What’s New, On & Happening in Fulham

What’s New

How Now Brown Cow

Did you spot that The Brown Cow on the Fulham Road has had a refurb? We’re loving the new look! They soft launched a few weeks ago and not only have the interiors been given a much needed zhuzh but the menu has had some changes too. Urban Village LDN went along, not gifted, to check out the new interiors and menu. Once you’re through the raspberry front door, the green of the exterior carries on in a different shade alongside brown leather, wooden tables, chairs, shelving and bar.

To kick things off there’s a fantastic new cocktail list and whoever’s behind the bar knows what they’re doing because we had an incredible Bloody Mary. Cocktails are all priced at £11.95 with classics like Negroni, Hugo gin spritz and there are some newbies that are on our list to check out. Tulip’s Gaze which The Brown Cow describe as summer in a glass (vodka, peach schnapps, strawberry syrup apple juice & lime) and the Matador Margarita which sounds perfect on a sunny SW6 day, a tropical twist on a Margarita, (pineapple juice, Jose Cuervo silver tequila, lime juice and agave syrup).

Out table was in the corner by the front door which is screened off making it cosy and sitting right by the window you can watch the hustle and bustle of the Fulham Road. Their new menu now offers breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. You can start the day with a coffee, matcha, smoothie, oats, grains, bakes and eggs. Or you can go the whole hog with a pub breakfast (bacon, black pudding, egg, hash browns), a brekky bap or steak and eggs. We were in for Sunday lunch so started with salt & pepper calamari before moving on to roast beef with all the trimmings - delicious! For dinner there’s lots to choose from including Malaysian Seafood curry, baby back ribs, rib eye steak & crab linguini. Desserts include grilled peaches with honey & thyme, tiramisu, biscoff filled donuts, affogato and pudding cocktails: tiramisu espresso martini, chocolate old fashioned, berry hibiscus Negroni. There’s also a kids menu - little brekkie, waffles, fish goujons, cheeseburger, cheesy pitta pizza and a kids Sunday roast. The Brown Cow is also dog friendly so everyone can head en famille to 676 Fulham Road!

Lyceum Fit

We wrote about Lyceum Fit when they first opened and, because we love the ethos and the team behind this gym, we thought it was about time we found out what’s new! Lyceum Fit is a community initiative so you’ll find their fitness indoor / outdoor space at the Sands End Arts & community Centre (SEACC) who they work with closely to provide training, workshops and talks to the local community. The team at Lyceum Fit are on a mission to make health, fitness and wellness accessible for people of all classes and backgrounds. The added bonus is that the LF team: Robbie, George and Sabina are all lovely people!

As well as offering 1-1 personal training, group fitness classes for locals from 8 to 80+ (including parents fitness classes, after school fitness / developmental programmes for children) they have a free running club for locals every Tuesday at 11am. Their over 60’s fitness classes, take place every Wednesday at 2pm, and are affordable at £5 per session. The classes focus on preventing injuries, improving bone density, avoiding muscle atrophy and fixing postural problems.

Back to what’s new! Hyrox Classes are starting this month and you can book in for a £5 trial class (moving forward they’re £20). We didn’t have a clue what Hyrox was so hear goes: a global fitness race format with leader boards and cumulative word championships at the end of each season. Robbie told Urban Village LDN “Hyrox is a fitness competition that has become incredibly popular recently. We are delighted to now be affiliated with them and will be running Hyrox classes 3 times a week as after work sessions”. Also new at Lyceum is an ice bath for use post workout, alternatively if you fancy yourself as a novice Wim Hoff you can book in for drop in sessions at Lyceum for the ice bath alone. Did you know regular ice baths can lead to increased dopamine release, reduce stress hormone cortisol levels, improve cardiovascular health, boost blood flow and help improve sleep. Next up and new this autumn will be singles classes so watch this space!

