Battersea Power Station is iconic. Once a coal-fired power station, the Grade II listed landmark still stands proud on the River Thames since its decommissioning in the 80s. After dodging plans to be redeveloped into bank offices, a theme park or a football stadium, the Power Station has been adopted by the city’s creative minds who have given it a new lease of life. Now, the grand Art Deco structure provides a home for vibrant drinking, dining and unique experiences, just explore our guide to must-sees and revel in Battersea Power Station's revived charm.
Birdies
This South London bar combines mini golf with cutting-edge cocktails from its home in Battersea. A winning quirky date idea, the surreal 9-hole course is sure to putt your senses, aim and accuracy to the test, with obstacles ranging from rapid lighting to overhead ramps. To help keep you going? They've got kooky cocktails along with Taco-Yaki in the kitchen, serving Pan-Asian-meets-Mexican marvels.
Vagabond
These guys have quickly become the go-to wine bar in London, so it’s no surprise they’ve set up shop at the Power Station. Championing independent winemakers and rare finds, Vagabond even totes an award-winning Urban Winery and an in-house wine school. Pay them a visit and you can take part in guided tasting sessions with experts, with mementos available from the dedicated shop.
Archlight Cinema
Cinephiles of the city, rejoice! There’s another independent cinema in London, and this one’s pretty exceptional. The state-of-the-art, sound-proof space is designed to completely immerse guests in the films that grace its screen. Adding to the experience, the bar serves wine, beer and homemade treats from the Sweet Shop, with carefully-designed seating for optimal viewing.
Megan's Battersea Power Station
Of course, Battersea Power Station wouldn't be a real cultural hub without at least one good brunch spot, am I right? Cue Megan’s, who serve an all-day brunch menu of Mediterranean goodies. Sat right on the waterfront, the Instgrammer’s paradise features outdoor seating, fairy light-lit booths, macrame decor and the brand’s signature pretty interiors.
The Turbine Theatre
The Turbine Theatre is an all-new theatrical concept on the banks of the Thames. The stage regularly showcases new works, world premieres and classic stories given a re-invention for the modern audience (just like the Power Station itself). Notable productions include the WhatsOnStage Award-nominated High Fidelity and upcoming show Honest Amy directed by Kathy Burke.
Battersea Brewery
Love a craft brew? Well the Power Station’s got one heck of a brewery sitting on Arches Lane. The haven for independent brewing has an ample selection to choose from, with a taproom on-site to ensure extra freshness. Of course, no tasting session would be complete without a few snacks along the way… and there’s plenty to tuck into, from cured meats to cheese toasties.
Tonkotsu
Tonkotsu is a must-visit destination in Battersea Power Station for Asian food. Head on over and you’ll get to slurp on hot 18-hour slow cooked broth, with juicy roast pork belly and homemade noodles. That’s not all though, as they serve plenty of plant-based options, tasty gyoza, and signature chilli sauce (which you can take home). To wash it all down? Try a glass of the Tonkotsu Futushu sake.
No 29 Power Station West
Part of the Darwin & Wallace family, No 29 Power Station West is an independent neighbourhood bar and restaurant spread across two floors. Housed on the riverbank with enviable interiors, it’s a must for boozy brunches, Sunday roasts and nightcaps soundtracked by resident DJs. If you feel like dining al fresco, the Thameside terrace is pretty dreamy with twinkling fairy lights and unbeatable views.