Tuesday 15 September 2009

Open House 2009: Deptford

This weekend is Open House London, and there are a few local treats on offer in SE8. They include St Paul's, right on the High Street and billed as 'England's finest baroque church'. The church - or at least its rates - even inspired poetry!

History and art are combined at Lewisham Arthouse, the former Deptford Library. This Edwardian building, an early public library, is now home to an artists' co-operative. Consider it two for the price of one: original features and working artists, all in one visit.

APT offers a similar combination, as this gallery is housed in a former rag-sorting warehouse. Look out for the crane outside.

Finally in SE8, there's another blend of old and new: 2 Ashmead Mews, where architect Dominic Weil adapted a Victorian stable building to make a very modern home. With regular tours by the architect, this should make a fascinating visit.

St Paul's Church, Deptford High Street, open Saturday 11-5 and Sunday 1-4.30.
APT - the Art in Perpetuity Trust, 6 Creekside, open Saturday and Sunday 1-5.
Lewisham Arthouse, 140 Lewisham Way, open Sunday 1-5.
2 Ashmead Mews, between 40 and 42 Ashmead Road, half-hourly tours on Saturday and Sunday, 1-5.30.

1 comment:

Minnie said...

Almost envy you the prospect of braving rainy London in order to visit those places! Mind you, we've had rain here (heavy; thunderstorms; more to come this w/e: we are all in shock!).
Look forward to seeing what you've made of the sights. I think Open Day is a terrific initiative; visited the Bristol event, and was able to snoop and gawp at otherwise hidden sights to my heart's content: wonderful! Hope you enjoy the weekend in SE8.