Gotta Catch ‘em All! Pokémon Go Fest 2023
Calling all Pokémon Go trainers to this year’s Pokémon Go Fest! By Hannah Bridgett
How to get there
Step-free Herne Hill, is only a 5-10 minute walk to the east side of the park. It is one train from London Victoria station, Blackfriars Station, and St Pancreas International.
The car park close by in Brockwell Lido on Dulwich Road has several Blue Badge disabled bays. It is free for the first two hours, then charges apply. There are other pay and display spots (free for Blue Badge holders) close to the park, by entrances at Arlingford Road and Brockwell Park Gardens.
Accessibility
Brockwell Park, has quite good accessibility with many smooth paths. The gates at Arlingford Road, Brixton Water Lane and Brockwell Park Gardens are step-free so the best for wheelchair users.
Where to eat
In Brockwell Park, best choice is the lovely 400Rabbits Restaurant for a range of top-notch sourdough pizzas. If you fancy a cheeky drink or two while you are out Pokémon hunting they also serve crafts beers and cocktails. And, different flavours of gelato!
More information
If you know your Snorlax from your Sandshrew, and your Eevee from your Electabuzz then this event is sure to pique your interest. London is the Pokémon Go European Host City for the 2023 Fest – and we’re here for it!
This is the UK’s first year hosting this spectacular event, based at Brockwell Park in South London with additional locations throughout London. Whether you are a casual player or a hardcore trainer, stock up on those Pokéballs and grab a ticket.
What is Pokémon Go?
Pokémon Go is an augmented reality game inspired by the extremely popular Nintendo Pokémon games. It involves ‘catching’ the mythic Pokémon creatures in real time in the app, walking to ‘hatch’ your Pokémon eggs and gaming with other trainers (Pokémon gamers). Pokémon has been a sensation since Rhydon (the very first Pokémon) sprang into existence in 2016. Today a whole range of ages from kids to adults are reliving their favourite franchise.
Things to do at Pokémon Go Fest
Pokémon Go Fest has been a massively popular real-world event run by Niantic and The Pokémon company since 2017 and brings together likeminded Pokémon fans with the promise of exclusive content, in-game activities and more. It’s a month-long event, running all throughout August, and has both in-person and virtual activities. Us trainers are delighted to see it back and on our home turf this year!
Catch a rare Pokémon
The in-person aspect is probably one of the most exciting. While organisers Niantic are typically secretive in the months leading up to it, you are absolutely guaranteed to have the opportunity to catch ultra-rare Pokémons you can’t catch elsewhere, participate in raids against powerful enemies, and take part in special research (in-game missions) that that are only found within the event. There’s also exclusive gameplay and bonuses that you can show off to the other trainers that don’t attend. Best of all, Pikachu and Eevee will be at Brockwell Park for a special real-life photo opportunity!
Tickets cover a half day experience; with half of your time spent in the historical Brockwell Park, and the other half exploring the City Experience throughout Greater London. You can choose either morning or afternoon. Don’t forget the add-ons you can purchase alongside your experience which are sure to enhance your day: Raid Lover and Egg-thusiast. Each one has their own special bonuses.
Things to do in Brockwell Park
Finish up early and want to explore the park itself? An added attraction is the restored Model Village, where you can see the squirrel-sized handmade houses built in the 1940s by hobbyist pensioner Edger Wilson. Brockwell Park also has several beautiful historic ponds with new bridges and viewing platforms, perfect for drinking in the bucolic surrounds.
