Lewisham

Overview

Lewisham is a busy area that has encountered multiple changes in recent years - with new developments bringing great leisure facilities and businesses such as Asda into town. The local shopping centre is only a few minutes' walk from Lewisham station, while an excellent street market caters to people seven days a week.

The town centre has a great atmosphere and a lot of potential, with the Greater London Authority (GLA) constantly creating ways to integrate the area into one of the leading towns in south-east London. At the same time, Lewisham Council has been instrumental in developing creative, digital and cultural initiatives for residents and local businesses in collaboration with universities like Goldsmiths. As London Borough of Culture 2022, Lewisham once again renewed its commitment to creativity and sustainability.

Young professionals have started to identify Lewisham Gateway - a development with contemporary apartments, swift access to amenities and excellent transport links in and around London - as a top housing choice. The local DLR station provides a direct service to Canary Wharf - a great catch for those working in the financial industry.

Explore the different facets of a thriving neighbourhood - from the eclectic Edwardian homes to the innovative business hubs.

Interesting Facts

• The historic Lewisham Clock Tower on the high street was completed in 1900 to commemorate Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee of 1897.
• The Docklands Lights Railway extension from the Isle of Dogs opened in 1999.
• At 1,100 years old, St. Mary The Virgin church is the oldest building in Lewisham. To this day, the church and its people are held in high regard by worshippers across the borough.
• The area suffered a lot during World War II. The heavy bombing impacted the high street, and as a result, the town centre was rebuilt in the 1950s.
• Lewisham Art House is a Grade II-listed building and a public gallery showcasing various exhibitions and workshop programmes.

Amenities

An easy commute to central London and the city's financial hub, the area offers a great advantage to working professionals. Most high street banks can be found here and the Lewisham Post Office is located nearby. Lewisham Library provides resources and free PC and WiFi access to community members.

Along with access to an A&E department, University Hospital Lewisham offers a wide range of treatments, including general surgery, cardiology, neurology, maternity and dementia services.

Attractions

Things to do

This lively and bubbly town has so much to offer! Lewisham Shopping Centre has received a number of upgrades and several big-name chain stores have set up shop here. Lewisham High Street hosts several markets selling fresh fish, fruit, meats, clothing and household items. The area's main market has been trading since the early 1900s and is a vital part of everyday life.

Lewisham Park is a small place away from the busy high street, where locals can enjoy a stroll and meet fellow residents. Several other green spaces are within walking distance, including Ladywell Fields, Mountsfield Park and Hilly Fields.

Bringing children and families together, Glass Mill Leisure Centre has become an essential part of the area. It has excellent facilities, such as the latest gym and fitness equipment, two swimming pools, a wide variety of group exercise classes, a creche, a café and so much more. The area makes it easy for locals to keep healthy with additional 24/7 gyms on offer.

Foodies will be spoiled for choice here, with a variety of international cuisines serving from Nigerian staples to Italian delicacies, while popular drinking holes offer an ever-changing menu of artisan ales, craft beers and underground live music.

History

Once a small village located within seven miles south-east of London, Lewisham became increasingly popular with wealthy Londoners in the 17th and 18th centuries. In the 1800s, the railway service was introduced, leading to an influx of new residents. Rich period properties can be found in the local conservation areas closer to Blackheath. Designated in January 2001, the Belmont Conservation Area features beautiful Edwardian homes designed by renowned architect Reginald C. Fry. These sought-after properties stand out for a clever mix of diverse styles such as Arts and Crafts, Neo-Georgian, Old English and Queen Anne.

Development

With over 1000 homes - including 892 apartments - the Lewisham Gateway is one of the largest regeneration schemes in south-east London. The development is a joint project between Lewisham Gateway Developments and London Borough of Lewisham, supported by Homes England. The borough will benefit from the exciting amenities and environmental enrichment, which will create job opportunities for the residents as well as substantial benefits for the wider area.

Lewisham Exchange, developed by Tide construction, will be an exciting new development featuring 758 student rooms and 67 affordable homes built where the Carpetright business once stood.

Education

Education in the area

Primary school choices include St Margaret's Lee Church of England - which is regarded as "outstanding" by Ofsted - St Saviour's Roman Catholic and St Mary's Church of England. Prendergast Vale School gives education from age three to sixteen, while Christ the King Sixth Form College and Lewisham College help kids post-age 16.

Worship

Places of worship

There are many places of worship in the wider neighbourhood, offering locals a chance to continue to follow their faiths - or experience new ones. There is Loampit Gospel, St Stephen's, St Mary Church, St Saviour Church, as well as Lewisham Islamic Centre, a mosque and a popular meeting point of south-east London's Muslim community.