The Paperworks, the impressive outdoor hangout offering the full range of pop-up accoutrements, was a hit on its debut this summer. With plenty a balmy night to be enjoyed lounging on the deck chairs, Kerb streetfood in hand as the commuter trains rattled overhead, the only question was how the new venture would translate during the frosty months.
The answer, of course, is that they’ve brought in the fire pits, gas heaters and cockle-warming hot cocktails, and gone all-out ski lodge, deep in the industrial heart of Elephant and Castle.
Currently Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays come under the title Smörgåsbord, offering a fine spread including film screenings, winter markets, acoustic and DJ gigs, with prizes for those who turn up in ski wear.
Food? That’ll be schnitzel, beef goulash and wood-roast pork shoulder. Drinks? Mulled ciders with a dash of Kraken rum or Tin Cup whiskey, Gluhwein, kaiser punsch, and ‘bucket loads’ of schnapps (shudder).
After 11pm, DJs hot-foot it down the road to play into the early hours at Corsica Studios, who co-run Paperworks. Over the years, we’ve enjoyed seeing Corsica has transformed itself from a damp community party venue into one of London’s most innovative nightlife destinations.
With Ministry of Sound also less than five mins away, this sprawling faux-alpine chalet has earned its place as south London’s largest pre-club destination, whatever the weather.