Area Feature
London property hunters who are looking for a place with a strong sense of community, plentiful amenities and a thriving cultural scene would be well advised to seek flats to rent in Hither Green.
This quiet, peaceful residential area in the borough of Lewisham is known for its wealth of heritage, culture and retail sites, winning praise from local residents for the warmth and diversity of the local community.
Hither Green was originally founded on land rendered uninhabitable by the spread of the Black Death in the 14th century, but over the years it has been able to comprehensively overcome these inauspicious origins, developing into a picturesque rural neighbourhood by the 18th century.
During the Victorian era, a huge number of new homes, schools, churches and libraries were created in the area, building a strong infrastructure that helped Hither Green to remain a thriving destination even despite the impact of World War II.
Modern-day Hither Green is one of the most pleasant environments London has to offer, thanks in large part to the wide variety of green spaces populating the area.
Residents can visit Mountsfield Park to take in impressive views of South-East London and make use of its many sports facilities, or enjoy the ambience of locations such as Manor House Gardens, Manor Park and the Community Garden on Springbank Road.
However, this sense of friendliness goes deeper than simply a pleasant aesthetic, as the area is also characterised by its strong heritage, memorable landmarks and wide array of locally-based businesses.
Those with an interest in culture can visit the famous Hither Green Clock Tower, view works of art at the Cooper Locke Gallery and attend film and theatre events at Hither Green Hall.
The Prime Meridian line also runs through this district, with a commemorative marker denoting its location placed at Hither Green station.
Notable businesses in the region include the community eatery known as the Cafe of Good Hope, the unique florist/coffee shop You Don't Bring Me Flowers on Staplehurst Road and gallery136, a renowned supplier of bespoke furniture.
Meanwhile, the Hither Green Community Association organises an annual celebration of all things local during Hither Green Week, a nine-day event that includes comedy shows, music performances, open gardens, historical exhibitions, food stalls and much more.
In 2012, this festival will include an Arts, Crafts and Food Fayre, with organisers constantly seeking to find new ways to make the event bigger and more inclusive.
Away from its arts and cultural scene, Hither Green also offers plenty to residents in practical terms, providing transport links to Charing Cross, Sevenoaks, Gravesend and Deptford via the local station, as well as plenty of bus, footpath and cycle routes.
Meanwhile, the proximity of educational facilities such as Brindishe Green Primary School, St Mary's CE Primary School and St Saviour's RC Primary School make the area ideal for families too.
These factors combine to make Hither Green one of the most desirable places to live in London, offering qualities that will appeal to people of all backgrounds.
Posted by Charles Mackay
