, family, and the occasional regret.

She tackles the big questions we all have about getting older — about time running out, dealing with grief, and her passionate belief in assisted dying — with the same frankness she brings to discussing finding love, the right time to retire, fashion, travel, and gardening. Wise, witty, and wonderfully human, this book will inspire us all to face the challenges of ageing with good humour, pragmatism and confidence.

Prue Leith made her name with her Michelinstarred restaurant Leith’s, and Leith’s school of Food and Wine. She has written sixteen cookery books, eight novels, and her memoir was published in 2013. Her first television appearance was in the 1970s and she has most recently been on our screens in the sixteenth series of The Great British Bake Off, for which she has been a judge since 2017.

The Vaughan William Auditorium, 144 East Dulwich Grove SE22 8TE. Book tickets via www.trybooking.com/uk/events/landing/99132. In assocIatIon wIth James allen’s GIrls’ school.

Friday 27 February: Creative Tales

9.40am-10.50am or 11.40am-12.50pm. Join Rosie Tells Tales for these joyful and interactive storytelling sessions for under 5s, inside the ArtPlay Pavilion.www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk. College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7AD.

Friday 27 February: Collage Landscapes

10am-1pm. Collage is a wonderful way to experiment with shapes and colours. I find it helps inform my painting practice and is quite simply a joyful and very compelling art form that we can all access. In this class I will provide a variety of hand painted, pre-loved, patterned, plain and found papers for you all to cut, tear, shape and stick to make a landscape – realistic, abstract, or somewhere in between. There will be plenty of images for inspiration.

Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7BG. www.bellhouse.co.uk.

Friday 27 February: NICK HART, Adrian Roper, Creeping Jane 7pm-11pm

Nick Hart is an award-winning singer and multiinstrumentalist whose work with English folk song has earned him a reputation as one of the most acclaimed performers of his generation. Adrian Roper is a fine local singer and guitarist. Creeping Jane sing unaccompanied, in unison and harmony. £15 advance, £17 on the door (cash or BACS only) For more information about the artists, the evening, the Goose and tickets, please see www.thegooseisout.com.

The Ivy House, 40 Stuart Road, Nunhead, SE15 3BE.

AROUND DULWICH

Discover the Best of Dulwich with AROUND DULWICH

If you live in Dulwich - or even just visit - you know how special our community is. Now, Around Dulwich makes it easier than ever to stay connected with everything happening in our area. From local news and features to event listings and family activities, this website is your go-to guide for all things Dulwich.

A HUB FOR LOCAL LIFE

Around Dulwich isn’t just a website; it’s a vibrant online community. It brings together residents, local businesses, and organisations, keeping everyone upto-date on what’s happening nearby. Whether you’re looking for cultural events, fitness classes, theatre shows, or family-friendly activities, the site has it all. The website also highlights stories that matter - local achievements, volunteer opportunities, and features on notable residents. It’s about celebrating the people and places that make Dulwich unique.

EVENTS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS

One of the most popular sections on Around Dulwich is the events calendar. Updated regularly, it covers a wide range of activities, including:

• Food and markets – Don’t miss the Peckham Farmers Market on Bellenden Road, offering fresh, local produce weekly.

• Sports and fitness – Follow local teams like Dulwich Hamlet FC, with fixture updates for both men’s and women’s matches.

• Creative workshops - From collage- making to online breathwork sessions, there’s something for everyone.

• Family activities - Special classes and events for children ensure the youngest members of the community can enjoy Dulwich too.

STAY CONNECTED

Around Dulwich makes it easy to stay informed. You can sign up for email updates and receive the latest news, articles, and events straight to your inbox. No more missing out on community events or exciting local initiatives!

PROMOTE YOUR OWN EVENT

Around Dulwich is the only website that promotes local events. You can submit your event details directly on the site which will then be sent for approval. Your event can be a one-off occasion or a regular repeating event. This information is used to produce the event listings in this very magazine.

GET INVOLVED

Supporting Around Dulwich is a simple way to support your community. By attending events, sharing stories, and engaging with local initiatives, you help strengthen local connections and celebrate the area’s vibrant culture.

Residents and local businesses can also contribute articles or submit events, making the site a collaborative hub that reflects the diversity and energy of our neighbourhood. From volunteer opportunities with Link Age Southwark to coverage of local projects, every contribution counts.

AROUND DULWICH HIGHLIGHTS

Recent posts showcase the website’s variety and depth:

• Detailed previews of upcoming events, from food festivals to theatre shows.

• Features on local residents making a difference in the community.

• Updates on new cafés, shops, and services opening in the area.

• Guides to cultural and outdoor activities perfect for families and individuals alike.

With content like this, Around Dulwich ensures residents are always in the know and never miss out on the best of what’s happening locally.