Jesse’s House

We wrote about the upcoming arrival of Jesse’s House over a year ago cut to this month and the Little Houses Group are ready to open the doors to their newest family club here in Parsons Green. Designed to make navigating the juggle of parenting a little simpler and fun after the reality of navigating London as a parent hit for founder Charlie Gardiner and his wife with three little children - Jaego, Jesse and Orly - in tow, Jaego’s House launched in Kensal Rise in 2022 with everything in one place and for one monthly fee.  “For most of us, it’s great to find somewhere that kids like visiting just as much as the parents do and that’s exactly how we want our guests to feel about Jesse’s House,” says Charlie. “Here families will find reassuringly noisy sanctuaries, where children can dive into the jungle gym in full scream, sink into a beanbag in the kids’ cinema room or go wild in TARKA and other kids’ classes. After such positive feedback about Jaego’s House, Parsons Green’s family-friendly atmosphere feels like the perfect next location”.  

Jesse’s House includes an outdoor and indoor pool, Reformer Pilates, gym, adult-only co-working spaces, a courtyard, playground, treatment rooms and mini sports pitch for football and playball. Kids can safely let off steam in the crèche and Kids’ Club, there’s a relaxed Den for pre-teens; childcare and entertainment are on tap, which means members can head to the adult-only Study & Co-work space complete with soundproofed phone booths, turn up the heat in the spin studio or opt straight for a martini on the terrace.  For the kids there’s a timetable with over 70 classes a week from cooking classes to football, smoothie making to baby ballet and plenty of messy play.

Lucy’s, is the main restaurant with a Mediterranean spin and the terrace overlooks the playground so parents can enjoy a glass of wine in the sun, whilst the kids are in the playground. Cooked in an open kitchen, menus are designed by Executive Chef Eryk Bautista, formerly of Cadogan Arms and La Petite Maison, and Head Chef, Bartosz Bogucki (previously at Aquavit and Studio Frantzen) – think Salmon Tartare, Orzo Puttanesca and Poached Sea Bass. Meanwhile, little ones can enjoy a selection of dishes crafted by Fulham’s very own Lune + Wild, from baby purees through to toddler meals including shepherd’s pie, chicken pie and Mexican bean chilli. There’s also a ‘Grab & Go’ courtyard café serving fresh juices, coffee and light bites for the adults, plus a children’s menu.

Over 40s Social at Little Blue Door

Founded by Jess Evans two years ago Bored of Dating Apps (BODA) has been on a mission to help singles who are tired of swiping to find love by holding events across the UK.

After experiencing heart break herself and becoming exhausted from trying different dating apps Jess decided that a return to old fashioned dating was needed. BODA collaborate with venues to bring back human connection and fun to dating, hosting events from yoga retreats, quiz nights, dances, drinks socials and sober socials and it sounds like they’re a dab hand at it with eleven proposals, some weddings on the way and a BODA baby. They primarily organise singles socials for 20’s-30’s but on occasion offer something for different age groups.

So they’re launching an over 40s social at Fulham’s Little Blue Door (871 - 873 Fulham Road) on 22 August (7- 11pm) which will be a trial (late 30s welcome to join if they feel they’re better suited to this group). Tickets cost £20 + fees and their socials have been described as “events that are so good that they make you want to stay single”.

Jess herself has found love and is looking for BODA singles to start hosting their own nights, with her / BODA’s support, so get in touch if this is something you’d be interested in. Hit the link below to find out more and book tickets for the Fulham event

What’s On

Comedy Night: Fri 5 July (7pm - 9pm)

The first comedy night at Sands End Arts & Community Centre (SEACC) was a sell out and Live (Next to) the Apollo is back for round two. A specially selected line up of London’s best and up-and-coming comedians from London, commutable distances from London and the odd international superstar will be testing new material. Up to eight acts willing to make you laugh for absolute peanuts in the intimate surroundings of the Walnut Tree Cafe https://www.seacc.uk/events/live-next-to-the-apollo-at-seacc/

Parsons Green Fair: Sat 6 (11am - 5pm)

A day of community spirit and fun organised by Fulham Good Neighbours. Come along as a family, with friends and neighbors to enjoy a variety of attractions and activities: live music from local bands and performers, the Kids Zone will have have face painting, bouncy castles, and creative workshops to keep the little ones entertained. Enjoy food from an array of food stalls offering everything from gourmet burgers to vegan delights and quench your thirst. Discover handmade goods from local artisans, test your skills and win prizes in a variety of games and competitions from traditional fair games to more modern challenges, there’s plenty to enjoy!

