What’s New, On & Happening in Fulham

What’s New

Press & Petal

When Urban Village LDN HQ was located by Wandsworth Bridge Road we loved picking up affordable, stunning flowers from Planet Plenty. We’ve missed being able to do that since we moved and they closed so we were delighted to discover that Press & Petal has recently opened a few minutes walk from our new Fulham spot.

We popped down the road to 341 Fulham Palace Road to talk to owner Ruth Knaggs, a local Mum (Fulham and now Putney), about her new venture which combines dry cleaning, gifting and flowers. “We opened three weeks ago on the site of our well established dry cleaners. We’ve been in this spot for 15 years and have just put in new machines, redecorated the shop and had a positive response by locals saying that we’re an attractive new addition to this part of the road”.

Ruth told Urban Village LDN “we’ve met lots of customers who frequented the dry cleaners and it’s great that when they pick up their dry cleaning they also grab a bouquet to take home” Seems like Ruth and her husband Ali’s idea of offering a selection of flowers with affordable price points alongside a dry cleaning business is off to a good start.

“We buy our flowers from New Covent Garden Market and we’re there at 5 am 2-3 times a week so our customers are getting fresh flowers and we can also deliver dry cleaning and flowers if you live locally”. Ruth makes all the fresh and dried floral bouquets in addition to hand poured and hand painted candles which are also for sale at Press & Petal. “We have prints and cards by local artists and want to build up this side of the business to stock more locally independent work and products to provide something different, items you wouldn’t find in chains”.

Ruth’s bouquets are unique and well priced starting at £14.95 and going up to £24.99 and the shop also offers helium balloons, an addition requested by local parents for children’s parties and birthday celebrations. Follow them on Instagram or pop into the shop to say hello and take a look!

La Bouffe

After a dry run for friends and family, La Bouffe has officially opened its doors at 116 Wandsworth Bridge Road. This new French neighbourhood bistro is brought to you by Lawrence and Emily Hartley, the owners of Le Petit Citron in Brook Green. We have long admired this restaurant, whilst stuck in traffic on Shepherds Bush Road and wished we had something similar in SW6 - now we do! La Bouffe, located on the site where the Fulham Wine Bar and Kitchen used to be, is inspired by the bistros of Paris. A welcoming intimate space where you can enjoy A La Carte, Prix fixe and Daily Specials menus on their bijou terrace or in the light and airy, Parisian inspired interior: red and white checked tablecloths, wooden floors, typical Bistro chairs and gorgeous green panelling. We caught up with the team behind Fulham’s newest bistro. “When we decided to look for a second venue, we wanted to be in a different area but close enough to Le Petit Citron so we could easily go between the two.  Parsons Green is a lovely, vibrant neighbourhood and we are excited to be a part of it”.

La Bouffe is inspired by Lawrence and Emily’s French heritage. It’s a classic French bistro inspired by their love of Provençal cooking, inspired by long summers spent with their family in the French countryside and evenings in some of Paris’s best French bistros. “We used much-loved recipes from the region to bring simple flavours to our first neighbourhood restaurant and Fulham can expect the same. The Wandsworth Bridge Road venue really appealed to us because it’s such a cosy space and we were also drawn to the terrace. At Le Petit Citron, we receive fantastic reviews about our warm welcome and excellent service, and we will replicate this at La Bouffe. Some of the Fulham team have previously worked a Le Petit Citron, so that helps”.

La Bouffe told Urban Village LDN that they’ve received a warm welcome from locals. “Our menu brings the flavours of Paris to South West London, with Snails Montorgueil, Onglet Steak with Café de Paris Butter, Confit de Canard, Paris Brest and so much more. Our A La Carte menu is seasonally changing and, of course, we also have daily blackboard specials.  We are all about traditional, good value, Parisian cuisine. Our Prix Fixe 3 course menu is just £33. Like all the best French Restaurants, everything on our drinks menu, the wine, beer, cocktails, mocktails and even the water are French. We offer up French aperitifs and some of France’s best affordable wines”. We can’t wait to check out this Parisian style Bistro in the heart of Fulham! Follow them on Instagram here and book a table on the link below - sante!

China Running Dog

We love where Urban Village LDN takes us - meeting different people in a variety of guises and places. Talking to Ralph Fiennes understudy on a sunny September afternoon aka Mark Kitto about his Fulham memories and new book “China Dog Running” was definitely up there! Mark got in touch with us, to tell us about his first novel, thanks to his Fulham based cousin Susan Crook Saunders who we’ve written about before. Susan’s also a writer: Age Well Project and How to Thrive after Menopause.