WHY IT MATTERS

In a world full of generic online content, Around Dulwich stands out by keeping everything local, relevant, and engaging. It’s more than just information—it’s a way to explore the richness of our community, discover new experiences, and meet neighbours.

By signing up for updates, attending events, and sharing stories, you’re not only staying informed— you’re actively helping to nurture the unique spirit of Dulwich. Every click, share, and visit supports the community and helps keep local culture thriving.

YOUR GUIDE TO DULWICH

Whether you’re after the latest market, a creative workshop, a sporting fixture, or a children’s class, Around Dulwich has it listed. It’s simple, informative, and packed with ways to enjoy and engage with the local area. So don’t miss out visit arounddulwich. co.uk today, explore the latest articles and events, and sign up for updates. There’s always something happening Around Dulwich and now, you can be part of it.

Dulwich’s

AwardWinning Prep School Announces Exciting New Developments

Rosemead Preparatory School and Nursery, Dulwich, is delighted to unveil plans for its new Pre-School and Reception classrooms, set to open in September 2026. These purpose-designed environments will offer children an inspiring, contemporary, and nurturing start to their educational journey, supporting the school’s commitment to shaping brilliant futures.

The project represents a significant investment in early childhood education, creating spaces that are immersive, flexible, and designed to ignite curiosity from the very start of school life.

The Pre-School and Reception development represents the beginning of a wider vision for Rosemead Preparatory School. Over the next several years, the school will embark on a phased programme of redevelopment designed to modernise and enhance the entire site. This long-term plan will focus on creating contemporary, flexible and future-ready spaces that support exceptional teaching and learning at every stage.

This initial phase signals the school’s commitment to sustained investment in its facilities, ensuring that every child benefits from an environment that inspires confidence, creativity and a love of learning. The new PreSchool space has been thoughtfully designed

around a calming, organic aesthetic using a soft palette of pale lilac and earthy greens. Each aspect of the environment has been crafted to support young children’s wellbeing, focus and imagination. Distinct areas will be defined through bold interactive features and gentle flooring transitions will encourage exploration and independent learning, while soft seating features introduce warmth and personality. The result is a space that feels modern and deeply child-centred, giving the youngest pupils the freedom to learn, play and grow in an enriching environment.

The Reception classrooms build on the Pre-School’s ethos with a scheme that pairs

a neutral base and soft green palette with uplifting, purple-toned accents. This creates a fresh, nature-inspired atmosphere that supports cognitive development and play-based learning. Purposefully designed activity and work areas will promote collaboration, creativity and early social skills. Flexibility and adaptability are central to the scheme, ensuring the space meets the needs of all learners.

Together, these new environments will provide pupils with the space and structure they need to thrive building confidence, independence and readiness for the next stage of their learning.

Speaking about the plans, Nick Hewlett,

CEO of St Dunstan’s Education Group, said: ‘Across the Group, we are committed to creating learning environments that truly inspire young people and prepare them for the world they will inherit. These exceptional new spaces at Rosemead reflect our belief in educational excellence delivered differently where innovation, wellbeing and individuality come together to give every child the very best possible start.’

Alison Walsingham, Head of Operations at Rosemead, added: ‘This project represents a significant and exciting investment in the future of our school. We are working meticulously with our design partners to ensure these new spaces are not only beautiful but highly functional and sustainable. Every detail has been carefully considered to create environments where children and staff feel supported, inspired and able to thrive every day.’

This development comes at an especially exciting moment for Rosemead Preparatory School. Last year, the school was named Independent Prep School of the Year at the Tes Schools Awards 2025, widely regarded as the Oscars of education. The recognition celebrates Rosemead’s exceptional pastoral care, innovative approach to learning, and the strong sense of community that defines the school.

Prospective families will be able to learn more about the exciting developments at Rosemead’s open morning on Wednesday 11 February 2026. www.rosemeadprep.org.uk

The Last Word with Caroline Bailey

I am Rev Caroline Bailey – I am the vicar of All Saints West Dulwich. I have recently moved here from Manchester where I used to be an English teacher in a sixth form college.

How long have you lived in the area? Six months.

What brought you here?

I became the vicar of All Saints church on Rosendale Road!

What do you most value about the area?

I love the green spaces, the diversity, all the cafes and the amazing range of people I meet every day! I also love the train to Victoria and how you feel like you’re close to the centre of London but not completely in it.

The one thing you couldn’t do without?

I would have to say my faith – it’s not easy but when you are part of a faith community and have a belief in God, life is never dull and you always have support and meaning in your life.

Do you belong to any groups?

I swim at Brockwell Lido most days (it was 3.5 degrees yesterday!) and I am in a book group and hope to join an art class this year.