The Parsons Green Fair is not just about having fun; it’s also about giving back. All proceeds from the event will support the invaluable work that Fulham Good Neighbours do in our community. This charity has been dedicated to helping older and disabled people in Fulham for over 50 years, providing services such as support in the home & garden, in the community, at their centre based in Rosaline Road and now online.

Where The Wild Things Are: Sat 6 (11am - 12pm)

Saturday morning story telling continues this month at the Sands End Arts Community Centre (SEACC). Performed live in their cool, calm Lodge space a chance to escape for little ones and their grown ups. Tickets are £8.50 for one adult and one child. Additional adults or children’s tickets can be added for £4.50. Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite: Storytime at SEACC Tickets | Eventbrite

Forest School: Sat 6 (2pm-3pm)

Hunt for woodland treasures in the Walnut Grove at SEACC and then turn them into art. Join in the fun at The Lodge on Saturday afternoons for a scavenger hunt around the Walnut Grove followed by a session where professional artists help turn found creations into art. For ages 3-7 and their grown ups. All materials provided. Tickets are £8.50 for one adult and one child. Additional adults or children’s tickets can be added for £4.50. Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/forest-school-tickets-903060075997?aff=oddtdtcreator

Drink & Draw: Thurs 11 (7pm-8.30pm)

Professional artist Felicity will guide you to create your own work of art. Your £15 ticket will include materials and a glass of wine, or soft drink alternative. So grab some friends (ages 18+) and head down to the Sands End Arts Community Centre (SEACC) and get creative. Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite: Drink and Draw Tickets | Eventbrite

Wines and Tarot Cards: Fri 12 (7.30 - 9pm)

Head over to Kenrick's Wines at 275 Wandsworth Bridge Road where in collaboration with Connected Collective you can enjoy an evening of wine and tarot cards. A guided tasting of 3 wines, followed by unlimited £6 wines by the glass, experienced tarot card readers will unveil secrets of the past, present, and future in a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a curious beginner, this event sounds like a night to remember https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/fulham-kenricks-wines-and-tarot-cards-tickets-930255458117?aff=oddtdtcreator

Lady Margaret School Garden Party: Saturday 13 (11am - 3pm)

Lady Margaret School opens its doors to the local community for their annual Garden Party. There will be stalls selling jewellery, crafts, clothing, jams and more. Check out their raffle with prizes from local businesses including Koji, Ollie’s House, Joe’s Brasserie, The Crabtree, Pappa Ciccia and The Crabtree. You can also pre order cakes, cupcakes & sweet treats from the LMS website and collect on the day https://lmspta.enthuse.com/LMSGardenPartyRaffle2024#!/

Green Eggs and Ham: Sat 13 (11am - 2pm)

The second story telling session this month at the Sands End Arts Community Centre (SEACC). Performed live in their cool, calm Lodge space a chance to escape for little ones and their grown ups. Tickets are £8.50 for one adult and one child. Additional adults or children’s tickets can be added for £4.50. Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite: Storytime at SEACC Tickets | Eventbrite

Forest School: Sat 13 (2-3pm)

Hunt for woodland treasures in the Walnut Grove at SEACC and then turn them into art. Join in the fun at The Lodge on Saturday afternoons for a scavenger hunt around the Walnut Grove followed by a session where professional artists help turn found creations into art. For ages 3-7 and their grown ups. All materials provided. Tickets are £8.50 for one adult and one child. Additional adults or children’s tickets can be added for £4.50. Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/forest-school-tickets-903060075997?aff=oddtdtcreator

Pizza & Tiramisu class & dinner: Sun 14 (4pm - 7pm)

