Peckham Rye Station is inviting locals to its restored Victorian waiting room for a month of historical talks, literature, art and community action.
The stunning vaulted hall, which lay abandoned for sixty years before being reopened as part of the station’s renovation, is hosting events until Saturday, November 18.
Designed in the French Second Empire style, the breathtaking space was once adorned with huge gas chandeliers, providing a place for Victorian commuters to take a breather in between journeys.
One hundred years on, visitors to the Rye Lane station can finally enjoy the space once again, with the full line-up of free events available here.
Among the events on offer is a talk by Peckham architect Benedict O’Looney, who presided over the restoration, on Thursday, October 26.
He’ll tell listeners how the team tackled the project, and explain why the station’s unusual, expressive architecture is so significant.
Literature lovers can look forward to an evening organised by the Peckham bookshop Review, on Thursday November 2.
Authors Evie Wild, Staffan Gnosspelius and Roz Dineen will discuss their writing processes and how they’ve engaged with mental health in their work.
Local campaign group Peckham Vision will host four hours of community action on Saturday, November 4.
Participants will learn about the redevelopment of the Aylesham Shopping Centre and community initiatives taking place in the area.
There will also be a 90-minute yoga and sound experience delivered by Rebekah Jade, ending with a soothing gong bath from fellow teacher Shamita Ray, on Sunday November 5.
But this is just a sample of the events on offer. To find out about everything that’s planned, click here.