Mark, a publisher, actor and writer, has written two books China Cuckoo (2012) and “That’s China” (2014), memoirs of his 18 years living in China before his return to the UK in 2013. We asked Mark about his move to fiction? “Writing memoirs is easy, slap it on the page, dress it up, embellish it a little and you’re done. Fiction is much harder and after living on a mountain due west of Shanghai running a small business sat on a beautiful veranda with the most incredible view I felt the setting was perfect to attempt my first novel and become a proper writer”. When we heard that the protagonist is a Fulham boy and that there is a major scene set in the White Horse when he returns home for a visit we were all ears. “So when I walked into a Fulham pub full of Henries and Annabels and suits and braces and striped shirts, I gave them some love. I chatted to a young bloke at the bar while I waited for Felix and Anita. Sure enough, he was an estate agent. I mentioned Shanghai and he went wide-eyed and told me he was thinking of applying to come over with his company who were in the process of setting up a China office.“

Mark told us more about the book “it’s lived in a drawer off and on for some time. I went back to it again and again and now it’s published I’m keen to spread the word. When I first went into Nomad books, where it’s stocked, someone came in asking about Japanese fiction and I told them you need to read some Chinese fiction instead and immediately sold a copy”. What were Mark’s Fulham memories? Pitcher & Piano (we spent many hours there too), meeting Jeremy Clarkson in the White Horse and tennis in Bishops Park. After our call Mark was back to rehearsals at the Theatre Royal Bath where, even though he isn’t a professional pianist he was off to play the piano and understudy for Ralph Fiennes in the “Small Hotel”. Many strings to this man’s bow!

Here’s a brief synopsis of “China Dog Running” as told by Mark, because of course he can write it much better than we can! A young man in his early twenties has two basic needs: mates and respect. And a third of course. That's a given and it was there for the taking in Shanghai in the year 2000, a greed-crazed free-for-all in a moral and lawless vacuum created by the Chinese Communist Party. Johnny Trent, small-time entrepreneur from Basildon in the UK, has neither mates nor respect. That's why he went to China, where he meets Felix Fawcett-Smith, fresh off the boat and from the other side of the tracks. An unlikely friendship begins. Johnny impresses the well-bred Felix with his street smarts until Felix takes Johnny's advice too literally - and too far - and slips into Shanghai's murky underbelly. He enters a world where the Party and power and connections to them are all that matter, where criminals are given sainthoods and saints sent to hell. If you’d like to read Mark’s book you can order a copy on Amazon but you know we’d prefer you to pop over to Nomad and pick up a copy there!

What’s On

Apple Day: Sun 5 (11 am - 4pm)

Head to Fulham Palace for their annual Apple Day celebration. Lots of activities for children including an apple trail through the gardens, creative sessions with crafts and badge making, face painting and games on the main lawn. Find out more and book tickets (£3 adult / £1 1 - 16 years old) here https://www.fulhampalace.org/whats-on/events/apple-day/ tickets increase by £1 if bought on the day

Daisy Trust Fair: Mon 6 (9am - 5pm)

Take a friend and head to the Hurlingham Club for the annual Daisy Trust Fair. Shop from over 75 independent brands whilst supporting The Daisy Trust, a volunteer charity that has been supporting numerous charities and organisations in Hammersmith & Fulham for over forty years. Buy tickets online for £11 or on the door for £13.50 more information and tickets here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-daisy-trust-fair-2025-tickets-1442159541009

Fundraiser week at SEACC: Mon 6-Sun 12

A full week of mini games, fun and activities to help raise funds for the Sands End Arts & Community Centre and the vital work they do in the community. Stop by for a quick game or join them for their main event (see below). Your participation will help them continue to offer creative, includsive and engaging programmes for all ages. Every little bit helps! Find out more here https://www.seacc.uk/events/music-magic-mayhem-annual-charity-fundraising-event/

Music, Magic & Mayhem: Thursday 9 (7pm)

A joyful night of live entertainment in support of Sands End Arts & Community Centre (SEACC) - a vibrant evening filled with music, magic and mayhem. We’ve been told that they’re pulling out all the stops to make this their most fabulous night yet, even better than their inaugural event last year. Your £45 ticket includes: a hearty hot meal, a welcoming drink on arrival and a full evening of dazzling entertainment – and a few magical surprises! Find out more / book your ticket here https://www.seacc.uk/events/music-magic-mayhem-annual-charity-fundraising-event/

Bookshop Day 2025: Sat 11 (11am)

Celebrate at Nomad with some story time fun provided by Sean Taylor and Fiona Woodcock which has been inspired by their latest picture book, Five Little Friends. This is a one of a kind interactive poetry collection and children and grown ups are encouraged to come along and use their hands and feet to become a stomping elephant, bursting firework or falling snowflake. No need to book!