In this class at the Fulham Road branch of Bridge Baker you'll learn how to hand-stretch and create your own Pizza to bake and eat in and also a delicious Tiramisu to take home. Create pizzas topped with delicious San Marzano tomato sauce and lots of fresh toppings and feel confident to re-create great pizzas at home. You will also learn how to make the perfect tiramisu that you can take home to indulge in later, (but don’t worry Bridge Baker will also have some for you to enjoy after pizza, so you can end the evening on a sweet note!) This class is suitable for all levels of experience and runs for 2 hours. Tickets £70 pp https://bridgebaker.co.uk/events/

Luxury picnic & candle painting: Sat 20 (1.30pm - 4.30pm)

Join Fulham’s Ancheva Designs & Pampered Picnics for an afternoon of luxury picnicking and candle painting on Eelbrook Common. Unleash your artistic side as you enjoy a scenic picnic and let your creativity shine as you design your very own dinner candles. Candle painting is suitable for all skill levels, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned artist. The ticket price £67.01 includes: drinks, snacks, fruits and all materials provided for candle painting. Book tickets here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/candle-painting-luxury-picnic-in-eel-brook-fulham-tickets-931604091917?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Free water Sports Week: 29 July - 16 August

Fulham Reach Boat Club have organised a free water sports week from 29 July - 16 August giving children in receipt of the Pupil Premium the opportunity to learn a variety of activities both on and off the water. Each course will last for one week from Monday to Friday, from 8am to 3pm each day and is open to 24 students. Breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack will be provided as well as safe and enjoyable sessions in rowing boats and kayaks.  Off water sports include Boxing, breathing and meditation and nutrition advice.

https://www.fulhamreachboatclub.co.uk/free-water-sports-weeks

What’s Happening

Fulham Chronicles

Since we last wrote about Fulham Chronicles, the only podcast about SW6, two more episodes are out AND Archie Pango, another connection made at the Fulham Social Hub launch in April, are now official sponsors. Recorded here in Fulham at VOXPOD Studios episodes can be found on YouTube, Apple and Spotify. If you like what you hear subscribe to the Fulham Social Hub channel and you’ll be notified when the next episode is available.

Episode 4 - “We are not ladies that lunch”

In episode 4 of Fulham Chronicles, Zara & Melinda talk to Anna & Annie, the founders of Truffles & Ruffles. Find out about the events they curate and host. How, under one roof and around one table, they connect creative minds, building a community of artists, designers, interiors enthusiasts, journalists, entrepreneurs and more. https://youtu.be/3_6OUHAYEpY?si=8xtpejKYIlzRhlpc

Episode 5 - “Aging Disgracefully”

In episode 5 of Fulham Chronicles, Zara & Melinda talk to New York Times Best Selling Author, blogger, speaker and Fulham resident Clare Pooley. Listen in to find out how writing became Clare's new addiction, hear about the Fulham setting for her first novel which is destined for the big screen and get the scoop on Clare's latest book "How to Age Disgracefully" out now.

https://youtu.be/jn2j-dfIev0?si=VKyyCwX0sT1H665h

Improvements to Wandsworth Bridge Road

Over the past year you’ve no doubt heard that the Wandsworth Bridge Road Association have been working closely with the council to develop proposals for an ambitious re-design of the Wandsworth Bridge Road. LBHF have now appointed a Project Management Team to support the WBRA and the community and commissioned WSP consultants, an independent global engineering and consultancy group to develop the redesigns along every part of the road. Immediate improvements begin this autumn.

WSP and LBHF have worked with another local residents association near Hammersmith on designing a similar project called Better Brackenbury. Together with LBHF and WSP have been exploring ideas that will help with the ‘Psychological Shift’, changing how the road is perceived – from one that’s just a commuter through-route to one that is a thriving, pedestrian and cycle friendly residential road with strong, independent local businesses.

The local community led redesign of Wandsworth Bridge Road includes wider cycle lanes, planting, landscaping, mini allotments, parklets, new cycle storage, a new pedestrian crossing at Stokenchurch Road, public seating with integrated planters at junctions, dedicated loading bays for businesses. E bike and E scooter parking zones. If you want to hear more head to the link below.

SAVE THE DATE: The next Fulham Social Hub networking event is scheduled to take place on Thursday 19 September. A great opportunity to reconnect after the Summer break!