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- Words
- Farai Garayi
Discover the best things to do in Hammersmith, from cafes and cocktail bars to shopping at Kings Mall and visiting the Eventim Apollo. Discover hidden neighbourhood gems.
Just a stone's throw from the River Thames, Hammersmith is one of West London's most dynamic neighbourhoods, and if you're living at Scape Hammersmith, you're right at the centre of the action. Whether you're into live music, peaceful riverside walks, buzzing nightlife or café culture, this area has something for everyone. Here's our guide to the best things to do in Hammersmith .
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Cafés
Hammersmith has a fantastic café scene, perfect for remote workers, students, and food lovers:
Antipode – A hidden gem for Aussie-style coffee, breakfast burritos, and banana bread. Bright, airy, and ideal for a morning study session. The coffee is exceptional, brewed using ethically sourced beans and made with care. But it’s not just about caffeine; their brunch menu is a winner. Try the smashed avocado toast with feta and poached eggs, the breakfast burrito, or their rotating seasonal specials.
Truth – Modern interiors with a minimalist feel. Their matcha lattes and pastries are top-tier, and it's a great 'remote study' spot. Inspired by global flavours, its menu includes breakfast, brunch, sandwiches, wraps, salads, burgers, and even an after-hours menu with light bites, beer, cocktails, and wine.
Café Plum – Small, cosy, and full of character. If you’re looking for friendly service and homemade cakes, this is your go-to spot. This local favourite serves up excellent speciality coffee alongside a tempting menu featuring everything from a classic Full English breakfast to avocado and feta on sourdough, fluffy pancakes, and freshly baked cakes. With its cosy vibe and friendly service, it's the perfect spot for breakfast, brunch, or a coffee break while exploring Hammersmith.
Kaffeine – Kaffeine Hammersmith brings a taste of Antipodean coffee culture to West London, serving exceptional speciality coffee in a sleek, modern setting. This Australian-inspired café roasts its beans to ensure perfect espresso-based drinks, from velvety flat whites to rich long blacks, alongside single-origin filter options. The food menu features high-quality brunch staples with a creative twist, including smashed avocado on sourdough with feta and chilli, fluffy ricotta hotcakes, and hearty breakfast rolls.
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Bars, Clubs and Nightlife
Are you looking for cocktail bars in Hammersmith or places to dance the night away? Here's what's waiting:
Smith's Cocktail Bar Hammersmith– A hidden gem nestled in the heart of Hammersmith, offering an intimate and sophisticated drinking experience for cocktail enthusiasts. This stylish bar boasts a speakeasy-inspired ambience featuring dim lighting, plush leather seating, and a striking marble-topped bar that sets the stage for expertly crafted cocktails. The talented mixologists at Smith's take pride in their creative approach, using premium spirits, house-made infusions, and seasonal ingredients to craft both classic cocktails and innovative signature creations.
Kindred – For a venue that’s part cocktail bar, part cultural hub, and 100% community‑focused, Kindred near Scape Hammersmith delivers. With eclectic events—from acoustic nights and whisky tastings to writers’ hours—it’s urban culture without the tourist vibe. Upstairs, coworking, study spaces are available, along with a bar and kitchen and a mix of plush lounges and live music areas, making it ideal for students who want connection, fun, and creativity in one spot.
The Swan – Iconic, historic, and just across from Scape, this Grade II–listed Nicholson’s pub gives you timeless charm and hearty fare. Sip rotating cask ales, tuck into a steak and ale pie or legendary fish and chips, grab a quiz team and unwind until the early hours. With its Arts & Crafts décor and cosy corners, it’s the perfect student-friendly pub for study breaks, quiz nights, or a laid-back evening with mates.
The Blue Anchor – One of Hammersmith’s oldest pubs, serving classic British dishes with a modern twist beside the River Thames. Whether you're nesting in the snug downstairs bar or dining upstairs with a view of Hammersmith Bridge, its mix of hearty food, rotating real ales, and sunny riverside seating hits the spot for students. Try the Sunday roast or fish & chips, join a pub quiz, or simply enjoy a pint by the water—and all just a short stroll from Scape.
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Restaurants
Eat Tokyo – For authentic and affordable Japanese cuisine steps from Scape Hammersmith, Eat Tokyo is a local favourite. Known for its generous portions and fresh ingredients, this spot serves a wide variety of sushi, sashimi, bento boxes, and classic Japanese dishes, including tempura and curry. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner, it offers tasty, well-priced options that appeal to students and locals alike. Its convenient location and welcoming atmosphere make it an excellent choice for a delicious meal after exploring the Hammersmith area.
The Gate: Located just behind the Hammersmith Apollo, The Gate is London’s original vegetarian restaurant, renowned for its creative, plant-based dishes in a stylish and relaxed setting. With highlights like the beetroot cheeseburger, wild mushroom risotto cake, and flavourful Thai curry, it’s a top spot for veggie and vegan-friendly dining. Perfect for a cosy lunch or pre-show dinner, The Gate offers fresh, wholesome meals just a short walk from Scape Hammersmith.
Franco Manca- Another gem in Westfield London, Franco Manca, is a popular spot for delicious sourdough pizzas made with slow-fermented dough and fresh, seasonal toppings. From classic Margherita to creative options like Truffle & Burrata or Smoked Beef, there’s something to satisfy every pizza lover. The casual, welcoming vibe makes it an excellent choice for a quick meal or relaxed hangout just a short walk from Scape accommodation.
Kintan- If you’re craving a fun and interactive dining experience, Kintan Japanese BBQ allows you to grill your premium meats and fresh vegetables right at your table. Known for its high-quality cuts, such as marinated short ribs and spicy pork, this lively spot is perfect for groups or special occasions. Located in central London, it offers a modern, upbeat atmosphere just a short walk from Scape accommodation, making it ideal for a memorable meal with friends
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Attractions and Things to Do
When it comes to Hammersmith attractions, there's plenty to keep you entertained, especially if you're into music, theatre, or comedy.
