The depressed Ionic front with cornice and balustrade over avoids the architectural problems encountered when a pediment is used.

[4] The building was badly damaged by German bombing on 29 October 1940, when more than 30 of those sheltering in the crypt were killed outright (67 eventually died) and 100 more were injured.

In 1895 the philanthropic Rector, Canon John Horsley (Mayor of Southwark in 1910), arranged for it to be converted to a public garden at the cost of the Goldsmiths' Company.

[10] Today, St Peter's thrives as an Anglican parish church serving the community of East Walworth.

The main worship space was restored, including work to the reredos, and the installation of a new lighting scheme.