Beckenham Area Guide

Beckenham is a charming suburban town located in the London Borough of Bromley, in the southeastern part of Greater London. Situated approximately 8 miles from central London, Beckenham offers a peaceful and residential setting with excellent transport links to the city. The town is known for its leafy streets, beautiful parks, and thriving high street lined with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Beckenham Place Park, a sprawling green space spanning over 200 acres, is a popular attraction, offering extensive woodlands, meadows, and even a lake for recreational activities and nature walks. The area is also home to the historic Beckenham Place Mansion, a Grade II listed Georgian mansion that now serves as a community hub. With its blend of suburban tranquility, convenient access to London, and an array of amenities, Beckenham provides a desirable location for families and professionals seeking a peaceful and well-connected place to call home.

Transport Links

Beckenham is located in the London Borough of Bromley and is well-connected to the city via public transport. The main train station in the area is Beckenham Junction, which provides regular services to London Victoria, London Bridge, and London Blackfriars. There are also several bus routes that run through the area, providing easy access to surrounding areas.

Schools

Beckenham has several highly rated schools, including Langley Park School for Boys and Langley Park School for Girls, both of which have been rated outstanding by Ofsted. There are also several good primary schools in the area, such as Balgowan Primary School and Harris Primary Academy.

Best Places to Eat

Beckenham has a range of restaurants and cafes catering to all tastes. For a casual lunch or dinner, try the Indian restaurant Masala Dabbas or the Italian restaurant Osteria Olivelli. For a special occasion, book a table at The Restaurant at 116 or Bona Intera.

Best Places to Drink

Beckenham has several great bars and pubs, including The Jolly Woodman, which is known for its live music nights, and The George Inn, which serves a range of beers and wines in a traditional English pub setting. For a cocktail, head to The Chancery or The Merchant.

Local Activities

There are plenty of activities to keep you busy in Beckenham, including a range of gyms and fitness studios such as David Lloyd and LA Fitness. The area also has several sports clubs, including Beckenham Rugby Club and Beckenham Cricket Club. For those who enjoy the outdoors, Beckenham Place Park offers a beautiful green space for walks and picnics.

Landmarks

One of the most iconic landmarks in Beckenham is the Beckenham Clock Tower, which was built in 1907 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee. The Kelsey Park, a beautiful parkland with a lake and a walled garden, is also a must-visit landmark in the area.

Local History

Beckenham has a rich history, and there are several historic buildings in the area, including St. George's Church, which dates back to the 12th century. The Beckenham Crematorium and Cemetery is also a site of historical importance, as it is the final resting place of several notable figures, including composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor.

Views

One of the best views in Beckenham can be found at the top of the Beckenham Hill, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Kelsey Park and Beckenham Place Park also offer beautiful views of the greenery and lake.

Yearly Events

Beckenham hosts several annual events, including the Beckenham Festival, which celebrates local talent in music, dance, and drama. The Beckenham Half Marathon, which takes place in September, is also a popular event in the area, attracting runners from across London and beyond.