Eventim Apollo – Just a short walk from Scape Hammersmith, the Eventim Apollo is a legendary live music and entertainment venue with a rich history dating back to 1932. Known for its stunning Art Deco architecture and its capacity to host thousands, it has welcomed iconic performers like The Beatles and Queen. Today, it remains one of London’s top spots for concerts, comedy, and shows, making it a must-visit for culture lovers exploring Hammersmith.
Lyric Hammersmith Theatre – Another short walk from Scape Hammersmith, the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre is a vibrant hub for performing arts. With a mix of large-scale productions and intimate shows in its two theatres, it offers something for every theatre lover. Known for its inclusive programming and welcoming atmosphere, the Lyric also features a bar and café, making it a great spot to enjoy the culture and unwind in the area.
Thames Path Walks – The Thames Path offers beautiful riverside walks along the iconic River Thames. The stretch from Hammersmith Bridge to Richmond features charming spots like Chiswick Mall, Barnes Wetland Centre, and Kew Gardens. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape, this scenic route seamlessly combines urban views with tranquil green spaces, making it an ideal destination for a refreshing day out.
Hammersmith Bridge- A beautiful Victorian suspension bridge that spans the River Thames, connecting Hammersmith to Barnes. While currently closed to motor vehicles due to restoration, the area remains open to pedestrians and cyclists, offering stunning riverside views. The recent upgrades have improved access with wider walkways, making it a lovely spot for a scenic stroll near the heart of Hammersmith.
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Outdoor Spots and Parks
Craving fresh air between lectures or a place to jog? Hammersmith offers plenty of outdoor space:
Ravenscourt Park, just a short walk from Scape Hammersmith, Ravenscourt Park is a peaceful 33-acre green space perfect for a study break or a weekend unwind. With plenty of open lawns, tree-lined paths, and a tranquil lake, it’s ideal for jogging, picnics, or simply relaxing outdoors. The park also offers tennis courts, basketball courts, and a children’s play area, as well as a café for coffee on the go. Ravenscourt Park is a go-to spot for students seeking to recharge in nature or catch up with friends.
Brook Green – Tucked between Hammersmith and Shepherd’s Bush, Brook Green is a quiet, leafy spot ideal for students looking to relax, recharge, or get active outdoors - its offers open lawn tennis courts too. Great for a quick jog, picnic, or even some light studying in the sun.
Surrounded by charming Victorian houses and close to cosy cafés and local shops, Brook Green feels like a peaceful retreat from the city buzz. With its scenic setting, it’s a hidden gem for students seeking a calm space to unwind, just minutes from campus life.
Furnivall Gardens- The park features open lawns, tree-lined paths, and benches overlooking the Thames, ideal for students looking to escape the city buzz without going far.
If you're looking for a peaceful spot to revise, a stroll with friends, or simply a place to people-watch and enjoy the fresh air, Furnivall Gardens is a must-visit green space in Hammersmith.
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Arts and Culture
Riverside Studios – is West London’s creative powerhouse, a cutting-edge arts centre just 3 minutes from Scape Hammersmith. Catch indie films, live theatre or comedy. The River Room is great for riverside drinks. With student concessions, inclusive programming, it's a must-visit cultural hub on your doorstep
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Shopping in Hammersmith
Whether you're after groceries, fashion, or last-minute flat essentials, Livat Hammersmith, Hammersmith Mall, and King’s Mall have it all.
Livat Hammersmith – Just steps from Scape, this revamped mall is more than shopping. With anchor stores like IKEA, lively events ranging from clothing swaps to gardening workshops, a bright atrium for studying or socialising, and sustainable design, it’s a modern campus hangout tailored for West London students, such as those from Imperial.
Hammersmith Mall (also known as Broadway) is located directly above the tube and is a go-to destination for everyday needs—think cafés, convenience stores, Krispy Kreme, and Boots. It's a practical and lively stop-off spot for our students living at Scape.
King’s Mall – Just a short walk away, King’s Mall offers a mix of high-street fashion brands, budget-friendly stores, and handy services. Whether you’re hunting for a quick outfit upgrade, picking up stationery, or grabbing lunch between lectures, it’s another convenient shopping option right in the heart of Hammersmith.
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Getting Around
Hammersmith is incredibly well-connected — one of the reasons students love living here.
Hammersmith Underground Station – A major Tube interchange with access to the Piccadilly, District, Circle, and Hammersmith & City lines. You can be in central London in under 20 minutes.
Buses: Dozens of routes run day and night. Perfect for exploring without relying on the tube.
Cycling: Hammersmith is bike-friendly, and there are Santander Cycle docks nearby for short rides.
Walking – With the Thames Path and wide sidewalks, it's an excellent area for walking.
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Living at Scape Hammersmith
If you're staying at Scape Hammersmith, you're right in the middle of this buzzing neighbourhood. Your student accommodation puts you within walking distance of the Kings Mall, Hammersmith, Ravenscourt Park, and the legendary Eventim Apollo Hammersmith.
Inside, you'll have access to fully-furnished studios, high-speed internet, communal spaces, 24/7 support, and an on-site gym — plus a packed events calendar to help you make friends. From riverside hangouts to late-night ramen and weekend gigs, everything is right on your doorstep.
Find your perfect room at scape
Our newest student residence offering affordable, all-inclusive rooms. With ensuite studios, high-speed Wi‑Fi, air‑cooling, and communal spaces like gyms, rooftop terraces, cinema rooms, kitchens, and study pods—all just moments from the Tube—it’s a top pick for students wanting comfort, community, and convenience in West London.
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