Lakeside Centre: Open Art Studios
Saturday 19th September 2026 , 12:00pm to 6:00pm
Explore the 38 artist studios located inside the Lakeside Centre and join Bow Arts for a day of music, exhibitions, and family-friendly workshops.
The Lakeside Centre’s annual Open Studios is coming up this September! Meet the artists working in the studios, and see inside their artistic practices–ranging from painting and costuming, to analogue photography and more. Alongside the Open Studios, there will be a host of activities and entertainments on the day. Look out at the Southmere Lake from the roof of the building, or make new memories with loved ones inside.
For the fourth year running, the Open Studios is taking place as part of Open City’s Open House Festival, celebrating our curiosity for what happens inside the buildings that we walk past every day.
The 1960’s iconic brutalist building was nominated for a Pineapple award for its sustainable creative retrofit, and has also featured as the backdrop for films such as Beautiful Thing and the TV series Misfits.
Please note, photography will be taking place on the day of the event. Please kindly let our photographer know on the day if you would rather not appear in images of the event, which may be used for future communications.
Lakeside Centre Open Studios
Interested? Let us know you’re coming
Is this event family-friendly?
Yes! We have creative activities suitable for all ages, and baby change facilities in the cafe downstairs.
Will food and drinks be available to purchase?
Thamesmead Social cafe have lunch sorted, with drinks available on the day.
How can I get involved with the Lakeside Centre?
Follow us on Instagram @lakeside_centre to see our upcoming activities, workshops, and news. The Lakeside Centre is also home to Thamesmead Social cafe, with an upstairs gallery space and rooftop for hire.
Transport Information
Tube Station: Abbey Wood (National Rail, Elizabeth Line).
Bus: 117, 229, 401, 472, 601, 301, 602, 669, N1
Please note parking is not available. There is a Bike shed on site.
Access Information
The Lakeside Centre has step-free access throughout from street level, with access via the lifts to upper floor studios and the exhibition space. Accessible toilets are available on the ground floor and first floor, with baby change facilities available via Thamesmead Social cafe. This venue does not have a hearing loop system.
For full access information and queries, please email pandp@bowarts.com.
