Local history articles | London Borough of Bexley

History of the area and its towns

Have you ever wondered about the origin of your street name?

Or who was the first Mayor of Bexley Urban District Council? Do you know the history of your town? Whilst most of the development of our area took place in the twentieth century some parts can trace their history back to the Palaeolithic period.

Business and industry

From hop picking to milling and silk printing to machine gun manufacturer - the area now known as the London Borough of Bexley has seen many types of business and industry over the years.

Country estates

Bexley's flagship park, Danson Park, was once part of the Danson Estate but this was by no means the only great estate in the area although sadly not all of the great houses have survived.

Historic buildings

Have you heard of the East Wickham hutments? Do you know where the Hogs Hole Cottages are? Did you get married in Sidcup Manor House? Just a few of the many interesting buildings in the London Borough of Bexley.

Hospitals

As the population of the Bexley area grew so did the need for medical care.

In the days before the NHS many Cottage Hospitals, literally formed from cottages, were established and were usually financed by charitable institutions.

Leisure

There is now only one cinema open in the Borough of Bexley.

In 1913 there were six venues open and the 1930s saw the development of numerous "super" cinemas in the Borough. The River Thames also provided ample entertainment for local residents.

School histories

Brief notes on the history of some schools in the London Borough of Bexley.

People

Notable residents of Bexley have included two famous engineers, an influential designer and millers.

Black and Asian people in Victorian Bexley

Transport

Rivers and roads, trams and railways - all part of the London Borough of Bexley's transport history.