With its mix of natural beauty and urban charm, Bromley was first recorded in AD862 as Bromleag, Anglo Saxon for a ‘woodland clearing where broom (a shrub) grows’, so it’s quite fitting Bromley remains one of the leafiest areas. Chosen by the Bishops of Rochester to be their base for visitors to London, Bromley Palace (also known as Bishop’s Palace) was built in the 12th century and remained their residence until 1845.
Originally part of Kent, the town became part of the London Borough of Bromley back in 1965 and key people in history have had connections to Bromley. As the birthplace of renowned author H.G. and Charles Darwin making it his home from 1842 until his death in 1882, other influential residents have included musical legends David Bowie and Billy Idol!
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Voted as one of the 'best places to retire in the UK' by the Telegraph recently, whatever your age, the Bromley community provides a warm welcome and all residents will benefit from the low crime rate, natural areas and reasonable property prices. Also described as a 'hotspot for families looking for more affordable houses and popular grammar schools' they will appreciate the many green spaces including Kelsey Park, Jubilee Country Park, Norman Park, Priory Gardens, Scadbury Park, Norman Park, Betts Park and Crystal Palace Park. The latter recently unveiled completion of the major restoration project to the Victorian Subway…just in time for its 160th anniversary in 2025 and has also secured £5m from National Lottery Heritage Fund for future renovation including updates to the Grade I listed dinosaur statues and the surrounding tidal lakes. First opened in 1865, the elaborate subway provided a direct link for rail passengers coming from the high-level station under Crystal Palace Parade and into the Palace. Used as an air raid shelter, community event space, and the location for The Chemical Brothers’ 1996 music video ‘Setting Sun’, it’s hoped the renovated site will once again become a go-to venue.
With convenient links to central London, including buses, trams, and a 20-minute train journey to London Victoria, what can modern life in Bromley offer? Popular with both professionals and young families? Of course! A good mix of city and countryside life? Most definitely! Homes for all budgets? Yes, that too. Add in the sense of community and it’s several boxes ticked for those looking to move to Bromley.
EXPLORING
From all the parks Bromley has to offer, to caves and theatre, there is so much to see and do …you’re going to have to be efficient in your time planning! If you want to see the area on foot but need a helpful guide, then Bromley Civic Society (bromleycivicsociety.org.uk) has put together some self-guided tours on its website. The guides ensure you see the fine collection of buildings within the town. First open to the public in 1900, Chislehurst Caves (chislehurst-caves.co.uk) have been enthralling visitors ever since. Dug for chalk used in lime burning and brick-making for the building of London, it’s one of the area’s top attractions and if you want a function room with a difference then the caves are perfect for children’s parties, weddings and community groups, too. Another unique place in the area’s history is Down House, the family home of Charles Darwin. Under the care of English Heritage (english-heritage.org.uk) step into the very rooms where the scientist worked and lived. The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens which acted as Darwin’s ‘living laboratory’, and with a family trail and multi-media guide narrated by Sir David Attenborough, it’s a must do for all ages.
SHOPPING
Bromley’s market has been at the heart of the community for more than 800 years. Each Thursday, Friday and Saturday, throughout the day, the High Street welcomes an array of stalls providing a range of products. Want to set up your own stall? Visit bromley.gov.uk for trader information.
Retail favourites such as Zara, M&S and Boots are based at The Glades shopping centre (theglades.co.uk) including recent newcomer, Søstrene Grene, which sells a range of Danish products from soft furnishings, crafts, and gifts as well as seasonal items. Nestled between are some of the area’s independents including Bunka (bunka.co.uk) a lifestyle store brings the very best in design-led fashion, homewares and gifts for women, men, babies and children. And do head to the town’s East Street which is renowned for its independent boutiques and unique shopping experience. Sustainable fashion is, and quite rightly having a moment and a leader in vintage 80s, 90s and 00s clothing and sportswear, is Leech Vintage (leechvintage.com). The go-to if you want something a bit retro and obviously sustainably sourced…it’s a great find for affordable vintage and second-hand clothing. Blooms and Candy (bloomsandcandy.co.uk) is great for those all-important flowers and plants for special occasions
EATING AND DRINKING
Choice with a capital C describes the food scene in Bromley. There’s every cuisine you can imagine, and it’s noted for its independent eateries dotted around the town and neighbouring villages. Start the day with a fine freshly ground house-roasted coffee at 1917 Chill Café (1917chillcafe.co.uk) where there are also some fine breakfast options (the all-day breakfast being one!) as well as freshly baked pastries and cakes. There’s a relaxed vibe here making it the perfect spot to meet friends and catch up with family.
With a loyal following and award-winning food, the Michelin-listed Chapter One (chapteronerestaurant.co.uk) restaurant has an appealing menu of modern European dishes. Chapter One is a sophisticated, yet relaxed place to meet and dine, there are special events, culinary experiences as well as private dining.
For a juicy steak then specialist steak restaurant and cocktail bar, Cow and Pig (cowandpigbromley.com) is a go-to in Bromley’s East Street. From lunch to dinner, and a la carte, diners will be tucking into the finest cuts of meat on the menus. Another gem close by is Copper Ceylon (copperceylon.com) which celebrates the taste and aromas true to Sri Lanka’s rich culinary traditions and culture and then adds a party atmosphere at the weekend…and why not?!
STAYCATION
When the gates of The Manor close behind you, enter into a world of calm and luxury where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the everyday. Yes, The Manor at Bickley (themanoratbickley.co.uk) is a special family-run retreat. The Victorian property has 25 en-suite bedrooms, all of which offer guests both affordable accommodation though to indulgent rooms for a special occasion. Each room has its own unique style and good food and fine wine can be sampled too! Bromley Court Hotel (bromleycourthotel.co.uk) has a choice of rooms to suit, from cosy to deluxe as well as accessible rooms and suites, there’s various events to enjoy too. Hotel guests have free use of the gym facilities, free tea and coffee and there’s also electric car charging facilities. Want the best rate? Then book direct! The Grade II listed Old Town Hall, right in the heart of Bromley, is home to Brama (bramahotels.com) with its architectural nods to the Art Deco era. With 23 bedrooms, all offering stunning design and comfort, enjoy connection, collaboration and community in a landmark building that was once at the centre many of the area’s historic moments.