Describe your perfect weekend

On Saturday morning I would have a swim then a sauna at Brockwell Lido. For lunch I’d go to Ema’s café on Rosendale Road (I love the French mushrooms on toast!). Later I’d take my two cockapoos for a walk in Dulwich woods with family and/or friends. On Sunday I love to celebrate communion at church with the wonderful congregation then we have tea and coffee and a good chat. In the afternoon, a stroll round Brockwell Park would be nice and maybe a film at West Norwood Picture house!

Your favourite place for a night out?

I like to watch a film at West Norwood Picturehouse then eat at Sole Luna Italian Restaurant in West Norwood.

Your favourite place to go for a drink?

The 2-4-1 at The Rosendale or the Birdhouse Brewery in Herne Hill. Both are friendly and full of life!

The best kept secret...

The Woodhouse pub in Sydenham hill!

When I want to relax...

I swim or watch TV – I like Scandic Noir!

What is your favourite shop?

I really like Lark in Herne Hill where I recently got a black faker leather jacket for £10 – what a bargain! It’s also full of nice clothes and good presents.

The book I’m reading at the moment...

I’m re-reading ‘Wuthering Heights’ as my daughter wanted us to read it before the new film. And I used to be an English teacher before I was a priest, so I like to keep that part of my life up. We recently used Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ to talk about faith in our Advent course in church.

My perfect holiday...

I love Italy (We lived there for a year many years ago!) so I would like to go with my family to a villa in Tuscany with a nice (cold) pool and have a chef there so I don’t need to cook!

My secret ambition...

We have lots of wonderful classical concerts at All Saints church; it would be fun to have a pop concert one time!

Volunteer Drivers Needed

For 30 years, Link Age Southwark has eased loneliness and reduced social isolation for local older people and those living with a diagnosis of dementia. Today, they urgently need more volunteer drivers like Mark. Every Thursday, he collects four older women, from very different backgrounds, driving them to and from singing sessions run by the charity.

“I enjoy listening to them chat when I’m driving them. Hearing about their lives and families is fascinating – they may have limited mobility now, but one of them told me that at 18 she’d been a long jump champion!

They seem to really appreciate the interaction – they’ll ask about my sons, my dogs – it’s lovely to just be me. I retired last year from a very highpressure career where I was constantly ‘on call’. I wanted to explore other aspects of what I can bring to the world.

Link Age Southwark needed drivers. I have a roomy car, and it was an opportunity to give my

HartBeeps

Mondays at Christ Church, 263 Barry Road, East Dulwich, SE22 0JT. Mondays 10am Happy House, 11.15am Baby Beeps & 12.30pm Baby Bells.. http://hartbeeps.com

Family Space

Free, creative workshops that take place on the last Saturday of the month at the South London Gallery, 6567 Peckham Road. For children aged 5-12 years old with their parents and carers. Drop-in, no need to book. www.southlondongallery.org

Little Superhero Training

Practice your Superhero moves! Discover Superhero fun facts! Any Little Heroes, Boys and Girls aged 2 - 5, Come along for a FREE taster session. Mondays & Fridays (term time only) St Barnabas Parish Hall, 23 Dulwich Village, SE21 7BT. Contact Lucy 07813 791757 | lucy@littleherocompany.com www.littleherocompany.com

Mini Athletics (SE London)

Winning the gold medal for children’s sports classes! Start your child’s fantastic journey in athletic development, designed for toddlers up to children of 7 years old. All through a fun play-based format. To try us out, contact Sam: 07811787153 | smcdermott@miniathletics.com www.miniathletics.com

brain a rest, whilst hopefully making a difference. Being a volunteer driver makes me feel good: you’re taking time – listening and being there for others.”

To find out more about becoming a Link Age Southwark volunteer, contact 020 8299 2623; volunteering@linkagesouthwark.org or visit: www.linkagesouthwark.org

Nature Makers

Eco-friendly crafting for little creatives! Join our awardwinning classes & events, where your child can get creative, connect with nature, and have fun in a safe, welcoming environment!

Contact: marie@nature-makers.co.uk or visit: www.nature-makers.co.uk

Tennis-4-Kids

Learn young, have fun. Rally around for a smashing time. Serving ages 3-11. Rackets supplied; fun guaranteed. Gordon 07877 391005 | www.tennis-4-kids.com | gordonwood@hotmail.co.uk

‘Unicornios y Dinosaurios’

Fun and interactive Spanish language play classes, for children aged 0-5, and their parents and carers. Thursdays mornings (term-time only) in East Dulwich. Suitable for all levels of Spanish! Contact Hazel on 07852 553 239 or hazelcarr@ hotmail.com.

Your Class Here

If you would like to advertise your children’s class here, please e-mail angela@semagazines.co.uk for details.

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