Wine Tasting: Thurs 16 (5-8pm)

Head to The Winery at 797 Fulham Road. We’ve been told they’re very informal, free of charge and a great opportunity to sample seven of The Winery’s wines: one sparkling, three whites and three reds. FYI The Winery flagged this “we tend to stop opening bottles around 19.30h, so may run out in the last 30 minutes. To be sure of tasting the entire line-up we recommend arriving earlier”. Noted!

https://www.thewineryuk.com/home/

Roller Disco: Sat 19 (11.30 am - 6.45pm)

With booming beats, dazzling lights, and non-stop good vibes, this is the perfect night out for friends, families, and anyone ready to groove on wheels. Whether you're a total pro or a first-time skater, the funky atmosphere in Fulham Pier’s Orange Box and friendly team will make sure you feel right at home. Throw on your brightest clothes, grab your glow sticks, and let the music take you on a retro ride! The Roller Disco is open to everyone aged 6 and up - perfect for kids, families and anyone young at heart. There are five sessions to choose from, find out more https://www.fulhampier.com/whats-on/event?event_no=92570

Techy Tea Party: Mon 20 (11am - 1pm)

Are you 60 and over and struggling to use your phone, laptop or tablet. Join Fulham Good Neighbours to celebrate GetOnlineWeek. A campaign where you can enjoy tea, coffee and cakes while getting free, patient digital support from trained volunteers. Includes assistance with sending emails, texts, online shopping, accessing services, booking GP & NHS appointments and staying safe on line. Where: Rosaline Hall, 70 Rosaline Road

Whisky Tasting Evening: Weds 22 (7.30pm)

The Fulham Arms are hosting a whisky master class. Taste four Glenmorangie whiskies paired with some nibbles from their chef. £25 per person find out more here https://butcombe.com/the-fulham-arms-london/offers/whisky-masterclass-wednesday-22nd-october/

Faulty Towers the Dining Experience: Thurs 23 / Fri 24 @ 7pm

Basil, Manuel and Sybil are in town and they’re bringing a healthy dose of mayhem to Fulham Pier, Fully immersive, highly interactive and completely original, this is the show where anything can happen and usually does and with 70% of the show improvised, it’s never the same twice. With two hours of comedy, three courses of food, and universal acclaim the world over, expect chaos, laughs and a brilliant night out https://www.fulhampier.com/whats-on/event?event_no=92189

What’s Happening

Music, Magic & Mayhem

Last year we went along to the Sands End Arts & Community Centre’s inaugural annual fundraiser and what a fun night we had! Not only did we get lucky with a bid on the silent auction but we enjoyed a brilliant line up of entertainment, caught up with lots of Fulham friends, laughed, gasped and even (to our surprise) joined in with a rousing sing a long at the end of the evening. It certainly lived up to its name with magic tricks a plenty, a fantastic jazz recital, great comedy, eye watering sword swallowing, fire breathing antics and drag artist CC Swan who was utterly fabulous and got the audience all singing.

This annual event is to raise funds for SEACC who many locals still don’t know is an independent charity. All profits from the night will go back into the centre, helping them to grow, improve, and expand the programmes they offer: creative classes, inclusive events, and a welcoming space for all. This year Jonathan Standlen, Live Next to the Apollo, will again be the host, there’s comedy from Joe de Costa, Edinburgh fringe comedian of the year and returning favourite CC Swan. Tickets are £45 per person and include a welcome drink, a hot meal and some surprise performances.

If you are unable to attend and would still like to support SEACC you can donate here: https://www.seacc.uk/work-with but if you’d like to get a group of friends together and enjoy a great night out on your doorstep head to the link below to book tickets.

Third branch for Bridge Baker

Congratulations to Fulham resident Gauri Nafrey and the team at Bridge Baker who have stepped out of the hood and opened a third branch at 99-101 Hammersmith Road. The new store in Olympia opened a few weeks ago with an open plan kitchen serving up all the usual freshly baked deliciousness that this bakery creates on the daily. We couldn’t be happier for them and know that Fulham locals have played a huge part in their ongoing success. We wrote about Bridge Baker just as we started Urban Village LDN so often think back to the start of their journey and how far they’ve come.

Free Stretch and Strength Training

No excuses not to stay strong and mobile as the lovely team at Lyceum Fit are now running a new free stretch and strength class at 11.30am on Mondays. To find out more, get in touch or pop into their space located by South Park and the Sands End Arts & Community Centre. Entrance off Peterborough Road more information here https://www.lyceum.fit/

Society of Fulham Artists & Potters

The Society of Fulham Artists & Potters have relaunched their pop up exhibition space which can be found upstairs at Fulham Broadway (station). You’ll find affordable, original, unique art by local artists and potters for sale. Opening hours vary so check their website for more details.

Save the Date

Run the Fulham 10K for Chelsea and Westminster Hospital on Sunday 16 November. Join CW+ to take on a road closed circuit around Fulham, starting and finishing at Eel Brook Common. Whether you’re chasing a new personal best or soaking up the incredible atmosphere by running shoulder to shoulder with thousands of others. If you’re a runner this is a fantastic way of supporting your local hospital and running in an event put on in your urban village. The fundraising target for each runner is £150 and you can find out more / enter on the link below.