Dulwich Library
About
Dulwich Library is a welcoming community hub perfect for families visiting London with young children. The modern facility features an excellent children's section with comfortable reading areas, regular storytelling sessions, and family-friendly events that offer a quiet respite from busy sightseeing. It's an ideal rainy day activity or a relaxing afternoon stop where kids can explore British children's literature and parents can enjoy free wifi.
Highlights
- ✓Dedicated children's section with colorful, comfortable reading nooks
- ✓Regular storytelling sessions and rhyme times for babies and toddlers
- ✓Diverse collection of British and international children's books
- ✓Free family events and activities during school holidays
- ✓Clean, modern facilities with baby changing areas
Pro Tips
- 1.Check their website or call ahead for storytelling session times, as these special programs are popular with locals and visiting families alike
- 2.Bring your passport or ID if you want to apply for a temporary visitor library card to borrow books during your London stay
- 3.The library has free wifi and comfortable seating, making it a great spot for parents to plan the rest of their day while kids browse
- 4.Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience, as after-school hours (3-5pm) get quite busy with local families
- 5.Combine your visit with a walk through nearby Dulwich Park, just a 10-minute walk away
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10am-12pm) are ideal for a peaceful visit with fewer crowds. Tuesday or Wednesday mornings often feature toddler storytimes. Avoid after-school hours (3-5pm) when it gets busy with local children.
What to Know
Admission is completely free. Limited on-street parking is available on Lordship Lane, but the library is easily accessible via bus routes 40, 176, and 185. No cafe inside, but many family-friendly eateries line nearby Lordship Lane.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with special holiday programming during school breaks (half-terms and summer holidays). Hours may vary on bank holidays, so check ahead. Summer reading challenges and craft activities are particularly popular in July and August.
Nearby Eats
Lordship Lane has numerous family-friendly options including Franklins farm-to-table restaurant (high chairs available) and The Palmerston gastropub with a dedicated children's menu. For quick bites, try one of the several cafes along the street offering pastries and sandwiches.
More Activities Near Dulwich
Dulwich Park
Dulwich Park is a gorgeous 72-acre Victorian park in South London that's a local favorite for families seeking outdoor fun without the tourist crowds. With excellent playgrounds, a boating lake, wide cycling paths, and plenty of open green space for picnics and games, it offers a peaceful escape where kids can run free and parents can relax in beautiful, heritage-listed surroundings.
Horniman Museum and Gardens
The Horniman Museum and Gardens is a wonderfully eclectic South London treasure offering free admission to natural history exhibits, a fascinating musical instrument collection, a small aquarium, and 16 acres of beautiful gardens. Kids are captivated by the famous oversized walrus, hands-on displays, and the chance to explore both indoor galleries and outdoor spaces in one visit, making it perfect for families who want educational fun without the crowds of central London attractions.
Sydenham Hill Wood
Sydenham Hill Wood offers families a magical escape into one of London's hidden ancient woodlands, perfect for adventurous kids who love exploring nature trails, spotting wildlife, and climbing over fallen logs. This 24-hour accessible nature reserve provides a peaceful green sanctuary where children can run freely, discover plants and creatures, and enjoy outdoor play away from the city bustle.
Belair Park
Belair Park offers families a delightful escape in the leafy South London neighborhood of Dulwich, combining historic parkland with modern play facilities. This spacious green oasis features well-maintained playgrounds, wooded walking trails, and plenty of open lawn perfect for picnics, ball games, and letting kids burn off energy in a beautiful setting.